Key takeaways
- Tuition fees for Nepali students in the UK vary widely by level of study, course, and university location. Specialised fields such as medicine may have higher fees, while arts and humanities may have a more affordable fee structure.
- Living expenses form a significant portion of your budget. These expenses include accommodation, food, transport, and entertainment.
- There can also be hidden and miscellaneous expenses such as housing deposits, SIM cards, TV licenses, and visa renewals. You must anticipate these expenses as well and plan accordingly.
- You can take up part-time jobs while studying and also apply for various scholarships to gain financial support. This will reduce your financial stress and help you focus on your studies.
Want to learn more about study costs in the UK for Nepali students? Consult our experts.
The UK is a popular destination for Nepali students seeking high-quality education. However, the overall cost of studying in the UK can be quite high if finances are not managed carefully.
Understanding primary expenses, including tuition, living costs, visa fees, and miscellaneous costs, is essential to being well-prepared financially. Let's explore these study costs and learn how to plan your finances effectively.
Table of Contents
- Tuition fees for Nepali students in the UK
- Living expenses in the UK for Nepali students
- UK student visa costs for Nepali applicants
- Hidden and miscellaneous expenses while studying in the UK
- Part-time jobs and scholarships for Nepali students in the UK
- Tips to manage and reduce study expenses in the UK
- Final thoughts
- Frequently asked questions
- Are there any hidden costs that Nepali students should be aware of when studying in the UK?
- How can Nepali students budget effectively for their stay in the UK?
- Is healthcare free for Nepali students in the UK?
- Are there scholarships or financial aid options for Nepali students studying in the UK?
- Can Nepali students work part-time in the UK while studying?
Tuition fees for Nepali students in the UK
Tuition fee for Nepali students in the UK depends on the level of study, the course, and the university. The location can also affect the tuition fee.
On average, tuition fee in the UK ranges between GBP 11,000 and GBP 38,000 per year for undergraduate programmes, while for postgraduate programmes it ranges between GBP 9,000 and GBP 30,000 per year.
Take a look at the tuition fees in the UK for different study levels and academic disciplines.
| Study level | Discipline | Tuition fee (GBP/year) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Arts & Humanities | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Science & Engineering | 13,000 – 30,000 | |
| Medicine & Dentistry | 30,000 – 60,000 | |
| Postgraduate | Arts & Humanities | 11,000 – 20,000 |
| MBA | 15,000 – 30,000 | |
| STEM | 14,000 – 25,000 | |
| PhD / Doctoral | Science & Engineering | 15,000 – 35,000 |
| Business & Management | 18,000 – 30,000 | |
| Medical & Life Sciences | 20,000 – 35,000 |
Note: For accurate fee details, you are advised to check the official website of the university you are applying to.
Living expenses in the UK for Nepali students
When you plan to study in the UK, you’ll also need an estimate of the overall living expenses there. This will help you plan your budget and ensure wise financial management during your student life. There are various items to consider, including accommodation, food, travel, entertainment, and miscellaneous expenses.
Here’s a breakdown of major living expenses in the UK for Nepali students.
- Accommodation
- Food and groceries
- Transportation
- Healthcare
- Entertainment
Accommodation
There are several accommodation options available, both on-campus and off-campus, to suit your diverse tastes and budget. On-campus accommodations ensure a safe and convenient stay, and the cost varies based on the room choice and location. Typically, on-campus accommodation can cost between GBP 3,000 and GBP 8,000 per year. If you’re choosing private accommodation off-campus, it may cost between GBP 500 and GBP 1,500 per month.
Food and groceries
Your expenses on food and groceries may range between GBP 150 and GBP 300 per month. If you’re dining out, the expenses may vary based on the type of eatery and restaurant you choose. However, on average, your expenses may range between GBP 5 and GBP 20 per meal.
Transportation
You can use public transport in the UK, which includes buses, trams, and trains. Costs can vary between GBP 50 and GBP 100 per month. There are various discounts available for international students through travel cards, such as the London 18+ Oyster photocard and the 16-25 Railcard. For longer distances, budget-friendly options like coach services can be used.
Healthcare
You’ll have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) during your visa application, which could cost GBP 776 per year of stay. IHS provides access to the National Health Service and covers your essential and emergency healthcare.
Entertainment
Social life is essential for a healthy student experience. Movies, social outings, and other leisure activities may cost between GBP 50 and GBP 100 per month. Mobile phone expenses may range from GBP 15 to GBP 30. The expenses for entertainment will depend significantly on your lifestyle and location.
Connect with our experts for more information.
