Affordable CAS deposits are now one of the biggest deciding factors for Nigerian students choosing where to study in the UK. Before your visa is approved, your chosen university will ask you to pay a deposit to confirm your place and release your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) number. The lower that deposit, the less cash you need upfront. This guide breaks down the most affordable options available in 2026, so you can plan smart.
What Is a CAS Deposit?
When a UK university offers you admission, they will ask you to pay a deposit before issuing your CAS number. This amount is usually deducted from your total tuition fee. The lower the deposit, the less cash you need to front before your visa is approved. For many Nigerian students, finding a university with a manageable deposit is a deciding factor in where they ultimately apply.
Top UK Universities With Affordable CAS Deposits in 2026
University of Southampton — GBP 2,000
The University of Southampton stands out as the most affordable on this list, with a deposit of just GBP 2,000. It is a Russell Group institution, placing it among the top tier of UK universities. Southampton is particularly well regarded for engineering, electronics, oceanography, and business programmes. Students gain access to world-class research facilities and a vibrant campus life on the south coast of England.
University of York — GBP 3,000
The University of York is a highly ranked research university with a beautiful campus setting. It offers programmes in social sciences, humanities, law, health sciences, and the arts. York has a well-established international student community, making the transition from Nigeria smoother for new arrivals.
University of Winchester — GBP 3,000
The University of Winchester is a smaller, teaching-focused institution known for its supportive learning environment. It offers programmes in education, business, social sciences, and the arts and humanities. Its intimate campus culture means students often receive more personalised attention from lecturers.
Bishop Grosseteste University Lincoln — GBP 3,000
Lincoln is a growing university city in the East Midlands. Bishop Grosseteste University offers programmes in education, humanities, and social sciences, and is particularly known for teacher training. It is a good option for students who want a close-knit academic community away from a big city.
Northumbria University Newcastle (London Campus) — GBP 3,000
Northumbria University is a large, career-focused university. Its London campus gives students access to all the opportunities of the capital city while studying for a Northumbria degree. Programmes span business, law, computing, design, and more, with a strong emphasis on employability and industry connections.
Oxford Brookes University — GBP 3,000
Oxford Brookes is one of the most popular modern universities in the UK, located in the historic city of Oxford. It is well known for hospitality, real estate, business, architecture, and health sciences. Studying in Oxford gives students access to a vibrant academic city with a global reputation.
University of Sunderland — GBP 3,500
The University of Sunderland offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in business, computing, nursing, pharmacy, engineering, and media. It has an international reputation for healthcare-related courses and offers competitive tuition fees alongside its moderate deposit.
Regent College London — GBP 3,750
Regent College London is a private higher education provider in the heart of London. It focuses on business, management, and related fields. For students who want a London-based education with a lower deposit, Regent College is a solid option to consider.
Coventry University — GBP 4,000
Coventry University is a large, modern university with campuses across the UK, including London. It is consistently ranked among the best modern universities and is particularly impactful in engineering, business, health, and design. Its global outlook and industry partnerships make it a favourite among international students.
University of East Anglia (UEA) — GBP 4,000
UEA is located in Norwich and is ranked among the top 30 universities in the UK. It is especially renowned for creative writing, environmental sciences, law, and health sciences. The campus is self-contained and offers a close community feel with strong academic credentials.
Keele University — GBP 4,000
Keele University is one of the UK’s most distinctive universities, with a large self-contained campus in Staffordshire. It is known for its dual honours degree structure, allowing students to combine two subjects. Strong areas include medicine, pharmacy, law, and the social sciences.
University of Hull — GBP 4,000
The University of Hull has a long history and a growing reputation for research. It offers programmes in law, business, engineering, computer science, and social sciences. Hull is an affordable city to live in, which means your overall cost of studying can be lower compared to bigger cities.
Ravensbourne University London — GBP 4,000
Ravensbourne is a specialist institution focused on digital media, design, and technology. Located in Greenwich, London, it is ideal for creatively inclined students interested in animation, fashion, broadcasting, interior design, or UX. Its industry connections are a major draw.
Bangor University — GBP 4,000
Bangor University is located in North Wales and is known for its stunning natural surroundings and research strengths in ocean sciences, psychology, and business. It offers a welcoming environment for international students and a lower cost of living compared to most English cities.
London Metropolitan University — GBP 4,000
London Met is a diverse and inclusive university based in the heart of London. It offers programmes across business, computing, law, social sciences, and health. With a student body drawn from over 100 countries, it has a truly cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Arden University — GBP 4,000
Arden University specialises in flexible, professionally focused degrees. It offers programmes in business, project management, psychology, and computing, with options for blended and online learning. It is a good fit for students who need flexibility in how they study.
The University of Law — GBP 4,000
As its name suggests, The University of Law is the ideal destination for students pursuing a legal career. It offers LLB degrees, solicitor apprenticeships, and a range of postgraduate law qualifications. With multiple campuses across the UK, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham, it has strong links to the legal profession.
Teesside University — GBP 4,000
Teesside University is based in Middlesbrough in the North East of England. It has built a strong reputation for computer games, digital industries, health sciences, and engineering. It is a career-focused institution with modern facilities and an affordable cost of living in the surrounding area.
StudyAbroadly: Best UK Study Abroad Agency
StudyAbroadly is a trusted study abroad agency dedicated to helping Nigerian students build a future in the UK. From the moment you decide you want to study abroad to the day you board your flight, StudyAbroadly is with you every step of the way.
Here is what we offer:
Admissions Support: Getting into a UK university involves more than just filling out a form. StudyAbroadly helps you identify the right university and programme for your goals, prepares your application documents, and guides you through the entire admissions process to give you the best shot at an offer.
Scholarship Guidance: Many students leave money on the table simply because they do not know what scholarships are available. StudyAbroadly helps you find and apply for scholarships and funding opportunities that can significantly reduce your cost of studying in the UK.
Visa Assistance: The UK student visa process can be confusing. StudyAbroadly provides hands-on support with your visa application, helping you gather the right documents, understand the financial requirements, and avoid common mistakes that lead to delays or refusals.
Pre-Departure Guidance: Getting your visa is not the end of the journey. StudyAbroadly prepares you for life in the UK, covering everything from accommodation and banking to what to expect on arrival, so you can land with confidence.
Studying in the UK is one of the most life-changing investments you can make. With CAS deposits starting as low as GBP 2,000, there are options available for Nigerian students at every budget level. The universities on this list span a wide range of academic strengths, campus sizes, and locations, so there is something for everyone. If you are ready to take the next step, reaching out to StudyAbroadly is a smart place to start. With expert guidance at every stage, you will not have to figure out the process alone.
