How much money is needed to study in the United Kingdom? And how much does student housing cost in the United Kingdom? These are the questions posed most frequently by prospective international students wishing to study in the United Kingdom.
 

To comprehend the cost of living in the United Kingdom for an international student, it is crucial to comprehend the form of visa required for study. Tier 4 visa is required for international students to study in the United Kingdom. For Tier 4 purposes, the sponsor is the educational institution where the student will be enrolled in the desired course. As part of the visa application, the student must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover course fees and living expenses for each month of the chosen course, up to a maximum of nine months. The British Home Office refers to these funds as a "maintenance requirement."
 

Consequently, the cost of living for international students in the United Kingdom is an important topic that many students contemplating studying abroad must be aware of. The cost of living encompasses housing, food, transport, and other expenses that students studying in the United Kingdom may incur. Understanding the cost of living in the United Kingdom is essential because it can have a significant impact on a student's budget and overall experience.
 

It is unfair for international students to begin their incredible study abroad voyage with a mind full of budgeting and financial concerns. Therefore, Zoom Abroad has compiled this guide to the cost of living in the United Kingdom for 2023.
  

In this article, we will discuss the primary factors that affect the cost of living in the United Kingdom for international students, including tuition fees, housing, and transportation costs. We will also offer advice on how to cut costs and manage finances while studying in the United Kingdom.
 

You can roughly divide your monthly expenses into six categories;
 

1. Accommodation
2. Transport
3.  Food
4.  Entertainment 
5. Internet/TV
6.  Miscellaneous
    

Accommodation: 

The cost of student housing in the United Kingdom for international students largely depends on the form of housing selected. Students have the option of living in dormitories, university residences, private apartments, or shared accommodation. Most universities in the United Kingdom offer on-campus housing. These residence facilities on campus are typically within walking distance of the campus, which reduces transportation costs. The cost of student housing in the United Kingdom will vary depending on the city in which you choose to study. As the nation's metropolis, London is more expensive than other British towns and cities.
 

The average monthly cost of student accommodation in the UK;
 

As shown in the table, university dorms are typically the most affordable option, with an average cost of £90 to £200 per week, including bills and other expenses. Private rentals have a wider range of costs, ranging from £120 to £300 per week, but bills and other expenses such as internet, electricity, water, gas, and council tax are usually not included.
 

Homestays, which involve living with a local family, offer students an opportunity to learn about British culture and improve their English language skills. They are typically more expensive than university dorms but offer additional inclusions such as breakfast, dinner, and laundry services.
 

It's essential to note that the costs shown in the table are only estimates and can vary depending on the location, quality, and size of the accommodation.
 

In addition to the accommodation options mentioned above, some other options include hostels, flat-sharing, and short-term rentals. Hostels are usually the cheapest option but may not be suitable for long-term stays. Flat-sharing involves renting a property with other students, which can help reduce costs. Short-term rentals, such as Airbnb, are ideal for short stays, but costs can be high compared to other options.
 

Ultimately, the choice of accommodation depends on individual preferences, budget, and location. It's essential to research and compare different options before making a decision.
 

Here are some tips for international students to reduce accommodation costs in the UK:
 

1. Share a Room: Sharing a room with another student can significantly reduce accommodation costs. This is especially common in university dorms and private rentals.

2. Live Further from the City Center: Accommodation costs in city centers are typically higher than in the suburbs. Students can consider living in areas that are further away from the city center to save money on rent.

3. Look for Student Discounts: Many landlords and agencies offer discounts to students. It's essential to inquire about any discounts available before signing a rental agreement.

4. Consider Homestays: Homestays can be a cost-effective option, especially for international students who may need assistance settling into a new country.

5. Be Mindful of Bills: Bills such as electricity, water, and gas can add up quickly. Students should be mindful of their usage and consider ways to reduce consumption, such as turning off lights and unplugging electronics when not in use.

6. Negotiate Rent: It's worth negotiating the rent with the landlord or agency, especially if the property has been vacant for some time.
 

7. Research Accommodation Options: It's essential to research different accommodation options thoroughly to find the most affordable and suitable option.
 

Overall, students can significantly reduce accommodation costs by being open-minded and creative in their search for affordable housing.

Food and Groceries:

As an international student in the UK, managing your budget can be challenging, especially when it comes to food and groceries. The cost of food and groceries in the UK can vary widely depending on where you shop and what you buy. However, having a general idea of the average costs can help you plan your budget accordingly.

According to data from the Office for National Statistics, the average weekly expenditure on food and non-alcoholic drinks for a single person in the UK is £40.30. However, this amount can vary greatly depending on the type of food you buy and where you shop.

