- What EU students pay to study in the UK has changed completely: you’re classed as an international student, with higher tuition and new visa costs.
- UK university fees for EU students vary widely by course and uni, and can be up to 4 times higher than home fees.
- If you have settled status or are an Irish citizen, you might still pay home fees; otherwise, budget for full international rates plus visa and health costs.
Before Brexit, EU and EEA students were eligible for "home" fee status and UK student loans, paying the same tuition as UK nationals. Since August 2021, these regulations have shifted significantly. Most EU students are now classified as international students, resulting in higher tuition fees and ineligibility for UK government-backed student finance in most circumstances.
Domestic UK students currently pay a capped maximum of £9,250 per year for undergraduate degrees in England and Wales. Conversely, EU students are subject to international fee rates set independently by each university. These costs are typically two to four times higher than home fees, varying based on the institution and the specific academic course.
How much are tuition fees for EU students now?
Under current post-Brexit legislation, EU students are treated as international applicants. For those commencing studies in 2025 or later, you will generally pay the international tuition rate. As these fees are determined by individual universities, it is essential to check the specific pricing for your chosen institution and course location.
Here is a general overview of what you can expect in terms of academic costs:
- Bachelor’s degrees: £12,000–£30,000 per year
- Master’s degrees: £13,000–£35,000+ per yea
- Courses like Medicine or MBA programmes can cost significantly more
Tuition fees at UK universities vary significantly by field of study and institution. Undergraduate international fees typically range from £11,000 to over £40,000 annually, with highly specialized programs such as medicine or dentistry often commanding higher prices.
In comparison, domestic students pay a maximum of £9,250 annually for undergraduate courses in England, highlighting a significant disparity in the cost of study.
Things changed in Scotland too
If you are considering higher education in Scotland, note that the policy providing free undergraduate tuition for EU students was discontinued in 2021. However, some Scottish universities provide specific EU scholarships or fee waivers, so it is highly recommended to investigate financial aid options during your application process.
How to check your tuition fee on Online Result
Unsure about the total cost of your degree? Online Result offers a comprehensive platform to easily verify current tuition fees for various study programmes.
Our listings clearly differentiate between national (home) and international fee structures, allowing you to identify the rate relevant to your status. Even if you are planning for future academic years, our database provides reliable insights into the current fee landscape at UK universities.
Can EU students still pay “home” fees?
There remain limited circumstances where you might still qualify for UK home fee status:
- You have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (you had to apply before June 2021)
- You’re an Irish citizen, thanks to the Common Travel Area agreement
- You’re already studying and have started your course before August 2021
- You’re a UK national (or have a relevant status) and meet UK residency requirements
- People with certain protected rights under the Withdrawal Agreement.
If you do not fall into one of these specific exempted categories, you will be processed as an international student for tuition fee purposes.
What other costs should EU students plan for?
Beyond tuition, there are essential living costs to factor into your budget:
| Type of cost | What you need to know |
| Student visa | You need a visa to study in the UK. The application fee is £490. |
| Healthcare (IHS fee) | You must pay £776 per year for access to the NHS. Paid when you apply for your visa. |
| Living expenses | - London: Estimated at £1,480/month. You will be required to provide evidence of sufficient funds as part of your UK student visa application. |
| Travel and extras | Budget for flights, travel insurance, study materials, and deposits for housing. |
| Working while studying | You can work up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time during holidays. Helpful, but won’t fully cover your costs. |
These costs apply universally to international students. Thorough financial planning is crucial to ensuring you are prepared before relocating to the UK.
Can EU students still get financial support?
Most international students, including those from the EU, are not eligible for a student loan from the UK Government. However, many institutions provide internal scholarship programs or bursaries for talented students from low-income or international backgrounds.
Generally, you are no longer eligible for UK student loans unless you hold settled or pre-settled status. Nevertheless, alternative funding routes exist:
University scholarships
Several universities provide scholarships specifically tailored to EU students. These may include:
- Fee discounts
- Merit-based scholarships
- Bursaries for financial need
External funding
Consider researching:
- British Council scholarships
- Chevening Scholarships (for Master’s students)
- Scholarships from your own country
- Private foundations or industry sponsors
Tip: Utilize specialized financial aid search tools to filter scholarships by your nationality and field of study.
What are UK universities doing to support EU students?
Many UK institutions remain committed to fostering strong academic connections with Europe by offering:
- EU Transition Scholarships
- Lower international fees for EU nationals
- Dedicated support services for European students
Additionally, emerging UK-EU partnerships may eventually facilitate improved access for EU students regarding short-term courses and academic exchanges under more favorable conditions.
A new UK–EU student mobility deal could be on the way
Diplomatic discussions are ongoing regarding a new framework to streamline study, travel, and work opportunities between the UK and EU. Such negotiations could eventually lead to new exchange programmes or a successor to the Erasmus+ scheme.
While details remain in development, these dialogues indicate a positive outlook for future UK-EU student mobility.
Stay informed on policy updates if you are planning to study abroad, as regulations may continue to evolve to favor international students.
Final tips: how to plan your studies in the UK
- Start early: Apply for your course, visa, and funding as early as you can
- Check your status: If you think you might qualify for home fees, ask the university
- Ask for help: University admissions teams are usually very helpful
- Use trusted websites like the British Council, UKCISA, and UCAS to check official info
Remember that there are various avenues to experience the high academic standards of British education without immediate pressure. For example, you can explore collaborative programmes and international partnerships.
FAQs about EU students and tuition fees in the UK
Do EU students pay international fees in the UK?
Generally, yes, unless you hold settled/pre-settled status or Irish citizenship, which may exempt you from international fee requirements.
Can EU students get student loans in the UK?
No, you are not eligible for government student loans unless you hold specific immigration status.
Is healthcare free for EU students?
All international students must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of their visa application, which grants access to the National Health Service (NHS).
Can EU students work in the UK?
Yes, international students on a full-time degree programme are typically permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time.