How much will it cost to study in the UK?

Studying abroad can be an expensive affair for students going to study in the UK. However, an efficient budget plan can help you manage your living expenses more effectively. Before you depart from the Philippines, ensure that you consider expenses like accommodation, food, health coverage and travel along with your tuition fee when calculating the estimated cost of studying in the UK. 

To give you a general idea of the tuition costs you might encounter, here's a breakdown of average fees for different study programmes: 

Notes:

1. Please note that all figures are indicative and prior to applying for Doctoral degree, you’ll normally need to have contacted a research supervisor and received their consent to supervise you.  

2. £1.00 ≈ ₱77.00 (September 2025)

Undergraduate degrees in the UK typically cost international students between £17,000 and £22,000 per year. This range encompasses a wide variety of bachelor's programmes, and the precise tuition fee depends on factors such as the specific university and the chosen subject. As a general rule, programmes in arts, humanities, and education tend to be less expensive than those in other fields.

Postgraduate degrees, including master's programmes, generally range from £16,000 to £20,000 per year. As with undergraduate studies, tuition fees can vary considerably. However, it's common for postgraduate programmes, particularly specialised ones like those in business or law, to have higher fees than undergraduate degrees.  

Doctorate degrees, or PhDs, can range from £16,000 to £25,000 per year. The higher cost often reflects the intensive research component and specialised resources that these programmes require.

Crucially, before applying for a doctoral programme, you'll usually need to contact a potential research supervisor and obtain their agreement to supervise your studies. This supervisory consent is typically a key part of the application process.  

University tuition fees

Your expenditure on tuition fees depends on the type of qualification and the university or school you opt for. There are many high-ranking universities and colleges in the UK with their own fee structures.

Further, the fee also depends on where in the UK you choose to study (there are different rules for England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales), and your study level.  Average annual tuition fees for selected undergraduate 2024/2025 programmes in 2025 are as follows:  

• Arts and Humanities: £24,000 to £32,000 

• Business and Management: £26,000 to £36,000 

• Engineering and Technology: £39,000 to £41,000 

• Law: £25,600 to £38,000 

• Science: £12,000 to £25,000 

• Medicine and Health: £20,000 to £50,000 

• Social Sciences: £12,000 to £25,000 

Postgraduate courses also exhibit a range of tuition fees, generally reflecting the programme’s intensity and resources. Here's a summary of typical costs:  

• Classroom-Based Master's (e.g., MA, MSc): £17,000 to £30,000 for the entire programme.​ 

• Laboratory-Based Master's (e.g., MSc in Science or Engineering): £20,000 to £35,000 for the entire programme. 

• Research Degrees (e.g., MRes, MPhil): £10,000 

• Professional Doctorates (e.g., EdD, DBA): £9,000 to £35,000 per year. 

• Master of Business Administration (MBA): £20,000 to £35,000 for the entire programme. 

Additional university costs 

Beyond tuition, remember that your budget should also account for other essential expenses during your studies. These additional costs can vary depending on your lifestyle and choices, but here are some common examples:  

Student services and administrative fees:

Most universities charge these fees, which typically range from £300 to £1,000 annually. These fees often provide access to a variety of student services, including student clubs and societies, university resources like libraries and computer labs, and student support services such as counselling and career advice. 

Health insurance:

In the UK, while the National Health Service (NHS) provides some services, it's wise to consider additional coverage. A comprehensive private health insurance plan is highly recommended for international students to cover more extensive medical needs. International students have to pay ​​£776 per year for health insurance.  

Study materials and textbooks:

The cost of study materials and textbooks can also add up, with an estimated annual range of £300 to £800. This expense will vary based on your field of study, with some subjects requiring more specialised and expensive materials than others.  

​​​Visa and immigration fees:

Don't forget the upfront costs associated with obtaining your student visa. The Student Visa (Tier 4) application fee is currently £524. If you plan to bring any dependents with you, there are additional fees of £524 per person. 

Total estimated annual university costs  

To give you a clearer picture of the overall financial commitment, here are the total estimated annual costs for studying in the UK. These figures combine tuition fees with typical living expenses, but remember that your individual spending habits will play a significant role.  

• Undergraduate: £10,800 to £40,300 

• Postgraduate: £12,800 to £37,300 

Navigating the financial aspects of studying in the UK can seem complex, but IDP's expert counsellors are here to help. Contact us to discuss your specific budget and explore funding options. 