To give you a better idea of the cost of food and groceries in the UK, here is a table outlining the average prices of some common items:
 

It's important to note that these prices are just averages and can vary depending on where you shop and what type of food you buy. Additionally, prices in London and other major cities may be higher than in other parts of the country.

To save money on food and groceries, consider shopping at discount supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, or Asda, which offer lower prices than many of the larger supermarkets. Additionally, buying in bulk can often be cheaper in the long run, especially for items like rice or pasta that have a long shelf life.

Another way to save money on food is to cook in bulk and freeze leftovers for later. This can help you save money and reduce food waste, while also ensuring you always have a meal on hand when you're short on time.

Finally, consider looking for deals and discounts on food and groceries, either through supermarket loyalty programs or coupon websites like VoucherCodes. By being mindful of your spending and taking advantage of these tips, you can save money on food and groceries and make the most of your time as an international student in the UK.

Transport: 

Transport will consume the second biggest chunk of your monthly budget after student accommodation costs in the UK. The cost will mainly depend on the city and the mode of transport you are using. Other than walking and cycling (The best way to keep fit and maintain social distancing ) you can use public transport. They usually offer student discounts which are sometimes as good as 50% off. Taking private cabs and taxis can really mess with your monthly budget.

Transportation is an essential part of daily life for many international students in the UK, whether they need to travel to and from class or explore the country on weekends. Here are some different modes of transportation available and tips for reducing transportation costs:
 

1. Buses: Buses are a common mode of transportation in the UK, with many cities and towns having extensive bus networks. The cost of a bus ride varies depending on the city and the distance traveled, but the average cost is around £2-£3 per ride. Some cities also offer discounted rates for students, which can make bus travel even more affordable.
    
2. Trains: Trains are a popular way to travel longer distances in the UK, with many major cities and towns connected by railway lines. The cost of a train ticket varies depending on the destination, time of day, and whether the ticket is purchased in advance. However, the average cost of a train ride in the UK is around £12-£15 per ride.
    
3. Bicycles: Bicycles are a popular and eco-friendly mode of transportation in the UK, with many cities and towns having dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. Purchasing a bicycle can be costly, with prices ranging from £200 to £500 or more, but it can be a good investment in the long run. Additionally, using a bike to get around can save money on transportation costs over time.
    

Tips for reducing transportation costs as an international student in the UK:
 

1. Purchase a monthly pass: Many cities and towns offer monthly bus or train passes, which can be more cost-effective than purchasing individual tickets. If you plan to use public transportation frequently, a monthly pass may be a good investment.
    
2. Use ride-sharing apps: Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling with friends. Additionally, using ride-sharing apps can be more affordable than traditional taxis.
    
3. Walk or bike when possible: Walking or biking can be a great way to save money on transportation costs, while also getting some exercise and fresh air. If you live close to your university or have a bike-sharing program in your city, consider using these options to get around.

By being mindful of your transportation costs and taking advantage of these tips, you can save money as an international student in the UK and make the most of your time in the country.
 

Entertainment:

It’s not all study when you go to the UK. You should take the opportunity of exploring as much as you. A cinema ticket in the UK costs around £8, a pint of beer for £3, and a DVD rental for around £3. These are all costs that need to be budgeted to set aside and have fun!
 

Internet / TV: While studying and living abroad, It's imperative to be in touch with family and friends. Also, looking at the growing demand for social media and OTT platforms, SIM cards with call and data packages, Wi-Fi, and television fees are important cost to consider while planning your monthly budget.
 

Miscellaneous: 

Apart from the above costs like the cost of student accommodation in the UK, travel, and food there are other expenses you must include in the budget like internet, books, toiletries, phone plan, clothing, and other items and services. Make sure to save a certain amount of cash for potential healthcare issues that come up, excess school costs that you weren’t expecting, and general emergencies.
 

Here are some other expenses that international students may incur while studying in the UK:
 

1. Textbooks and Course Materials: Depending on the course of study, textbooks and course materials can be a significant expense. On average, students spend between £300 to £500 per year on textbooks and course materials. To reduce these costs, consider buying used textbooks, renting books, or accessing online resources provided by the university.
    
2. Healthcare: International students are required to pay a health surcharge when applying for a student visa, which entitles them to free or discounted healthcare services from the National Health Service (NHS). However, some services, such as dental and optical care, may require additional fees. It is advisable to purchase health insurance to cover these expenses.
    
3. Visa Fees: International students are required to pay visa application fees to the UK government. The cost varies depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay. For a Tier 4 (General) student visa, the cost is £348 for a short-term study visa and £475 for a long-term study visa.
    
4. Personal Expenses: International students may have additional personal expenses, such as phone bills, internet bills, and leisure activities. The cost of these expenses can vary depending on the individual's lifestyle and preferences. To reduce these costs, consider taking advantage of student discounts, finding free leisure activities, or sharing expenses with friends.

