Looking for a UK city that offers high-quality education, affordable living and a welcoming student environment? Then Leicester is the place for you!
Located in the heart of England, Leicester is one of the most diverse and student-friendly cities in the UK. With a rich history, excellent universities and a large Indian community, it’s the perfect destination for students who want world-class education at affordable costs.
Let’s explore the top universities in Leicester, UK, their courses, rankings, fees, scholarships and why Indian students love studying here.
1. University of Leicester
Global Rank (2025): Top 300 (QS World Rankings)
Acceptance Rate: Around 71%
Type: Public Research University
Founded in 1921, the University of Leicester is one of the UK’s most respected research universities and a proud member of the Midlands Innovation Group. It’s globally recognized for Medicine, Space Science, Engineering, Law and Business.
Leicester has a beautiful city campus with a modern learning environment, supportive staff and vibrant student life. It’s also known for its discovery of DNA fingerprinting, which revolutionized global science.
Top Courses
- Medicine & Life Sciences
- Aerospace & Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science & AI
- Business & Management
- Law & Criminology
- Data Science & Analytics
Tuition Fees (2025–26)
- Undergraduate: £20,000 – £27,000 per year
- Postgraduate: £21,000 – £30,000 per year
Scholarships for Indian Students
- President’s International Scholarship: £5,000 – £7,000
- College of Science & Engineering Scholarship: £4,000
- Chevening & Commonwealth Scholarships: Fully funded
Why Indian Students Choose It
- Globally respected university
- Affordable tuition and living
- Multicultural campus with a strong Indian community
- Excellent employability and research facilities
2. De Montfort University (DMU)
Global Rank (2025): Top 600 (QS World Rankings)
Acceptance Rate: Around 70–75%
Type: Public University
Located in the heart of Leicester, De Montfort University (DMU) is known for its career-focused learning, global collaborations and inclusive environment.
The university emphasizes real-world skills, internships, and employability, making it ideal for Indian students looking to start strong global careers.
DMU’s “Education 2030” initiative focuses on flexible, future-oriented learning for international students.
Top Courses
- Business & International Marketing
- Cybersecurity & Computer Science
- Fashion & Design
- Law & Human Rights
- Engineering & Architecture
- Media, Film & Communication
Tuition Fees (2025–26)
- Undergraduate: £16,000 – £21,000 per year
- Postgraduate: £18,000 – £25,000 per year
Scholarships for Indian Students
- DMU International Scholarship: £3,000
- Global MBA Scholarship: £2,500 – £5,000
- GREAT Scholarship (India): £10,000
Why Indian Students Love DMU
- Affordable fees and scholarships
- Strong career and internship support
- Great location in central Leicester
- Culturally diverse and friendly campus
3. Loughborough University (Near Leicester)
Global Rank (2025): Top 250 (QS Rankings)
Acceptance Rate: Around 68%
Type: Public Research University
Located just 30 minutes from Leicester, Loughborough University is a world leader in Engineering, Technology, Sports Science and Business.
It’s a member of the prestigious Russell Group-level institutions for research and innovation.
Loughborough offers excellent facilities, global rankings, and high employability rates, making it a top choice for ambitious Indian students.
Top Courses
- Mechanical, Civil & Electrical Engineering
- Business & Economics
- Sports Management
- Architecture & Design
- Computer Science & Data Analytics
Tuition Fees (2025–26)
- Undergraduate: £24,000 – £30,000 per year
- Postgraduate: £25,000 – £35,000 per year
Scholarships
- Loughborough International Scholarship: £3,000 – £5,000
- Vice-Chancellor’s Award: Up to £10,000
- Chevening Scholarship: Fully funded
Why It’s Great for Indian Students
- Top 10 UK university
- High employability rate
- Research-driven programs
- Modern campus with excellent facilities
Cost of Living for Students in Leicester
Leicester is one of the most affordable student cities in the UK around 30–40% cheaper than London.
| Expense | Average Monthly Cost |
| Accommodation | £400 – £800 |
| Food & Groceries | £200 – £300 |
| Transport | £40 – £70 |
| Utilities & Internet | £60 – £100 |
| Leisure & Personal | £100 – £200 |
| Total | £900 – £1,300 per month |
Most students save money by choosing shared housing or university-managed accommodation.
Top Scholarships for Indian Students in Leicester
| Scholarship | Offered By | Value |
| GREAT Scholarships (India) | UK Govt | £10,000 |
| Chevening Scholarships | UK Govt | Fully Funded |
| DMU International Scholarship | DMU | £3,000 |
| President’s Scholarship | University of Leicester | £7,000 |
| Commonwealth Shared Scholarships | UK Govt | Fully Funded |
Apply early — most scholarship deadlines close between December 2024 and February 2025.
Why Study in Leicester, UK?
Leicester is one of the most welcoming cities for Indian students; safe, affordable, and full of cultural experiences.
Top Reasons to Choose Leicester
- High-quality education at lower costs
- Large Indian student community
- Affordable living expenses
- Excellent public transport and part-time job options
- Close to major UK cities like London and Birmingham
Best Courses to Study in Leicester for 2025–26
- Business Management & Finance
- Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
- Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical)
- Medicine & Life Sciences
- Law & Criminology
- Fashion, Art & Design
- Data Analytics & Cybersecurity
These programs are in high demand in the UK job market, offering great opportunities under the Graduate Route visa.
Conclusion
Leicester offers everything an Indian student dreams of quality education, cultural comfort, affordable living and great career potential.
Whether you choose the University of Leicester for its research, DMU for practical learning, or Loughborough for global prestige, your future in the UK starts here.
With strong Indian communities, safe neighborhoods, and excellent support for international students, Leicester feels like a home away from home.If you’re planning to apply for the 2025–26 intake, let Stubard help you every step of the way from university applications and scholarships to visa and accommodation support.
FAQs
1. What are the top universities in Leicester, UK?
The top universities are the University of Leicester, De Montfort University (DMU), and Loughborough University (near Leicester).
2. Is Leicester good for Indian students?
Yes! Leicester is affordable, multicultural, and home to a large Indian community — perfect for students studying abroad.
3. How much does it cost to study in Leicester?
Tuition fees range from £16,000 – £30,000 per year, depending on the university and program.
4. What is the cost of living for students in Leicester?
Students spend around £900 – £1,300 per month on accommodation, food, and transport.
5. Are scholarships available for Indian students?
Yes, universities in Leicester offer merit-based scholarships up to £10,000 and government-funded options like GREAT and Chevening.
6. Can Indian students work while studying in Leicester?
Yes, students can work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays under a UK Student Visa.
7. Which is better — University of Leicester or DMU?
Both are excellent. The University of Leicester is research-focused, while DMU is practical and career-oriented.