15 Cheapest Universities in London for International Students

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In London, England, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in United Kingdom without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in London, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 40 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in London, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in London for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in London ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
MetFilm School 9,535 GBP - 27,800 GBP 56%
University of London 12,000 GBP - 14,000 GBP 45%
Walbrook Institute London 12,500 GBP 43%
University of West London 13,300 GBP 39%
London South Bank University 15,500 GBP - 17,600 GBP 29%
University of East London 15,600 GBP 28%
Middlesex University 16,600 GBP 24%
University of Roehampton 17,000 GBP - 19,500 GBP 22%
Ravensbourne University London 17,000 GBP 22%
University of Greenwich 17,500 GBP 19%
Richmond American University London 17,500 GBP 19%
University of Westminster 17,600 GBP 19%
Birkbeck, University of London 18,500 GBP 15%
Royal Veterinary College University of London 18,900 GBP - 26,200 GBP 13%
London Metropolitan University 19,500 GBP 10%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 21,600 GBP for universities in London.

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1. MetFilm School

MetFilm School is a renowned institution specializing in film, television, and online media education. Through its innovative and practical programs taught by influential experts in the industry, MetFilm School strives to provide high-level training to its students and help them secure employment after graduation. The school also has strong industry connections that enable students to participate in real-world projects and gain relevant experience.

2. University of London

The University of London is a public university in the United Kingdom that offers a unique academic experience through flexible study options and distance learning. The university allows international students to finish their degrees through one of its 17 member institutions in the UK. Students can also study at the University of London through one of its Recognized Teaching Centers in their home country.

3. Walbrook Institute London

Originally founded as the Institute of Bankers in 1879, the Walbrook Institute London achieved the Royal Charter in 1987. Through this, the name was changed to Chartered Institute of Bankers. It changed its name again to the Institute of Financial Services in 1997. The London Institute of Banking and Finance was the first institute to award the CeMAP qualification, which is given to mortgage advisers. It was granted ‘university college’ status in 2013, and the name was changed to The London Institute of Banking and Finance three years later. Now, the university name has changed to Walbrook Institute London.

4. University of West London

With historical roots dating back to 1860, the University of West London is a distinguished institute of tertiary education. It is situated in the Greater London area and has two campus locations, one in Ealing and another in Brentford. It prides itself on being a career university as it offers a wide range of study options to undergraduates and postgraduates.

5. London South Bank University

Situated in the UK’s capital and widely known for providing industry-specific study programs, the London South Bank University is mainly favored by the local and international students. The university puts great importance on its quality of education by offering comprehensive degree programs and employing highly qualified academic staff to help nurture the students’ core capabilities and strengths. In addition, it is recognized as one of the leading universities with a high employability rate among its graduates.

6. University of East London

The University of East London has been around since 1898 and they continue to deliver excellent teaching and support for their students. The school offers various undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, all of which have a goal to improve the students’ skills, creativity, and knowledge. There are different campuses depending on your study program, but the university ensures that all locations bring work opportunities that are accessible to the students.

7. Middlesex University

The Middlesex University in London is a highly acknowledged institution in the country and globally. They have a consistent position in local and international rankings, proving their outstanding performance in the field. Their programs in arts, sports, and social work are one of the bests in the country.

8. University of Roehampton

The University of Roehampton is actually the product of merging four colleges: Whitelands College (founded 1841), Southlands College (founded 1872), Digby Stuart College (founded 1874), and Froebel College (founded 1982). It received its ‘university status’ in 2011, while Roehampton University remains as its legal name. The University of Roehampton is also the first university to offer e-sports course and scholarship, and have an e-sports arena or facility for streaming, gaming, and editing, among others.

9. Ravensbourne University London

Ravensbourne University London is known for offering academic programs, particularly in digital media, design, and technology. The institution has a relatively small student community primarily comprised of artistic individuals aiming to pursue a career in digital media and creative industries. And since most of its programs are industry-specific and are currently in demand, graduates of the university are highly employable and assume high positions in the creative sectors

10. University of Greenwich

One of the reputable institutions in the UK is the University of Greenwich. Established in 1890, this top-tier university has generated successful professionals throughout the years. Its vibrant and supportive student community is one of the significant factors in producing such creative talents. And being part of the Greenwich community will give students the needed support and guidance in choosing the right path for their future endeavors. The overall student experience at the university will truly be a rewarding experience.

