
Cost of Living & Studying in the UK
Tuition Fees
The annual tuition fees for international students in UK universities typically range from £12,000 to £30,000 (₹12–30 lakhs), depending on the course and institution. Programs like Medicine and MBA may have higher fees.
Living Expenses
As of 2025, the estimated cost of living in the UK for international students is:
- London: Around £1,500 – £2,000 per month
- Other Cities: Around £1,000 – £1,500 per month
This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and other essentials.
Banking & Money Management
Opening a UK bank account is highly recommended for international students to manage their finances efficiently. Some universities may even require students to have a UK account for fee payments. It may take a few weeks to set up an account, so carrying a prepaid travel card or traveler’s checks for initial expenses is advisable.
Accommodation Options
Most UK universities offer on-campus accommodation in student halls, which is convenient and cost-effective. Off-campus options like shared apartments, private student housing, or homestays are also available.
- On-campus (Halls of Residence): £400 – £1,200 per month
- Private Housing (Flats/Shared Apartments): £500 – £1,500 per month
Students usually move into private housing after their first year. If renting an apartment, you will need to sign a tenancy agreement, a legal contract outlining the terms of your stay. Seeking advice from the university’s international student support team is recommended.
Additional Tips for International Students
- Part-time Work: Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
- Discounted Transport: Student travel cards can help reduce transport costs in cities like London.
- Healthcare: The UK requires students to pay an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for access to the NHS (National Health Service).
Studying in the UK offers world-class education and cultural experiences, but proper planning is key to managing costs effectively!
Courses & Universities in the UK
The UK is home to some of the world’s top universities, offering a diverse range of programs for international students.
Popular Courses for Indian Students
Indian students in the UK often choose fields with strong career prospects, including:
- Business & Management (MBA, Finance, Marketing)
- Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, AI & Robotics)
- Computing & IT (Data Science, Cybersecurity, AI)
- Health & Medicine (Public Health, Nursing, Biotechnology)
- Law & International Relations
- Arts, Literature & Media Studies
Types of Courses in the UK
Career-Based & Pre-University Courses
Foundation and diploma courses help students develop industry-specific skills and prepare for undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
Undergraduate Degree Programs
- Typically 3–4 years long (e.g., BSc, BA, BEng).
- Courses include a mix of core and elective subjects, allowing flexibility to tailor studies to individual interests.
- Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, and hands-on projects.
Postgraduate Degree Programs
- UK Master’s degrees are usually 1 year long, offering an intensive and career-focused approach.
- Requires students to conduct independent research alongside taught modules.
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- One of the most sought-after postgraduate programs in the UK.
- Designed for professionals looking to advance in leadership roles.
- Offered in various specializations like Finance, HR, Marketing, International Business, and Entrepreneurship.

Why Study in the UK?
- Globally Recognized Degrees from top universities like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, and LSE.
- Shorter Course Durations compared to other countries (1-year Master’s, 3-year Bachelor’s).
- Strong Industry Connections with internship and placement opportunities.
- Post-Study Work Opportunities under the UK Graduate Route (up to 2 years).
The UK education system is designed to provide world-class learning while offering flexibility and career-driven options for students worldwide.
Eligibility & Test Requirements
Academic Requirements
Postgraduate Programs (Master’s, MBA, PhD)
- Most top UK universities require a First Class or High Second Class (60% and above) in a bachelor's degree.
- Some universities may accept students with a Second Class (50–59%), especially if they have relevant work experience.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s Degrees)
- Good universities typically require a minimum of 60% in 12th grade.
- Some institutions may accept students with lower grades based on entrance exams, interviews, or foundation courses.
Work Experience Consideration
- For MBA and professional programs, work experience may be considered in place of academic qualifications.
- Many business schools prefer applicants with 2–5 years of relevant experience.
English Language Requirements
Most UK universities require proof of English proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- Administered by: British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English.
- Score Validity: 2 years.
- Minimum IELTS Scores Required:
- Undergraduate programs: 6.0 – 6.5 (some may accept 5.5)
- Test Fee: Varies (Check the latest fees at www.ielts.org).
- Registration: Online or at test centers across India.
Some universities may waive IELTS if you have studied in English for your previous education or provide alternative assessments.

Admission & Application Procedure
1. English Language Proficiency
All students must meet the required English language proficiency for their chosen course. Most universities accept:
- ELTS (typically 6.0–7.5 depending on the course)
- TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent tests
- Some universities waive language tests if you have studied in English previously.
2. University & Course Selection
- Research and choose the best university and course based on your career goals.
- Consult our education counsellor for guidance on applications and visa processes.
- Our counsellors will submit your application via UCAS (for undergraduate courses) or directly through the university’s portal (for postgraduate courses).
Types of UK Student Visas
- Student Visa (Tier 4) – For degree-level courses (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD).
- Short-Term Study Visa – For courses shorter than 6 months.
- Child Student Visa – For students aged 4–17 studying in UK schools.
Application Process
- Apply for a UK Student Visa (formerly Tier 4) online via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.
- Pay the visa application fee (currently £490 for students outside the UK).
- Provide biometric details (fingerprints and photo) at a UK Visa Application Centre.
- Submit required documents.
Required Documents for a Student Visa
- CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) – Issued by your university.
- Financial Proof – Show funds of at least £13,347 (London) or £10,224 (outside London) for 9 months of study.
- English Proficiency Test Scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.).
- Valid Passport.
- Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results (if applicable).
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Payment – Covers access to the NHS healthcare system during your stay.
- Enrollment in a Recognized Institution – You must study at a publicly funded university, college, or a recognized private institution.
- Full-Time Course Requirement – You must be enrolled in a full-time program with at least 15 hours of daytime study per week.
- Financial Self-Sufficiency – You must prove you can pay tuition and living expenses without relying on public funds.
- Work Regulations – Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
- Graduate Route (Post-Study Work Visa) – After graduation, students can stay and work in the UK for 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates) under the Graduate Route Visa.
- Intention to Leave (if applicable) – You must show plans to leave the UK after completing your studies, unless transitioning to a work visa.
Many UK universities and organizations offer scholarships to international students, including Indians, based on academic excellence, financial need, and leadership potential
Types of Scholarships
- University-Specific Scholarships – Many UK universities provide merit-based and need-based scholarships. Some institutions offer partial or full tuition fee waivers for students with outstanding academic records. Typical discounts range from £1,000 – £5,000 per year.
- Government-Funded Scholarships – These scholarships are highly competitive and cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
Popular UK Government Scholarships for Indian Students:
- Chevening Scholarships – Covers full tuition, accommodation, and other expenses for outstanding students.
- Commonwealth Scholarships – Available for students from Commonwealth countries, covering full tuition and living costs.
- GREAT Scholarships – Jointly funded by the UK Government and UK universities, offering up to £10,000 in tuition fee support.
- Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships – For mid-career professionals in fields like arts, heritage conservation, and humanities.
- Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarships – Specifically for Indian students pursuing doctoral studies at St. John’s College, Cambridge.
Private and Non-Governmental Scholarships – Organizations such as Inlaks Foundation, Tata Trust, and Rhodes Trust also provide funding for Indian students.
How to Apply for Scholarships?
- Check University Websites – Many UK universities list scholarships for international students on their official portals.
- Apply Early – Deadlines for scholarships usually fall between October and March for the following academic year.
- Prepare a Strong Application – Most scholarships require academic transcripts, personal statements, recommendation letters, and proof of financial need.
While full scholarships are rare, securing partial funding through multiple sources can significantly reduce education costs in the UK.

Part-Time Work While Studying
International students in the UK are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Finding part-time jobs in sectors like retail, hospitality, administrative support, and tutoring is relatively easy, helping students manage their living expenses.
Popular part-time jobs for students:
- Retail assistant (stores & supermarkets)
- Hospitality jobs (cafés, restaurants, hotels)
- Teaching assistant or tutor
- Customer service roles
- On-campus jobs (library, student unions, research assistants)
Tip: Many UK universities have career services and job portals to help students find part-time and internship opportunities.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
The UK offers better post-study work options than before, making it easier for graduates to gain work experience.
