Study in Manchester is one of the most vibrant student cities in the UK, offering world-class universities, a rich cultural history, and affordable living compared to London. With over 100,000 students from across the globe, Manchester is recognized as the UK’s second-largest student hub of academic excellence with exciting student life.
It offers globally recognized Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in fields such as Business, Engineering, IT, Medicine, Law, and Social Sciences. Admission requirements are straightforward, with 50% marks most universities accepting IELTS 6.0–6.5 or a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter. However, tuition fees in Manchester are more affordable compared to London, starting from £10,000/year and ranging up to £25,000/year (medicine up to £35,000), while the average living cost is around £800–£1,200/month. For the UK student visa, applicants need a bank statement of at least £9,207 for 9 months, making it a transparent process.
International students also benefit from generous scholarships like Chevening, Commonwealth, and university-specific awards. As per new UK immigration policy the legal right to work 18 hours per week during studies and full-time in holidays. With a visa success rate of around 97%, Manchester stands out as a safe, affordable, and rewarding choice for students seeking high-quality education and excellent post-study opportunities.
Quick Facts About Studying in Manchester 2026
| Category | Details |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Popular Universities | University of Manchester Manchester Metropolitan University University of Salford University of Bolton Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) Alliance Manchester Business School University Academy 92 (UA92) BPP University (Manchester Campus) The University of Law (Manchester Campus) |
| Degree Duration | Bachelor: 3–4 years Master: 1–2 years PhD: 3–4 years |
| Popular Programs | Engineering Business Medicine IT Law Social Sciences Music Arts & Design Finance International Business Criminology Sports Sciences |
| Tuition Fees | £10,000 – £25,000/year (Medicine up to £35,000) |
| Living Costs | £800 – £1,200/month |
| Work Rights | 18 hours/week during studies |
| Post-Study Work | 2-year Graduate Route (PSW visa) |
| Visa Type | UK Student Visa (Tier 4) |
| Visa Approval Rate | 97% (with complete documents) |
| Bank Statement Requirement | £9,207 (for 9 months outside London) |
| English Requirements | IELTS 6.0–6.5 or MOI accepted (in some cases) |
| Top Scholarships | Chevening Scholarships Commonwealth Scholarships University-specific awards (University of Manchester, MMU, Salford etc.) |
Top Universities in Manchester for International Students
Manchester is home to some of the UK’s most prestigious and career-focused universities, attracting students from over 160 countries. From globally ranked research universities to specialized institutions in music, law, and business, Manchester offers a wide variety of study options. Below is a list of the top universities in Manchester for international students, their popular programs, and tuition fee ranges.
| University | Top Programs | Tuition Range (£/year) |
| The University of Manchester | Medicine Engineering Business Law Social Sciences IT | £12,000 – £25,000 (Medicine up to £35,000) |
| Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) | Business Arts & Design Hospitality Education IT | £11,000 – £16,000 |
| University of Salford | Media Health Sciences Engineering Business Architecture | £10,000 – £15,000 |
| University of Bolton | Engineering Nursing Education Business Sports Sciences | £10,000 – £14,000 |
| Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) | Music Performing Arts Composition Production | £14,000 – £18,000 |
| Alliance Manchester Business School (UoM) | MBA Accounting & Finance International Business | £20,000 – £30,000 |
| University Academy 92 (UA92) | Sports Media Business Digital Studies | £9,250 – £12,000 |
| BPP University (Manchester campus) | Law Accounting Finance Management | £11,000 – £15,000 |
| The University of Law (Manchester campus) | Law Legal Practice Criminology | £12,000 – £16,000 |
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in Manchester
Studying in Manchester is significantly more affordable compared to London, while still offering world-class education and vibrant student life. Below is a breakdown of tuition fees and average living expenses for international students.
| Tuition (Non-Medical) | £10,000 – £18,000 per year |
| Tuition (Medical) | £25,000 – £35,000 per year |
| Accommodation | £5,000 – £8,000 per year (£400 – £700 per month) |
| Food & Utilities | £3,000 – £4,500 per year (£250 – £350 per month) |
| Transport & Miscellaneous | £1,800 – £2,400 per year (£150 – £200 per month) |
| Health Insurance (IHS) | £624 per year (Immigration Health Surcharge) |
Estimated Total Living Costs: £800 – £1,200/month (including rent, food, utilities, and transport).
