What finance options are available if I want to study in the UK?

Tuition fees

Tuition fees can vary depending on level, course, and location. Check courses in our search tool.

The average cost for an international student studying at undergraduate level in the UK, is about £22,000 per year, but can vary from £11,400 - £38,000. At postgraduate level, the average cost for an international student studying in the UK is about £17,109 per year, but can vary from £11,400 - £38,000.

For guidance on whether you're eligible to pay overseas or home/EU fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Student finance

If you're an international non-EU student, it's unlikely you'll be able to get a student loan from the UK Government. Some universities will create their own student loan schemes for talented students from low-income backgrounds, including non-EU students. Contact the university you're interested in attending to ask if they run a student loan scheme, and what the eligibility requirements are.

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How do I find a scholarship?

Applications for scholarships start with completing a form

Chevening Scholarship is a UK scheme for scholarships that financially support international students with academic potential.
Commonwealth Scholarships financially support students from developing Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. Scholarships are typically awarded to postgraduate students to cover tuition and transport and offer a monthly allowance.
GREAT Scholarships offer students from certain countries the opportunity for a scholarship towards their tuition fees for a wide range of one-year taught postgraduate courses.

Scholarships for postgraduate international students in the UK

Though sometimes you may be asked to complete an assignment or test, or to attend an interview. Research the criteria and your eligibility before applying, and prepare a strong application.

The following organisations have online databases listing scholarships:

International Scholarships
International Education Financial Aid
British Council

What do I need to receive a scholarship?

Universities and colleges offer scholarships and bursaries to students with many different skills.

Academic merit and excellence scholarships are awarded to students with a strong academic background. This isn’t just good grades, but also includes extracurricular achievements and future ambitions.

Subject-specific scholarships are given by the university department and they're usually donated by an external organisation, or in memory of a former professor. The eligibility criteria are likely to focus on your interests, skills, and experience in that subject. This type of scholarship may also cover your equipment and research, plus it looks great on your CV.

Performance-based scholarships are awarded to those who have exceptional ability in things like sports, music, or performing. You don't have to study a related degree, but you may be expected to take part in certain activities relevant to your skills. For example, play sports for your university, or join the band. This scholarship isn't intended to cover your tuition, but instead help develop your skills and contribute towards living costs.

Can I get a private grant?

Private grants are another financial option for international students studying in the UK. Companies and non-governmental organisations have finance options to help students complete their higher education.

If you take out a private loan, always read the agreement before you sign it. These loans often come with repayment time limits and interest. Some companies will give students a loan under the condition they work for them once they've completed their degree.

Remember, as an international student in the UK there are no guarantees with these financial options, so always think about how you can finance your studies if these options aren't available to you.

Scholarships, grants and bursaries for EU and international students

Scholarships

Scholarships are the most common form of funding available for EU and international students, and usually awarded based on academic ability or potential, or talent in another area, like sports or music.

Scholarships may cover tuition fees in full, reduce them, or contribute to the cost of living and studying away from home, in the UK.

There are lots of scholarships to study in the UK. This is great news, but it’s important to remember they have strict eligibility criteria and are highly competitive.

Scholarships

Bursaries and grants

Bursaries and grants are similar to scholarships but less common. Bursaries and grants are usually based on students’ personal circumstances – like experiencing some form of personal or financial disadvantage. They’re usually one-off payments, sometimes to help with travel costs, or costs to settle in.

International students may also receive a bursary or fee reduction from a university, based on a prior relationship or existing link with them:

a family member, i.e. a sibling, parent, child, or spouse, is a current student or alumnus
they studied a prior qualification at that university, and are continuing their studies there, e.g. moving from foundation degree to undergraduate degree
they participated in an international summer school, exchange, or similar programme at that university, and are continuing their studies.

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Find scholarships, bursaries, and grants

You could be eligible for more funding than you think.

Explore scholarships, bursaries, and grants matched to your background, achievements, or chosen course, and get support for your study and living costs.

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Private grants and loans

If you take out a private loan, always read the agreement before you sign it. These loans often come with repayment time limits and interest.

Some companies will give students a loan under the condition they work for them once they've completed their degree. Remember, as an international student in the UK there are no guarantees with these financial options, so always think about how you can finance your studies if these options are not available to you.

Refugees and asylum seekers

Equal access or sanctuary scholarships are available for refugees and asylum seekers who have fled persecution in their home country.

Financial support for refugee and asylum seeking students

With world renowned teaching, research, and facilities – as well as a rich historical and cultural heritage – UK is one of the most popular study destinations for international students from around the globe and hosts hundreds of thousands international students annually.

If you plan to study in the UK, you might be interested in what financial support is available to help you during your studies.

Here are some of the best reasons for you to study in the UK.