UK student visa

Securing a valid student visa is a fundamental requirement for studying in the UK, and it's important to factor in the associated costs. The initial Student Visa application fee is approximately £524. However, there are potential additional fees to consider:  

• For dependents: £524 per person 

• ​​​Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year 

Beyond the application fees, you'll also need to demonstrate that you can financially support yourself during your studies. This typically involves providing: 

• ​​​Current passport or other valid travel documentation. 

• Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses. 

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UK university. 

• Evidence of your academic qualifications and English language proficiency. 

To further support your financial planning, it's worth noting that international students in the UK are generally permitted to work part-time, ​​up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. This can be a valuable way to supplement your income and gain work experience while studying.

However, it's absolutely crucial to adhere to all the conditions of your student visa to avoid penalties, which could have severe consequences, including visa cancellation and deportation. For the most detailed and up-to-date information on the visa application process and all related costs, visit the official UK government website.  

Find more information on the visa application process and related costs. 

Living expenses and accommodation  

While studying in the UK, you must have enough money in your bank account to show you have sufficient funds for living costs. The amount will vary based on the length of your course and where you study (specifically, where more than 50% of your study time will be spent).  

Accommodation costs are a significant portion of your living expenses. Here's a general overview:  

• University accommodation: ​​The average cost for weekly rent in on-campus housing is £166. The price can fluctuate based on factors like the specific location, the type of room (e.g., single or shared), and whether a meal plan is included. It's important to note that university accommodation in major cities like London tends to be more expensive. For instance, if you’re studying in Glasgow, it will be more affordable than studying in Edinburgh. 

• Private rentals: Renting privately, such as in an apartment or shared house, can cost ​​£155 per week for an ensuite room and £228 for a studio. This cost is particularly high in major metropolitan areas such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham. You should anticipate that private accommodation in London and other large cities will be considerably more expensive than in regional areas. 

 You should also consider these common expenses when creating your budget:  

• Communication expenses: As a student from the Philippines, you’d be frequently calling your friends and family back home. Therefore, always keep a section of your budget for phone bills and data expenses. Look for cost-effective calling plans and student discounts in order to stay connected with your loved ones within your monthly budget. 

• Books and supplies: Purchasing textbooks can get a little expensive. For instance, books for engineering, law, medicine, and pharmacy can be pricey. You can manage this in your budget by opting for second-hand books, buying digital versions, or even securing a library membership. 

• Personal expenses and incidentals: Your daily expenses will include laundry, toiletries, clothing, dining out, etc. This depends entirely on the kind of lifestyle you choose for yourself.

Scholarships and financial aid opportunities 

Funding your studies in the UK can be a significant undertaking, but fortunately, there are various scholarship and financial aid opportunities available to help ease the financial burden for international students. These opportunities range from government-funded programmes to university-specific awards, offering a variety of support options.  

Chevening Scholarships 

Chevening Scholarships represent the UK government's prestigious global scholarship programme, aimed at developing global leaders of tomorrow. 

• Eligibility: Filipino citizens with relevant work experience and an undergraduate degree.​ 

• Benefits: Covers tuition fees, accommodation, and airfare.​ 

• Application: Currently closed; monitor the official website for updates. 

University-specific scholarships  

In addition to government-funded programmes, many UK universities offer their own scholarships specifically for international students to apply, including those from Philippines. These scholarships can vary significantly in terms of eligibility criteria and financial support.  

Many UK universities offer scholarships specifically for foreign students, including those from Philippines. Examples include:  

• University of Manchester: Offers awards comprising up to £24,000, with potential continuation based on academic performance. 

• King's College London: Provides the International Hardship Fund to assist students facing financial difficulties, with awards up to £6,000. 

Planning to study in the UK involves careful consideration of your finances. From tuition fees and visa costs to accommodation and daily living expenses, having a clear understanding of the financial landscape is crucial for a smooth and rewarding experience. Remember that university scholarships and diligent budgeting can significantly ease the financial burden.

By taking a proactive approach to financial planning, you empower yourself to focus on your studies and fully embrace the unique opportunities that studying in the UK offers. 

Contact us at IDP Philippines. We'll find the best school and course for you that fits not just your personal preferences and qualifications but also your overall budget.