Top 10 Low Tuition Fee Universities In UK 2025
Low tuition fee universities in UK can be a cost-effective option for international students seeking to pursue their academic goals. While studying in the UK can be expensive, choosing a low tuition fee university can help reduce the financial burden of higher education. In this article, we will explore the benefits of studying at low-cost universities in UK for international students and provide some examples of such institutions.
We will also discuss the types of courses that are available and provide information on the universities. So keep reading to learn more about the UK’s affordable universities!
Understanding Tuition Fees in the UK
The UK higher education system operates under a tuition fee structure. Tuition fees vary based on factors such as the institution, the chosen program, and whether the student is classified as a domestic or international student. Domestic students who are UK or European Union residents usually benefit from lower tuition fees than international students. It’s important to note that tuition fees cover the cost of teaching, facilities, and student support services.
Why Consider Low Tuition Fee Universities?
Cost Savings
There are many reasons why students should consider cheap universities. First and foremost, low tuition fee universities can offer significant cost savings. By choosing a university with lower tuition fees, students can reduce the overall cost of their education, allowing them to save money and potentially avoid student loan debt. Additionally, low tuition fees can free up additional funds for students to use on other expenses such as accommodation, food, and travel.
Personalized Learning Experience
Universities offer many other benefits besides cost savings and low tuition fees. For example, many low-tuition fee universities are smaller institutions that can provide a more intimate and supportive learning environment. This environment may be especially beneficial for international students adapting to a new culture and language. In addition, smaller class sizes and closer relationships with professors and other staff members can create a more personalized and engaging learning experience.
Unique Academic Programs
Low cost universities in UK for international students may also offer unique academic programs unavailable at larger and more expensive universities. Attending a university with a low tuition fee gives students access to specialized programs or courses that can help them develop skills and knowledge in specific areas of interest. This can be especially advantageous for students pursuing a particular career path or having unique academic goals.
Top 10 Low Cost Universities In UK For International Students
Now, let’s explore the 10 best low-tuition universities in the United Kingdom, which can be a good destination for international students pursuing higher studies.
Here’s a list of universities in UK with low tuition fees for international students:
1. Leeds Beckett University
Leeds Beckett University is a government-funded university in Leeds. It is one of the best universities in the UK, with low tuition fees for international students. The university’s roots go back to 1824 when the Leeds Mechanics Institute was established. It adopted its current name in 2014.
The university has four faculties: the Carnegie Faculty of Sport, the Faculty of Arts, Environment & Technology, the Faculty of Health & Social Sciences, and the Faculty of Business & Law. It also offers many undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various subjects.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Ranking (2025) | – QS World University Rankings: Placed in the 1001-1200 band. – Times Higher Education World University Rankings: Ranked 801–1000th. – Complete University Guide: Ranked 78th out of 130 UK institutions. |
| Number of International Students | Approximately 1,247 international students. |
| Average Annual Tuition Fees (2024/25) | – Undergraduate: £14,000 per year. – Postgraduate: £15,000 per year. – Ph.D. (Full-time): £15,500 per year. |
| Offered Degrees | – Three-year Undergraduate Degrees – Two-year Undergraduate Degrees – Master of Arts (MA) – Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Master of Science (MSc) – Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) – Master of Philosophy (MPhil) – Master of Business Research (MBR) – Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) |
| Location | Leeds, England |
2. Teesside University
Teesside University is another of the cheapest universities in UK. It is also a public university located in Middlesbrough, North East England. The university was established in 1992 as the University of Teesside after merging Constantine College, Teesside Polytechnic, and the Cleveland College of Art and Design.
It is the ninth-largest university in the UK in terms of student numbers. The university strongly focuses on employability, with over 94% of graduates finding employment or further study six months after graduating.
