Cost of living for students in the UK
Living costs are the second half of the bill, and over a three-year degree they can rival the tuition. We deliberately do not print a made-up monthly budget. The one official benchmark is the maintenance amount the Home Office requires you to show for a Student visa.
Figures confirmed on gov.uk in October 2026. They are a visa requirement, not a budget, and may be revised: check gov.uk before you apply. See the financial requirements guide.
What you will spend money on
- Rent. The largest cost. It depends heavily on city and on halls versus a shared house. See student accommodation.
- Food and household bills. Self-catered halls and shared houses mean you buy and cook your own food; catered halls bundle some meals.
- Transport. Many UK cities offer student travel discounts, and railcards can cut fares between cities.
- Phone and internet. Often included in halls.
- Course costs. Books, materials, field trips or placements.
- The Immigration Health Surcharge, paid with your visa application.
Where it costs less
As a general pattern, London is the most expensive place to live as a student, while smaller cities and towns in the North of England, the Midlands, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland tend to cost less. For real numbers, use the cost-of-living pages most universities publish for their own city and the official maintenance figures above.
This guide is general information, not immigration advice. Rules, fees and funds amounts change; always check gov.uk and your university’s international office before you apply. This site is independent and is not affiliated with gov.uk, UCAS or the Office for Students.
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