Studying in the UK is a popular choice for Indian students in 2025 because of its top universities and strong career opportunities. However, the cost of studying in UK in 2025 is high. Indian students typically spend between GBP 1,500 and GBP 2,000 per month (INR 150,000 to INR 200,0000. This includes several key expenses (IDP 2025, UK Government 2025):
Tuition fees: Studying in UKcosts GBP 10,000 to GBP 24,000 per year (₹1,000,000 to ₹2,400,000)
Accommodation: GBP 550 to GBP 650 per month (INR 55,000 to INR 65,000)
The United Kingdom is an expensive country for Indian students to pursue higher education. As per the latest reports, the average cost of studying in UK ranges between GBP 1,500 to GBP 2,000 per month. The cost of studying in the UK for Indian students in 2025 depends on the type of course, university, location, and other factors.
The tuition fees in UK universities are comparatively higher for Indian students. The average tuition fees in universities in UK range between GBP 10,000 to GBP 24,000 per year.
Moreover, the cost of living in UK and personal expenses can also add to the cost of studying in UK for Indian students. On average, the monthly living cost in the UK is between INR 150,700 to INR 160,600 per month. Additionally, personal Expenses, like entertainment, mobile bills, and travel, will vary but generally amount to GBP 100–GBP 300 per month.
Cost of Studying in UK for Indian Students: Highlights
Particulars
Description
Tuition Fees in UK
Undergraduate Courses: GBP 10,000 to GBP 20,000 per year
Postgraduate (Master’s) Courses: GBP 10,000 to GBP 20,000 per year
Doctoral degree: GBP 15,000 to GBP 24,000 per year
Cost of Living in the UK
GBP 1,400 to GBP 1,550 per month
Tuition Fees for Indian Students in UK
The tuition fees for Indian students in UK range between GBP 10,000 to GBP 24,000 per year. The fees for a postgraduate master's degree in the UK is between GBP 10,000 to GBP 20,000 annually. For doctoral degrees, the fee range is GBP 15,000 to GBP 24,000 annually for Indian students.
Top-ranked UK universities such as Oxford, the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and UCL have their own fee structure for international students based on the field of study. For example, humanities, arts, and education courses are cheaper than the engineering, medicine, dentistry, MBA, and Law courses. Check out the Best Courses to study in the UK.
The UK university fees for Indian students also differ between countries such as England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. Here's a list of top UK universities with average annual fees for Indian students.
The United Kingdom also offers numerous universities with cheaper annual fees. Thousands of Indian students apply to these universities due to the affordable fees. The top 5 most affordable UK universities for international students in 2025 are as follows:
What is the cost of living in the UK in Indian rupees? The average cost of living in the UK is between INR 150,700 to INR 160,600 per month. One can calculate the average monthly cost in the UK by adding the tuition fees and living expenses.
The cost of living in the United Kingdom is approximately 226.4% higher than in India. Recently, the UK government increased the council tax by 4.99%. Additionally, the water bills energy bills are up by GBP 10 per month and GBP 111 annually.
The average monthly cost in UK, also varies by the city of residence. For Indian students, London is the most expensive city to live and study in the UK. Whereas cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow are comparatively cheaper. In 2025, rent in the United Kingdom is approximately 553.7% higher than in India.
Let’s check the recent cost of living in UK for Indian students in 2025:
Travel & transport (based on the monthly cost of a student bus pass)
GBP 32
Bills (electric/ gas/ water)
GBP 40 - GBP 50
Mobile phone
GBP 15 - GBP 50
TV licence (mandatory with TV or watching BBC online)
GBP 12.56 (or GBP 150.50 per year)
Books & stationery
GBP 21
Clothes and shoes
GBP 25
Leisure & sports (calculated on membership for the students’ sports centre)
GBP 10 - GBP 20
Socialising
GBP 120
Childcare (if needed)
GBP 656
Taxes for Indian Students in UK
Many Indian students work part-time in UK to manage their study expenses. As per the UK government notice, Indian students are allowed to work full-time during the vacations and only 20 hours per week during academic sessions.
Indian students working in the UK while studying need to pay tax and national insurance to the UK government. You can pay the tax via the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) portal.
Taxes for Indian Students in UK in 2025
Type
Payment Details
Income Tax
Students who earn more than GBP 1,042 a month on average (personal allowance)
National Insurance
Students who earn more than GBP 166 a week
Additional Costs: Pre-arrival and Post-arrival Expenses
Apart from the tuition fees and living costs, students must take care of various additional costs when studying in the UK. One can divide the additional cost of studying in UK for Indian Students into two major parts: Pre-arrival Expenses and Post-arrival Expenses.
Pre-arrival Expenses
The pre-arrival expenses to study in the UK include university application fees, health surcharge, flight tickets, ELP test fees, visa application fee, etc.
