Is it Expensive to Live in the UK as a student?

Exploring Different University Cities to Live In and What They Offer Students

The UK has over 100 universities. Each one has its own student culture and course offering, giving a vast range of options to choose from. If you’re looking for a bustling city, Leicester, Lincoln, Sheffield and Newcastle all tick this box. Each city has a thriving nightlife, a plethora of restaurants as well and a wealth of history to dive into. 

Other under-the-radar cities include Bangor, Exeter and Coventry. These cities may be smaller in size than the major metropolis. However, there’s no shortage of things for students to do and see in these more compact cities. 

The UK has world-class universities, cultural attractions, and a diverse student population, who come from different countries. 

Pros & Cons of Living in the UK as a Student – Costs, Benefits, and Lifestyle 

One major advantage of studying in the UK is the quality of the education on offer. You’ll find some of the best UK universities – including Newcastle, Exeter and Bristol – and studying in these faculties can boost your career prospects significantly. 

The cost of tuition can be high, with international students paying more than domestic students. However many universities offer scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to help students meet their expenses. 

While living in a city is expensive, particularly as a student, there are plenty of ways you can cut down on your outgoings. If you’re doing a supermarket shop, why not bulk buy store cupboard ingredients that will last longer and often be cheaper than buying a smaller pack? You can also save money on transport by applying for a railcard, which will give you a ⅓ off the price of your ticket. There are also lots of high street shops and restaurants in the UK that offer student discounts – simply research online to find the best deals and how to get them. 

Looking at alternative Student Accommodation options such as Flat-Sharing and Homestay 

Flat-sharing or “house-sharing” allows students to split the total cost of rent and other living expenses. This can significantly help to reduce individual living costs and it also creates a communal environment where students are encouraged to share. 

A homestay is another option wherein students can rent a room in a local’s home while studying in the UK. This can be beneficial for those who want to improve their English and gain first-hand experience of British culture. 

Another benefit to homestays is you don’t have to make a long-term commitment to the property. Often, you can sign up to stay for as little as two weeks so if the arrangement doesn’t work out, you can end your tenancy quite easily. 

Advice on Budgeting for your Stay in the UK while Studying

Studying abroad is an incredibly rewarding experience but it can come with financial burdens and surprise costs. One way to save money is to create a financial plan each semester. Look closely at your monthly income – whether it be from loans, scholarships, or part-time work – and draw up a list of your outgoings so you can make sure you have all your major expenses covered while keeping enough money aside to cover social outings. 

Having a budget allows you to keep track of where your money is going and it can help you spot any areas where you can cut back. For example, consider cooking your meals instead of eating out or using a bike to get around instead of taking a taxi or bus. 

Conclusion

Living in the UK as a student can be costly. However, if you arm yourself with a little know-how and stay beady-eyed on your budget, it is doable. There are plenty of student accommodation options available to suit all preferences, from university-run dormitories to private rentals. 

You can also research the types of financial support your university offers to help offset some of your tuition or living expenses. While it might be expensive to study in the UK, it’s manageable if you do your research and stay proactive in finding bang for your buck. If you have any questions about studying in the UK, we’re here to help. Call the Project Student team on +44 333 050 0099 or email hello@projectstudent.co.uk.