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Cost of Studying in UK

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By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Jun 05,2024 12:36 PM IST

350,325 non-EU first-year entrants were admitted in the academic year 2021/2022.
The tuition fee to study in the UK can cost from £11,400 - £30,000.
Students can invest in National Railcard to save 30 per cent on train travel.

Did you know Brits drink about 100 million cups of tea daily? That sounds a lot, but that's not the only astounding fact about the UK; apparently, the UK attracts more international students than any other country. Studying in the UK can be an exciting journey, but let's be honest, this one question always lingers in every aspirant's mind: What's the cost of studying in the UK?

Worry not; this blog can be your ultimate guide to navigating the financial maze and getting a degree from the UK. Get a breakdown of everything from tuition fees and living expenses to ingenious hacks and work opportunities. So grab a steaming cup of tea, and let's figure out how you can conquer your academic goals without breaking the bank.

Why Study in the UK?

According to the HESA (Higher Education Student Statistics), a total of 350,325 international students were admitted in the first year of the 2021/22 academic year. Out of 350,325 students, 126,535 international students were from India; keep in mind that we are talking about the year when the whole world was still affected by the aftermath of the pandemic. The ever-rising number of international students enrolling in UK universities can be because of the fact that UK graduates have a higher chance of getting employed, which answers the question of why study in the UK?

Sure, having the UK on your degree does increase your resume's value, but that still doesn't cut the fact that a significant sum of money is required to pull this feat. Here are the facts and figures you can refer to budget and manage the cost of studying in the UK.

Cost of Studying in UK for Indian Students

Determining the total cost of studying in the UK is not that easy as many factors come into play, such as tuition fees, university, location, etc. All these factors greatly affect the cost of studying, which is why we will have to look at it on a deeper level, starting with tuition fees.

It's universal knowledge that the cost of undergraduate and post-graduate programs differ, but by what margin? Let's figure out.

Course	Duration	Estimated Range of Tuition Fees (in GBP)
Undergraduate Courses (UG)	3-4 years	£11,400 - £38,000
Post-graduate Courses (PG)	1-2 years	£9,000 - £30,000

The above range is generic, as the fees generally depend on the student's chosen program and university. The price range may increase in the capital, metropolitan & major cities, and vice versa in less populated areas. As tuition fees vary by course and university, students are advised to contact Canam Consultants for more detailed and in-depth information.

Besides tuition fees, living costs are the second major factor in deciding the final average cost of studying in the UK.

Cost of living in UK for International Students

Living costs in the UK weigh heavily on international students' pockets. These costs are divided into four main categories: Accommodation, Food, Transportation, and Bills. Below is the table that states all these categories, study options, and estimated range.

Main Categories	Options	Estimated Range in GBP
Accommodation	• Student dorms • Shared flats • Private studios/ apartments	• £400 - £800+ • £600 - £1200+ (in London)
Food	• Self-cooking • Eating out	£200 - £300
Transportation	• Public transport • Cycling	£50 - £120 (30% off standard tube & bus fare with student Oyster Card)
Bills	• Utilities • Electricity • Water • Internet	£50 - £100

Apart from these four main expenses, you'll also need some budget for other expenses such as phone bills, clothes, entertainment, and socializing. Modifying your lifestyle can cover all these monthly miscellaneous expenses under £100 - £200. To minimize the burden on your pockets, you can also consider choosing a less populated city or finding a part-time job in the UK to cover your expenses.

Work Opportunities on UK Study Visa

Tuition fees and accommodation costs while studying in UK alone are enough to burn holes through the pockets. That is why many international students need a stable part-time job with good pay to afford their living costs. But the question is, can a student even work in the UK based on their student visa? Don't worry; you can take a breath of relief because the answer is yes. In fact, many international students in the UK work part-time along with their studies to make ends meet.

Most programs allow students to work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Students can also work off-campus, which opens up many work opportunities. Here are different types of jobs that you can consider:

Types of Jobs	Description
On-campus jobs	Many universities in the UK offer part-time jobs for students in libraries, cafes, administrative offices, or student support services.
Retail and hospitality	This sector offers various positions and flexible hours that are suitable for students.
Tutoring and language teaching	If you have a strong grasp of a subject or your native language, you can consider tutoring other students.
Remote work	You can also find online freelance opportunities that fit your skills and schedule, but you may have to check visa restrictions for remote work.

All these jobs are easily manageable and pay well, but earning is not enough. You must also know how to save money. Use the tips given below to save yourself some money.

Money Saving Hacks for Students

Living as a student, even in a foreign land, can be a financial rollercoaster. Between textbooks, rent, and that sudden craving for bubble tea, your wallet may feel lighter than air. But fear not! Here are some ingenious hacks to save money and cover the cost of studying in the UK as an Indian student.

Search for student discounts	One of the biggest benefits of being a UK student is the discounts that come with it. Students can enjoy discounts on online and offline platforms such as gyms and Spotify. You can also consider getting a TOTUM card. TOTUM membership comes with hundreds of student discounts, great deals, and free student membership. You do have to pay the annual renewal fee though, which costs £14.99 for 1 year and £24.99 for 3 years (a win-win deal considering all the discounts and offers).
Befriend the library	You can save a lot on textbooks by using the books available at your university's library. You can also consider borrowing books, accessing online academic journals, and finding free study spaces.
Shop smart	Try shopping from low-cost supermarkets to save money. Try to buy in bulk at store closing times, and don't forget to ask for a student discount if applicable!
Use alternative transportation	Invest in a bicycle to enjoy eco-friendly rides. You can also invest in a National Railcard to save 30 percent on train travel. Consider asking friends who already live in the UK or expert guides for more insights.

Conclusion

So there it is! While the cost of studying in the UK may seem like a complex task, you can make it easy with simple budget management and resourceful tips. Remember, the UK offers a vibrant student life, a world-class education, and experiences that will enrich you beyond measure. So, grab your cuppa, brew up a plan, and get ready to conquer your academic goals while maintaining that bank balance. For further assistance and guidance, contact Canam—the best study abroad consultants in India.

FAQ

Why is the UK such a popular destination for international students?

The UK has a world-class education system, with prestigious universities and diverse programs. Additionally, UK graduates are highly sought after by employers worldwide.

What's the overall cost of studying in the UK?

You can expect to spend anywhere between £19,000 and £58,000 per year, including tuition fees and living expenses.

How much do tuition fees typically cost?

Generally, undergraduate programs range from £11,400 - £38,000, while post-graduate programs can cost between £9,000 - £30,000 per year.

What are the main living expenses to consider?

Accommodation is usually the biggest expense after tuition fees that a student must consider. Accommodation costs can vary depending on the location and type of room. Other factors include food, transportation, bills, and miscellaneous expenses.

Is getting a part-time job in the UK on a student visa possible?

A student visa allows international students to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during term time.

Are there any ways to save money while studying in the UK?

Yes! In fact, students can get heavy discounts by using a TOTUM card and save money on textbooks by using the library. Students can also try to cook at home instead of eating out to save money.

Is there any financial aid available for international students?

Many universities in the UK offer scholarships and bursaries for international students. You can also research the resources offered by your home country.

What are some additional costs to factor in besides tuition and living expenses?

Students must also consider visa fees, health insurance, travel costs to and from the UK, course materials like textbooks, and any social activities or entertainment they plan to enjoy.

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Cost of Studying in UK

Table of Contents

Why Study in the UK?

Cost of Studying in UK for Indian Students

Cost of living in UK for International Students

Work Opportunities on UK Study Visa

Money Saving Hacks for Students

Conclusion

FAQ

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