Cheapest Course Options for Studying in the UK
Cheapest Course Options for Studying in the UK
Cheap courses to study in the UK are what many dream about. But it often feels out of reach. For countless Indian students, studying in the UK means world‑class universities, global exposure, and a strong career start. Yet the biggest worry is affordability. With rising tuition and living costs, it’s easy to wonder if this dream can become a reality.
You’re not alone. In recent years, the number of Indian students choosing the UK has grown by nearly 40%, showing that smart planning makes it achievable. This guide explains how to find affordable universities, choose value‑driven courses, secure scholarships, and cut living expenses so you can study in the UK confidently and within budget.
Why Study in the UK?
As an Indian student, deciding to study in the UK can bring you many smart choices. You get access to some of the best universities in the world, courses designed for future‑proof careers, and opportunities to work and grow during and after your studies.
World‑Class Universities
According to the QS World University Rankings 2026, a total of 90 universities from the UK are featured among the world’s best institutions. 17 of them are in the top 100, including Imperial College London (2), University of Oxford (4), University of Cambridge (6), and UCL (9). A degree from these institutions adds global weight to your resume and opens doors across industries.
Industry‑Focused Programs
UK universities build programs that align with booming sectors like data analytics, healthcare, AI, and green technologies. You learn theory as well as work on real projects, case studies, and collaborations that prepare you for in‑demand careers.
Earn as You Learn Opportunities
If you hold a UK Student Route visa, you may take up part‑time work of up to 20 hours a week while classes are in session. This helps you earn money, gain work experience, and build a network- all while you study.
Work Placements & Internships
Many UK degrees include internships or placements. These give you hands‑on experience with employers, so you graduate with both knowledge and practical skills.
Post‑Study Work Routes
Once you graduate, the Graduate Route visa allows you to remain in the UK and work for up to two years. This is a great pathway to gain experience and explore long‑term career options.
What Makes a UK Course Affordable?
Studying abroad sounds expensive, but the UK has many ways to make education more affordable. While studying in the UK, you can save time and living costs too. The reasons are:
Shorter Degree Duration
UK degrees are shorter than in most countries. Undergraduate degrees in the UK are typically completed in three years, while most master’s programs finish within a single year. If you compare that to other destinations, where similar programs take 4-5 years for undergrad and 2 years for postgrad. Less time means lower tuition and less money spent on living costs.
Lower‑Cost Universities
Not all UK universities charge the same. While big names like Oxford and Imperial can be pricey to some people, there are affordable universities where tuition for international students can start around £10,000–£12,000 per year for undergrad and £12,000–£15,000 for postgrad. These schools still deliver high‑quality education, but at a fraction of the cost.
Affordable and Student-Friendly Cities
Living in London can be costly. But choosing universities in towns like Wrexham, Carlisle, or Chester can cut your living expenses by £3,000–£5,000 a year. Food, accommodation, and transport are all cheaper outside the big cities, helping you stretch your budget.
Part‑Time Work Options
International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term. That income can help cover rent, groceries, or travel. This allows you to handle your regular living expenses more comfortably.
Scholarships and Bursaries
UK universities and the government offer scholarships worth £1,000–£3,000 or more. Combined with affordable universities and a shorter study duration, these make your overall study plan much lighter on your pocket.
Top 5 Affordable UK Universities for International Students
Finding the right university means balancing your budget with your dreams for a global education. As an international student searching for cheap courses to study in the UK, you deserve a place that offers excellent value for money, real‑world career opportunities, and strong academic support. Here are five outstanding options that combine affordability with high‑quality education to help you succeed.
|
University |
Popular Course |
Entry Requirement Summary |
Avg. Tuition 2025‑26 |
|
Coventry University |
BEng Mechanical Engineering |
Class 12 ≥65% in PCM, IELTS 6.0+ |
£16,800–£20,050 |
|
Nottingham Trent University (NTU) |
BSc Computing / Business Analytics |
Class 12 ≈65%, IELTS 6.0+ |
£17,500–£18,250 |
|
University of Portsmouth |
BA Business / BSc Engineering |
Class 12 ≥60–65%, IELTS 6.0–6.5 |
£16,200–£19,200 |
|
De Montfort University (DMU) |
BSc Computer Science / BA Animation |
Class 12 ~60–65%, IELTS 6.0+ |
£14,000–£18,000 |
|
Liverpool John Moores University |
BSc Sport Science / BEng Civil Engg |
Class 12 ~60–65%, IELTS 6.0+ |
£17,750 (classroom) – £18,250 (labs) |
Coventry University
Coventry University is a popular choice for Indian students who want a mix of affordability and career‑driven education. With undergraduate fees starting at around £14,100 and postgraduate programs from £15,500, Coventry is more affordable than many other big‑name UK universities. But lower fees don’t mean lower quality. Coventry consistently ranks highly for graduate employability and has strong connections with industries across business, engineering, and technology.