It has undergraduate and postgraduate courses in business, Computing, Creative Media, and Law.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Ranking (2025) | – Complete University Guide: Ranked 100th out of 130 institutions. – Guardian University Guide: Ranked 68th out of 130 institutions. – Times Higher Education World University Rankings: Placed in the 1001-1200 band. |
| Number of International Students | Approximately 12% of the total student population are international students. |
| Average Annual Tuition Fees (2024/25) | – Full-time Undergraduate Degrees – Full-time Postgraduate Diplomas – MSc, MA Programs – Full-time MBA (one year) – Full-time MBA (Applied) (two years) |
| Offered Degrees | – Full-time Undergraduate Degrees – Full-time Postgraduate Diplomas – MSc, MA Programs – Full-time MBA (one-year) – Full-time MBA (Applied) (two years) |
| Location | Middlesbrough, North East England |
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3. University of Cumbria
The University of Cumbria is a multi-campus university in Cumbria, England, with campuses in Carlisle, Lancaster, Ambleside, and London. It is the cheapest university in the UK for international students. Founded in 2007, it is among the youngest universities in the UK. The British government funds it, and it is part of the University of Cumbria Group.
It offers many undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as research and professional development opportunities. The university also strongly focuses on providing education to local communities and international students.
The university provides an excellent learning experience for its students and creates a welcoming, diverse, and vibrant community.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Ranking (2025) | – Complete University Guide: Ranked 123rd out of 130 institutions. – Times Higher Education World University Rankings: Not listed in the top 1,500 universities. |
| Number of International Students | Approximately 1% of the total student population are international students. |
| Average Annual Tuition Fees (2025/26) | – Undergraduate: £13,575 per year. – Postgraduate: £14,900 per year. – MBA (Lancaster Campus): £16,900. |
| Top Courses | – Bachelor of Arts (BA) – Bachelor of Science (BSc) – Bachelor of Laws (LLB) – Master of Arts (MA) – Master of Science (MSc) – Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
| Location | Carlisle, Lancaster, Ambleside, and London, England |
4. Leeds Trinity University
Leeds Trinity University is also publicly funded in Leeds, England. Established in 1966 as a teacher-training college, it’s now a big university with over 6,000 regional students. It is one of the most affordable universities in uk for international students. Leeds Trinity offers various humanities, social sciences, and business studies courses.
The university also strongly focuses on employability and provides various support services and resources to help students find employment. Leeds Trinity is also well-known for its vibrant student life, with multiple clubs, societies, and sports teams.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Ranking (2025) | – Complete University Guide: Ranked 116th out of 130 institutions. – Guardian University Guide: Ranked 97th out of 130 institutions. |
| Number of International Students | Approximately 8,400 international students from more than 130 countries. |
| Average Annual Tuition Fees (2025/26) | – Undergraduate: £14,400 to £15,400 per year. – Postgraduate: £14,000 to £16,000 per year. |
| Offered Degrees | – Three-year Undergraduate Degrees – Two-year Undergraduate Degrees – MA, MBA, MSc Programs – Ph.D., MPhil, MBR – PGCE |
| Location | Leeds, England |
5. University of Chester
The University of Chester, one of the top universities with low tuition fees, is located in Chester, England. It was founded as a diocesan teacher training college in 1839 and became a University in 2005. It is the oldest higher education institution in the city and is also one of the best low-cost universities in the UK for international students.
Most importantly, it’s one of the few universities in the UK to hold an Ofsted Grade 1 – Outstanding rating for its teacher training programs. The university comprises five faculties: Arts and Humanities, Business, Education and Children’s Services, Health and Social Care, and Science.
Its courses range from undergraduate degrees to postgraduate research programs. It has three campuses in Chester, including the main Parkgate Road Campus, and two other sites in the city, Kingsway and Riverside.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Ranking (2025) | – Complete University Guide: Ranked 59th out of 130 institutions. – Guardian University Guide: Ranked 46th out of 121 institutions. – Times Higher Education World University Rankings: Placed in the 1201+ band. |
| Number of International Students | Approximately 10% of the total student population are international students, representing over 130 countries. |
| Average Annual Tuition Fees (2025/26) | – Undergraduate: £14,450 per year. – Postgraduate: £15,000 per year. – MBA: £15,200 per year. |
| Offered Degrees | – Undergraduate Degrees (BA, BSc) – Postgraduate Degrees (MA, MSc) – Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Doctoral Programs (Ph.D., MPhil, MRes) |
| Location | Chester, England |
6. Staffordshire University
Staffordshire University is funded by the British government and is located in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, England. Established in 1992, the university is a modern, forward-thinking, research-focused university offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses across numerous disciplines.