11. Richmond American University London

Based on its name, Richmond utilizes both the education systems of the UK and the US. With this, graduates of the university acquire both UK and US degrees. The private institution is one of the top-performing liberal arts schools in the UK. Aside from the major undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, there are also minor programs that students may opt to take along with their courses.

12. University of Westminster

The University of Westminster was founded in 1838 in its former name, Royal Polytechnic Institution. From being the first polytechnic in the country, it officially became the University of Westminster in 1992, offering academic courses in Arts, Sciences, Technology, and Business. It has four campuses in London, three of which are in Central London.

13. Birkbeck, University of London

Birkbeck, University of London is a respected center of excellence situated in the Bloomsbury district. It is well-known for being an educational institution that provides evening class schedules, making it a solid option for working students. The name of the university comes from its founder, Sir George Birkbeck who was an eminent physician, academic, and philanthropist from the late 1700s until the early 1800s.

14. Royal Veterinary College University of London

Is your biggest dream to be one of the world’s best veterinarians? There’s no better place to study veterinary programs than the Royal Veterinary College University of London. This institution is not just one of the oldest and largest vet schools; it is also consistently top-ranked in the fields. It is even ranked first in the subject by the QS rankings. Quality and service are further assured through the multiple accreditations the university has received from highly-regarded institutions, like the American Veterinary Medical Association.

15. London Metropolitan University

Although its university status was only established in 2002, London Metropolitan University’s rich history goes back to 1848. The London Met, as it is more popularly known, has a lot to offer to its students – high-quality facilities, resources, training, and education. The university is also very inclusive, welcoming students from over a hundred nations. Find your place in the London Met’s community by choosing your course among the hundreds available – whether full-time or part-time.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in London for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in London ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of West London 6,875 GBP - 16,800 GBP 69%
University of London 9,180 GBP - 16,000 GBP 59%
MetFilm School 9,950 GBP - 22,000 GBP 55%
Walbrook Institute London 12,500 GBP 43%
University of Westminster 14,000 GBP - 20,000 GBP 37%
School of Advanced Study 15,000 GBP - 20,500 GBP 32%
University of East London 15,600 GBP - 19,000 GBP 29%
London Film School 15,900 GBP - 22,000 GBP 28%
London South Bank University 16,000 GBP - 19,900 GBP 27%
St George’s, University of London 16,800 GBP - 26,500 GBP 24%
Middlesex University 17,100 GBP - 20,900 GBP 22%
University of Greenwich 18,000 GBP - 18,700 GBP 18%
Ravensbourne University London 18,000 GBP - 24,000 GBP 18%
Guildhall School of Music and Drama 18,100 GBP - 31,100 GBP 18%
University of Roehampton 18,300 GBP - 19,300 GBP 17%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 21,900 GBP for universities in London.

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1. University of West London

With historical roots dating back to 1860, the University of West London is a distinguished institute of tertiary education. It is situated in the Greater London area and has two campus locations, one in Ealing and another in Brentford. It prides itself on being a career university as it offers a wide range of study options to undergraduates and postgraduates.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, University of West London should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 6,875 GBP to 16,800 GBP annually for their master's degree.

2. University of London

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is University of London. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at University of London is 9,180 GBP to 16,000 GBP.

The University of London is a public university in the United Kingdom that offers a unique academic experience through flexible study options and distance learning. The university allows international students to finish their degrees through one of its 17 member institutions in the UK. Students can also study at the University of London through one of its Recognized Teaching Centers in their home country.

3. MetFilm School

MetFilm School is a renowned institution specializing in film, television, and online media education. Through its innovative and practical programs taught by influential experts in the industry, MetFilm School strives to provide high-level training to its students and help them secure employment after graduation. The school also has strong industry connections that enable students to participate in real-world projects and gain relevant experience.

The tuition fee at MetFilm School for incoming international master’s students is 9,950 GBP to 22,000 GBP. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Walbrook Institute London

Another affordable university to consider in London is Walbrook Institute London.

Originally founded as the Institute of Bankers in 1879, the Walbrook Institute London achieved the Royal Charter in 1987. Through this, the name was changed to Chartered Institute of Bankers. It changed its name again to the Institute of Financial Services in 1997. The London Institute of Banking and Finance was the first institute to award the CeMAP qualification, which is given to mortgage advisers. It was granted ‘university college’ status in 2013, and the name was changed to The London Institute of Banking and Finance three years later. Now, the university name has changed to Walbrook Institute London.

