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Known globally for its high-quality education, it's no surprise studying in the UK comes at a cost for overseas students. If you want the UK's high standards at an affordable price, read on to find out our top ten cheapest unis to study at in 2024.

Why do international student tuition fees vary so much?

One reason is cost, with some subjects costing more to run than others.

• Classroom-based subjects like English, History, languages or social sciences need few resources. They also have lower contact time from lecturers, which means reduced staff costs.
• Science or engineering degrees require labs and have more staff and technicians to pay for.
• ‘Clinical’ degrees like Medicine, Dentistry and Vet Science always come at a premium, with high fees as well as longer courses.

Many unis price most subjects the same for international undergraduates. This was true in 60% of the unis whose fees we checked in 2024.

But some unis charge more for science and engineering, and some may price subjects like Psychology, Computing or Economics the same as science degrees. Art and design or healthcare degrees can also cost more, as unis have to maintain specialist equipment or software. If you are studying one of these subjects, shop around to find the best uni for your needs with the best price.

Top tips to find affordable international student tuition

Other than the type of course, the following also determine how much your degree will cost:

• Rankings – institutions high in our league tables have more competition for places, driving prices up. To find inexpensive tuition fees, check out unis lower down the league table, who may be keen to attract international students.
• London factor – you’re unlikely to find the cheapest universities in London, as the capital has an impact on running costs. But some London unis will have lower fees than unis elsewhere.
• Specialists – smaller or more focused institutions may have higher costs per student. They may not be able to offer discounted tuition fees.
• Course length – some courses are longer than others. Make sure you’re comparing like with like when looking at annual tuition fees. Degrees in Scotland generally take four years. An ‘accelerated degree’ in England may take as little as two years to complete, costing less overall despite having higher annual fees.
• Scholarships – most unis offer scholarships to international students. These often come as a tuition fee discount, reducing the price you actually pay.
• Annual tuition fee increases – most unis will increase tuition fees each year, but that’s not always the case. Check the policy at each university you consider.

Below you’ll find our top ten most affordable universities in 2024. These are for international students studying a full-time, classroom-based degree. If you’re not sure whether you’ll be charged international fees, check our guide on student finance eligibility.

10. York St John University

Lowest fee: £14,000

Often offering low fees, York St John also offers plenty of support for international students, with social events and trips to explore the UK. An international scholarship reduces your first-year tuition fees, helping to make your studies even more affordable.

Search through undergraduate courses in Clearing at York St John University.

9. University of Chester

Lowest fee: £13,950

At Chester, all subjects charge the same tuition fees. What’s more, you’ll pay the same amount for each year of study, and there’s a scholarship for international undergraduates. Subjects range from Accounting to Zoology, and courses are taught by academics who go the extra mile to help you learn.

Search through undergraduate courses in Clearing at the University of Chester.

8. University of Brighton

Lowest fee: £13,842

The University of Brighton is one of our ‘hidden gems’ for 2025, ranking in the top ten for Physiotherapy. You can study an affordable degree here, with scholarships reducing the cost of your first year’s tuition fees. You’ll also get opportunities to gain work-related experience, setting you up for your future career.

Search through undergraduate courses in Clearing at the University of Brighton.

7. University of Cumbria

Lowest fee: £13,575

As well as cheap fees, the University of Cumbria offers a stunning backdrop to your studies, with England’s Lake District nearby. Not all subjects cost £13,575 – healthcare and social work courses have a higher price tag.

Search through undergraduate courses in Clearing at the University of Cumbria.

6. University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Lowest fee: £13,500

In the UK’s top ten for Student satisfaction, UWTSD prides itself on giving the personal touch. Smaller class sizes help you to feel part of a close-knit community where your individual needs matter. The uni’s campuses are found across the south-west of Wales and include Swansea and the historic town of Carmarthen.

Search through undergraduate courses in Clearing at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

5. Liverpool Hope University

Lowest fee: £13,000

Liverpool Hope University offers a vibrant community across its three bases at Hope Park, the Creative Campus, and residential campus Aigburth Park. The university invests a high amount in its facilities and there’s plenty of support for international students. Courses include Artificial Intelligence BSc and Digital Marketing BA, setting you up for key industries of the future.

Search through undergraduate courses in Clearing at Liverpool Hope University.

4. Bishop Grosseteste University

Lowest fee: £12,945

Bishop Grosseteste University is in Lincoln, in the east of England. You’ll get support throughout your studies, from guaranteed accommodation to careers advice. Students here give the uni a high rating – it places 3^rd in the UK for Student satisfaction in our 2025 league table.

Search through undergraduate courses in Clearing at Bishop Grosseteste University.

3. Leeds Trinity University

Lowest fee: £12,000

Prices here haven’t increased since 2023, so it’s a good bet that Leeds Trinity University will remain an affordable uni for overseas students. The uni has a tight-knit community where you’ll feel at home. Located on the outskirts of the thriving city of Leeds, there’s also plenty to keep you entertained.

Search through undergraduate courses in Clearing at Leeds Trinity University.

2. Wrexham University

Lowest fee: £11,750

Wrexham is another uni with no price increase, and with high student satisfaction – ranking 4^th in the UK. Small and inclusive, students say the uni is like a home-from-home. Courses are work-focused, and you’ll also get academic and digital skills support as you study.

Search through undergraduate courses in Clearing at Wrexham University.

1. Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh

Lowest fee: £8,000

In 2024, many degrees at Queen Margaret University are cheaper for international students than they are for students from the rest of the UK. Degrees take four years, but at this price your qualification will still be cheaper than at other UK universities. Based on the outskirts of Edinburgh, the university is a great base for exploring Scotland’s capital city.

Search through undergraduate courses in Clearing at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh.