Top 11 UK Student Cities For International Students

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Are you interested in studying in the United Kingdom? Choosing the best city in UK to pursue studies is surely a significant decision for many students. With some of the world’s best student cities at its disposal, the United Kingdom has made its mark over time. The QS Best Student Cities rankings list fifteen UK cities among the top 100 student-friendly places.

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Introduction

For overseas students, the UK offers several options for academic success as well as cultural discovery. The United Kingdom, known for its excellent institutions and bustling student life, boasts a broad range of cities, each with its own distinct academic brilliance.

This blog focuses on the top student cities in the UK for foreign students, which provide a mix of world-class education, diverse cultural experiences, and vibrant student life. Each city in the UK has its own distinct charm and opportunity, making it a great setting for your academic and personal development.

The United Kingdom, which is known for its intellectual strength, is an excellent alternative for those wishing to study abroad. But is this enough information to help you decide which city to visit to advance your studies or employment in the UK? Nope. So, let us take a deeper look at the best student cities in the UK and what they have to offer.

Top 11 UK Cities For International Students

Studying in the UK has several benefits for international students. The actual concern, though, is: which UK city is best for living and studying? The top ten UK cities for overseas students are as follows:

London
Manchester
Edinburgh
Birmingham
Glasgow
Bristol
Leeds
Nottingham
Sheffield
Liverpool
Newcastle Upon Tyne

Let’s take a closer look at these UK cities. With the help of this information, you may select the UK’s top city for your education goals.

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1. London

London is one of the best cities in the UK to study since it is home to several prominent universities. London has a substantial Indian student population, as well as a variety of institutions, overseas scholarships and abundant career opportunities.

Best Universities in London:

Queen Mary University of London
Brunel University London
City, University of London
Goldsmiths, University of London
Kingston University
Royal Holloway University of London

Living Expenses:

London is noted for having greater living costs than other UK cities. On average, a student may spend between £1,200 and £1,500 a month on housing, food, transportation, and other personal costs.

What can foreign students do in London?

The vibrant nightlife in London will enthrall you if you want to pursue higher education there. In order to enhance one’s experience of weekends, London provides a selection of premier local and Indian restaurants, breweries, and cuisine establishments.

Given how well planned & accessible London’s transportation system is, one can easily travel to other prominent UK locations for exploration. Alternatively, you have the option to:

Gain complimentary access to the British Museum.
Explore the prestigious Buckingham Palace.
Visit the West End Theatre District for a delightful entertainment experience.
During weekends, one may explore Camden Market to sample a variety of culinary delights.

2. Manchester

Manchester is not only a city, but rather a heartfelt hug. Manchester, sometimes called the second city of England, is famous for its vibrant street art, bustling nightlife, and Victorian-era architecture. As to the QS Best Student Cities Rankings, this city has the 30th position. The residents of Manchester, referred to as Mancunians, are extremely friendly and like engaging with international students. Manchester offers excellent opportunities for both academic and professional advancement. The city’s rich Indian cultural fabric creates a sense of familiarity and comfort for international students.

Best Universities in Manchester:

University of Manchester
Manchester Metropolitan University
University of Salford
University of Bolton
University of Law, Manchester
INTO Manchester

Living Expenses:

The cost of living in Manchester is often more economical compared to London. Students should anticipate monthly expenses ranging from £800 to £1,100.

What can foreign students do in Manchester?

Exploring Manchester is an inherently distinctive and enthralling experience, even when done alone. Experience the grandeur of the Manchester Museum, show your support for the internationally renowned sports teams at Old Trafford, and indulge in the delectable Indian cuisine on Wilmslow Road. Overall, Manchester is one of the top cities in the UK for students to live. Here are some recommended actions to take when studying in Manchester:

Discovering the Asian restaurants and stores in Chinatown at Old Trafford.
Viewing live football matches.
Planning a trip to Manchester Museum to observe the most exceptional dinosaur skeletons.
Enjoying leisure activities and engaging in retail therapy at the Trafford Center in the company of friends.

3. Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, is a living history book. Edinburgh, sometimes known as the “City of Hills,” and Dunedin are endowed with spectacular beauty. Edinburgh is the place to go if you’re a student who appreciates being in nature. Edinburgh Castle, delicious Scotch whiskey, and local festivals will make your daily routine more exciting and motivating.

Edinburgh is also one of the least expensive student cities in the United Kingdom. Beyond academics, Edinburgh provides us with lively culture, magnificent scenery, and a drive for creativity. It’s not just a city; it’s an experience.

Best Universities in Edinburgh:

The University of Edinburgh
Heriot-Watt University
Edinburgh Napier University
Queen Margaret University

Living Expenses:

Students in Edinburgh may expect to have monthly expenditures ranging from £800 to £1,200, which will vary based on their lifestyle and decisions for lodging.

What can foreign students do in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh, a highly sought-after educational hub in the United Kingdom, provides a wealth of opportunities for overseas students. Here are some fascinating things that students could explore while studying in Edinburgh:

Acquire the skill of doing the ceilidh dance.
Experience the traditional Scottish dish of haggis, accompanied with potatoes (tatties) and turnips (neeps), at Grassmarket.
Climb to the highest point of Scott Monument.
Explore the Royal Mile and sample several Scottish whiskies.

4. Birmingham

Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city, is a global reflection. Birmingham is one of the most significant cities for international students to study & work in. Birmingham, often known as the “home of heavy metal,” attracts hundreds of overseas students every year. It is one of the best places in the UK to study because of its combination of modernity, British culture, and an excellent educational system.

Best Universities in Birmingham:

University of Birmingham
Aston University
University College Birmingham
Birmingham City University

Living Expenses:

The cost of living in Birmingham is very modest, with students paying between £700 and £1,000 per month.

What can foreign students do in Birmingham?

As a foreign student, you will mostly be immersed in Birmingham life throughout your time at the university. You should look into the following attractions if you plan to study in Birmingham:

Explore the restaurants that have been awarded Michelin stars and taste the local cuisine.
Experience the opportunity to witness over 1,000 iconic bikes at the National Motorcycle Museum.
Experience the awe-inspiring marine biodiversity by visiting the National Sea Life Center.
Enjoy the exceptional quality of world-renowned coffees by visiting Damascena Coffee House.
Experience a leisurely journey on the Shakespeare Express and see the vibrant city center of Birmingham.

5. Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland’s pulsating heart, moves to the rhythm of academics. Glasgow combines culture with education, resulting in a vibrant city full of welcoming faces and unlimited innovation. Glasgow, known as the friendliest city in the world, is home to several monuments with outstanding architecture. In addition to being an excellent place to study, Glasgow City provides students who are avid Instagrammers and social media influencers with a wealth of photo opportunities. Glasgow’s educational system benefits overseas students by adhering to global standards.

Best Universities in Glasgow:

University of Glasgow
Glasgow Caledonian University
University of Strathclyde
The Glasgow School of Art

Living Expenses:

Glasgow has a moderate cost of living, often ranging from £700 to £950 per month for students.

What can foreign students do in Glasgow?

International students can enhance their educational experience in Glasgow while simultaneously enjoying a fulfilling lifestyle by:

Explore the Botanic Gardens located in Glasgow.
Experience the perspective of a resident of Glasgow by visiting Drygate Brewery.
Indulge in a premium single malt whiskey at Clydeside Distillery.
Visit the Museum and Art Gallery at Kelvingrove.
Explore the research initiatives conducted at the Glasgow Science Center.

6. Bristol

Bristol, a prosperous and prominently situated city on the southwest coast of England, is located on the banks of the River Avon. The city is ranked 102nd in terms of affordability, with a population of 686,000 and an average tuition rate of USD 30,500 (INR 29,09,010). Based on the QS Best Student Cities Rankings, this city has the 44th position in the overall ranking. Therefore, international students who are interested in pursuing higher education have the opportunity to explore some of the top universities in the world.

Best Universities in Bristol:

University of Bristol
University of West of England
Bristol Old Vic Theatre School
City of Bristol College
Trinity College Bristol

Living Expenses:

The monthly living expenditures for students in Bristol typically range from £800 to £1,100.

What can foreign students do in Bristol?

Bristol provides a diverse range of captivating possibilities and events for overseas students to participate in, including:

Stroll across the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Embark on a one-day excursion to the picturesque Cotswolds.
Indulge with a glass of beer at an authentic pub.
Experience the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery.
Observe Banksy’s urban artwork.
Visit the 19th-century warehouses located near the port to find a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural organizations.

