Explore Cheap Universities in UK for International Students, including low tuition options, affordable accommodation, and budget friendly study choices to achieve your UK education goals. Rising tuition costs and living expenses often force aspiring learners to pause their ambitions, rethink their choices, or redirect their academic journey altogether.
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That said, opportunity still exists. Through careful research, we have curated a practical guide to some of the cheap universities in UK for international students, selected using rankings and tuition fee data for the 2025–26 academic year. This list is designed to help you secure an affordable UK education without sacrificing academic standards, career value, or the overall student experience you deserve.
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Cheap Universities in UK for International Students
Affordable options do exist, and cheap universities in UK for international students offer quality education despite higher fees compared to local students. This difference arises because the UK government subsidizes education for its citizens, a benefit not extended to international learners, resulting in higher tuition costs. However, cheap universities in UK for international students remain accessible through competitive fees and cost effective programs.
1. Leeds Beckett University
- Established in: 1992
- Location: Leeds
- Tuition fees: £11,000 to £15,000 per year
- QS Ranking: #1001 to 1200
- Top Courses: Electronics Engineering, Business Economics, Civil Engineering, Politics
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum IELTS score of 6 and a GPA of 11/20 across at least four subjects
Leading the list of cheap universities in UK for international students, Leeds Beckett University delivers quality education at a cost conscious price point. Formerly known as Leeds Metropolitan University until 2014, the institution holds a QS ranking between 1001 and 1200 and is recognised for strong programmes in Economics, Media, and MBA studies. Approximately 5.2 percent of the student body comes from overseas, while a 96 percent employment rate highlights its career driven focus. Awarded Silver status in the National TEF, the university benefits further from its Leeds location, a student friendly city offering affordable living and diverse accommodation choices.
2. Teesside University
- Established in: 1930
- Location: Middlesbrough
- Tuition fees: £14,000 to £17,000 per year
- QS Ranking: 1001
- Top Courses: Chemical Engineering
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum IELTS score of 5.5
Founded in 1930, Teesside University stands out among cheap universities in UK for international students by combining affordability with high student satisfaction. Based in Middlesbrough, the university ranks between 801 and 1000 globally in THE rankings and 301 to 350 among young universities. Notably, it secured first place out of 96 global institutions for student satisfaction in the International Student Barometer. Recognition as University of the Year for Social Inclusion by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 further strengthens its appeal. With an average living cost of $1280, students can reduce expenses further through budget friendly housing near campus.
3. The University of Cumbria
- Established in: 1822
- Location: Lancaster
- Tuition fees: £13,250 to £16,000 per year
- QS Ranking: 2407
- Top Courses: Creative Writing, Criminology, International Business Law
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum IELTS score of 5.5
Situated in Lancaster, the University of Cumbria earns recognition as one of the cheap universities in UK for international students due to its low tuition structure. Although officially established in 2007, its academic heritage dates back to 1822. International diversity defines the campus experience, supported by a first place UK ranking for education quality in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2020. Six campuses across England, including Carlisle, Ambleside, London, Barrow, and Workington, extend its academic reach. Compared to southern cities, Lancaster offers a lower cost of living, making student life more financially manageable.
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4. University of Chester
- Established in: 1839
- Location: Chester
- Tuition fees: £13,450 to £20,000 per year
- QS Ranking: #1201 to 1500
- Top Courses: Accounting and Finance, Biology, Business and Management, Law
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum IELTS score of 5.5
Ranked among the top universities in the North West, the University of Chester remains a strong option among cheap universities in UK for international students. As the fifth oldest higher education institution in England, it began in 1839 as the country’s first teacher training college. Multiple campuses across Chester, Shrewsbury, and Warrington allow access to diverse academic environments. Accounting and Finance aspirants frequently choose this institution, supported by nearby affordable housing that enhances student comfort without inflating living costs.
5. Staffordshire University
- Established in: 1906
- Location: Staffordshire
- Tuition fees: £14,000 to £19,000 per year
- QS Ranking: #1201 to 1500
- Top Courses: BSN, B.E. or B.Tech, MBA or PGDM, MIM, LL.B, B.Sc
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum IELTS score of 5.5 and UCAS points above 104
Established in 1992, Staffordshire University has built a strong reputation among cheap universities in UK for international students through its employability focused approach. Known for programmes in computing, psychology, and MBA studies, the university collaborates with global employers to strengthen graduate outcomes. Innovation defines its academic profile, highlighted by the launch of the world’s first Esports degree. Rankings of 106th in the Times University Guide and 68th in the Guardian University Guide reinforce its credibility. Students benefit further from accessible accommodation near the Stoke on Trent and Stafford campuses.
6. Coventry University
- Established in: 1992
- Location: Coventry
- Tuition fees: £16,800 – £19,850
- QS Ranking: #571
- Top Courses: Computer science, life sciences, social sciences, engineering and technology, and the arts and humanities
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum IELTS score of 5.5 and a minimum GPA of 2.5 in relevant subjects
Recognised as one of the cheap universities in UK for international students, Coventry University combines strong academic delivery with impressive industry recognition. Rooted in its origins as Coventry College of Design in 1843, the university has evolved into the highest ranking modern university in the Midlands, according to the Guardian 2022. Located in Coventry, ranked the fifth best UK student city, it also operates campuses in London and Scarborough. Recently awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, Coventry University stands out for affordability, global exposure, and career driven education.
7. University of the West of Scotland
- Established in: 1897
- Location: West of Scotland and London
- Tuition fees: £12,600 – £14,100
- QS Ranking: #601–800
- Top Courses: Business, Sciences, Management, Engineering and Technology, Psychology, Biotechnology
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 78
Ranked among the cheap universities in UK for international students, the University of the West of Scotland is celebrated for student satisfaction and graduate outcomes. Positioned in the top three universities in Scotland by the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide, it hosts around 3,500 international students from 140 nationalities. With campuses in Paisley, Lanarkshire, Dumfries, Ayr, and central London, the university delivers accessible education in high demand fields such as Computing, Accounting, and Finance.
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8. University of Bedfordshire
- Established in: 1882
- Location: Bedford
- Tuition fees: £14,500 – £18,400
- QS Ranking: #801–1000
- Top Courses: General Engineering, Chemistry, Psychology, Business and Management
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum IELTS score of 5.5
Positioned among the cheap universities in UK for international students, the University of Bedfordshire offers quality education across four campuses in Bedford, Luton, Aylesbury, and Milton Keynes. Awarded Silver status by the Teaching Excellence Framework, the university is recognised for strong teaching standards and student satisfaction. Several programmes, including Forensic Science, Performing Arts, and Psychology, have achieved 100 percent overall student satisfaction, reinforcing its reputation as a cost effective yet academically rewarding choice.
9. University of Stirling
- Established in: 1967
- Location: Stirling
- Tuition fees: £12,140 – £14,460
- QS Ranking: #501–550
- Top Courses: Accounting and Finance, Aquaculture, Biology, Business and Management, Computer Science, Data Science, Economics
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum IELTS score of 5.5
Ranked among the cheap universities in UK for international students, the University of Stirling consistently delivers academic excellence and global diversity. Listed among the top 50 universities in the UK by the Complete University Guide 2023, it excels in subjects such as Marketing, Sociology, Education, Law, and Languages. With over 30 percent of students representing more than 135 nationalities, Stirling offers a truly international learning environment at an accessible cost.
10. Queen Margaret University
- Established in: 1875
- Location: Musselburgh, Scotland
- Tuition fees: £11,250 – £12,500
- QS Ranking: #801–1000
- Top Courses: Nursing, Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Radiography, Audiology, Creative Therapies
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum IELTS score of 5.5
Standing out among the cheap universities in UK for international students, Queen Margaret University delivers exceptional value through specialist health and creative programmes. Founded to expand access to higher education, the university ranks first in Complementary Medicine and features prominently in Counselling, Occupational Therapy, Drama, and Dance. With over 10,000 students and a graduate unemployment rate of just 3 percent 15 months after graduation, combined with affordable nearby housing, Queen Margaret University represents a strong return on educational investment.
11. University of West London
- Established in: 1992
- Location: Ealing, Brentford, and Reading
- Tuition Fees: £13,000
- QS Ranking: #115
- Top Courses: Psychology, Civil Engineering, Business Studies, Public Health, Music, Nursing, Human and Social Sciences, Aviation and Tourism Management
- Eligibility Criteria: IELTS overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component
Recognised among the top 20 percent of UK universities by the Guardian University Guide 2023, the University of West London has earned national acclaim for teaching quality and student experience. Positioned as one of the cheap universities in UK for international students, it leads the National Student Survey 2022 for student voice, satisfaction, and academic support. Known as “The Career University,” it boasts an impressive 98 percent employment rate and offers convenient housing options close to campus, ensuring affordability without compromising quality.
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12. Wrexham Glyndwr University
- Established in: 2008
- Location: Wrexham, Wales
- Tuition Fees: £11,750 to £16,000
- QS Ranking: #3933
- Top Courses: Animal Science, Art and Design, Built Environment, Business and Industry, Computing, Criminology and Policing, Education, Engineering
Founded in 2008, Wrexham Glyndwr University has rapidly gained recognition for teaching excellence, ranking second in the UK for teaching satisfaction in the Guardian University Guide 2022. As one of the cheap universities in UK for international students, it combines affordable tuition with a strong employment rate of 92.1 percent. Its Welsh location offers access to budget friendly accommodation, making it a practical choice for cost conscious students.
13. University of Bolton
- Established in: 1982
- Location: Bolton, Greater Manchester
- Tuition Fees: £12,950 to £14,450
- QS Ranking: #124
- Top Courses: Business Management, Computer Science, Engineering, Psychology
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum IELTS score of 5.5
Located in Greater Manchester, the University of Bolton attracts students from over 60 nationalities and consistently ranks highly for student satisfaction. Counted among the cheap universities in UK for international students, it delivers strong academic support, an 80.5 percent employment rate, and a relatively low cost of living.
14. Leeds Trinity University
- Established in: 1966
- Location: Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire
- Tuition Fees: £11,500 to £12,500
- QS Ranking: #122
- Top Courses: Professional Policing, Business and Enterprise, Journalism, Digital Marketing, Computer Science
- Eligibility Criteria: Five qualifications required, including two Level 3 qualifications
Ranked 18th in the UK for student experience by the Good University Guide 2023, Leeds Trinity University stands out for embedding work placements into every degree. Positioned among the cheap universities in UK for international students, it delivers a 97 percent employment rate while benefiting from Leeds’ reputation as a top student city with accessible housing options.
15. University of Sunderland
- Established in: 1901
- Location: Sunderland, Tyne and Wear
- Tuition Fees: £14,000 to £17,000
- QS Ranking: #101 to 150
- Top Courses: Business, Management and Finance, Tourism, Hospitality, Nursing and Health
- Eligibility Criteria: IELTS overall score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component
Founded in 1901, the University of Sunderland combines academic heritage with modern career outcomes. Regarded as one of the cheap universities in UK for international students, it reports that 93.4 percent of graduates secure employment or further study within six months. Lower living costs in Sunderland, alongside affordable accommodation near both its Sunderland and London campuses, enhance its appeal for international applicants.
16. Plymouth University
- Established in: 1862
- Location: Plymouth, England
- Tuition Fees: £12,250 – £12,500
- QS Ranking: #551–600
- Top Courses: Arts and Humanities, Computer Science, Politics and International Studies, Business and Economics, Clinical and Health Sciences, Psychology, Law
- Eligibility Criteria: IELTS overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component
Situated in South West England, Plymouth University delivers quality education while remaining one of the cheap universities in UK for international students. Globally ranked within the QS top 700, the institution excels in marine technology, psychology, and art and design. An acceptance rate of approximately 85 percent, combined with a low average cost of living of £1,487, positions Plymouth as a practical and career focused study destination.
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17. University of Suffolk
- Established in: 2007
- Location: Ipswich, Suffolk, Norfolk
- Tuition Fees: £12,996 – £16,497
- QS Ranking: #151–160
- Top Courses: Business and Management, Economics and Econometrics, Accounting and Finance
- Eligibility Criteria: IELTS overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component
Founded in 2007 and achieving university status in 2016, the University of Suffolk attracts students from nearly 70 countries. Affordable tuition, flexible learning options, and strong industry focused courses make it one of the cheap universities in UK for international students. Teaching excellence in business, health, and computing further strengthens its appeal.
18. Buckinghamshire New University
- Established in: 2007
- Location: High Wycombe
- Tuition Fees: £10,500
- QS Ranking: #2819
- Top Courses: Sociology, Media Studies, Business and Management, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Psychology, Law
- Eligibility Criteria: Minimum IELTS score of 5.5
Recognised among the Top 10 universities for international study by the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2022, Buckinghamshire New University combines affordability with strong employability outcomes. A 98 percent employment rate, creative focused programmes, and multiple campuses reinforce its status as one of the cheap universities in UK for international students.
19. London Metropolitan University
- Established in: 2002
- Location: London, England
- Tuition Fees: £13,200 – £14,500
- QS Ranking: #801–1000
- Top Courses: Art, Architecture, Design, Human Sciences, Computing and Digital Media, Business and Law
- Eligibility Criteria: IELTS overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component
Based in the heart of London, London Metropolitan University blends affordability with urban career access. With a graduate employment rate of 96.7 percent and extensive volunteer opportunities, it consistently ranks among the cheap universities in UK for international students seeking strong professional outcomes.
20. York St John University
- Established in: 1841
- Location: York, North Yorkshire
- Tuition Fees: £10,000 – £11,500
- QS Ranking: #91
- Top Courses: Accounting and Finance, Biomedical Science, Business Management, Counselling, Economics, Hospitality and Tourism
- Eligibility Criteria: IELTS overall score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component
Recognised for outstanding teaching quality, York St John University ranks highly for student satisfaction and academic experience. Competitive tuition fees, strong global recognition, and career oriented programmes firmly place it among the cheap universities in UK for international students seeking value without compromising quality.
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In conclusion
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