Dreaming of studying in UK but looking for a university with simpler admission, flexible courses and personal attention? Then a private university in the UK might be the perfect fit for you.
While most UK universities are public, there are several top-ranked private and independent institutions that provide world-class education, affordable tuition fees, small class sizes, and industry-linked programs — making them a great choice for Indian students.
Let’s explore the best private universities in UK, their courses, fees, benefits, scholarships and how to apply for the 2026 intake.
What Are Private Universities in the UK?
Unlike public universities funded by the government, private universities in UK are independently managed institutions.
They often:
- Offer specialized programs in Business, IT, Law or Creative Arts.
- Have smaller class sizes and more personalized teaching.
- Provide fast-track or flexible degree options.
- Have lower entry requirements and sometimes accept MOI (Medium of Instruction) instead of IELTS.
Private universities are ideal for Indian students who want a career-focused education in a global environment.
Benefits of Studying at a Private University in the UK
- Quick Admission Decisions – Less waiting time than public universities.
- Flexible Entry Routes – MOI and academic merit-based admissions.
- Affordable Fees – Some private universities cost 20–30% less than public ones.
- Industry Connections – Internships and practical projects with UK firms.
- Career-Oriented Courses – Designed for real-world skills and employability.
- Diverse Student Community – A welcoming environment for international students.
Private universities combine British education standards with the personal touch international students appreciate.
Top Private Universities in the UK for Indian Students
Here’s a list of leading private and independent UK universities offering bachelor’s, master’s and MBA programs across disciplines.
1. University of Buckingham
Location: Buckinghamshire
Founded: 1976
Specialization: Business, Law, Computing, Psychology
Highlights:
- The first private university in the UK.
- Offers 2-year fast-track undergraduate degrees.
- Personalized mentoring and small class sizes.
- Recognized by the UK government.
Tuition Fees: £15,000 – £22,000 per year
Scholarships: International Student Scholarships (£2,000–£4,000)
IELTS Requirement: 6.0 (MOI accepted in some cases)
Best known for its affordable and flexible degree programs.
2. Regent’s University London
Location: Central London
Specialization: Business, International Relations, Film, Fashion, Psychology
Highlights:
- One of the most prestigious private universities in London.
- Offers strong global business and creative programs.
- Great industry exposure and internship links.
- Beautiful campus in Regent’s Park.
Tuition Fees: £19,000 – £25,000 per year
Scholarships: Regent’s Excellence Award (£3,000–£5,000)
IELTS Requirement: 6.0–6.5 (MOI accepted for Indian students)
Perfect for students who want luxury learning in the heart of London.
3. BPP University
Location: London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds
Specialization: Law, Business, Accounting, Finance, Health
Highlights:
- Professionally focused — partnered with major employers (PwC, Deloitte).
- Known for Law and Business education.
- Offers blended and online options.
Tuition Fees: £16,000 – £22,000 per year
Scholarships: BPP Dean’s Scholarship (£2,000–£5,000)
IELTS Requirement: 6.0 (MOI accepted for Indian students)
BPP graduates are job-ready, with strong placement outcomes.
4. University of Law (ULaw)
Location: London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Bristol
Specialization: Law, Business, Criminology
Highlights:
- The UK’s largest private law university.
- Offers Law, Business, and MBA degrees.
- Known for employability — over 90% of graduates find jobs within 6 months.
Tuition Fees: £17,000 – £23,000 per year
Scholarships: International Student Bursary (£2,000–£3,000)
IELTS Requirement: 6.0 (MOI accepted)
Excellent for students aiming for corporate, legal, or business careers.
5. Arden University
Location: London, Birmingham, Manchester, Online
Specialization: Business, Computing, Data Science, Psychology
Highlights:
- Offers flexible online and blended learning.
- Accepts MOI instead of IELTS.
- Affordable tuition and 24/7 student support.
- Courses designed for working professionals and fresh graduates.
Tuition Fees: £10,500 – £15,000 per year
Scholarships: Arden Merit Award (£1,000–£2,500)
Study Mode: On-campus or online
Perfect for students who want flexibility and low-cost British degrees.