7. Leeds

Leeds, located in West Yorkshire, serves as the administrative centre of the county. It is also renowned for housing two esteemed universities, namely Leeds Beckett University and University of Leeds, along with other educational institutions. This year, Leeds attained its highest position in the international student view indicator. This score is calculated based on a student survey that collects comments from over 85,000 students globally. Furthermore, the city has been ranked 55th in the QS Best Student Cities Rankings list.

Best Universities in Leeds:

University of Leeds
Leeds Beckett University
Leeds Arts University
Leeds Trinity University
The University of Law, Leeds

Living Expenses:

The cost of living in Leeds is typically economical, with monthly costs ranging from £700 to £950.

What can foreign students do in Leeds?

As an international student residing in Leeds, you have the opportunity to engage in the following activities:

Explore the area beneath the renovated railway arches, where the city offers live music and pubs.
Explore the Leeds Kirkgate market, renowned for its extensive array of both indoor and outdoor vendors.
Indulge in cultural enrichment at the Leeds Art Gallery.
Experience a visit to the prestigious Royal Armouries Museum.
Engage in retail therapy at the Victoria Quarter.

8. Nottingham

Nottingham is mostly renowned in British historical literature as the site of Robin Hood’s hunting grounds. This city is abundant in cultural experiences and offers a lively nightlife at an affordable price. The QS Best Student Cities Rankings place it in the 52nd position. Nottingham combines historical elements with contemporary features. This place blends the allure of the past with the comforts of the present and the hope of a prosperous future.

Best Universities in Nottingham:

University of Nottingham
Nottingham Trent University
The University of Law, Nottingham

Living Expenses:

Nottingham is renowned for its affordable living expenses for students, which typically range from £650 to £900 a month.

What can foreign students do in Nottingham?

Nottingham is an ideal destination for foreign students due to its abundance of tourist attractions and peaceful environment. Students at Nottingham have the option to:

Examine the interior of Wollaton Hall.
Visit the Victorian-inspired courtroom and jail at the National Justice Museum.
Experience a romantic interlude with your beloved in Highfields Park.
Study the Green Windmill, built by the father of George Green, a highly renowned mathematical scientist.
Seek inspiration by visiting the ancestral residence of the renowned poet Lord Byron, Newstead Abbey.

9. Sheffield

Sheffield, renowned for the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University, warmly embraces international students. Located centrally in the UK, Sheffield offers a distinctive combination of lively urban living, vast natural areas, and a welcoming multicultural community. The sports and culture of this place are internationally acclaimed, and the local landscape is unparalleled. Given the wide range of opportunities available, it is not surprising that 60,000 students from all parts of the world choose to reside in this city. However, the main highlights of this place are the two institutions located in its central area.

The University of Sheffield, known for its red brick architecture, and Sheffield Hallam University, renowned for its contemporary facilities, provide students with a unique and exceptional academic experience. Sheffield is an academic sanctuary for students, boasting a vibrant green environment and robust study programs in engineering and technology.

Best Universities in Sheffield:

University of Sheffield
Sheffield Hallam University
The University of Law, Sheffield

Living Expenses:

Living expenditures for students in Sheffield typically range from £650 to £900 per month.

What can foreign students do in Sheffield?

Sheffield has all the typical amenities of a large urban center plus additional features. Sheffield not only offers the standard attractions seen in major cities, but also provides a plethora of additional experiences. Below are our top recommendations for various student activities across the city:

Delicious Clam is a must-see in Sheffield for musicians and music fans. Visit local bands, sign your band to their label, or use their practice spaces to play on new songs.
Visit Bramall Lane when your Premier League, Sheffield United club plays at Sheffield.
The Leadmill, Sheffield’s longest running nightclub and music venue.
Sheffield Winter Gardens, A huge temperate glasshouse with over 2,500 plants.
Lyceum Theatre, One of Sheffield’s three major theatres.
The Graduate, A craft beer pub that serves food at good value.

10. Liverpool

Liverpool is a great place for foreign students to go because it has the perfect mix of peace and modern conveniences. It welcomes you into a world where learning is matched with exciting living experiences.