UK student visa costs for Nepali applicants
Nepali students will need a Tier 4 student visa to study in the UK. The entire visa application and processing costs are also a part of the study abroad expenses. The UK student visa application fee for Nepali students is approximately GBP 524 (as of 2025). Since visa fees and other requirements may change, you’re advised to check the official UK government website for the latest information.
Hidden and miscellaneous expenses while studying in the UK
In addition to these expenses, there could be several miscellaneous or hidden expenses that you should consider while estimating your study costs. Having an understanding of all possible expenses can help you avoid unexpected financial challenges.
If you’re choosing private accommodation, you might have to pay a housing deposit, which is a significant cost. You also have to consider expenses you might incur for a SIM card, TV license, and immediate expenses on arrival, such as initial transport costs. Other expenses could include visa renewal fees, club memberships, personal care products, haircuts, etc.
Let’s explore study costs in the UK for Nepali students. Talk to our experts.
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Part-time jobs and scholarships for Nepali students in the UK
Nepali students can work up to 20 hours per week during term and work full-time during holidays. There are numerous part-time jobs available across sectors such as retail, hospitality, tutoring, customer service, delivery services, and more.
Part-time job opportunities provide you with an excellent route to earn during your studies and support your finances. Most part-time jobs pay an average of GBP 9 to GBP 15 per hour. Rates may be higher in cities like London.
You can also fund your studies in the UK by taking advantage of the various scholarship options offered for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Here’s a selection of popular scholarships specifically for Nepali students:
| Scholarship | Description | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarship | UK government scholarship for master’s degrees | Tuition fee + stipend |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | Scholarships for students from Commonwealth countries | Tuition fee + stipend |
| GREAT Scholarships | Supports students from select countries, including Nepal. | Partial to full tuition |
| University-specific scholarships | Many UK universities offer merit-based scholarships | Varies widely |
Tips to manage and reduce study expenses in the UK
Studying in the UK is a rewarding experience, but it also requires careful management of your finances so that you can focus on your academics. Here are a few tips that will help you manage and reduce your study expenses.
Create a monthly budget with a detailed list of all possible expenses, including accommodation, food, transport, and entertainment. Also, maintain a list of income sources, such as scholarships or part-time jobs and the expected support from these sources.
Ensure that you choose affordable accommodation options. University halls or shared apartments are budget-friendly compared to private accommodations. Shared accommodations can help you save on rent and utility costs. Using energy-efficient appliances will cut down your electricity and heating costs.
While shopping, use budget supermarkets that offer good discounts. You can also purchase student discount cards to save on shopping, travel, and dining. To save on transport, you can use the various discounts offered by public transport, such as bus passes.
Entertainment is another factor that can increase your expenses. Choose low-cost entertainment options like free museums or events over expensive clubs. Similarly, when you purchase furniture or academic materials, try to purchase used materials or rent them online.
Apart from reducing expenses, it is also necessary to find a good source of income. You can take up part-time jobs, subject to visa regulations.
Final thoughts
Study costs in the UK for Nepali students vary significantly based on the course, university, and location. Major expenses include tuition fees, accommodation, food, travel, and entertainment.
In addition, there may also be expenses related to visa processing, healthcare, and other miscellaneous expenses, such as housing deposits. An understanding of this will help you prepare a realistic budget and manage your finances wisely.
Got questions about study costs in the UK? Connect with us!
Frequently asked questions
Are there any hidden costs that Nepali students should be aware of when studying in the UK?
During your studies in the UK, you might incur several additional expenses apart from major ones, such as food and accommodation. These hidden costs include visa fees, healthcare, textbooks, insurance, and personal items.
How can Nepali students budget effectively for their stay in the UK?
To prepare an effective budget, you must have a clear understanding of all major expenses, including miscellaneous and hidden costs. Prepare a realistic budget and implement cost-saving measures as much as possible. Consider staying in shared accommodation, using student discounts, shopping at discount stores, buying used furniture, and tracking your daily expenses carefully. These steps will help you manage your finances efficiently during your studies.
Is healthcare free for Nepali students in the UK?
Healthcare is not completely free for Nepali students in the UK. You can access the National Health Service after paying the Immigration Health Surcharge. This provides access to free healthcare services such as doctor visits, medicines, and emergency care. You may be required to pay for certain services, such as eye care or dental care.
Are there scholarships or financial aid options for Nepali students studying in the UK?
Yes, there are several scholarships and financial aid options available for Nepali students studying in the UK. The Chevening Scholarship, the Commonwealth Scholarships, and the GREAT Scholarships are a few popular options to help you cover your study costs.
Can Nepali students work part-time in the UK while studying?
Yes, Nepali students can work part-time in the UK while studying to cover their expenses. You can work for up to 20 hours per week during the academic term. During official university breaks and holidays, you can work full-time.
