My Journey to Study MBBS in the UK on a Budget – Tips for Indian Students
- manoranjanmishramc
- Aug 19
- 2 min read

When I first thought about studying MBBS in UK, the excitement was quickly followed by anxiety about money. Everyone knows that medical education in Britain is expensive, but I didn’t want to give up on my dream. Over time, I learned different ways to cut costs, manage my living expenses, and even find financial support. Here’s my experience that might help other Indian students who want to study medicine in the UK affordably.
Why I Looked at Alternatives First
Before deciding on the UK, I researched options abroad. Many friends suggested looking at the cheapest country for MBBS abroad because tuition fees in countries like Russia and Kazakhstan are much lower. Honestly, I considered them seriously. But after weighing long-term career prospects and the global recognition of a UK medical degree, I felt the UK was worth the extra effort and cost.
My Struggles with Living Expenses in the UK
Once I got here, the biggest reality check wasn’t just tuition but daily expenses. Rent in London shocked me, so I moved into a shared flat outside the city, which saved me a lot. Cooking meals with friends instead of eating out became our routine and made a huge difference. If you’re planning this journey, I strongly recommend checking your living expenses in UK for Indian students before moving. Trust me, budgeting is your survival tool here.
How I Found Financial Help
The tuition fees looked scary at first, but I discovered that there are plenty of scholarships and bursaries available. Some were based on academic merit, others on need. I was lucky to secure partial funding from my university, which eased the burden a lot. I also applied for an education loan back in India. Exploring financial aid for MBBS in UK turned out to be one of the smartest decisions I made—it kept me from being financially stressed throughout my studies.
Little Things That Saved Me Money
Apart from scholarships, I worked part-time at a café near campus. The extra income covered groceries and transport. I also learned to take advantage of student discounts for trains, buses, and even movies. Living outside central London and planning expenses early gave me breathing space financially. These small steps may not seem like much, but they add up to big savings over the years.
Looking Back
Now, when I look back at my decision, I feel proud that I didn’t let the cost stop me. Yes, studying MBBS in the UK isn’t cheap, but with planning, scholarships, and smart money habits, it can be manageable. For any Indian student dreaming of this path, I’d say: do your research, prepare financially, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. If I could do it, you can too.
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