This university has four campuses: Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, Lichfield, and Shrewsbury. It strongly focuses on employability and offers many courses designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for the world of work.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Ranking (2025) | – Complete University Guide: Ranked 97th out of 130 institutions. – Guardian University Guide: Ranked 58th out of 130 institutions. – Times Higher Education World University Rankings: Placed in the 1001-1200 band. |
| Number of International Students | Approximately 1,500 international students. |
| Average Annual Tuition Fees (2024/25) | – Undergraduate (Full-time): £9,535 per year. – International Students: £14,500 – £19,000 per year. – Postgraduate: £12,300 – £19,000 per year. |
| Offered Degrees | – Engineering and Technology – Natural Sciences – Medical Sciences |
| Location | Staffordshire, England |
7. Coventry University
Coventry University is a research university situated in Coventry, England. The university was established in 1992 due to a merger between Coventry Polytechnic and Lanchester Polytechnic. It is another top UK university with low tuition fees for international students. Now it’s a University Alliance member and ranked in the top 15 in the UK for research power.
The university has various undergraduate and postgraduate business, engineering, computing, media, and art courses. Coventry University also offers various short courses and professional qualifications. This university is famous for its strong links with industries.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Ranking (2025) | – QS World University Rankings: Ranked 531st globally, an improvement of 40 places from the previous year. – Times Higher Education World University Rankings: Placed in the 601–800 band. |
| Number of International Students | Approximately 14,000 international students from over 130 countries. |
| Average Annual Tuition Fees (2024/25) | – Undergraduate: £16,800 – £20,050 per year. – Postgraduate: £16,800 – £20,050 per year. – MBA: £20,100 – £20,500 per year. |
| Offered Degrees | – Undergraduate Degrees (BSc, BA) – Postgraduate Degrees (MSc, MA, MBA) – Research Degrees (PhD, MPhil) |
| Location | Coventry, England |
8. The University of the West of Scotland
The West of Scotland University has four campuses in different parts of Scotland. It was formed in 2007 from the University of Paisley and Bell College merger. UWS offers many courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, as well as short courses and research opportunities.
The university strongly focuses on employability, skills, and entrepreneurship. It also links to industry and the public sector and provides services to support the local economy.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Ranking (2025) | – Complete University Guide: Ranked 128th out of 130 institutions. – Guardian University Guide: Ranked 121st out of 130 institutions. – Times Higher Education World University Rankings: Placed in the 601–800 band. |
| Number of International Students | Approximately 1,700 international students from over 100 countries. |
| Average Annual Tuition Fees (2024/25) | – Undergraduate (International Students): £13,250–£14,500 per year. – Postgraduate (International Students): £12,500–£14,000 per year. – Undergraduate (Domestic Students): £1,820 per year. – Postgraduate (Domestic Students): £7,000 per year. |
| Offered Degrees | – Undergraduate Degrees (UG) – Bachelor of Science (BSc) – Master of Science (MSc) – Master of Arts (MA) – Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) |
| Locations | – Paisley, Scotland – Lanarkshire, Scotland – Ayr, Scotland – Dumfries, Scotland – London, England |
9. University of Bedfordshire
Bedfordshire University is situated in Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire, England. It has four campuses: Luton, Bedford, Milton Keynes, and Aylesbury. Bedfordshire University was formed in 2006 when Luton University and the Bedford campus of De Montfort University merged.
It offers many subjects, including business, law, art and design, media, social care, education, healthcare, and computing. In addition, the university has many research centres: the Centre for Migration Studies, the Centre for Research in Education & Social Sciences, and the Centre for Research in Language and Literacy.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Ranking (2025) | – Complete University Guide: Ranked 128th out of 130 institutions. – Guardian University Guide: Ranked 121st out of 130 institutions. – Times Higher Education World University Rankings: Placed in the 801-1000 band. |
| Number of International Students | Approximately 4,000 to 4,500 international students. |
| Average Annual Tuition Fees (2024/25) | – Undergraduate: £15,500 per year. – Postgraduate Taught Master’s: £15,600 total. – MBA (up to 15 months): £17,000 total. – Two-year Taught Master’s with Placement: £18,300 total. |
| Offered Degrees | – Undergraduate Degrees (BA/BSc) – Postgraduate Degrees (MA/MSc) – Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Doctoral Degrees (Ph.D., MPhil) – Master of Research (MRes) |
| Location | Luton, Bedford, Milton Keynes, and Aylesbury, England |
10. University of Greenwich
The University of Greenwich is a government-funded research university in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom. It has three campuses: London, South East England, and Medway, Kent. The university is undoubtedly among the top UK universities with low tuition fees.
