Low Cost Universities in UK
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Low Cost Universities in UK

Low cost universities in the UK offer quality education at affordable prices, making it easier for students to pursue their academic goals without high expenses.

Bisma Shaikh Bisma Shaikh
September 3, 2024 5 min read

Start your education journey with our comprehensive list of low-cost universities in the UK, perfect for pursuing your degree affordably

Choosing low cost universities in UK will help you to reduce tuition fees and also minimize a lot of expenses and the burden of student loans hence allowing you to navigate the financial uncertainties in the best possible way. However, these universities have slightly higher acceptance rates and more opportunities to get a scholarship, which makes them very attractive for such students who want to save their money to get a top education.

In this article, we will explore ten low-cost universities in the UK, with the proper estimated tuition fee, and will cover all the major aspects for you so that you will achieve your goal to study in the UK. 

 

Table of Content


Ten Low Cost Universities in UK

Coventry University

York St John University

Wrexham Glyndwr University

Plymouth Marjon University

Liverpool Hope University

University of Sunderland

Leeds Beckett University

Cardiff Metropolitan University

University of Greenwich

Teesside University

Conclusion

FAQs

 


 

Ten Low Cost Universities in UK

Below there is a table of estimated tuition fees of the low cost universities in UK:

University Name 

Estimated Annual Tuition Fees for Undergraduate Programs

Estimated Annual Tuition Fees for Postgraduate Programs

Coventry University

7,500-19,850 GBP/Year

6,200-25,250 GBP/Year

York St John University

11,500-14,000 GBP/Year

11,300-18,400 GBP/Year

Wrexham Glyndwr University

11,750 GBP/Year

12,500-14,500 GBP/Year

Plymouth Marjon University

12,500 GBP/Year

13,000 GBP/Year

Liverpool Hope University

13,000 GBP/Year

13,000 GBP/Year

University of Sunderland

14,000 GBP/Year

10,000-20,500 GBP/Year

Leeds Beckett University

14,000-16,00 GBP/Year

10,665-21,00 GBP/Year

Cardiff Metropolitan University

16,000 GBP/Year

14,000 GBP/Year

University of Greenwich

16,150 GBP/Year

8,400-21,000 GBP/Year

Teesside University

17,000 GBP/Year

8,500-17,000 GBP/Year

 

Now let's move forward to explore some more details about these low cost universities in UK.

 

Start your education journey with Coventry University, known for offering affordable undergraduate degree programs in the UK.

Coventry University

Coventry University, remains as one of the universities with the most affordable and quality excellence of learning. Formerly a part of Coventry Polytechnic and Lanchester Polytechnic since 1992, the university is now the member of the University Alliance and is ranked among the top 15 most important universities in England according to the research power criterion. The university assures low cost education for the international students without any compromise in the quality and is also well equipped with strong industry connection.

Furthermore, the students from abroad can apply for scholarships of 1,500 to 3,000 GBP, which will allow this university to be the most attractive destination for the world’s most talented learners who are seeking for the high quality of education within their budget.

 

Coventry University world ranking

571

campuses

2

Location 

Priory St, Coventry CV1 5FB, United Kingdom

Average living cost 

6,345-8,000 GBP 

Major Faculties

Arts & Humanities ,Business & Management, Engineering & Technology, Computer & IT, Health & Medicine, law, education, Social & Behavioural Science  

 

 


 

Begin your academic path at York St John University, offering budget-friendly undergraduate degree options in the UK

York St John University

York St John University,also known as YSJ, is a public university in York England with a large urban center. First established in the year 1841 it became a university in the year 2006, further receiving the status of awarding research degrees in the year 2015. YSJ has a wide range of programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels in different fields of study with an emphasis on research.

Under the support services sector, YSJ has libraries, departments of guidance, students’ unions, and tutorial services. 97% of the university’s graduates get employed within six months after graduating. For their international students, York St John University provides accommodation and the university has flats for rent to the students; likewise, YSJ provides students with numerous fun and extracurricular activities and sports for the students to engage in apart from their academic pursuits.

 

York St John University world ranking

353

No of international students 

3,061

campuses

2

Location 

Lord Mayor's Walk, York YO31 7EX, United Kingdom

Average living cost 

1,500-2,200 GBP/Month

Major Faculties

Arts & Humanities, Business & Management, Computer & IT, Life Sciences, Social & Behavioural Science

 


 

Start your academic journey at Wrexham Glyndwr University, offering cost-effective degree programs in the UK.

