The UK is one of the most popular study destinations for students opting for the field of nursing.

It is, in fact, a dream come true for many students all over the world. After all, the UK is home to some of the best nursing colleges in the world.

King’s College London is ranked as the No. 1 Nursing institute in the world by the QS World University Rankings 2025. Plus, the UK is known all over the world for its high academic standards and integrity.

But obviously, studying in the UK is not just a game of MERIT. But it is about the BUDGET as well. And it is becoming a big barrier for international students who really want to study in the UK.

“As per research, 43% of students stated that they are unable to afford high tuition fees in the UK.”

But do not worry, you luckily landed on the right page.

There are still some affordable options for students who desire to study nursing in the UK universities. After all, there is still a high demand for nurses globally.

So, in this blog, I will tell you about the cheapest nursing universities in the UK to make sure that the rising cost of studying nursing in UK does not block your way towards your dream.

Let us get started!

How Much Does Nursing Cost in the UK in 2026?

The most important question that pops up in the mind when thinking about studying nursing is how much does a nursing degree cost in the UK.

I am sure that you are thinking about that too.

So, let us start with this one.

Nursing Course Fees in UK for International Students (2026)

The average tuition fee structure is something that you need to know before you go out to look at the cheapest university to study nursing in the UK.

MSc Nursing Fees (Pre-Registration & Post-Registration)

For international students in 2026:

• Pre-registration MSc Nursing: £14,000 – 22,000 per annum
• Total program cost (2 years): £28,000 – 40,000
• MSc nursing in the UK (registered nurses only): £13,000 –18,000

When you are targeting MSc nursing in UK for international students, you find that the fees differ according to the city and ranking of the university.

So, here are some factors that the MSc Nursing Course Fee in UK depends on:

• Overall reputation of the University
• Location (London-based vs non-London-based)
• Arrangement of clinical placements.
• Course length

That is why it is important to compare institutions when seeking the cost of studying nursing in UK for international students.

BSc Nursing Fees

Here is a Nursing Tuition Fee UK breakdown for the BSc in Nursing:

• £13,000 – 20,000 per annum
• Total cost of 3-year study: £39,000 – 60,000

So, the simple answer to your question about how much does a nursing degree cost UK is that it depends on the location and level of your degree.

But on average, it varies between £14,000–18,000 in most of the nursing universities for international students.

However, the price of completing a nursing education in the UK is tuition + living expenses. And thus, fees on their own should not tell the whole story.

Thus, to get the right idea, you’d better consider both before making your final call for the cheapest nursing university in the UK.

Living Costs Breakdown (2026 Estimates)

If you think that tuition fee is the only thing to consider, then you are WRONG. Living expenses matter too, as they vary greatly based on where your university is located.

London:

Undoubtedly the most desired one, but the most expensive one too.

• Accommodation: £800–1,200 per month
• Food: £200– 300 per month
• Transport: £150 per month on average
• Total monthly cost: £1,200–1,700

Other Cities (North England, Wales, Scotland):

Comparatively, other cities are more affordable:

• Accommodation: £400–700 per month
• Food: £150– 250 per month
• Transport: £80–120 per month
• Total monthly cost: Around £700–1,100

So, if you have a low budget, then you’d better choose a university outside of London. It will make a big difference to your overall cost of studying nursing in UK.

Is There an NHS Bursary for International Students?

The biggest question many students ask is whether nursing in the UK is free.

NHS Learning Support Fund offers financial aid, though usually it is only open to students from the UK, rather than most of the international students.

So, when you are calculating it as a nursing student, make sure that you do not expect it to apply to you.

But do not get disappointed. There are some universities that provide their own scholarships for international students. (We will get back to that later)

Now that you know the cost structure, we can proceed to what you have come to do, which is the cheapest MSc in nursing options.

Cheapest MSc Nursing in UK for International Students (2026)

Calling out all the students interested in Masters in Nursing, this one is for you:

Cheapest MSc Nursing in UK for International Students

If you are looking for the cheapest MSc nursing in UK for international students, then these nursing universities are a great option for you. As they are both affordable and recognized by the Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC).

Each of these programs leads to registration with the NMC. Which I must tell you is mandatory if you wish to practice as a registered nurse in the UK.

So, they are definitely the best options you have.

