The Uncapped University: Market Rate Projections
The "True Market" Price
If the government cap were removed, fees would likely diverge based on reputation and demand. Estimates below use "International Fees" (unregulated) and "Cost of Delivery" as proxies for market value.
The Great Divergence
Comparing the current capped fee against the "Break-Even" cost and the "Market Rate" (International Fee).
Top institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial could command fees 3x higher than the current cap. Their "market rate" is driven by global brand power, not just teaching costs.
Even mid-tier Russell Group universities lose money on domestic students. The "Break-Even" fee (to cover actual teaching/research costs) is approx £13,500—significantly above the current cap.
(Oxbridge, Imperial, LSE)
Based on average international fees for lab/classroom blend. Pure science courses can reach £45k.
(Manchester, Bristol, Leeds)
High demand allows for significant pricing power. International fees standardise around this band.
(Teesside, Coventry, UWE)
Closer to the actual "cost of delivery". While fees are lower, they are still above the current domestic cap.