Finding the cheapest university in the UK has become one of the most searched queries among international students planning to study abroad. The United Kingdom offers world-class education, global recognition, and post-study work opportunities — but tuition fees can vary widely depending on the university, location, and course.
The good news is that many cheapest university in the uk provide high-quality degrees at reasonable tuition costs. In 2026, several institutions continue to support international students by offering low-cost programs, flexible admission policies, and even admission without IELTS through the Medium of Instruction (MOI) route.
This article provides a detailed, research-based guide on cheapest university in the uk , including their average fees, available courses, and admission options for students who want to study without taking the IELTS exam.
Why Choose the UK for Higher Education
Before exploring the list of cheapest university in the uk, it’s important to understand why the UK remains a top destination for higher education.
Globally recognized degrees: UK universities are among the best in the world, ensuring international employability.
Shorter duration courses: Undergraduate programs often last three years and Master’s programs just one year, reducing costs.
Post-study work visa: International graduates can work for up to two years after completing their studies under the Graduate Route.
Flexible English language options: Many universities now allow students to apply with an MOI certificate, removing the need for IELTS.
Studying at the cheapest university in UK does not mean compromising on education quality — it means making smart financial and academic choices.
Average Cost of Studying in the UK
Understanding the typical expenses helps students choose the right institution.
| Expense | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | £12,000 – £20,000 |
| Accommodation & Living | £9,000 – £12,000 |
| Health Insurance & Visa | £800 – £1,200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | £21,000 – £33,000 per year |
By selecting a low cost university in UK, students can save £4,000–£6,000 per year compared to higher-ranked institutions in major cities like London.
Cheapest University in the UK – 2026 Overview
The following universities are recognized as some of the cheapest universities in UK for international students while maintaining academic excellence and a supportive environment.
| University | Average Tuition (Per Year) | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teesside University | £14,000 | Middlesbrough | Excellent value, MOI accepted, lower living costs |
| University of Cumbria | £13,500 | Carlisle / Lancaster | Affordable programs in education and health sciences |
| University of Chester | £14,000 | Chester | Small city with low living expenses and high student satisfaction |
| Staffordshire University | £13,750 | Stoke-on-Trent | Great for computing, design, and engineering courses |
| University of Bolton | £13,500 | Greater Manchester | Personalized teaching environment, low tuition |
| Leeds Beckett University | £14,000 | Leeds | Moderate tuition and one of the UK’s most affordable student cities |
| University of Sunderland | £14,000 | Sunderland | IELTS waiver accepted, high employability rate |
| University of West Scotland (UWS) | £12,500 | Scotland | Low tuition with work opportunities in Scotland |
| Buckinghamshire New University | £11,500 | High Wycombe | One of the most affordable universities near London |
| University of Suffolk | £14,500 | Ipswich | New, modern, and affordable institution with innovative programs |
These universities consistently appear on lists of cheapest university in the uk due to their combination of reasonable tuition, supportive services, and accessible entry requirements.
Admission Without IELTS – The MOI Option
Many low cost universities in UK now allow students to apply using a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate instead of IELTS.
What is MOI?
The MOI certificate confirms that a student’s previous education was conducted entirely in English. If your school or college issues an official MOI letter, universities can accept it as proof of English proficiency.
Why MOI is Accepted
UK universities recognize that students from English-medium institutions already possess the required communication skills. Therefore, an MOI certificate or short internal English test can replace the IELTS exam.
Universities Accepting MOI (2026 Intake)
Teesside University
University of South Wales
University of Sunderland
University of Bolton
University of Chester
University of Portsmouth
These institutions provide a smoother admission process, making it easier for students to access the cheapest university in UK without taking an additional English test.
Factors Affecting Tuition Fees
While choosing a cheapest university in the uk, students should consider several factors that influence tuition costs:
Course type: STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) programs often cost slightly more.
Degree level: Master’s degrees are usually shorter but may have higher annual fees.
University location: Smaller cities such as Sunderland or Cumbria offer lower living expenses than London.
Scholarships: Many affordable universities in UK offer partial scholarships or early payment discounts for international students.
Scholarships and Financial Support
Studying at the cheapest university in UK becomes even more affordable with scholarships and grants.
Common options include:
Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Merit-based award of up to £3,000.
Early Bird Discount: 5–20% tuition reduction for early applicants.
Country-based scholarships: Available for Bangladeshi, Indian, and African students.
Postgraduate Bursaries: Offered by universities such as Chester, UWS, and Bolton.
Students are encouraged to apply early as most scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Living in the UK on a Budget
Choosing a cheapest university in the uk also means living in affordable student cities. Towns like Middlesbrough, Stoke-on-Trent, and Chester have significantly lower rent and transport costs compared to London or Birmingham.
Average monthly expenses:
Accommodation: £350–£500
Food and groceries: £150–£200
Transport: £40–£60
Miscellaneous: £100
International students can also work 20 hours per week during term time to support living expenses.
Tips for Choosing the Right Affordable University
When searching for the cheapest university in the UK, affordability should not be the only factor. Consider:
Accreditation: Ensure the university is recognized by UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration).
Graduate outcomes: Look for institutions with strong employability rates.
Location and lifestyle: Smaller towns are cheaper but may offer fewer part-time jobs.
Support services: Affordable universities often provide excellent international student assistance.
Selecting a university that balances cost, quality, and support ensures the best value for your education investment.
Future Opportunities After Graduation
Students graduating from cheapest university in the uk enjoy the same employment rights as those from top-tier institutions. After completing a degree, international students can apply for the Graduate Route Visa, allowing them to stay and work in the UK for up to two years.
Employers in the UK focus more on skills, experience, and work readiness rather than university ranking, making affordable education a smart choice for long-term success.
Top affordable options include Teesside University, University of Cumbria, University of Bolton, University of Chester, and UWS, with tuition starting from £11,500–£14,500 per year.
Yes. Many universities accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate instead of IELTS if your previous studies were in English.
An MOI confirms your education was taught in English. It’s issued by your school or college on official letterhead.
Middlesbrough, Carlisle, Chester, Sunderland, and Stoke-on-Trent offer the lowest living expenses.
Yes. Many provide £2,000–£3,000 merit scholarships and early payment discounts up to 20%.
Conclusion
Obtaining a UK university admission without IELTS is one of the most convenient options for international students in 2025. The Medium of Instruction system makes it possible for students from English-medium backgrounds to study in the UK without taking a separate English exam.
By choosing universities that accept MOI and working with a trusted consultant like Education Legacy LTD, you can simplify your application, reduce costs, and secure admission faster.
Education Legacy continues to support students from Bangladesh and beyond in achieving their dream to study in UK without IELTS, providing expert guidance and full assistance throughout every stage of the admission journey.
Contact Education Legacy LTD
For complete support with your UK university admission without IELTS, contact our experienced team today:
Education Legacy – helping students achieve their UK study goals confidently and affordably.
