Tuition fees for EU students
Tuition fees differ depending on the university in question and the type of course you’re applying for. All students coming from EU countries pay the same fees as ‘home’ students.
According to the Complete University Guide and UCAS, universities and colleges in England and Wales can charge over £9,000 a year for their courses. In Northern Ireland it’s just shy of £4,000 a year, although it can be more for students from Great Britain. In Scotland, EU students (not including those from the rest of Great Britain) study for free.
Tuition fees for international students
For foreign students from outside the EU, tuition fees vary even more. These students have to pay the full cost of their course, and fees can range from £3,500 to £18,000 per year according to the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).
Living costs
Cost of living varies across the UK, but it’s likely to be most expensive in the south of England, particularly in London. Many of the UK university websites have their own student calculators to help you manage your budget.
International students can’t apply for welfare allowances of any sort during their stay. But if you’re in the UK for more than six months, you can get free health and dental care.
Can international students work?
Part-time work is a great way to stay on top of your finances while you study. International students are allowed to work in the UK for up to 20 hours per week.
Scholarships and support
There’s a wide network of scholarships, bursaries, loans and grants that can help you get the funds you need. Start by contacting your own government to see if they can offer support. Some businesses offer scholarships or grants for outstanding academics, and many charities offer scholarships for people working in their field of expertise. There are also scholarships open to people from certain countries. Most scholarships are highly competitive so prepare early and make enquiries as soon as you can.
The following sources offer lots of support: