The UK is one of the best destinations for international students who are looking for quality education and a multicultural experience. Its famous universities in cities such as London, Oxford, and Manchester provide the perfect combination of learning and experiencing culture. Whether a student wants to experience the academic history of a university like Oxford or enjoy a student life like Manchester, these universities offer international students a chance to benefit from strong career opportunities. Let’s find some of the best cities in the UK for international students by examining the cost of living, the convenience of travel, and other criteria.
Top 7 Cities in the UK to Study
The top 7 cities in the UK for Indian students are ranked based on various important factors. Below are the top cities in the UK to study.
- London
- Manchester
- Edinburgh
- Bristol
- Glasgow
- Coventry
- Nottingham
1. London
London boasts some of the well-known universities like University College London (UCL), Imperial College London, and King's College London.
Aside from its academic excellence, the city is a global hub for finance, technology, medicine, and creative arts, with diverse internship and employment opportunities.
The monthly cost of living in London can differ based on the type of accommodation.
Estimated cost of living:*
- Rent for a house or apartment ranges from £1,000 to £2,500 per month.
- Food expenses are generally around £200 to £350 per month.
- Travel costs for commuting can range from £150 to £200 per month.
2. Manchester
Manchester is one of the top cities in the UK for international students. It has some of the world's leading universities, including the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, and the University of Salford.
Manchester is known for its key sectors like engineering, business, healthcare, and creativity, offering many job and internship opportunities. Apart from its academic curriculum, the city also features an art scene, historic sites, and music halls.
The estimated monthly expenses for living in Manchester can vary depending on accommodation type and lifestyle.
Estimated cost of living:*
- Rent for a house or apartment ranges from £700 to £1,200 per month.
- Food expenses are generally around £180 to £300 per month.
- Travel costs for commuting can range from £80 to £120 per month.
3. Edinburgh
Edinburgh is home to leading universities like the University of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University, and Edinburgh Napier University. The city is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and active cultural life.
Edinburgh is famous in sectors like science, engineering, business, and the arts, offering many career and internship opportunities.
The estimated monthly expenses for living in Edinburgh can vary depending on the accommodation type.
Estimated cost of living:*
- Rent for a house or apartment ranges from £700 to £1,500 per month.
- Food expenses are generally around £180 to £350 per month.
- Travel costs for commuting can range from £50 to £100 per month.
4. Bristol
Bristol, located in southwest England, is a popular destination for international students and hosts top universities like the University of Bristol and the University of the West of England. Bristol offers strong programmes in engineering, business, technology, and the arts. It provides internships and job opportunities with major companies. The city is also known for its vibrant arts, historic sites, and scenic waterfronts, making it ideal for both studies and cultural exploration.
The estimated monthly expenses for living in Bristol can vary depending on the accommodation type.
Estimated cost of living:*
- Rent for a house or apartment ranges from £700 to £1,500 per month.
- Food expenses are generally around £150 to £300 per month.
- Travel costs for commuting can range from £50 to £100 per month.
5. Glasgow
Glasgow is Scotland's largest city and a popular destination for international students. The city is home to prestigious universities such as the University of Glasgow, Glasgow Caledonian University, and the University of Strathclyde.
Glasgow is known for its academic strength in engineering, business, healthcare, and the arts. It offers many career and internship opportunities with leading companies. The city is known for its vibrant cultural life and historic architecture. It also hosts lively music and arts festivals, making it an ideal place for both studies and cultural experiences.
Estimated cost of living:*
- Rent for a house or apartment ranges from £600 to £1,200 per month.
- Food expenses are generally around £150 to £300 per month.
- Travel costs for commuting can range from £50 to £80 per month.
6. Coventry
Coventry is home to notable institutions such as the University of Warwick. The city offers a blend of rich history and modern development, providing students with a lively cultural scene and numerous career opportunities.
Estimated cost of living:*
- Rent for a house or apartment ranges from £600 to £1,000 per month.
- Food expenses are generally around £150 to £250 per month.
- Travel costs for commuting can range from £50 to £100 per month.
7. Nottingham
Nottingham is home to top universities like the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University. Known for its rich history, vibrant student culture, and affordability, Nottingham offers a balance between academic excellence and student life.
Estimated cost of living:*
- Rent for a house or apartment ranges from £650 to £1,100 per month.
- Food expenses are generally around £160 to £280 per month.
- Travel costs for commuting can range from £40 to £80 per month.
Conclusion
Studying in the UK provides excellent opportunities for personal, academic, and professional growth. Whether you opt for London’s cosmopolitan environment, Edinburgh’s historic charm, or Bristol’s lively arts scene, each city has distinct advantages. Although tuition fees may differ, living expenses in most UK cities are relatively affordable compared to larger international cities. For students who want to manage costs, Credila offers education loans for the UK, covering up to 100% of tuition and living expenses. With Credila, the student education loan for study abroad can help students manage their finances effectively and pursue their higher education goals with ease.
DisclaimerAs of March 31, 2024. T&C apply.
Credila Financial Services Limited (Formerly known as HDFC Credila Financial Services Limited)
The education loan facility provided by Credila Financial Services Limited ('The Company') will be at the sole discretion of the Company and within the Company's prescribed credit and underwriting norms/guidelines prevailing at the time of processing and disbursing the education loan. The Company maintains the right to change the interest rate at any time and at its sole discretion, without prior notice.
Note:The estimated cost of living provided above is based on current data and serves as a general guideline. Factors such as inflation, currency exchange rates, local economic conditions, and individual lifestyle choices can significantly impact actual expenses. Prices may fluctuate over time, so it is advisable to check updated sources or conduct personal research before making financial decisions.
