Many students from different countries choose to spend their study abroad experience in England. Learn about the many expenses you may incur while studying in England by consulting our helpful guide.
You’ve made the exciting decision to study in England, home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, cities, and, of course, educational institutions. You will be stretched intellectually and culturally in this country, and native speakers of English will be an extra plus. You’ll also be close enough to mainland Europe to travel there easily via airplane or train.
It’s crucial to factor in more than just the base cost of studying in England as you plan your budget. Tuition is obvious, but there are other expenses, including as living fees, food, transportation, and personal items, that may add up quickly. Although these expenses are unique to each student, this guide will walk you through them all to give you an estimate of what an English study abroad program might cost.
Cost of a Semester in England, on Average
Although there are other expenses involved with studying abroad, tuition will likely be the most significant. The cost of tuition may change from one university and one program to another. Most English universities fall under the category of “public universities,” whereby the government covers a portion of students’ tuition and fees.
However, tuition is usually more expensive for foreign students.
If you’re wondering, “How much does it cost to study abroad in the UK?” tuition costs for international students can range anywhere from about $16,900 USD to $31,370 USD (£13,990 to £25,970) each year, but this varies widely by student demographics, institution, and major.
Be aware that there are key distinctions between direct enrollment and third-party programs for studying abroad.
Annual Tuition by Independent Enrollment:
- Cost of attendance at the University of Brighton in 2023/24: $14,275 (£14,300).
- Price of attendance at Edge Hill University in 2023/24: £18,725 ($17,640).
- Harlaxton University: $16,900 each academic year (2022/23)
- London’s University of the Arts: £25 970 ($31 370) year (2022/23)
- Twenty-one thousand and seven hundred pounds sterling ($20,735) per year (2022/23) at the University of Plymouth
Payment for one semester of instruction at an independent institution:
- Cost of the CIEE London program (Fall 2023): $24,950 per semester (including housing).
- IES Overseas in London is $19,925 a semester (Spring and Fall 2023) and that includes housing.
- Spring semester (2023) tuition at USAC England-Bristol is $14,980.
- Cost of an ISA semester at University of Roehampton in London, England (Spring and Fall 2023): $18,950 (housing included).
As you can see, the total cost of your education will differ greatly based on the chosen major and the location of your chosen institution. It’s in your best interest to do some research to determine which location, activity, and cost best fits your needs.
Though it may cost more to study abroad through a program provider, many students find the advantages to be well worth the extra money. For example:
- Application help, pre-departure orientations, and on-site support throughout the semester are just some of the ways in which program providers help students throughout their time abroad.
- Programs frequently incorporate cultural events and excursions that provide students a chance to thoroughly immerse themselves in the country and gain a richer appreciation for the way of life there.
- Possibility to Network: Many independent program providers arrange for their participants to meet and network with local professionals and academics, as well as students from all around the world. Building your personal and business connections in this way can be quite beneficial.
- Financial Planning: Many study abroad programs cover all of your expenditures (including airfare) in one flat rate.
Providers’ familiarity with their communities, combined with access to round-the-clock emergency care, allows them to bolster students’ security.
English people's typical weekly outlays on necessities
The cost of living varies widely across England, as it does across any country. The cost of living in London, the capital of England and one of the most expensive cities in the world, is significantly higher than in the rest of the country.
However, one can always find methods to economize and make ends meet in major metropolitan areas. Keep in mind that everyone leads slightly different lives, and tailor your budget estimate accordingly.
Budget flight and travel expenses in England
When planning to study abroad, it is important to factor in not only the usual cost of living expenses, but also the travel fees involved. You’ll need to book a return flight to England, but you should also consider whether or not you’ll want to take a journey back home for the holidays or other important occasions while you’re there. It’s also important to plan ahead for the expenses incurred while exploring the UK and potentially the rest of Europe on weekends and school breaks.
Economy round-trip flights from the United States to England can cost as much as $1,400 or more, depending on when you travel and from which airport you depart. In some parts of the United States, that cost might rise to $2,000 over the holiday season. Remember this if you’re planning on spending the Fall semester studying abroad, and book your return flight as soon as possible to save money.
While studying in England, you may get around the nation for a reasonable price if you plan to do some sightseeing. Hostel beds cost between $20 and $40 a night, while a private room at a bed and breakfast would run you between $50 and $90.
There are several opportunities to save money as a student. Traveling across the country using the National Rail service is a convenient and comfortable option, but it can be expensive. The price of a ticket from London to Liverpool can range from $30 to around $200. Megabus, on the other hand, provides a convenient and inexpensive alternative, with fares ranging from $10 to $20.
Considerable Extra Expenses for a British Education
The expense of insurance is another factor to think about before deciding to study abroad. World Nomads, a popular provider of travel insurance, may provide sufficient protection against the risks of theft, lost luggage, missed flights, and medical emergencies, depending on your specific circumstances. Foreign students might think about purchasing a policy that pays for basic medical services.
You should also plan for trips outside of the UK. The convenience of weekend travel between European countries is a fantastic perk of studying abroad in Europe. Taking a high-speed rail from London, you may reach Amsterdam, Paris, or Scotland in a few of hours. These trains can cost as little as $50 or as much as $200. From London, you may reach practically all of western Europe via the low-cost bus companies Flixbus, Megabus, and BlaBlaBus; tickets are often less than $50. Flights within Western Europe are also quite cheap. For example, from London, you can fly to any major city in Western Europe for as little as $15 to $50 round trip on low-cost carriers like EasyJet, Ryanair, Vueling, and more. A hostel dorm bed in western Europe can be had for as little as $10 per night if you book in advance, and as much as $40 if you don’t.
Advice on how to cut costs while studying in the UK
Even in pricey London, there are lots of inexpensive and free things to do if you’re watching your pennies.
England has rich of fantastic national museums, all of which are free to the public and open to anyone. One of London’s many lovely parks is a great place to while away an afternoon, and you can listen to free live music at nearly any bar in the country.
Working in England might be an option if you need to earn money while studying there. You may be able to do this if you have the right visa and enroll in the right way. If you’re an overseas student at a legitimate school in England, you might be permitted to work 20 hours a week during the academic year and 40 hours a week during the summer and winter breaks.
Awards for higher education in the United Kingdom
The eligibility standards and number of available scholarships for study in England can be confusing. Scholarships for students with financial need are often available through the study abroad programs themselves. Scholarship applications for individuals enrolling in full time can be available on school websites. Scholarships and grants to help pay for an overseas education are available from a wide variety of non-academic sources. Apply to as many scholarships as possible that you feel you could be eligible for, and put in the time to make sure your applications are thorough and truthful.
When you’re ready to start the application process, Vagvadini Internationals can provide you with a comprehensive list of study abroad scholarships and grants.
Note: The Financial Aid and Student Aid (FAFSA) Program now offers loans to students attending universities in the United Kingdom.
Put your plans for studying in England into action.
The cost of your educational and experiential investments is a consideration, but it shouldn’t be the deciding one. While studying in the UK may be more expensive than in other countries, it is also home to a wealth of exciting cultural experiences and top-tier educational opportunities. Furthermore, it is possible to study abroad on a shoestring in any country. Make it happen if you really want to go to school in England.
