15 Cheapest Universities in London for International Students

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 38 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in London, make sure to read more!

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!

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 City, University of London offers Broadcast Journalism, Creative Writing, and Business Analytics.

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*
University of London 12,000 GBP - 14,000 GBP 35%
London Institute of Banking and Finance 13,000 GBP 30%
London Metropolitan University 13,200 GBP - 17,200 GBP 29%
University of West London 13,300 GBP 28%
University of East London 13,800 GBP 26%
University of Roehampton 13,800 GBP - 17,200 GBP 26%
University of Westminster 14,400 GBP - 14,800 GBP 22%
Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance 14,500 GBP - 23,400 GBP 22%
Birkbeck, University of London 14,600 GBP 21%
Middlesex University 14,700 GBP 20%
Richmond, The American International University in London 14,800 GBP - 38,000 GBP 20%
University of Greenwich 15,100 GBP 18%
Royal Veterinary College University of London 15,200 GBP - 38,600 GBP 18%
London South Bank University 15,400 GBP - 18,500 GBP 17%
City, University of London 15,500 GBP - 20,500 GBP 16%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 18,400 GBP for universities in London.

1. 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.

2. London Institute of Banking and Finance

Originally founded as the Institute of Bankers in 1879, The London Institute of Banking and Finance 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.

3. 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.

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. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance

Do you want to become one of the world’s most excellent musicians, dancers, or theater performers? The Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance is one of the world’s leading schools in its field, ranking 26th for the Performing Arts based on QS rankings. It is the United Kingdom’s only music and dance conservatoire. The institution has done its best to provide quality training, encourage creativity and innovation, and empower young performers and artists all these years.

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. Richmond, The American International University in 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 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. 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.

14. 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.

15. City, University of London

City, University of London is a research-led institute specializing in business courses. It aims to develop the next generation of entrepreneurial talent through excellent academic instruction. Its campus is located in the heart of London and has strong ties to the city, with the Lord Mayor of London serving as the university rector. Several graduates from City have become notable politicians, entrepreneurs, and academics who contribute to the good of society globally.

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 63%
University of Greenwich 7,550 GBP - 18,500 GBP 59%
University of London 9,180 GBP - 16,000 GBP 50%
Ravensbourne University London 9,750 GBP - 17,000 GBP 47%
Regent’s University London 9,750 GBP - 24,500 GBP 47%
Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance 12,900 GBP - 23,300 GBP 30%
University of Westminster 13,000 GBP - 19,000 GBP 29%
Richmond, The American International University in London 13,300 GBP - 21,800 GBP 27%
City, University of London 14,100 GBP - 21,200 GBP 23%
University of East London 14,300 GBP - 15,800 GBP 22%
University of Roehampton 14,800 GBP - 16,000 GBP 19%
Middlesex University 14,800 GBP - 15,300 GBP 19%
London Institute of Banking and Finance 15,000 GBP 18%
School of Advanced Study 15,300 GBP - 17,700 GBP 17%
Royal Academy of Music 15,300 GBP - 31,500 GBP 16%

* Average Master’s International Tuition is 18,200 GBP for universities in london.

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 Greenwich

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is University of Greenwich. 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 Greenwich is 7,550 GBP to 18,500 GBP.

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.

3. 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.

The tuition fee at University of London for incoming international master’s students is 9,180 GBP to 16,000 GBP. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Ravensbourne University London

Another affordable university to consider in London is 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

The tuition fee in Ravensbourne University London for master’s program for foreign students starts from 9,750 GBP.

5. Regent’s University London

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Regent’s University London 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 9,750 GBP yearly.

The university shows excellence in education through its accomplishments throughout its history. The private school is also a member of the Galileo Global Education which is the biggest provider of higher education on the continent of Europe. In this institution, the students are truly prioritized as one of the school’s beliefs is having a student-centered education.

6. Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance

Do you want to become one of the world’s most excellent musicians, dancers, or theater performers? The Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance is one of the world’s leading schools in its field, ranking 26th for the Performing Arts based on QS rankings. It is the United Kingdom’s only music and dance conservatoire. The institution has done its best to provide quality training, encourage creativity and innovation, and empower young performers and artists all these years.

7. 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.

8. Richmond, The American International University in 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.

9. City, University of London

City, University of London is a research-led institute specializing in business courses. It aims to develop the next generation of entrepreneurial talent through excellent academic instruction. Its campus is located in the heart of London and has strong ties to the city, with the Lord Mayor of London serving as the university rector. Several graduates from City have become notable politicians, entrepreneurs, and academics who contribute to the good of society globally.

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. London Institute of Banking and Finance

Originally founded as the Institute of Bankers in 1879, The London Institute of Banking and Finance 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.

14. 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.

15. Royal Academy of Music

The Royal Academy of Music (RAM) is one of the University of London’s constituent colleges. It began to welcome students in the year 1822, making it the UK’s oldest music school. Aside from offering education to undergraduates and postgraduates, RAM also has a Junior Academy for youngsters who are budding musicians.


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!