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UK · 2025/26

Cost of University Calculator

Estimate total university costs including tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.

Last reviewed: 24 July 2025Source: Student Loans Company (SLC)
Cost of University Calculator · UKEducation & Training

Rates & sources

Student Loan plans (Plan 1 / 2 / 4 / 5) each have different repayment thresholds and interest rates. SLC publishes annual updates.

Source: Student Loans Company (SLC) — figures refreshed at the start of each tax year.

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When to use this calculator

  • When you need a fast estimate before making a bigger decision.
  • When you want to compare a few scenarios using the same assumptions.
  • When you need a clearer starting point before using a detailed quote or formal document.

A realistic UK planning example

Use these sample inputs as a quick scenario test, then change one variable at a time to compare outcomes.

Annual Tuition (£)

25 years

Annual Accommodation (£)

25 years

Years of Study

25 years

Other Costs Per Year (£)

25 years

After entering these figures, compare total cost, tuition and accommodation before deciding which scenario looks strongest.

How to read your results

Total Cost

This is the headline outcome, but it is most useful when viewed alongside the supporting metrics below it.

Tuition

Use this metric to compare scenarios side by side and understand how the key drivers affect the final outcome.

Accommodation

Use this metric to compare scenarios side by side and understand how the key drivers affect the final outcome.

Method & assumptionsAuthoritative sources

Calculate the total cost of university education including tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.

Common mistakes

  • !Using optimistic assumptions without testing a more cautious scenario as well.
  • !Comparing outputs from different tools without checking that the inputs match.
  • !Treating the result as a final quote instead of a planning estimate.

What to do next

  • Try at least one more scenario so you can compare a realistic range instead of a single estimate.
  • Use the related calculators below to cross-check the decision from another angle.
  • Open one of the linked guides if you need more context before you act on the result.

Frequently asked

Tuition, accommodation, textbooks, travel, food, and social activities.

Use arrow keys to navigate items, Enter or Space to expand/collapse.