6. Richmond American University London
Location: London
Specialization: Business, International Relations, Communications
Highlights:
- Offers dual UK and US degrees.
- Focuses on liberal arts education with practical training.
- Small class sizes, diverse student body.
Tuition Fees: £19,000 – £24,000 per year
Scholarships: Richmond Excellence Scholarship (£3,000–£5,000)
IELTS Requirement: 6.0 (MOI accepted)
Ideal for students seeking an American-style learning experience in the UK.
7. London School of Business and Finance (LSBF)
Location: London
Specialization: MBA, Finance, Marketing, Accounting
Highlights:
- Private business school offering globally recognized degrees.
- Offers 1-year MBA and professional diplomas.
- MOI accepted for Indian students.
- Blended and online learning options available.
Tuition Fees: £13,000 – £18,000 per year
Scholarships: Academic Excellence Scholarship (£1,000–£3,000)
Great option for students seeking affordable MBA or business education in London.
Average Tuition Fees at Private Universities in the UK
| Degree Type | Duration | Average Annual Fees |
| Bachelor’s | 2–3 years | £12,000 – £20,000 |
| Master’s / MBA | 1 year | £15,000 – £25,000 |
| Online / Blended Programs | Flexible | £8,000 – £12,000 |
Private universities often offer flexible payment plans and online study options for Indian students.
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 55–60%)
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0 or MOI (Medium of Instruction) accepted
- Valid passport
- SOP & recommendation letters (for PG programs)
- Financial proof for visa (if applying on-campus)
Private universities are more flexible with English and academic requirements, making them easier to access for international students.
Scholarships for Indian Students at Private UK Universities
| Scholarship | Offered By | Value |
| Regent’s Excellence Award | Regent’s University | £3,000–£5,000 |
| International Student Bursary | University of Law | £2,000–£3,000 |
| Arden Merit Award | Arden University | £1,000–£2,500 |
| Buckingham International Scholarship | University of Buckingham | £2,000–£4,000 |
| LSBF Academic Scholarship | LSBF | £1,000–£3,000 |
Apply early and submit a strong Statement of Purpose to maximize scholarship chances.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Private universities in the UK are known for their career-driven programs and industry connections.
Popular Career Sectors:
- Business & Management
- Law & Corporate Affairs
- Marketing & Advertising
- Finance & Accounting
- Information Technology
- Data Analytics
Average Graduate Salary: £30,000 – £50,000 per year
Many private universities have in-house career offices that help students secure internships and placements.
Cost of Living for Indian Students in the UK
| City | Monthly Cost (Approx.) |
| London | £1,200 – £1,800 |
| Manchester | £900 – £1,200 |
| Birmingham | £850 – £1,100 |
| Cardiff | £800 – £1,000 |
| Leeds | £850 – £1,100 |
Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
Conclusion
Private universities in the UK give Indian students a golden chance to study in a flexible, practical, and affordable way, while enjoying the same British degree recognition as public universities.
Whether you choose University of Buckingham’s fast-track degree, BPP’s career-focused business program, or Arden’s flexible online MBA, you’ll gain skills that prepare you for success anywhere in the world.
With Stubard, your UK study dream becomes simple from choosing the right private university to visa guidance and accommodation support, we make your journey stress-free and successful.
At Stubard, we specialize in helping Indian students find the right private university in the UK that fits their career goals and budget. From applications and scholarships to visa and accommodation, we handle it all.
Contact Stubard today for free guidance and find your ideal private university in the UK for 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there private universities in the UK?
Yes! Leading private universities include University of Buckingham, Regent’s University London, BPP University, Arden University, and University of Law.
2. Are private universities in the UK recognized?
Yes, all private universities listed are UK government-accredited and award degrees recognized globally.
3. Is a private UK degree valid in India?
Yes, private university degrees in the UK are globally valid and recognized by employers and institutions in India.
4. Can I study in a UK private university without IELTS?
Yes, many private universities accept MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificates from Indian students.
5. What are the cheapest private universities in the UK?
Affordable options include Arden University, LSBF, University of Buckingham, and BPP University.
6. Can I get a scholarship at a private university?
Yes, most offer merit-based scholarships ranging from £1,000 to £5,000.