London has always been a dream destination for international students. Reasons? Its top-notch education, incredible career prospects, lively city life, and more. But let’s be real, living and studying in London in London comes with its costs.
If you’re planning to move here for higher studies, it’s important to get a practical and clear idea of what to expect financially. This will help you make the most of your time and experience in the city.
In this blog, we break it all down for you.
Factors Impacting Study Cost In London
So, what exactly influences the cost of studying in London? Here’s a closer look at the key factors:
- Tuition fees for international students
- Cost of living, including rent, food, and transport
- Pre-arrival and post-arrival expenses
Now, let’s dive in and explore what it really takes to study in London without breaking the bank!
Tuition Fee Costs for Indian Students
Without a doubt, London is the ideal study-abroad destination for international students; however, compared to other British cities, the cost of living here for students is far higher. But, choosing to attend university in this city means you will have access to top-notch teaching and research facilities as well as excellent career opportunities – the pros, you see.
Therefore, according to your level of study, the cost of studying in London for you is as follows:
| Degree Type | Average Annual Tuition Fee |
| Bachelors in London | £10,000 – £20,000 |
| Masters degree in London | £10,000 – £20,000 |
| Doctoral Degree in London | £15,000 – £24,000 |
Further, for your better understanding, below is a detailed overview categorized for private and public universities in London:
Private Universities in London
If you choose a private university in London for your higher education, your cost of study in London may be slightly higher than those who choose to study in public universities. Here are some of the famous universities and their yearly tuition fees:
| University Name | Tuition Fees (annually) |
| GSM London | £10,000 |
| BPP University | £9,500 |
| Regent’s University London | £18,500 |
| St. Mary’s University London | £12,900 |
Public Universities in London
Now, we share a similar breakdown of finances if you plan to opt for public universities during your higher studies in London. Here are some famous public universities in London and their respective study cost:
| University Name | Tuition Fees (Average Annual Fees for 2024) |
| London School of Economics | £23,088 |
| Imperial College London | £10,000 |
| The University of London | £10,000 |
| London Metropolitan University | £4,500 – £9,000 |
| The University of East London | £21,000 |
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Scholarships for Studying in London
Having shared with you areas that would need financial commitments should you choose to study abroad in London, we now share crucial information on scholarships to support your stay in the UK.
| Scholarships | Average Amount (in £) |
| Gates Cambridge Scholarship | £17,500 stipend per annum |
| Imperial College London Ph.D. Scholarship | £16,500 |
| GEMS International Undergraduate Scholarship | £2,000 fee reduction each year |
| Cambridge University MBA Scholarship | £30,000 |
Living Expenses in London for Indian Students
Now, specifically regarding Indian students and their potential study costs in London. The average monthly living expenses in London for Indian students are around £1,015. This is if they live outside London. Likewise, the average expense for those who reside in inner London is around £1,265 per month.
Below is an overview of the cost of living in London for Indian students:
| Expenses Type | Amount (in £) |
| Accommodation | £8,100 per year |
| Food | £3,000 per year |
| Travel | £1,220 per year |
| Leisure and Miscellaneous Costs | £2,220 per year |
Pre-arrival and Post-arrival Costs of Studying in London – What You Need to Budget For
Alright, so you’ve decided to study in London – amazing choice! But before you start, let’s talk about the costs you’ll need to cover before and after you arrive. Planning ahead will save you from any last-minute surprises, and trust me, London is full of surprises (some fun, some… less fun for your wallet).
Pre-Arrival Costs
This cost includes what you’ll spend before you even get there. Before you hop on that flight, there are a few essential expenses to take care of:
| Expense Category | Details / Estimated Cost |
|---|
| Entrance Exams |
| – GRE | ₹15,800 |
| – GMAT | ₹18,500 |
| – IELTS/UKVI | ₹15,100 |
| – TOEFL | ₹13,770 |
| University Application Fees | £50 – £150 per university (check individual websites) |
| Student Visa & Health Surcharge | Financial proof required for: – £1,050/month (outside London) – £1,265/month (in London) |
| Other Administrative Costs | Includes mailing documents, sending test scores, etc. |
| Flight Tickets to London | ₹27,887 – ₹31,794 (one-way; book early for best rates) |
Post-Arrival Costs
Coming to Post-arrival costs, this cost includes what you’ll spend once you’re in London.
Once you land, here’s what you’ll need to factor into your budget every month:
| Expense Category | Details / Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | £10,000 – £24,000 per year (varies by course & university) |
| Living Expenses | ~£1,265 per month (includes rent, food, travel, etc.) |
| Money-Saving Tips | Use student discounts, get part-time work, follow budget hacks |
Need Personalized Help?
Studying in London can be a life-changing experience – but planning your finances, picking the right university, and navigating scholarships can feel overwhelming.
That’s where expert guidance can make all the difference. With personalised support, strategic advice, and help from study-abroad mentors like Admitix, your London dream isn’t just possible – it’s doable.
Let’s make London happen – together.
FAQs – Living and Studying In London
Is London too expensive for international students?
London can be pricey, yes. But with smart budgeting, scholarships, and student discounts, you can absolutely manage it. Many students also take up part-time jobs to support themselves.
What’s the average cost of living in London for Indian students?
Expect around £1,265/month if you live in inner London, and about £1,015/month if you’re outside central zones.
Are there affordable universities in London?
Yes. Some public universities like London Metropolitan University and The University of London offer relatively lower tuition fees, starting around £4,500 – £10,000/year.
Can Indian students get scholarships in London?
Definitely! Scholarships like GEMS International, Gates Cambridge, and Imperial College PhD Scholarships offer substantial financial support.
Do I need IELTS or TOEFL to study in London?
In most cases, yes. Universities require proof of English proficiency. Some may waive it if you’ve studied in English-medium institutions before – but always check specific university