Wrexham Glyndwr University

Wrexham Glyndwr University, is a public University located in the United Kingdom that was founded in 1887 offering a quality education at a relatively low cost to the students thus making it an Excellent University that emphasizes diversity in its Campuses. Being student-centric to the core, the university helps overseas students get into higher education in the UK through an easy process. The easy-to-afford course fees and living costs, as well as a variety of facilities available to help students overcome several challenges, confirm that Wrexham Glyndwr University is the place where one can successfully continue his or her studies without stressing over finances too much.

 

Wrexham Glyndwr University world ranking

161

campuses

3

Location 

Mold Rd, Wrexham LL11 2AW, United Kingdom

Average living cost 

1,300 – 1,500 GBP/Month 

Major Faculties

Arts & Humanities ,Business & Management, Engineering & Technology, Health & Medicine, law, education 

 


 

Start your academic journey at Plymouth Marjon University, known for providing affordable degree programs in the UK.

Plymouth Marjon University

Plymouth Marjon University is known for its relatively cheap, solid academic reputation, and the university has a vibrant student community. This is among the best 4 universities in England for students based on student satisfaction; it is ranked 8 for social intake, and it has been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework. With undergraduate and postgraduate courses in a wide range of subjects, Plymouth Marjon University provides placements and training in essential graduate skills, to equip the students for the job market.
 

Plymouth Marjon University world ranking

551-600

No of international students 

2,000

campuses

1

Location 

Derriford Rd, Plymouth PL6 8BH, United Kingdom

Average living cost 

14,00-1565 GBP 

Major Faculties

Education,Arts & Humanities ,Business & Management, Engineering & Technology, Computer & IT, Health & Medicine,Social & Behavioural Science  

 


 

Begin your education at Liverpool Hope University, offering affordable degree programs in the UK

Liverpool Hope University

Liverpool Hope University, is a relatively unique institution founded in 1992 and has evolved in a clear vision of community focus, and social and has a main mission to provide affordability to their students with their low-cost tuition fee, and accessibility for all. Another main element of Liverpool Hope University is the engagement of their students in many community projects and activities; therefore, social justice and community service learning are included in their curriculum.

 

Liverpool Hope University world ranking

176

No of international students 

5,000

campuses

2

Location 

Hope University Hope Park, Liverpool L16 9JD, United Kingdom

Average living cost 

924-1400 GBP/Month 

Major Faculties

Arts & Humanities, Business & Management, Computer & IT, Engineering & Technology, Social & Behavioural Science, Health & Medicine, Education, Law

 


 

Start your education at the University of Sunderland, providing budget-friendly degree programs in the UK.

University of Sunderland

The University of Sunderland, is among the fifty best universities in the United Kingdom according to the Guardian University Guide, and International students can join this university at a low tuition fee. Furthermore, students could get scholarship/bursary funds that can include, from 1000 to 2000 GBP or a tuition fee discount of up to 20% from their tuition fee. This university is also well-known for providing qualitative education and exceptional support to the students making it a preferred place for international students who are looking to study in the UK.

 

University of Sunderland world ranking

1201

No of international students 

6,000

campuses

4

Location 

Edinburgh Building, Chester Rd, Sunderland SR1 3SD, United Kingdom

Average living cost 

900-1300 GBP/Month 

Major Faculties

Arts & Humanities ,Business & Management, Engineering & Technology, Social & Behavioural Science, Computer & IT, Health & Medicine, Education

 


 

Start your education at Leeds Beckett University, offering affordable degree programs in the UK.

Leeds Beckett University

Leeds Beckett University, is one of the government-sponsored universities in Leeds, England, and is known to be one of the most affordable and best universities for international students. Established in 1992 when it was known as Leeds Mechanics Institute, and has since grown to become a renowned learning institution, which became known as Leeds Trinity University in 2014. The university provides a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in four faculties.

Additionally, their tuition fees are relatively low also with the help of various scholarships starting from 1,500-3,000GBP thus these scholarships are available to help students offset their financial concerns. 

 

Leeds Beckett University world ranking

801-1000

No of international students 

1,247

campuses

2

Location 

Leeds LS1 3HE, United Kingdom

Average living cost 

1,700 – 2,000 GBP 

Major Faculties

Computer & IT, Business & Management, Engineering & Technology, Health & Medicine

 


 

Start your education at Cardiff Metropolitan University, known for its affordable degree programs in the UK.

Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Metropolitan University, is a modern university established in 2011 in the center of the Welsh capital which hosts approximately 12,000 students from more than 140 countries. Also, the university has one of the highest satisfaction rates from students and achieved a high score in terms of the student experience, support, and accommodations offered within the United Kingdom.

Cardiff Metropolitan University has a rich history in Wales, with its major goal of providing practical courses to its students, the curriculum of the various courses offered is developed together with the relevant industry experts and other stakeholders, so the major principle is that the student is prepared for the job market and society after the completion of a course of study.

 

Cardiff Metropolitan University world ranking

154

No of international students 

1200

campuses

3

Location 

Llandaff Campus, Western Ave, Cardiff CF5 2YB, United Kingdom

Average living cost 

900-1400 GBP/Month 

Major Faculties

Social & Behavioural Science,Arts & Humanities ,Business & Management, Engineering & Technology, Computer & IT, Health & Medicine, Education

 


 

Start your education at the University of Greenwich, offering cost-effective degree programs in the UK.

University of Greenwich

The University of Greenwich, is a government-funded research university also known for its affordable fees and reputation for its teaching. Located in different areas of Kent- London, South East England, and Medway, this university provides a variety of programs and is among the best universities in the UK with cheap tuition fees. This University was started in 1890 but the institution is now among the leading modern Universities. Foreign students can enroll in university’s comparatively low-cost postgraduate courses, and by applying for different merit and need-based scholarships, anyone can afford quality higher education.

 

The University of Greenwich world ranking

501-600

No of international students 

4,851

campuses

3

Location 

Old Royal Naval College, Park Row, London SE10 9LS, United Kingdom

Average living cost 

1,100 – 1,500 GBP/Month 

Major Faculties

Arts & Humanities, Business & Management, Computer & IT, Engineering & Technology, Physical Science & Math

 


 

Start your education at Teesside University, known for providing affordable degree programs in the UK.

Teesside University

Teesside University, is a public University located in Middlesbrough in North East England, which was formed in 1930 when Constantine College Teesside Polytechnic and Cleveland College of art and Design fused. Majorly high-quality universities in the UK are listed with their high tuition fees and thus, Teesside University is among the cheapest universities in the UK.

Additionally, Teesside University provides a broad choice of programs affordable to international students at reasonable prices; the students can apply for different types of scholarships, based on merit and or/need, these scholarships help students increase their overall chances of getting the best education for qualified teachers.

 

Teesside University world ranking

801-1000

No of international students 

1,800

campuses

2

Location 

Campus Heart, Southfield Road, Middlesbrough TS1 3BX, United Kingdom

Average living cost 

1100-1400 GBP

Major Faculties

Arts & Humanities, Life Sciences, Social & Behavioural Science, Physical Science & Math

 


 

Conclusion

These low cost universities not only provide a low tuition fees but they also focus on giving the best environment to their students. The dedication of these universities to offer quality support services on scholarships for the international students makes it very relevant for students to study in the United Kingdom.

If you are still confused about choosing the best low cost universities in the UK, we invite you to create a free account on TCF. This will enable you to avail a free counseling session with our professionals, who will give you the best advice and help you to achieve your goals of studying abroad in the UK. 

 

FAQs


 

  • What are some of the most affordable universities in the UK for international students?

Affordable universities include the University of Chester, Wrexham Glyndwr University, Coventry University, York St John University, Plymouth Marjon University and Teesside University. These institutions offer competitive tuition fees for international students, ranging approximately from £11,000 to £17,000 per year depending on the course and level of study​​​.

 
  • What factors affect the cost of studying in the UK?

Key factors influencing the cost include tuition fees, living expenses, and additional costs such as textbooks and travel. Tuition can vary significantly by program and university, and living expenses can be higher in larger cities like London compared to other parts of the UK​.

 

  • How much should I budget for living expenses in the UK?

Living costs vary, but students should budget approximately £900 to £1,500 per month. Expenses in cities like London may be higher, while northern and midland regions might be more affordable​​.

 

  • What are the typical admission requirements for international students in the UK?

Most universities require evidence of English language proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores. Undergraduate applications usually go through the UCAS system, and you’ll need to submit academic transcripts, a personal statement, and sometimes references. Graduate applications might also require a CV and other specific documents​.

 

  • Are there scholarships available for international students at these low-cost universities?

Yes, many universities offer scholarships and bursaries to help reduce the financial burden on international students. These can range from partial to full tuition fee waivers and are typically awarded based on merit or financial need​​.

 

  • What English language proficiency is required to study in these universities?

Generally, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent is required for most programs. However, some courses or universities might require higher scores​.