Comparison Table (Indicative 2026 Fees)

Why These Universities Are Considered Affordable

Well, they are simply an affordable option for aspiring nursing students because they:

• Are located outside the main London
• Provide competitive international tuition charges.
• Offer flexible payment schemes.
• Well-established NHS placement partnerships.

When you are targeting Masters in nursing in UK for international students, these universities are always among the affordable options.

A few of the programs also have a 1 year MSc nursing in UK option, but this is normally available to already qualified nurses, enriching their qualifications.

So, I am sure that you know what to consider before choosing the cheapest MSc nursing in UK for international students.

And remember, choosing the cheapest does not mean compromising on the quality. As all of these courses are approved by the NMC.

Cheapest University to Study Nursing in UK (BSc & MSc)

You know, choosing the cheapest university to study nursing in UK depends on three key factors. So, they include:

• Your Level of study (BSc, MSc)
• Location of the university
• Structure of the course (standard, accelerated, top-up)

Most students believe that there is only one university, which is the cheapest nursing university in UK for international students. Whereas in the real world, the affordability is determined by the type of program.

So, let me make things clearer about this.

Cheapest University to Study Nursing in UK

Here is the complete breakdown of the Cheapest University for Nursing in UK, as per the type of program.

BSc Nursing (3 Years)

An average undergraduate BSc nursing in UK takes a period of 3 years.
Average tuition fees of foreign students:

• £13,000 to £18,000 per annum
• Total: £39,000 to £54,000

Although the annual tuition fees will be comparatively lower, the overall expense is increased because of the 3 years.

So, if you are looking for the Cheapest University in the UK for nursing to study a BSc. Then, I would suggest universities outside of London, particularly in the North of the UK.

Trust me, they are more affordable.

Pre-Registration MSc (2 Years)

It targets students who already possess a bachelor’s degree in different subjects.

The average tuition fee in this course is:

• £14,000 to £18,000 per annum
• Total: £28,000 to £36,000 per annum

In most instances, the MSc pathway turns out to be the least expensive to study nursing in the UK as compared to the BSc, because:

• It takes only 2 years instead of 3
• Graduates are qualified as registered nurses.
• A quicker access to the labor force.

This proves to be economically wiser for a good number of foreign candidates. You can find out what you can do with your MSc here.

Top-Up Nursing Degree

A top-up nursing degree is offered to students who already have a diploma in nursing.

• Duration: 1–2 years
• Fees: £5,000 – £16,500 per annum

Well, this can prove to be the cheapest university for nursing in UK pathway. But only if you have prior qualifications.

Cheapest Nursing Schools in UK for International Students

The UK is full of opportunities. You can find the best and most affordable nursing institutes all over it.

But if you are particularly looking for a specific region to go. Then, here is a region-wise list of the cheapest nursing schools in UK for international students to save your time and efforts.

The list is based on affordability, NMC-accredited, and the non-London cost advantage.

Cheapest Nursing Schools in UK for International Students (2026 List)

England

The most affordable regions in England are the North and the Midlands. So, here is the list of the most cheap nursing schools in UK for international students, specifically in England:

• Teesside University – Middlesbrough
• University of Sunderland – Sunderland
• University of Chester – Chester
• Middlesex University – London
• University of Cumbria – Lancaster/Carlisle

Northern England is comparatively less expensive than London in terms of tuition as well as living costs.

Scotland

In Scotland, it is sometimes possible to find affordable nursing schools in UK for international students, especially when they are not in large cities.

Here are the top ones for you:

• University of the West of Scotland (UWS)
• Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU)

Glasgow and Edinburgh are more expensive to live in, but small cities in Scotland may prove cheaper.

Wales

Wales is not very popular yet presents a few of the cheapest nursing schools in UK as compared toLondon.

Examples:

• Bangor University
• University of South Wales

In Wales, the cost of living is normally cheaper than in the major cities in England.

Cheapest Nursing School in UK – Is It Worth It?

Obviously, selecting a nursing school is a big decision for any of us.

So, students often speculate that choosing the cheapest nursing school in UK for international students is a good decision or a bad one.

After all, your FUTURE depends on it. So, it is important to know whether it is worth it or not.

Hence, we will evaluate it practically.

Cheapest Nursing School in UK – Pros and Cons

Pros of Choosing a Cheap Nursing School

Lower Financial Pressure

The most evident advantage of a Cheap Nursing School in UK is a lower student debt. That ultimately leads to:

• Lower education loans
• Less stress about financials
• Quick return on investment

Same NMC Registration Outcome

If your university is approved by the NMC. Then, you will receive the same professional registration as graduates of better-ranked universities

Hence, it means that you can be employed in the NHS irrespective of your place of study.

