If you want to study in a modern, diverse and globally connected city, then Manchester is the perfect destination.
Known as the student capital of the North, Manchester is home to some of the UK’s top-ranked universities, world-class research centers and a vibrant cultural scene. It is also one of the most affordable big cities in the UK, offering everything from academic excellence to career opportunities, all within a welcoming environment for Indian students.
Let’s explore the top universities in Manchester, UK, for the 2026 academic year, including their courses, fees, scholarships, and why the city is a favorite among Indian students.
1. University of Manchester
Global Rank (2025): Top 40 (QS World University Rankings)
Acceptance Rate: Around 35%
Type: Public Research University
Member of: Russell Group
Founded in 1824, the University of Manchester is one of the world’s most prestigious universities, renowned for its cutting-edge research and global impact.
It’s part of the Russell Group, a network of elite UK universities, and ranks among the top 5 most targeted universities by employers in the UK.
With over 40,000 students from 170+ countries, Manchester has a large Indian community and a vibrant international environment.
Top Courses
- Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
- Mechanical, Civil & Electrical Engineering
- Business, Management & Finance
- Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
- Data Science & Analytics
- Environmental Sciences
Tuition Fees
- Undergraduate: £25,000 – £33,000 per year
- Postgraduate: £26,000 – £38,000 per year
Scholarships for Indian Students
- Global Futures Scholarship: £5,000 – £10,000
- India Merit Scholarship: Up to £7,000
- GREAT Scholarship (India): £10,000
- Chevening & Commonwealth Awards: Fully funded
Why Indian Students Love It
- World-class Russell Group university
- Strong employability and placement rate
- Large Indian student community
- Excellent research and facilities
2. Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU)
Global Rank (2025): Top 600 (QS Rankings)
Acceptance Rate: Around 70%
Type: Public University
Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) is one of the UK’s most modern and career-driven universities.
It focuses on practical learning, innovation, and industry collaboration, offering a perfect mix of theory and hands-on experience.
MMU has been awarded Silver in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) and is among the Top 3 in the UK for sustainability.
Top Courses
- Business & International Marketing
- Architecture & Interior Design
- Cybersecurity & Computer Science
- Art, Media & Fashion Design
- Tourism & Hospitality Management
Tuition Fees
- Undergraduate: £17,000 – £21,000 per year
- Postgraduate: £19,000 – £25,000 per year
Scholarships
- Vice-Chancellor’s Global Scholarship: £5,000
- MMU India Scholarship: £2,000 – £3,000
- Early Payment Discount: £1,000
Why Choose MMU
- Affordable tuition in a top UK city
- Career-oriented courses
- Great internship and placement support
- Diverse international student body
3. University of Salford
Global Rank (2025): Top 800
Acceptance Rate: Around 75%
Type: Public University
Located just minutes from Manchester city center, the University of Salford offers a blend of academic study and professional practice.
It has strong links with industries like Media, Engineering, and Health Sciences, thanks to its partnership with MediaCityUK — home to BBC and ITV.
Top Courses
- Media, Film & Broadcast Journalism
- Business Management
- Civil & Mechanical Engineering
- Data Analytics & Cybersecurity
- Health Sciences & Nursing
Tuition Fees
- Undergraduate: £15,000 – £21,000 per year
- Postgraduate: £17,000 – £24,000 per year
Scholarships
- Salford International Excellence Award: £3,000 – £5,000
- South Asia Scholarship: £2,000
- GREAT Scholarship (India): £10,000
Why Indian Students Choose It
- Industry-focused university
- Affordable tuition and living
- Great location near central Manchester
- Strong internship programs
4. University of Bolton (Greater Manchester)
Global Rank (2025): Top 1,000+
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Type: Public University
The University of Bolton, located just outside Manchester, offers a personalized learning experience in a friendly, supportive environment.
It’s known for its small class sizes, affordable tuition, and practical teaching style.
Top Courses
- Engineering & Technology
- Business & Accounting
- Computer Science
- Health & Nursing
- Sports & Education
Tuition Fees
- Undergraduate: £14,000 – £18,000 per year
- Postgraduate: £15,000 – £22,000 per year
Scholarships
- Bolton International Scholarship: £1,000 – £3,000
- South Asia Student Award: £2,000
Why Indian Students Love It
- Low tuition and cost of living
- Small classes and personal support
- Industry connections and job-oriented teaching
Cost of Living in Manchester for Students
Manchester offers big-city life at affordable prices around 30–40% cheaper than London.
| Expense | Average Monthly Cost |
| Accommodation | £500 – £900 |
| Food & Groceries | £200 – £300 |
| Transport | £50 – £100 |
| Utilities & Internet | £60 – £100 |
| Leisure & Personal | £100 – £200 |
| Total | £950 – £1,400 per month |
Students can save by choosing shared accommodation or university-managed housing near campus.
Read more about: Cost of Living in Manchester: A Student’s Budget Guide
Top Scholarships for Indian Students in Manchester
| Scholarship | Offered By | Value |
| Global Futures Scholarship | University of Manchester | £5,000 – £10,000 |
| Vice-Chancellor’s Award | MMU | £5,000 |
| GREAT Scholarship (India) | UK Govt | £10,000 |
| Salford Excellence Award | University of Salford | £5,000 |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | UK Govt | Fully funded |
Most scholarships are merit-based — apply early to improve your chances.
Why Study in Manchester?
Manchester offers the perfect mix of world-class education, affordability and multicultural life.
It’s also one of the UK’s fastest-growing job markets, with opportunities in tech, finance, engineering, and media.
Top Reasons to Choose Manchester
- Home to globally ranked universities
- Affordable cost of living
- Diverse, welcoming community
- Excellent public transport
- Post-study work visa and job opportunities
Manchester has one of the largest Indian student communities in the UK — making it feel like home away from home.
Best Courses to Study in Manchester
- Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
- Business Management & Finance
- Engineering & Technology
- Media & Film Production
- Data Science & Cybersecurity
- Healthcare & Nursing
These fields align with the UK’s job demand list, giving students an edge under the Graduate Route Visa for post-study work.
Conclusion
Manchester is not just a city, it’s a complete student experience. It offers world-class universities, affordable living, a lively Indian community, and great career opportunities after graduation.
Whether you choose the University of Manchester for prestige, MMU for career focus, or Salford for affordability, studying in Manchester means joining a city full of opportunity and culture. With the right guidance, you can turn your UK study dream into reality — and Stubard is here to help.
FAQs
1. What are the top universities in Manchester, UK?
The top universities are University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Salford, and University of Bolton.
2. Is Manchester good for Indian students?
Yes! Manchester is affordable, multicultural, and home to many Indian students, offering strong academic and career opportunities.
3. How much does it cost to study in Manchester?
Tuition fees range from £15,000 – £33,000 per year, depending on the university and course.
4. What is the cost of living in Manchester for students?
Students spend around £950 – £1,400 per month on accommodation, food, and travel — much cheaper than London.
5. Are scholarships available for Indian students?
Yes, universities offer GREAT, Global Futures, and Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships worth up to £10,000.
6. Can Indian students work while studying in Manchester?
Yes, students can work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during vacations.
7. Which university in Manchester is best for Computer Science?
The University of Manchester ranks among the top 10 in the UK for Computer Science and AI.