Manchester provides excellent value for money with affordable accommodation, reliable public transport, and plenty of student discounts across restaurants, gyms, and entertainment venues.
Admission Process for Studying in Manchester (Step-by-Step)
Applying to universities in Manchester is a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning and documentation. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide for international students:
Choose a Program & University
The first step is to decide on your program of study and preferred university. Manchester offers a wide range of Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs across fields like Engineering, Business, Medicine, IT, Law, Social Sciences, and Music.
- Research university rankings, tuition fees, program curriculum, and career prospects.
- Consider your budget and career goals while shortlisting.
- Popular options include the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Salford, University of Bolton, and RNCM.
If you’re unsure where to start, Right Turn provides a free education counseling service that helps you shortlist universities based on your career goals, budget, and academic profile.
Check Entry Requirements
Each university and program may have specific requirements, but generally, international students need to meet the following:
- Academic Score: Minimum 55–60% in previous qualifications (high school for Bachelor’s, undergraduate degree for Master’s).
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall (no band below 5.5–6.0). Some universities also accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter if your previous education was in English.
- Passport: A valid passport with at least 1 year validity at the time of application.
Note: While some universities may accept MOI in place of IELTS, the UK Visa process requires IELTS during the visa interview. Having IELTS not only strengthens your visa application but also significantly increases your chances of admission and acceptance at top universities in Manchester.
Prepare Documents
Gather and prepare all required documents before applying. The typical checklist includes:
- Academic transcripts and certificates (school, college, or previous degree)
- Copy of valid passport
- CV/Resume highlighting academic and extracurricular achievements
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining why you want to study the course and your future goals
- Reference/Recommendation Letters (usually 1–2 from teachers or professors)
- English proficiency proof (IELTS/MOI certificate)
- Completed application form
Pro tip: Ensure all documents are scanned clearly and translated into English (if not originally in English).
Receive Offer Letter
Once the university reviews your application, you will be issued either a Conditional Offer (if additional documents or results are still required) or an Unconditional Offer confirming your full admission.
Pay Tuition Deposit
Most universities require you to pay an initial tuition fee deposit (typically £2,000–£5,000) as confirmation of admission. Once the payment is received, the university will issue a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), which is essential for your visa application.
Apply for UK Student Visa (Tier 4)
After receiving your CAS, you can apply for a UK Student Visa. Requirements include:
- CAS Letter from your university
- Bank statement showing at least £9,207 for 9 months (for Manchester, outside London)
- Proof of Tuition Payment (deposit receipt)
- Health Insurance (Immigration Health Surcharge – IHS) of £624/year
- Proof of accommodation arrangement
- Valid passport and visa application form with photos
Visa applications are typically processed in 3–6 weeks, and the success rate is around 97% with proper documentation.
FAQs
What types of part-time jobs are available for students in Manchester?
Popular jobs include hospitality, retail, IT support, tutoring, and university campus jobs. Many employers in Manchester prefer international students due to the city’s large student population
What are the intakes for Manchester universities?
The main intake is September, with a smaller intake in January for selected programs.
When should I apply to Manchester universities?
It’s best to apply 6–9 months before the intake. For September intake, applications usually open in October of the previous year.
Do Manchester universities accept gap years?
Yes, most universities accept students with a 1–3 year study gap if they can show valid reasons such as work experience, training, or certifications.
Is it possible to bring dependents (spouse/children) while studying in Manchester?
Yes, a Master’s, PhD with research programs can bring dependents if they meet the financial requirements. Documents include passports, marriage/birth certificates, CAS, proof of funds (£680/month per dependent), accommodation proof, and TB test (if required).
