costs and fees In England

Tuition fees in the United Kingdom are frequently a cause of contention, with prices for home students (UK/EU) reaching dizzying heights in recent years. Students from the United Kingdom and the European Union studying at English universities must now pay up to £9,250 (US$13,050) per year.

Undergraduate tuition fees in other countries range from roughly £10,000 (US$14,130) to £38,000 (US$53,700) or more for medical degrees (source: Reddin Survey of University Tuition Fees). Humanities and social sciences degrees are the least expensive at all levels, while laboratory and clinical degree programs are significantly more expensive. However, when these fees are added to the average cost of living in the UK, which is around £12,200 (US$16,950) per year, it’s difficult to see how studying in the UK can be done without spending a small fortune. The cost of studying in the UK is expected to be at least £22,200 (US$31,380) a year, with London being significantly more expensive.

While these costs may seem daunting, keep in mind that most UK universities offer shorter programs than those in the United States (three years for an undergraduate degree instead of four, and one year for a master’s degree instead of two), so you may be able to deduct a year’s worth of fees and living expenses from your total budget.

For each month you plan to stay in the UK outside of London, you must have at least £1,015 (US$1,435) in your bank account, according to current UK student visa rules. This equates to £12,180 per year (US$17,200).

If you want to study in London, you’ll need to set aside at least £1,265 (US$1,800) per month, which works out to £15,180 (US$21,500) per year.

When you arrive, take advantage of student discounts to reduce the cost of living in the UK. For example, students in London can get an 18+ Student Oyster photocard, which gives them 30% off travelcards and bus/tram season tickets, and students across the country can apply for an NUS Extra Card for a small fee.

Studying elsewhere in the UK where the cost of living is lower is another method to beat the banker and make your money go farther. Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is the most inexpensive city for students in the UK, according to the NatWest Student Living Index 2017, with Aberdeen in Scotland and Durham in north-east England rounding out the top three.

The average cost of living in the United Kingdom

• A weekly grocery would probably set you back around £30/$42, while a supper at a pub or restaurant will set you back around £12/$17.
• You’ll probably spend at least £30 a month on books and other course materials, depending on your course.
• Your monthly mobile phone bill is almost certainly going to be at least £15/$22.
• A monthly gym membership costs around £32/$45, although you may be eligible for a student discount.
• Outside of London, a typical night out costs around £30/$42.
• In terms of entertainment, you’ll need a TV license to watch TV in your room, which costs £147 (US$107) per year. A cinema ticket will set you back around £10/$14.
• Clothing could cost you £35-55 (US$49-77) per month, depending on your purchasing patterns.