How Much Does It Cost to Study Engineering in UK 2025 Guide

Planning to pursue an engineering degree overseas? One of the first questions on every student’s mind is how much does it cost to study engineering in UK in 2025. From tuition fees and living expenses to visa requirements and scholarship opportunities, this guide breaks down the full financial picture so you can plan your budget—and your future—with confidence.

Study Engineering in UK : Tuition Fees for Engineering Degrees in the UK

Home Students (UK & EU)

For UK undergraduates, tuition fees are regulated by Parliament. In the 2025–26 academic year, the maximum fee for full-time engineering degrees is £9,535 per year. This represents a £285 increase on the previous caps and applies across England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own limits or support schemes:

• England: £9,535 per year (GOV.UK Student Finance)
• Scotland: No fee for Scottish students; up to £9,250 for rest of UK
• Wales: £9,250 for Welsh and other UK students
• Northern Ireland: £4,530–£4,815, depending on domicile

Examples at leading institutions:

• King’s College London (General Engineering BEng): £9,535/year
• University of Manchester (MEng Chemical Engineering): £9,535/year
• University of Warwick (Engineering BEng): £9,535/year

International Students

International tuition is uncapped and varies by university, subject and level:

• Undergraduate engineering: £11,400–£38,000 per year (most fall between £15,000–£25,000)
• Postgraduate engineering: £9,000–£30,000 per year (average £14,000–£25,000); MBAs up to £63,000

Sample international fees:

• King’s College London (General Engineering BEng): £35,800/year
• University of Birmingham (Engineering BEng): £25,050/year
• University of Nottingham (Aerospace Engineering MEng): £27,800/year

Read also : Best Study in UK 2025 Guide

Living Costs for Engineering Students

Beyond tuition, living expenses can significantly affect your budget. The UK Council for International Student Affairs recommends the following annual estimates:

• London: £15,000–£18,000
• Other UK regions: £12,000–£15,000

Typical breakdown:

• Accommodation: £5,000–£8,000
• Food & groceries: £2,000–£3,000
• Transport: £600–£1,200
• Utilities & bills: £300–£500
• Books & materials: £300–£600
• Personal & leisure: £1,500–£2,500

Visa and Immigration Costs

International students require a Student Route visa, which carries:

• Application fee: £490 (online)
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £624/year
• Maintenance funds: £1,265/month in London (9 months); £1,015/month elsewhere

Funding Options: Scholarships, Bursaries & Loans

Reducing out-of-pocket expenses often involves securing financial aid:

• UK student loans (home students): Tuition fee loans cover up to £9,535; maintenance loans depend on household income.
• University bursaries: Many Russell Group and post-92 institutions offer means-tested bursaries up to £3,000/year.
• Scholarships for international students: Government awards (Chevening, Commonwealth) and university-specific scholarships (Scholarships for Engineering in the UK).
• External trusts & foundations: Institution-specific and country-specific funding bodies.

Comparing Costs Across Regions and University Types

Costs fluctuate by location and institution:

• London universities generally charge 10–15% more for accommodation and living expenses.
• Russell Group engineering programs often sit at the higher end of fee ranges, reflecting research investment.
• Post-92 universities and those in the North West, Scotland and Wales can offer lower living costs and competitive tuition.

Budgeting Tips & Cost-Reduction Strategies

• Share accommodation: Save up to £2,000/year.
• Cook at home: Cut food bills by 30%.
• Use student discounts: Railcards, software, and leisure.
• Buy second-hand books: Save 50–70% on course materials.
• Part-time work (20 hrs/week): Earn up to £6,000/year tax-free.
• Research bursaries early: Apply by deadlines to maximize support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

From capped home fees of £9,535 to international rates up to £38,000, understanding the full cost of an engineering degree in the UK is essential. Factor in living expenses, visa costs and funding options to build a realistic budget. Ready to take the next step? Research courses, explore funding, and start your application today to engineer your future in the UK.