Therefore, these miscellaneous items are also important and should be included in the student cost of living in the UK -

Ways to cut your expenses while studying in the UK in 2023

Once an idea is received about what the student budget is going to look like, here are some tried-and-tested money tips to cut your costs as a student.
 

• Student Travelcard is a must
• Get your books secondhand or try to get digital copies
• Shop at the right place
• Plan your night outs
• Efficient use of water, gas, and electricity
• Flexible student jobs to get an additional income to cover your expenses.
• Plan your meals in advance to avoid unwanted shopping. 
   

Always look for student discounts - They are available everywhere.


 

Zoom Abroad aims to help international students find the best-fit university for themselves. Explore the platform and find out more about the cost of student accommodation in the UK along with course tuition fees for the top universities in the UK.

Scholarships and Education Loans

The UK provides a vast number of Scholarships to study in the UK, particularly for postgraduate students. There are also a number of undergraduate scholarships for international students to study in the UK. Majorly, there are three types of scholarships in the UK for international students -

a. Global scholarships

b. Country-specific scholarships

c. University scholarships

Apart from scholarships, student loans to study in the UK can play a significant role in easing financial stress.

Tier4 UK Student VISA 

To apply for a UK student visa, check the documents listed below for a seamless process. 
 

• Letter of acceptance from the university you have been accepted to (CAS)
• Proof of funds.
• A valid passport and recent photographs.
• Details of your university and accommodation.
• Report of your health checkup
• A valid passport. (keep a page blank for the visa)
• Original mark sheets/transcripts

After collecting all the documents, Follow the steps below to apply for a UK student’s Visa.
 

• Sign up and submit your visa application form online. It is advisable to check the online appointment calendar to book an appointment. After submission, you will get an email with an application number.
   
• After receiving the email, Pay the fees, and collect the receipt.
   
• Now appear for the visa interview as per the scheduled appointment and submit the necessary biometrics, photograph, application, and other documents.
   
• You will get your tier 4 student visa in 6 weeks' time.

A new route to a career in the UK signified as the “Graduate Immigration Route” and according to the UK Home Office, the GIR will be available to international students who have completed a degree at the undergraduate level or above at a Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance and who have a valid Tier 4 UK student visa at the time of application.

FAQs 

Quest 1.  How much does it cost to study in the UK as an international student?

Ans. The cost of studying in the UK as an international student can vary depending on the course of study, university, and location. On average, tuition fees can range from £10,000 to £38,000 per year.
 

Ques 2. What is the cost of living in the UK for international students?

Ans. The cost of living in the UK for international students can vary depending on the location, accommodation, and lifestyle. On average, international students can expect to spend between £12,000 to £15,000 per year on living expenses.
 

Ques 3. What are the accommodation options available to international students in the UK?

Ans. International students can choose from various accommodation options, such as university dorms, private rentals, and homestays. The cost can vary depending on the location and type of accommodation.


Ques 4. What is the average cost of food and groceries in the UK for international students?

Ans. The average cost of food and groceries in the UK for international students can vary depending on the location and lifestyle. On average, international students can expect to spend between £30 to £40 per week on groceries.

Ques 5. What are the different modes of transportation available to international students in the UK?

Ans. International students can choose from various modes of transportation, such as buses, trains, and bicycles. The cost can vary depending on the location and frequency of travel.

Ques 6. How much does entertainment and leisure cost for international students in the UK?

Ans. The cost of entertainment and leisure activities can vary depending on the type of activity and location. On average, international students can expect to spend between £10 to £20 per activity.
 

Ques 7. Are there any additional expenses that international students may incur while studying in the UK?

Ans. Yes, international students may have additional expenses, such as textbooks, healthcare, and visa fees.

Ques 8. Can international students work part-time while studying in the UK?

Ans. Yes, international students can work part-time while studying in the UK, up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.

Ques 9. How can international students reduce their living expenses in the UK?

Ans. International students can reduce their living expenses by taking advantage of student discounts, finding free leisure activities, and sharing expenses with roommates or friends.

Ques 10. Are there any financial aid options available to international students in the UK?

Ans. Yes, international students can apply for scholarships, bursaries, and other financial aid options provided by universities, government, and private organizations.
 

Zoom Abroad is a great platform that can help you find the best programs for you in the UK. Register here and create your profile today to get matched with the best-fit medical programs offered by the top UK universities. Book a 30 mins FREE consultation with an expert advisor today. Other than STEM courses like Engineering, Medicine and, MBA there are various other undergraduate and master's programs you can explore to figure out which one is the most suitable based on your profile and long-term goals.