Application Fee for Universities:
Single Course Application: GBP 22.50
Multiple Courses (up to five choices): GBP 28.50
IELTS/TOEFL Test Fees: Approximately GBP 170 – GBP 200
The post-arrival expenses to study in the UK include student registration fees, local travel cards, study materials, and more.
Local Travel Card/Pass: GBP 70 – GBP 100 per month
Student Registration Fees: Some universities may charge an additional registration/enrollment fee
Study Materials and Books: GBP 300 – GBP 500 annually (approx.)
Scholarships and Financial Aid Opportunities to Study in UK
Indian students can apply for multiple scholarships and financial aid in the UK to manage their study costs. Check the eligibility requirements of the UK scholarships to apply early.
Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in the UK
Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Proof of financial status or funding (if applicable)
Research proposal (for research-based scholarships)
Passport-sized photographs
Cost Comparison: Studying in the UK vs. Other Countries
Many students often get confused in selecting a perfect study abroad destination for higher studies. Here, we have provided a comparison among the top study destinations for Indian students, along with their estimated cost of studying in 2025.
Studying in the UK vs. Other Countries
Destination
Cost of Studying per year
Canada
CAD 13,000 to 25,000
New Zealand
NZD 19,000 to 29,000
Australia
AUD 15,000 to 42,000
UK
GBP 10,000 to 20,000
US
USD 20,000 to 45,000
Ireland
€9,850 to 34,500
Tips to Manage Cost of Studying in the UK
Check the tips below to manage your study expenses in the UK:
Prepare a monthly budget.
Cook your food at home to save money.
Use public vehicles such as trains, metro, buses, etc, to travel around the city.
Use your student ID to get student discounts through apps like Student Oyster Card, TOTUM, 16-25 Railcard, UNiDAYS, etc.
Apply for different part-time work in UK to get extra money for personal expenses.
Look for affordable accommodation options. Apply for university halls and hostels.
Open a student bank account to manage your finances effectively.
Apply for different UK scholarships and financial aid for Indian students.
The UK remains one of the most popular destinations for Indian students because of its excellent education system and strong career opportunities. While the cost of studying in the UK can be high, the value you get from world-class universities and global exposure makes it a smart investment for your future.
By planning, applying for scholarships, and choosing affordable options, you can manage your expenses effectively. Careful budgeting and making informed decisions will help you reduce financial stress and focus more on your studies and personal growth.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, upGrad’s experts are here to guide you at every step. From choosing the right university to managing your budget and applications, upGrad can simplify your study abroad journey and help you make the best decisions for your career. You can even book a free 1:1 counseling session to get personalized advice tailored just for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are needed for a UK student visa?
You need a valid passport, confirmation of acceptance (CAS), proof of funds, tuberculosis test (if applicable), and proof of English proficiency like IELTS. Also, submit your visa application with biometrics and pay the visa fee and healthcare surcharge.
Can Indian students work while studying in the UK?
Yes, Indian students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. Part-time work helps cover living expenses but should not affect your studies. Check visa rules to avoid breaches.
How much money is required to open a UK student bank account?
Most UK banks do not require a minimum deposit to open a student account. However, you must provide proof of identity, UK address, and a valid student visa or university enrollment letter to open the account.
Are Indian degrees recognized by UK universities?
Yes, most UK universities recognize Indian undergraduate degrees for postgraduate admission, provided the degree is from a recognized institution and meets specific grade requirements set by the UK university.
How long can Indian students stay in the UK after graduation?
Indian students on the Graduate Route visa can stay up to 2 years after completing a bachelor’s or master’s degree, and up to 3 years after a PhD, allowing time to work or look for jobs in the UK.
What health insurance is required for Indian students in the UK?
Indian students must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application. This gives access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) for medical care during their stay.
Can Indian students get scholarships for undergraduate courses in the UK?
Yes, various scholarships are available for Indian undergraduates, offered by universities, government bodies, and private organizations. Eligibility depends on academic merit, financial need, and specific course or region.
How much does it cost to apply to multiple UK universities?
Applying through UCAS allows up to five courses for a fixed fee of GBP 26. Additional universities or applications outside UCAS may have separate fees, typically ranging from GBP 20 to GBP 50 per application.
Are there affordable accommodation options near UK universities?
Yes, affordable options include university halls, private hostels, shared apartments, and homestays. Costs vary by location, with cities outside London generally offering cheaper accommodation.
What are the average monthly transport costs for students in the UK?
Monthly transport costs range from GBP 30 to GBP 70, depending on the city. Student discounts like railcards or bus passes reduce costs. Larger cities like London may have higher travel expenses.
Can Indian students switch courses after arriving in the UK?
Yes, but switching courses requires university approval and may affect your visa. You must notify the UK Home Office of changes and ensure the new course meets your visa conditions.
What are the top industries hiring international graduates in the UK?
Popular sectors include IT, engineering, healthcare, finance, and education. International graduates with relevant skills and work visas find good opportunities, especially in tech and healthcare.
Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland...
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