Strong NHS Placement Opportunities

Numerous low-cost universities are partnering with local NHS trusts.

The standardization of the clinical hours in the programs means that you get hands-on training.

Cons of Choosing a Cheap Nursing School

Lower Global Ranking

Well, some of the cheapest nursing schools in UK for international students might not rank higher in global university rankings.

But in the case of healthcare employment in the UK, the NMC registration is more than the ranking. So, do not worry about that if you plan to work in the UK.

Limited Campus Facilities

Cheaper universities might:

• Have fewer advanced labs
• Provide fewer global networks for assisting students.

This does not influence qualification, but can influence experience.

Should You Choose the Cheapest Option?

Now, it is time to make a decision.

Well, in my opinion, if you are choosing an institute that is:

• Approved by the NMC
• Provides good clinical placements
• Located in an affordable city.

Then, it is definitely a smart choice to opt for a cheap nursing school in UK.

Cheapest BSc Nursing in UK

Well, if you are new to this field and want to explore the best options to step up in the world of nursing academics in the UK, then I have some good options for BSc Nursing in UK for international students.

Cheapest BSc Nursing in UK for International Students

Obviously, you will be looking for the best, yet the cheapest university in UK for BSc Nursing. So, let us find out.

So, there are three options for you including:

3-Year Standard BSc Nursing

Ah, this one is the traditional path that most students take.

Duration:

3 years full-time

Average Tuition:

• £16,000 – £35,000 per year
• Total cost: £48,000 – £100,000

Yeah, the BSc nursing fees in UK are quite high. And it depends heavily on the university you are choosing and its region.

Universities in Northern England, Wales, and some parts of Scotland typically offer lower tuition than those in London universities.

So, when you are calculating your total cost, do not forget:

• The cost of Placement and traveling
• Uniform and stationary Expense
• Living expenses

Thus, living in London may add a lot to your total cost, even though tuition may seem cheap.

2-Year Accelerated BSc

Now, let me get to some more affordable and fast-tracked options.

You know, some universities even offer accelerated options for students who already have a degree in a related field of nursing.

Such programs are normally called as:

• 2-year nursing degree
• Accelerated nursing programs

The tuition fee may slightly increase each year but overall it may be cheaper as you may finish the degree in a shorter period of time.

It may be a clever financial plan in case you are eligible.

Top-Up BSc Nursing

With a nursing diploma, it may take 1-2 years to complete a top-up degree.

So, this is the cheapest option for anyone who already have a degree and wants to upgrade it.

1-Year & 2-Year Nursing Programs in UK

Students particularly seek shorter programs because it saves them money.

We should straighten out what really can be done.

1 Year and 2 Year Nursing Degree UK Options

This might be confusing for some students. So, let me clear it up for them.

2-Year Nursing Degree UK (Pre-Registration MSc)

Students with a bachelor’s degree in a different subject may also apply.

• Duration: 2 years
• Leads to NMC registration
• Most common choice among career changers.

It is among the cheapest channels since:

• Its duration is shorter than BSc
• Offers quick entry into the professional world

This path is used by many students who seek 2-year nursing programs in UK for international students.

1-Year Nursing Course in the UK

Well, this course is only available to international students who are:

• Qualified nurses
• Registered nurses who want to upgrade their qualifications
• Nurses opting for specialization

In the UK, you cannot be a registered nurse in a single year unless you are already a nurse.

So, never trust anything without checking the details of the program.

Accelerated Nursing Programs UK

These accelerated nursing programs UK are quite intense, and they include:

• Compressed theory modules
• Extended clinical hours
• Limited holiday breaks

They are assertive, yet cost-effective.

Cheapest Way to Get a Nursing Degree in UK

Now to the most convenient question:

How do we acquire a nursing degree in the cheapest way?

Well, it is not technically impossible. So, let us discover the most effective strategies.

Cheapest Way to Get a Nursing Degree in UK

These strategies are proven to be successful by many nursing students in their search for the cheapest way to get a nursing degree.

Choose Universities Outside London

Residing in London can raise your annual spending by £5,000 to £8,000.

Northern cities such as Middlesbrough, Sunderland, or Bolton are comparatively cheaper.

This in itself makes it financially very cheap to study nursing in the UK.