The tuition fee in Walbrook Institute London for master’s program for foreign students starts from 12,500 GBP.

5. University of Westminster

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, University of Westminster has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 14,000 GBP yearly.

The University of Westminster was founded in 1838 in its former name, Royal Polytechnic Institution. From being the first polytechnic in the country, it officially became the University of Westminster in 1992, offering academic courses in Arts, Sciences, Technology, and Business. It has four campuses in London, three of which are in Central London.

6. School of Advanced Study

Another distinguished school under the University of London is the School of Advanced Study. It is a graduate institution that is also acknowledged to be the national center for research in the field of humanities and social sciences in the UK. The school has nine member institutes categorized based on the specialization, such as advanced legal studies and modern languages research.

7. University of East London

The University of East London has been around since 1898 and they continue to deliver excellent teaching and support for their students. The school offers various undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, all of which have a goal to improve the students’ skills, creativity, and knowledge. There are different campuses depending on your study program, but the university ensures that all locations bring work opportunities that are accessible to the students.

8. London Film School

Founded in 1956, the London Film School is considered the oldest institution for film education in the United Kingdom. It has also earned a strong global reputation for its top-notch programs in different aspects of film production. Students at this prestigious institution get various opportunities for international exposure through collaborations with industry experts and international companies.

9. London South Bank University

Situated in the UK’s capital and widely known for providing industry-specific study programs, the London South Bank University is mainly favored by the local and international students. The university puts great importance on its quality of education by offering comprehensive degree programs and employing highly qualified academic staff to help nurture the students’ core capabilities and strengths. In addition, it is recognized as one of the leading universities with a high employability rate among its graduates.

10. St George’s, University of London

St George’s, University of London (SGUL) is a public research university situated in South London’s district of Tooting. The center of excellence is widely known as one of the United Hospitals. Moreover, SGUL focuses on molecular and clinical sciences, infection and immunity, population health, and a lot more.

11. Middlesex University

The Middlesex University in London is a highly acknowledged institution in the country and globally. They have a consistent position in local and international rankings, proving their outstanding performance in the field. Their programs in arts, sports, and social work are one of the bests in the country.

12. University of Greenwich

One of the reputable institutions in the UK is the University of Greenwich. Established in 1890, this top-tier university has generated successful professionals throughout the years. Its vibrant and supportive student community is one of the significant factors in producing such creative talents. And being part of the Greenwich community will give students the needed support and guidance in choosing the right path for their future endeavors. The overall student experience at the university will truly be a rewarding experience.

13. Ravensbourne University London

Ravensbourne University London is known for offering academic programs, particularly in digital media, design, and technology. The institution has a relatively small student community primarily comprised of artistic individuals aiming to pursue a career in digital media and creative industries. And since most of its programs are industry-specific and are currently in demand, graduates of the university are highly employable and assume high positions in the creative sectors

14. Guildhall School of Music and Drama

Guildhall School of Music and Drama is a center of learning that specializes in the performing arts. Adding to this, it is not an institute only for tertiary students as it also offers short courses for younger individuals. Furthermore, due to the fact that it is a prestigious school, it has a long list of well-known alumni including baritone John Rhys Evans, award-winning actress Lily James, and concert pianist Clare Hammond.

15. University of Roehampton

The University of Roehampton is actually the product of merging four colleges: Whitelands College (founded 1841), Southlands College (founded 1872), Digby Stuart College (founded 1874), and Froebel College (founded 1982). It received its ‘university status’ in 2011, while Roehampton University remains as its legal name. The University of Roehampton is also the first university to offer e-sports course and scholarship, and have an e-sports arena or facility for streaming, gaming, and editing, among others.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in London, England?

Applying to cheap universities in London requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in United Kingdom for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in London?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in London. For example, one of the best affordable schools in London is the Birkbeck, University of London, which offers Arts and Media Management, Psychosocial Studies, and Community Development and Public Policy to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Guildhall School of Music and Drama offers Collaborative Theatre Production and Design, Music Therapy, and Opera Making and Writing.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in London, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in London as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in London for international students was helpful!

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