Living costs in the UK for international students in 2025
Studying in the UK offers a world-class education, vibrant culture, and exciting opportunities. However, it’s important to understand the living costs in the UK for international students when planning your academic journey. From accommodation and food to transport and study materials, budgeting carefully will help you make the most of your time abroad. Alongside managing expenses, many students also explore UK scholarships for international students to help fund their studies and reduce financial pressure. This guide gives you a clear overview of typical living costs in 2025, helping you prepare and plan with confidence.
For more information on Masters tuition fees, please read our guide to understanding international fees and scholarships.
Remember - the cost of living varies significantly within different parts of the UK. To plan effectively, research the cost of living in your chosen city. Websites like livingcost.org can provide useful insights.
🏠 Accommodation
Accommodation is often the most significant expense for students, so it's helpful to understand how student accommodation typically works.
Most undergraduate students live in university-managed campus accommodation during their first year, which helps them settle in and make friends. In their second and third years, it's common to move into private housing—usually shared with other students in nearby towns or cities. Some students may return to campus accommodation in their final year, but spaces are limited and not always guaranteed. Postgraduate students, especially international students on one-year programmes, are often given priority for on-campus accommodation, but demand can be high—so it's a good idea to apply as early as possible to secure a place.
Costs vary based on location and type:
University halls of residence: £400–£800/month, often including utilities and internet.
Private rentals: £500–£1,200/month for studios or shared houses, excluding utilities.
Shared housing: £350–£700/month, depending on the city.
Homestays: £600–£900/month, often including meals and utilities.
In London, expect higher rents, with one-bedroom apartments ranging from £1,600 to £2,500/month.
🍽️ Food and groceries
Managing your food budget is an important part of student life. Whether you prefer cooking at home or enjoying local restaurants, the cost of food in the UK can vary depending on your lifestyle and location. Many students find a balance by shopping at affordable supermarkets and occasionally dining out with friends. Here's what to expect:
Groceries: £100–£200/month if you cook at home.
Dining out: Meals at budget-friendly restaurants cost around £12.50, while mid-range restaurants may charge £20–£30 per meal.
🚆 Transport
Many UK university towns and cities with campuses on the outskirts have regular and affordable bus services that make it easy for students to travel between campus, the town centre, and surrounding areas. These services are usually well-connected and reliable, helping you explore your new home without needing a car. Student travel passes or discounts are often available too, making public transport a budget-friendly way to get around.
Transportation costs vary by location:
London: Monthly public transport passes cost approximately £160.
Outside London: Monthly passes range from £50 to £80.
💡 Utilities and internet
If you're living in private accommodation, it's likely that you'll need to budget separately for utilities like electricity, gas, and water, as well as internet access. These essentials can add up, so it’s worth factoring them into your monthly expenses. Some student accommodations include these costs in the rent, so always check what's covered before signing a contract. Typical monthly costs include:
Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water): £40–£50/month.
Internet and mobile: £15–£50/month.
📚 Study materials
While your tuition fees cover access to lectures and academic resources, you may still need to purchase books, stationery, or course-specific materials. Some programmes require more resources than others, but there are ways to save—such as borrowing from the library or buying second-hand. Here's what you should plan for:
Books and materials: £300–£500/year.
Utilise university libraries and consider purchasing second-hand books to save money.
🎉 Entertainment and personal expenses
Living in the UK isn’t just about studying—it's also about experiencing the culture, making new friends, and enjoying student life. From cinema trips to weekend outings and buying everyday essentials, having a personal budget for leisure and lifestyle expenses will help you make the most of your time. Here's a general idea of what you might spend:
Entertainment: £50–£150/month, covering activities like cinema, dining out, and events.
Clothing and personal Items: £30–£100/month, depending on personal needs and seasonal requirements.
💡 Tips for managing living costs
Student discounts: Leverage discounts available for students on transportation, shopping, and entertainment.t
Budgeting: Use budgeting tools or apps to track and manage your expenses effectively.
Accommodation choices: Opt for shared housing or university accommodations to reduce rent costs.
Part-time Work: Consider part-time employment to supplement your income, keeping in mind visa restrictions. Check out our advice on how to find part time work as an international student.
Understanding and planning for these expenses will help ensure a comfortable and financially manageable experience while studying in the UK.
Final thoughts
As shown in the chart above, accommodation, food, and transport typically make up the largest portion of a student’s monthly budget. By understanding these costs in advance and planning accordingly, you can take control of your finances and make the most of your study experience in the UK.
It’s also important to explore financial support options that can ease the burden—especially for international students. Scholarships can significantly reduce tuition and living costs, giving you more flexibility and peace of mind.
To find funding opportunities that match your profile, use our Scholarship Finder – a free, easy-to-use tool that helps you discover scholarships for international students in the UK. You can search by country, level of study, or subject area, making it quicker and simpler to find the right support for your academic journey.
Planning ahead and making informed choices can help you not only survive, but thrive during your time as a student in the UK.