Apply for Scholarships

You can find various nursing scholarships in UK for international students.There are many institutions that offer:

• Partial tuition waivers
• Global best practices awards.
• Discounts on early payment

You can even find fully funded nursing scholarships in UK for international students if you are capable enough. They are surely rare, but partial scholarships are not.

Work Part-Time

International students are allowed to work:

• During the term, a maximum of 20 hours per week, and
• Full-time during holidays

There are numerous examples of nursing students who work in:

• Care homes
• Hospitals
• Retail or hospitality

This helps them manage their living expenses.

NHS Support (Limited for International Students)

NHS trusts usually sponsor students later on in their careers. However, at the undergraduate level, this is not a certainty.

But do not worry, I know the right combination to work this out:

• A low-cost university
• Location outside London
• Supported by scholarship
• Part-time work

This will help you save a lot on your total budget.

Living Costs for Nursing Students in UK

Tuition is not the entire financial formula.

So, we shall examine actual monthly costs to help you figure out the actual expense of studying nursing in the UK.

Living Costs While Studying Nursing in UK

London vs Non-London Comparison

London:

• Accommodation: £150–£300 per week for shared houses, and £250–£500+ per week for studios
• Food: £150-300 per month
• Transport: £150
• Total: £1,200–£1,700/month

Outside London:

• Accommodation: £400–£800 per month
• Food: £120-300 per month
• Transport: £50–£75 per month
• Total: £700–£1,100/month

Hence, when you are computing how much does it cost to study nursing in UK for international students. Just make sure that you always multiply the cost by the duration of your course.

This will give you the actual estimate.

Thus, your total nursing in UK for international students fees should include all of these components.

Requirements to Study Nursing in UK for International Students

Before you start applying, make sure that you know the eligibility criteria.

Requirements to Study Nursing in UK (2026)

Academic Requirements

For BSc:

• The level of high school qualification is comparable to UK A-levels.

For MSc:

• Minimum 2:2 or equivalent Bachelor’s degree in relevant subject

When you check the requirements to study nursing in UK for international students, always make sure that you confirm the equivalency with the university.

English Language Requirements

Most universities require:

• IELTS Academic: 6.5–7.0 overall
  OR
• OET (for healthcare experts)

If you check the MSc Nursing in UK for international students requirements, you will see that English Language proficiency is mandatory.

NMC Approval

The Nursing and Midwifery Council has to authorize all the nursing programs.

It is impossible to register as a nurse without NMC accreditation.

Health & Background Checks

Students must go through:

• Workplace health checkups
• Check for criminal background
• Vaccination verification

These are mandatory to clinical placements.

So, if you are wondering what are the requirements to study nursing in UK.

Then, remember that they focus mainly on academic record, English speaking, and professional capability.

Nurse Salary in UK After Graduation

Knowledge about salary assists in measuring payback. Obviously, you are spending a fortune on your education. You will want to know the return on your investment.

NHS Band 5 Salary

Nurses who are newly qualified tend to be at NHS Band 5.

The average nurse salary in UK is:

• £30,000–£35,000 per year

Also, the salary of registered nurse in UK gradually increases with their years of experience.

London Weighting

Nurses in London are paid extra (London weighting), adding to the total earnings.

Career Growth

Well, as I just mentioned, the salary grows with experience and studies.

• Band 6: salary is £35,000+
• Specialist roles: the salary is £40,000+

So, the average nurses salary in UK will keep on increasing with specialization.

It implies that the majority of graduates compensate the amount of tuition in a couple of years. So, it is definitely worth taking a risk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the cheapest MSc nursing in UK for international students?

Northern England universities like Teesside, Sunderland, and Bolton are usually regarded as being among the cheapest MSc nursing courses in the UK to international students.

2. Which is the cheapest university to study nursing in UK?

It does not have one definite answer. The lowest cost university to study nursing in the UK will be based on the level of the course and the year. The non-London universities tend to be cheaper in terms of tuition and living expenses.

3. How much are nursing fees in UK for international students?

The average international student nursing course costs in the UK are between £13,000 and £22,000 per annum, depending on the type of course.

4. Is nursing free in UK for international students?

No, there is no free nursing education for international students. NHS financing is predominantly applied to UK nationals.

5. How many years is nursing in UK?

Normally it takes around:

• BSc Nursing: 3 years
• MSc (Pre-registration): 2 years

But it depends on the route you take as well.