Liverpool stands itself not just as a cultural and recreational hotspot, but also as an economical student housing option. Unlike bigger cities like London, Liverpool accommodation provides a more affordable lifestyle, making it an appealing option for students all over the world. Accommodation choices in Liverpool are reasonable and include all costs, enabling you to concentrate on your academics and activities while keeping your stay abroad as stress-free as possible.

Best Universities in Liverpool:

University of Liverpool
Liverpool John Moores University
Liverpool Hope University

Living Expenses:

Liverpool provides affordable living, with monthly costs of living for students ranging between £650 and £900. Consumer costs, such as rent, are 64.7% lower in Liverpool than in London.

What can foreign students do in Liverpool?

From its famous waterfront and ancient architecture to its world-renowned music scene and flourishing arts community, student life in Liverpool is enjoyable and interesting, with following places to explore:

Liverpool City Centre, famed for The Beatles and its wide retail options, is a thriving neighborhood that attracts both tourists and locals.
The landmark Albert Dock, a UNESCO World Heritage monument located along the scenic shoreline, is a must-see attraction.
The Walker Art Gallery offers centuries of art for art lovers. The international Museum holds collections on natural history, international cultures, and space exploration.
Due to its active nightlife and rich musical past, the city provides numerous exciting things to do for students.
Enjoy leisurely strolls, exhilarating jogs, and gorgeous bike rides on the Liverpool Waterfront, which overlooks the River Mersey.
Liverpool’s historic Chinatown, a treasure trove of budget-friendly and delectable Chinese cuisine

11. Newcastle Upon Tyne

Newcastle is not just recognized for its dynamic nightlife, industrial past, and brown ale, but it also hosts hundreds of international students each year. Newcastle features some of the nicest streets in the country, with an abundance of theaters, art galleries, museums, street markets, bars, clubs, and other businesses. Newcastle’s institutions, like those in other parts of the UK, give an outstanding education. This city is also ranked 39th in the QS Best Student Cities Rankings.

Best Universities in Newcastle:

Newcastle University
University of Newcastle
Durham University
Keele University

Living Expenses:

Newcastle’s cost of living is 50% cheaper than Birmingham or London. Newcastle offers reasonable living, with monthly costs for students ranging from £400 to £600.

What can foreign students do in Newcastle?

While living in Newcastle, you may do more than just study:

Explore the historic Tyne Bridges.
Visit the Millennium Bridge to meet up with your buddies.
Experience the historic castle near Newcastle.
Visit Eldon Square to shop.

Conclusion

Choosing the appropriate city for your foreign education is more than just a decision; it’s an exciting journey. Each of these top 11 UK locations will represent a distinct chapter in your journey, and selecting one that aligns with your academic and personal goals is critical for a fulfilling experience.

In this article, we’ve covered some of the most popular cities in the UK for foreign students. When choosing the ideal place to study in the UK, you should consider and undertake extensive research on various factors, including your chosen courses, the educational system, the cost of living, tuition, and your area of concentration.

For Indian students looking to study in these popular UK destinations, Global Campus is a premier study abroad consultancy that can provide you with an exceptional experience. Our experienced advisers can help you with institution choices, application processes, visa needs, and pre-departure briefings, ensuring a seamless transition to your UK university. Contact Global Campus now to begin your academic journey in the UK’s best student cities!

FAQs

Are UK cities affordable for overseas students?

Affordability varies by city in the UK. International students in UK cities can anticipate a monthly living expenses ranging from £350 to £550. This cost might vary based on the student’s lifestyle.

Which is the UK's most expensive student city for overseas students?

London is the UK’s most expensive student city for overseas students.

Are there adequate job prospects for overseas students in these cities?

Yes, several of the UK’s leading student cities provide part-time work options for overseas students. Cities such as London and Manchester have robust job markets, especially in retail, hospitality, and services. Universities frequently provide career services to assist students in finding suitable job opportunities.

How do these cities meet the needs of international students?

Cities in the United Kingdom are well-equipped to serve foreign students, providing a variety of facilities such as language help, international student clubs, and specialized administrative aid with visa and lodging concerns. Universities in these locations frequently have substantial global alumni networks, which provide important contacts throughout the world.

Top 11 UK Student Cities For International Students

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Table of Contents

Introduction