University cost calculator
The full cost of a degree, and the part the maintenance loan does not cover, which is the number families actually need.
How this is calculated
Fees are multiplied by the course length. Rent and living costs are multiplied by the months you actually pay for, then by the years.
The months figure matters more than people expect. University halls are frequently let for around 40 weeks, while a private house is usually a full twelve months whether you are there or not.
The maintenance loan is compared against living costs only, since tuition fees are paid directly to the university by a separate loan.
Tuition fees are shown as a cost of the degree, but for most students they are borrowed rather than paid up front, and repaid later through the student loan system rather than at the time.
Rates used · 2026/27
| Typical halls contract | around 40 weeks |
| Typical private let | 12 months |
| Maintenance loan | means tested on household income |
| Repayment | Plan 5, 9% above £25,000 |
Last checked July 2026. Source: HMRC and gov.uk.
Worked example
A three year degree at £9,535 a year is £28,605 in fees. Rent of £650 and £400 of living costs across ten paid months is £31,500, plus £1,500 of travel. The total is £61,605, and with an £8,400 maintenance loan a year the living costs leave a £7,800 gap across the course.
Common questions
Does the maintenance loan cover living costs?
Rarely in full, especially outside London and where household income is higher. The gap is normally filled by part-time work, savings or family support.
Should tuition fees count as a cost?
They are a real cost of the degree, but they are not money you find at the time. They are borrowed and repaid later as a percentage of earnings above the threshold.
What about living at home?
Set rent to zero and cut living costs. It typically removes the largest single line and can make the maintenance loan more than sufficient.
How are student loans repaid?
Plan 5 for English students starting from August 2023: 9% of income above £25,000, written off after 40 years. It behaves more like a graduate contribution than a conventional debt.