Graduate Route Visa (Post-Study Work Visa)
- Allows students to stay and work in the UK for 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates) after completing their studies.
- No job offer required – you can search for jobs in any sector.
- Provides a pathway to skilled worker visas for long-term employment.
Skilled Worker Visa (Long-Term Work in the UK)
If you secure a job with a UK-based employer who sponsors work visas, you can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, leading to long-term career prospects.
Popular industries with job opportunities for international graduates:
✔ IT & Data Science
✔ Healthcare & Nursing
✔ Engineering
✔ Business & Finance
✔ Creative Industries
While competition for jobs is high, UK degrees are highly respected worldwide, especially in India, the Middle East, and Europe. Even if students return home after graduation, their British education gives them a strong edge in the job market.
FAQ
Is The Tuition Deposit Refundable?
Yes, only if the visa is refused..
What Is Tuition Deposit?
Most of the UK universities and colleges ask the student to pay a part of the tuition fee in advance as deposit before attending the Visa.
When Should The Next Installment Of Tuition Fees Be Paid ?
After Reaching UK a part of the amount and rest of it after the 1st semester, but at some universities full tuition fee is payable upon reporting
Is The Student Allowed To Work Part Time?
Yes, the student is allowed to work legally 20 hours per week on a part time basis.
Is Gmat Score & Work Experience Necessary?
For some Universities work experience is mandatory, while GMAT is recommended.
What Are Prerequisites Of Getting Into MBA?
IELTS 6 BANDS + ACADEMIC 60%+Someuniversities insist for few year of work experience in the supervisory level
I Am B.com Graduate I.e., I Have Only 15 Years Of Education Can I Enter Into MBA?
Yes, U.K. Universities do accept students with 15 Years of education.
Is There Any Scholarship Facility Available For International Students?
There are very few universities, which offer some kind of bursary in the form of tuition waiver for the students who qualify. It could be around 1000 -5000.
Is There Any Ranking Given To UK Universities?
No, there is no official ranking of Universities. Recommendation would depend on your qualifications, grades and courses one wishes to apply to as each institution has different entry requirements.
What Is The Duration Of The Masters Programs In UK?
Normal duration of Masters degree areonly 1 year. Some universities offer programs with 6 months internship .
What Are The General Requirements To Get The Admission?
Minimum 55% in academics with TOEFL of 213+ or IELTS of 6.0. For MBA a student needs to have 2-3 years of full time work experience at managerial cadre.
What Are The Intakes Available In UK??
September and January. September is the main intake where in all the programs are available. There are very few programs available in January as well as April or November in some universities
What Is The Visa Procedure ?
Once the student get CAS (Conformation of Acceptance for Studies) from the university. He will apply for Student Visa to the nearest Embassy with necessary documents. Students need to prove that they have an unconditional offer on a full time course, proof of accommodation, sufficient funds to cover the entire cost of study and living in Britain and that they intend to return home on completion of their course. Note : The British High Commission offices in INDIA are in Delhi and the British Deputy High Commissions in Mumbai, Chennai and Calcutta. The following are the list of documents required for student visa :
- Completed visa application form (IM2A) with two passport size photographs.
- Valid passport (in original)
- Visa fee (non-refundable).
- CAS (Conformation of Acceptance for Studies)
- Proof of Finance for tuition and maintained expenses (28 old funds in bank statements OR Bank loan sanction letters)
- Proof of English Proficiency (IELTS)
Proof of English Proficiency (IELTS)
For How Long Is The UK Visa Given?
For the study period and few months extra (4 to 6 months)
Once The Visa Has Been Refused Can The Student Attend Again?
Yes, Student can attend any number of times…but need to have a new CAS every time.
What Is The Best Time To Attend The Visa?
At least one month before the semester start date.
Is There Any Pick Up And Accommodation Facility Provided At UK?
Many universities provide ‘Meet & Greet Services’ during the orientation period.