For Indian students, Coventry offers generous support through the Global Excellence Scholarship, which can reduce tuition by £2,000–£5,000 a year. The university strives to meet the needs of growing global sectors. It offers courses like-
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Business Management
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Data Analytics
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One‑year MBA
The university’s main focus is on real‑world learning. In addition, it sits in the lively and well‑connected Midlands region. So, it is a great choice for those looking to study and work in the UK.
Nottingham Trent University (NTU)
Nottingham Trent University is well‑known for its academic excellence and emphasis on hands‑on, practical education. Tuition for international students starts at £13,500 for undergraduate programs, making it a cost‑effective option for quality education. NTU has earned a Gold rating in the UK’s Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), which highlights its commitment to excellent teaching and student outcomes.
Indian students benefit from NTU’s International Merit Scholarship (worth up to £3,000) and tailored support programs. Many Indian students prefer these courses for their career‑focused approach. These are-
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Psychology
-
Business Analytics
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Computing
The university’s deep ties with local industries also mean you can gain valuable work experience while you study, giving you an edge when entering the job market.
University of Portsmouth
If you want an affordable yet high‑quality degree, the University of Portsmouth is a strong contender. Undergraduate tuition starts from around £13,000, and the university is known for its excellence in
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IT and Technology
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Healthcare
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Engineering programs
Portsmouth combines academic rigor with strong professional connections, giving students opportunities for internships and placements as part of their studies.
Students from India can apply for opportunities such as the dedicated India Scholarship offered by UK universities. This helps to reduce tuition costs even further. Living in Portsmouth is easier on the budget compared to big cities such as London. It is easier to manage living expenses there. This combination of reasonable tuition, lower living costs, and industry‑aligned programs makes Portsmouth a great value for money.
De Montfort University (DMU)
Located in Leicester, one of the UK’s most diverse and affordable cities, De Montfort University offers a balance between quality education and manageable costs. Tuition for international students is typically £13,200–£14,500, and DMU is known for its innovative programs in
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Artificial Intelligence
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Animation
-
Supply Chain Management
DMU’s commitment to practical, hands‑on learning ensures that you meet employer expectations. Indian students also benefit from its scholarships for international applicants and its extensive support services, from academic guidance to career counseling. The university’s vibrant campus and multicultural environment make it easy for Indian students to settle in and thrive academically.
Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU)
Liverpool John Moores University combines affordability with a strong focus on employability. With tuition starting from £12,500, LJMU offers some of the lowest fees among reputable UK universities. It’s especially popular for programs in
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Sport Science
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Civil Engineering
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Biomedical Science
All of these courses emphasize applied learning and professional development.
At LJMU, Indian applicants can access merit‑based financial awards and enroll in pre‑sessional English programs to better prepare for their studies. Its location in Liverpool, a lively and budget‑friendly city, adds to its appeal by keeping living costs manageable. With its supportive learning environment and strong links to employers, LJMU helps Indian students build both academic knowledge and practical skills.
Affordable Course Pathways for Indian Students
You can study in the UK through pathways that save money and still deliver excellent opportunities. You can begin with a foundation course if you want to strengthen your academics or English skills before moving into a full degree. These programs last 9–12 months and cost around £7,000–£12,000.
They are available in subjects such as:
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Foundation in Business
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Foundation in Engineering
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Foundation in Health Sciences
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Foundation in Creative Arts
After completing a foundation year, you can move directly into the first or even second year of a related bachelor’s program. This pathway helps you adjust to UK teaching styles while saving time.
You can also choose a diploma or higher national diploma (HND), which is practical and career‑focused. These courses take 1–2 years and cost £8,000–£12,000/year. Popular courses UK include:
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HND in Computing
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HND in Business Management
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HND in Hospitality
If you already have a degree, you can do a one‑year postgraduate diploma or conversion course, usually costing £10,000–£15,000. Popular options are:
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PG Diploma in International Business
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PG Diploma in Data Analytics
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PG Diploma in Health Management
These courses give you strong academic preparation, practical skills, and confidence to succeed. They also make you job‑ready for high‑demand sectors in the UK, India, or globally. Many students later convert these diplomas into full degrees, further boosting their qualifications.
