Why Study in United Kingdom?
As one of the most popular study abroad destinations, the UK enjoys a proud tradition of education, with universities dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. The UK is known for its language, history, culture and innovation, and the average student retention rate is 82%. With a comprehensive support system for international students, studying in the UK is definitely a life changing experience.
How much does it cost to Study in United Kingdom?
| S.No. | Study Program | Average Annual Fee (Pounds / Year) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Undergraduate Bachelor Degree | GBP 10,000 - GBP 20,000 |
| 2 | Postgraduate Master's Degree | GBP 10,000 - GBP 20,000 |
| 3 | Doctoral Degree | GBP 15,000 - GBP 24,000 |
Please note that all figures are indicative and PhD cost might differ as fully funded options are also available in the UK
Quick Points About the United Kingdom
- Second only to the U.S. as a study destination for international students.
- London a major financial center for the world.
- Increasingly multicultural.
- Old, rich, and tumultuous history for students with this kind of interest.
- Scottish system of education quite distinct from the education systems in the rest of United Kingdom
Living Conditions and Cost of Living
If you wish to study in London, you’ll need to budget considerably more - at least £1,265 (~US$1,800) per month, the equivalent of £15,180 (~US$21,500) a year.
When you’re here, you can make the cost of living in the UK more affordable by taking advantage of student discounts – for example, students in London can get an 18+ Student Oyster photocard, giving you 30 percent off travelcards and bus/tram season tickets, and students all over the country can apply for an NUS Extra Card for a small fee.
One other way to beat the banker and make your money go further is to study somewhere in the UK where the cost of living is cheaper. According to the Natwest Student Living Index 2017, Welsh capital Cardiff is the most affordable city for students in the UK, followed in the top three by Aberdeen in Scotland, and Durham in north-east England.
Most students live in university halls of residence in their first year before moving into rented private accommodation in their following years. Many universities offer both self-catered and catered halls of residence, with food included in the price of rent for the latter.
The biggest difference in the cost of living in London compared to the rest of the UK is in rent, with University College London (UCL) estimating accommodation expenses of £8,073 (~US$11,400) per academic year (nine months/39 weeks). However, you may be able to find more affordable accommodation in university halls or a flat share.
Students spend an average of £125 (~US$175) per week on rent in the UK – with a huge regional variation: students in Northern Ireland spent only £91 (~US$129) a week, which is exactly half the amount spent by those in London (£182/US$257). Unless bills are included, you’ll probably spend a further £70 per month (~US$100) on bills for utilities and the internet.
- A weekly food shop will likely cost you about £30/$42, and a meal in a pub or restaurant can be about £12/$17.
- Depending on your course, you’ll likely spend at least £30 a month on books and other course materials.
- Your mobile phone bill is likely to be at least £15/$22 a month.
- Gym membership costs roughly £32/$45 a month, but you may be able to get a student discount.
- A typical night out (outside of London) costs about £30/$42 in total.
- In terms of entertainment, if you want to watch TV in your room, you need a TV license – this is £147 (~US$107) per year. A cinema ticket costs roughly £10/$14.
- Depending on your spending habits, you might spend £35-55 (US$49-77) or so on clothing each month.
