The Cost of Studying in the UK for International Students – A Guide for Pakistani Students

Each year, a considerable number of Pakistani students venture to the UK to pursue their academic dreams in cities like London, Birmingham, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. However, studying in the UK can be expensive for international students. Therefore, this post will guide you about the cost of studying in the UK for international students.

The costs vary depending on the university you choose. Tuition fees have been on the rise, with British and European Union students paying approximately £9,250 per year (around PKR 9,27,485). For international students, tuition fees typically start at £10,000 (about PKR 10,02,598) and can go up to £38,000 (approximately PKR 38,10,205) for specialized fields like medicine. Humanities and social sciences degrees are generally more affordable.

Compared to the United States and other countries, UK universities offer shorter programs, which can save you money on living expenses and school fees.

Understanding the Total Cost of Studying in the UK

Let’s divide the cost of studying in the UK, so you can understand it:

• Tuition Fees

The cost of studying in the UK for international students can vary significantly. In the 2021/22 academic year, undergraduate fees began at approximately £11,400 (PKR 3,852,996) for lecture-based courses, with top undergraduate medical degrees costing £67,892 (PKR 22,961,664) or more.

For postgraduate programs, classroom-based courses in 2021/22 started at around £6,500 (PKR 2,203,788) and reached up to £51,360 (PKR 17,386,569). Laboratory-based programs exhibited greater variation, with average annual fees ranging from £7,500 (PKR 2,539,688) to £54,500,200 (PKR 18,447,091,380).

Understanding these fee structures is essential in determining the total cost of studying in the UK before applying for a student visa.

• Living Expenses

Living expenses are a significant component of the total cost of studying. These expenses encompass accommodation, food, transportation, and personal necessities. On average, accommodation costs can range from £350 (PKR 118,144) to £550 (PKR 186,484) per month, depending on your preferences and location.

Groceries and dining out may account for a substantial portion of your monthly budget. Transportation costs vary, but a monthly pass typically costs around £40 (PKR 13,556). Beyond these basics, personal expenses, such as entertainment and miscellaneous items, can amount to approximately £500 (PKR 169,450) per month. It’s crucial to factor in these living costs when planning your budget for studying in the UK.

Read Also: Top 10 Reasons to Study in the UK

• Healthcare and Insurance

Healthcare and insurance are essential components of the total cost of studying in the UK. In the UK, international students are typically required to have health insurance, which includes the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

Students will be required to pay £470 per year for the duration the visa will be granted. If the leave includes part of a year that is 6 months or less, the amount payable for that year will be £235. If the leave includes part of a year that is more than 6 months, the full annual amount of £470 will be payable.

• Visa and Immigration Costs

Visa and immigration costs are integral to the overall cost of studying. The current fee for a student visa is £363 (PKR 122,881) if you apply outside of the UK, or £490 (PKR 165,948) if you apply within the UK.

Also, you will need to pay a healthcare surcharge per year to access the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay, which is £470 (PKR 159,856) for a full year. Understanding these expenses and budgeting for visa and immigration costs is essential when planning your education in the UK.

• Scholarships and Financial Aids

Scholarships and financial aid can significantly alleviate the cost of studying in the UK for international students. Top British universities often provide generous scholarships based on academic achievements or financial needs. Here are a few notable scholarships:

• GEMS International Undergraduate Scholarship

• Offered by the University of Stirling.
• Provides a £2,000 (about PKR 676,560) per year fee reduction, totaling £8,000 (about PKR 2,707,120) toward tuition fees.

• University of Bristol Think Big Award for Bachelor’s

• Offers £6,500 PKR 2,203,788 or £13,000 PKR 4,407,576 per year to offset tuition fees.

• Undergraduate Global Excellence Scholarships

• Provided by the University of Exeter.
• Scholarships of £5,000 (PKR 1,688,850), £10,000 (PKR 3,377,700), or full coverage of first-year tuition fees.

• Gates Cambridge Scholarship

• Fully funded for Master’s and PhD.
• Offers £18,744 (PKR 6,335,635) per year, health insurance, a personal development budget of £2,000 (about PKR 676,560), and a family allowance.

• Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship

• Highly competitive fully-funded scholarship for Master’s or MBA.
• Covers tuition fees and living expenses.

• University of Bristol Think Big

• Master’s scholarships: £6,500 (PKR 2,203,788), £13,000 (PKR 4,407,576), and £26,000 (PKR 8,815,152) per year for tuition fees.
• Additional bursaries are available for living expenses.

• Imperial College London Scholarship

• Fully funded scholarship for PhD in Chemical Engineering.
• Covers tuition fees and maintenance costs of £22,900 (PKR 7,740,721) per year.

Visit the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website to explore funding options. Many universities also offer scholarships and financial aid programs. Check their official websites under sections like “Fees and funding,” “Funding,” or “Scholarships.” If you’re unsure, reach out to a university representative for assistance. Understanding available scholarships can significantly impact your total cost of studying.

Conclusion

Understanding the cost of studying in the UK for international students is crucial. While expenses can vary, planning is essential to make the most of your educational journey. Scholarships and financial aid, like those offered by Lexmark Student Consultants, can significantly ease the financial burden.

For personalized guidance on funding options and studying in the UK, visit Lexmark Student Consultants’ website. Your dreams of a UK education are within reach, and with the right support, you can make them a reality. Explore your opportunities today at Lexmark Student Consultants.