Cost of Studying in the UK in 2026: Complete Guide for Indian Students
Studying in the UK continues to be a top choice for Indian students due to world-class universities, globally recognised degrees, and strong career opportunities. However, understanding the total cost of studying in the UK is essential for proper financial planning. This 2026 guide explains tuition fees, living expenses, and additional costs for international students in a clear and practical way.
As trusted study abroad consultants in Kochi, we help students and parents plan their UK education journey with complete transparency and updated UKVI requirements.
Tuition Fees in the UK for International Students
Tuition fees in the UK vary depending on the university, course, and level of study.
For undergraduate programmes, international students generally pay between £10,000 and £20,000 per year.
For postgraduate programmes, tuition fees usually range from £11,000 to £25,000 per year.
Professional courses such as MBA, medicine, and specialised engineering programmes may cost more.
Scholarships and tuition fee waivers offered by UK universities can significantly reduce the overall cost for eligible students.
Tuition Fees for Indian Students
One of the most significant components of the cost of studying in UK is the tuition fees. This is usually the biggest chunk of money you’ll need to pay. For undergraduate courses, you can expect to pay between £11,400 to £38,000 per year and for post graduate courses the cost is between £9,000 – £30,000 per year. Now, that’s a wide range, right? Here’s why:
- Different universities charge different amounts
- Some courses cost more than others
For example, if you want to study medicine or business, you might need to pay more. On the other hand, some humanities courses might be a bit cheaper. It’s important to research the specific costs for the universities and courses you’re interested in.
Living Expenses in the UK for Students
The UK government requires international students to show proof of living expenses for 9 months when applying for a student visa. These costs depend on the location of your university.
Living Expenses in London
£1,529 per month
£1,529 × 9 months = £13,761
Living Expenses Outside London
£1,171 per month
£1,171 × 9 months = £10,539
Living expenses include accommodation, food, transport, utilities, and daily personal expenses. Students studying outside London generally benefit from lower rent and overall costs.
Additional Costs to Consider
Apart from tuition fees and living expenses, students should also plan for:
UK student visa application fee
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Flight tickets
Study materials and books
Initial accommodation deposits
These costs vary but should be included in your overall budget planning.
Can Students Work While Studying in the UK?
International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during holidays. Part-time work helps manage living expenses and gain valuable work experience, but it should not be relied upon as the primary source of funding.
Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Studying in the UK
Many UK universities offer scholarships for international students based on academic merit, subject selection, or financial need. Scholarships can range from partial tuition fee reductions to significant fee waivers.
As experienced overseas education consultants in Kochi, we help students identify and apply for suitable scholarship opportunities.
Total Cost of Studying in the UK from India
On average, the total annual cost for an Indian student studying in the UK is:
Outside London: £23,000 to £26,000 per year
London: £26,000 to £30,000 per year
This includes tuition fees, living expenses, and basic additional costs.
Why Plan Your UK Education with Expert Guidance
Understanding visa rules, financial requirements, and university selection can be complex. Working with reliable UK study abroad consultants in Kochi ensures accurate guidance, updated information, and a smoother application process from admission to visa approval.
Frequently Asked Questions: Cost of Studying in the UK 2026
What is the total cost of studying in the UK for Indian students?
The total cost includes tuition fees, living expenses, visa costs, and insurance. On average, students need £23,000 or more per year outside London and £26,000 or more per year in London.
What are the living expense requirements for a UK student visa?
For 2026, UKVI requires £13,761 for London-based universities and £10,539 for universities outside London, calculated for 9 months.
Is studying outside London cheaper?
Yes. Cities outside London have lower accommodation and transport costs, making them more affordable for international students.
Can part-time work cover UK living expenses?
Part-time work can help manage daily expenses, but students must show full financial proof for visa purposes and should not depend solely on earnings.
Are scholarships available to reduce UK study costs?
Yes. UK universities offer merit-based and course-specific scholarships that can reduce tuition fees for international students.