How to Apply for Affordable UK Courses
Applying for cheap courses to study in the UK as an Indian student is simple when you follow the right steps. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Research Affordable Universities
Start by listing budget‑friendly universities. Look for tuition fees between £10,000–£15,000/year. Check scholarships for Indian students. Use platforms like Gradstar Global, UCAS, and official university sites.
Step 2: Choose Your Course
Pick a course that matches your career plans. UK universities offer foundation programs, undergraduate degrees, and 1‑year master’s programs. Shorter courses save you time and money.
Step 3: Check General Entry Requirements
Each subject has its own requirements. Such as-
-
Engineering: You’ll typically need Class 12 marks in Mathematics and Physics (around 60–70%) along with an IELTS score between 6.0 and 6.5.
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Healthcare (Nursing, Allied Health): Class 12 with Biology and Chemistry, minimum 60%, some programs may need work experience, IELTS 6.5–7.0.
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Social Studies (Sociology, International Relations): Class 12 with minimum 55–60%, IELTS 6.0–6.5.
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Education: You’ll need a bachelor’s degree, an IELTS score between 6.0 and 6.5, a clear statement of purpose, and in some cases, prior school‑based experience.
Master’s programs require a relevant bachelor’s degree with 55–60% or higher.
Step 4: Apply Through UCAS or Directly
Use UCAS for undergraduate applications (deadline usually in January). When applying for a master’s degree, you should submit your application directly to the university. Doing this early can boost your chances of admission and securing funding.
Step 5: Arrange Your Finances
Gather financial evidence showing you can cover your tuition fees and living costs while studying. Open a blocked account or get financial statements.
Step 6: Apply for Scholarships
Most universities provide scholarships for Indian students. Apply when you submit your course application.
Step 7: Apply for Your Student Visa
After receiving your admission offer, proceed to apply for a UK Student Route visa. You will need your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), passport, financial proof, and health documents.
Step 8: Plan Your Travel & Stay
Book flights early. Choose on‑campus housing or shared apartments to cut down your expenses.
Scholarships and Bursaries for Students on a Budget
For many Indian students, the cost of studying in the UK can seem overwhelming. However, there are several funding programs that can make your education much more affordable. These scholarships do more than reduce fees. Some even cover living and travel costs, making your journey far more achievable.
Chevening Scholarships
Run by the UK government, this award supports a one‑year master’s course. It covers your course fees, provides a monthly stipend, and pays for your travel.
Who can apply: You need at least two years of professional experience, an offer from a UK university, and a commitment to return to India for two years after finishing your degree.
Commonwealth Scholarships
These are available for postgraduate and doctoral studies. They take care of tuition fees, flights, and a monthly stipend to help with living costs.
Who can apply: Applicants must be Indian citizens, hold a strong academic record, and choose a field that supports development back home.
GREAT Scholarships
This British Council initiative offers £10,000 or more toward tuition for selected one‑year master’s programs.
Who can apply: You must be an Indian passport holder and hold an offer for a postgraduate course at a participating university.
University‑Funded Awards
Many institutions provide additional support. For instance, postgraduate students at the University of Leeds can receive tuition reductions of up to £6,000, while the University of Sussex grants £4,000 scholarships specifically for qualifying Indian applicants.
Felix Scholarships
These fully funded awards are for master’s degrees at leading universities such as Oxford, SOAS, and Reading. They are reserved for Indian students from low‑income families with a first‑class undergraduate degree.
These programs can save you thousands of pounds, making a UK education both accessible and worthwhile.
Smart Ways to Reduce Living Expenses
If you plan to pursue cheap courses study in UK, lowering your daily costs will make a huge difference. Here’s how:
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Choose budget‑friendly cities: Studying in places like Coventry, Leicester, or Portsmouth costs significantly less than living in London.
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Live on campus: University housing often bundles utilities and provides a safe, easy start for first‑year students.
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Cook your meals: Preparing food at home and shopping at supermarkets like Aldi or Lidl keeps costs low.
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Use student discounts: Grab a Railcard for cheaper travel and use student discount cards for food, clothing, and entertainment.
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Take up part‑time work: International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours each week during semesters, which helps supplement income and build practical experience.
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Track spending: Use budget‑tracking apps to stay on top of your expenses and avoid overspending.
With these simple habits, you can maintain a comfortable lifestyle while keeping your budget under control.
Rounding Up
Cheap courses to study in the UK are no longer out of reach. With the right scholarships, smart financial decisions, and affordable university options, your goal of studying in Britain can become a reality. Many Indian students have already achieved this, and you can too. Take the first step, explore your funding options, and start planning your UK study journey today.
