Studying and living in the UK

Living costs in the UK

• What is the cost of living in the UK?
• How much cash should I bring?

What is the cost of living in the UK?

This varies, according to where in the UK you decide to study. London and other big cities are more expensive than other areas. The International Student Calculator gives a general guide to the cost of living in the UK, but you should ask the institution where you choose to study for more detailed local costs of living.

Many institutions also have a pre-arrival guide for international students, which contains information about the cost of living, travel and accommodation. This is usually sent to you, and is often also available on your institution's website.

How much cash should I bring?

We strongly advise against bringing large amounts of cash and recommend that you bring most of your money in Travellers' Cheques or use a Travellers' Cheque card. Keep your Travellers' Cheques in a different place from your passport. To avoid carrying large amounts of cash for your tuition fees, contact your institution before you leave home and ask if you can pay your fees in advance, by bank transfer. Alternatively, bring a cheque or bankers' draft payable to the institution.

In cash, you should carry enough money to pay for: transport from the airport to your final destination; one or two nights' stay in 'bed and breakfast' accommodation (in case you cannot immediately access your booked accommodation); food; telephone calls home; and any other expenses for the first week (bus fares, stationery, social events and so on). £400-450 should be enough in most parts of the UK, slightly more in London. (However, please note that for Visa/Entry Clearance applications UKBA specifies minimum amounts - See the immigration section of our website).

Travel insurance

We also recommend that you take out travel insurance before you leave home, to cover you for your journey and the first week of your stay in the UK.

If you bring money worth 10,000 Euros or more (including money in other currencies) and you are coming to the UK from a country that is outside the European Union, you have to declare that sum to customs officers by filling in a form when you arrive.

Arriving in the UK

   

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