Cost of living in Birmingham
When you study abroad, you need to consider how much money you’ll need to live in your chosen destination. Find out more about the living expenses and cost of studying in Birmingham.
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Approximate overall cost of studying in Birmingham
- Foundation pathways tuition: from £22,860
- Accommodation: from £2,673
- Living expenses: from £8,184
Approximate total: from £33,717
Living expenses
From £1,023 per month*
For visa purposes, you’ll need to have at least £1,023 for each month of your degree preparation course.
*For visa applications made on or after 2 January 2025, this amount will increase to £1,136.
Accommodation
From £2,673 to £12,600*
Exact accommodation fees will depend on your contract length and preferred housing option.
* Prices are estimates based on previous intakes, and are subject to change.
Insurance
From £286 to £890
We offer EduTravel to all students. EduTravel is a comprehensive insurance policy for studying abroad.
The price will depend on the length of policy you need — the exact cost will be confirmed in the invoice that accompanies your offer letter.
Example costs in Birmingham
Additional costs and services
£260
You’ll be charged a £260 administration fee to cover administration costs related to your application. This is payable at the same time as your tuition deposit if you accept an offer to study.
Core textbooks, as well as access to core teaching materials and the University of Birmingham library, are included in your tuition fee and available at no extra cost.
The Foundation Pathways runs a programme of leisure events so you can socialise with other international students. The cost of this is included in your tuition fee. You can also join the many groups, societies and social events hosted by the University’s Guild of Students. Many of these are free, but some may include an extra cost.
£490
It currently costs £490 to apply for a UK Student visa. You can find out more about obtaining a visa and the money you’ll need on the gov.uk website.
Want to learn more about tuition fees at Birmingham?
Why invest in studying abroad?
Studying abroad can be expensive, but making this investment now can bring significant financial and personal rewards in the future.
How the University of Birmingham connects you with your future
The opportunities open to you at the University of Birmingham can help you leverage your unique experience when you enter the workforce.
Top 3 ways to save money as a student
- Make use of student discounts
- Buy second-hand
- Set a budget and stick to it
Any other questions?
Can I stay in the UK to work after graduation?
Yes — the UK government has introduced the Graduate Visa, which gives international students the opportunity to live and work in the UK for up to two years after graduating, or three years if you study a PhD.
Are there cost of living grants available through Kaplan?
No, however, we do offer some partial tuition scholarships for foundation pathways students who score very highly in their secondary education. Student discounts are common in the UK, so it’s a good idea to make use of these to help you save money while you study abroad.
Can I get a part-time job while I study?
To help pay your expenses, you can work 10 hours per week during term-time and you can work full-time during holiday periods. You cannot undertake any self-employment or business activity.
Is studying abroad worth it?
Yes! Studying abroad is a great investment in your future and it shows employers that you can adapt to an international environment, making you highly employable in today’s society. It can also help you grow as a person, discover your purpose, and enjoy a successful career.