Established in 1890, it is now a very diverse university in the UK, focusing on teaching and research excellence. The university offers courses in various disciplines, including arts, business, humanities, science, engineering, technology, and health.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Ranking (2025) | – QS World University Rankings: Ranked 801–1000. – Complete University Guide: Ranked 110th out of 130 institutions. – Times Higher Education World University Rankings: Placed in the 501–600 band. |
| Number of International Students | Approximately 5,000 international students constitute about 25% of the total student population. |
| Average Annual Tuition Fees (2024/25) | – Undergraduate: £17,000 per year. – Postgraduate: £15,100–£18,500 per year, depending on the program. |
| Offered Degrees | – Undergraduate Degrees (BA, BSc) – Postgraduate Degrees (MA, MSc, MBA) – Research Degrees (MPhil, PhD) |
| Location | London and Medway, United Kingdom |
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Low Tuition Fee Universities
Various scholarships and financial aid options are available to further support students pursuing education in low-tuition universities in the UK. These scholarships can help alleviate the financial burden and provide opportunities for deserving students to excel.
Students should explore the scholarships and financial aid programs offered by the universities they are interested in and external funding opportunities. Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria and application procedures, so it is important to thoroughly research and prepare the necessary documents.
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Tips for Choosing a Low Tuition Fee University in the UK
Research and compare universities:
Conduct comprehensive research on universities that offer low tuition fees, considering factors such as academic reputation, faculty, facilities, and student support services.
Consider additional costs and living expenses:
While tuition fees are a significant aspect of university expenses, it’s crucial to consider other costs such as accommodation, transportation, food, and study materials. Evaluate the cost of living in different cities where universities are located to ensure it aligns with your budget.
Evaluate university rankings and reputation:
Look into university rankings and reputation to assess the academic quality and the value of the degree you’ll obtain. Consider factors like student satisfaction, graduate employability, and research output to gauge the university’s standing in the academic community.
Assess student support services and facilities:
A supportive and enriching learning environment is essential for your academic success. Evaluate the availability of student support services such as career counselling, academic guidance, and extracurricular activities. The quality of libraries, research facilities, and campus infrastructure should also be considered.
Overcoming Barriers for International Students in Low Tuition Fee UK Universities
Low tuition fee universities in the UK offer a cost-effective option for international students seeking to pursue higher education. However, attending such universities may come with challenges and potential barriers that students must be prepared to face. Here are some of the common challenges faced by international students attending low-tuition fee universities in the UK and how to overcome them.
Language Barriers
International students may face language barriers when attending low-tuition fee universities in the UK. These barriers can make it difficult for students to understand lectures, complete assignments, and communicate with professors and peers. One way to overcome this challenge is by taking advantage of university language resources, such as English language courses, writing centres, and language exchange programs.
Cultural Differences
Cultural differences can also be a challenge for international students attending universities in the UK. Students may experience culture shock, which can affect their ability to adjust to their new environment and socialize. To overcome this challenge, students can participate in cultural programs and events that universities offer, join clubs or organizations, and take the time to learn about the local culture.
Financial Constraints
While low tuition fees at universities offer cost savings, international students may face financial constraints when attending these institutions. Due to visa restrictions, students may need part-time work to support themselves but may not have access to employment. Students can overcome this challenge by researching scholarship and grant opportunities and seeking financial assistance from the university’s financial aid office.
Isolation and Loneliness
International students attending universities may experience isolation and loneliness, especially far away from family and friends. To overcome this challenge, students can reach out to their peers and professors for support, participate in extracurricular activities, and explore the local community.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, low tuition fee universities in UK offer many benefits to students who are seeking to pursue higher education. By choosing a university with lower tuition fees, students can significantly reduce the overall cost of their education, freeing up additional funds for other expenses.
Additionally, low tuition-fee universities can offer a more personalized and supportive learning environment and access to unique academic programs that are not available at larger and more expensive institutions. Therefore, if you are an international student considering studying in the UK, it is worth exploring the various low-tuition-fee universities.
