If you are still considering studying abroad, a different approach could be to take part in an academic exchange programme while attending a UK university.
What you may not expect to hear is that costs rarely exceed what the home student would pay for the remainder of the course. Erasmus, administered by the British Council and a European Commission initiative offers placements that do not pay tuition fees to their host university abroad. And if the placement is for an entire academic year (24 term-time weeks or more) then tuition fees are also waived by their UK university.
Erasmus offers grants for a study or work placement of three to 12 months in one of 30 European countries. Full academic credit is given for most periods of study spent abroad.
Erasmus grants — €225 per month for the 2010-11 academic year — are non-repayable, not means-tested and paid through the home university in addition to any standard grants or loans that the student is entitled to (which are adjusted to a special “overseas” rate). At its discretion, the home university may still offer Access to Learning funds for those who require additional money.
Local authorities may also be able to help with travel costs, through means-tested grants.
For more details download the Erasmus leaflet from the British Council.