Explore The Average Living Expenses in UK for International Students in 2025

The United Kingdom has been one of the sought-after destinations for higher studies. The UK offers world-class education, global exposure, and rich cultural experiences. The opportunities provided in the UK Universities are very good. Furthermore, it is important to understand the living expenses in the UK. Here, in this blog, we will discuss all things related to this aspect.

India Today has shown a report about 165,000 Indians have acquired UK Student Visas for the past 3 years. As many as 107,978 Indians got student visas to the United Kingdom in the year ending March 2022. This marks a significant increase of 93% from the last five years.

What Makes the UK Apart for Higher Studies?

The UK continues to be a premier country for international students for years. It draws thousands of students each year with its world-renowned universities. The Universities in the UK earned a good name for their rich cultural heritage. 

Now the question is - what makes the United Kingdom apart for higher studies? Let’s explore! 

• There is no one answer to this question. First of all, the education offered in the United Kingdom is quite the same in standard to the United States.
• Universities like Cambridge or Oxford have a vast legacy of attracting international students.
• There is also a cultural aspect. The United Kingdom earned a name for its tolerant politics. The country offers a diverse cultural atmosphere. It appeals to many international students for higher studies.
• Last but not the least, the Aesthetic. The top cities in the United Kingdom are beautiful. Most cities are beautiful. No wonder people are friendly, so foreigners like to visit them.
• Also, the strategic location in the UK makes it a gateway to Europe. This allows international students to travel and experience different cultures and languages. It helps broen their horizons too.

Cost Of Living in the UK Per Month

The cost of living in the UK per month depends on your lifestyle. The cost of living is lower than its counterpart Ireland or the USA. Moreover, studying in the United Kingdom comes with a budget. It concerns the cost of living for international students. It is an important aspect to consider. It plays a crucial role for each student who has a tight budget. 

Many students ask, what are the living expenses in the UK for international students? This question bothers almost everybody. If you plan to study a UG or PG in the UK, you may ask this question. The most clear-cut answer to this question is management. It depends on your daily management. To be precise, it depends on your lifestyle, dietary habits, and accommodation.

Travel expense is also an important factor to consider. If you are taking a bus or cycling, ths cost is lower. If you are taking a private taxi, the cost is higher. Also, there are tech-related expenses like mobile and internet. Let’s see the table below to understand the average living expenses in the UK.

Calculate Your UK Living Expenses Now!

Things to Remember

Accommodation is sometimes the biggest expense for international students. In London, the average cost of living for an international student can be between GBP 500 to 1,000 per month. The rent can be lower in other cities, like Manchester or Leeds. It ranges between GBP 300 to 700 per month. 

You also have a chance to get a room inside the university campus, which is safe. This accommodation or hotel room prices vary from college to college. Henceforth, it would be better to visit each University website to see the price.

Other Expenses

Students must budget for study materials and personal expenses. The cost of Study in UK materials or books can range between GBP 20 to 50 per month. This can also vary depending on the program requirements. Many international students buy second-hand books and access online resources to save money. You can also do that. You may reduce the costs using official university email IDs and worldwide libraries.

Personal Expenses

Your personal expenses are important. Personal expenses, like clothing, toiletries, and entertainment, can add extra. It can go between GBP 50 to 100 per month. These are some of the most essential things. You may reduce this expense by opting for thrifted clothes.

Healthcare expenses

Healthcare is another cost to consider. International students in the United Kingdom need to pay a health surcharge. This is a part of their visa application process. It grants students access to the National Health Service, or NHS. This surcharge is  GBP 470 per year. The cost sometimes goes up and down. So check the official website for the exact cost.

The IHS covers treatment costs. Services like dental and optical need extra charges. You must fix a budget for your medical expenses. This considers taking out health insurance, if any.

Student Visa Costs

The UK student visa cost comes under the living expenses. For a student visa to study and live in the UK, you need GBP 490 as of March 2025. This is a Tier 4 general student visa. Starting in April 2025, the cost of a student visa will be GBP 524.

To Conclude

Yes, living expenses in the UK for international students can be expensive. If you plan your expenses and practice financial discipline, you can manage it. London is expensive than other cities in the UK. You should keep at least GBP 1,800 per month for living costs, besides the tuition fees.

How Can Education Vibes Help?

Education Vibes is a leading study abroad consultant. It supports you to get into your dream University and program. We help you navigate the living expenses in the UK in 2025. Our expert counselors will help you understand the financial challenges international students face. As discussed, living expenses in the UK vary. But we are here to help you get the cheap and best University to pursue higher studies.

We provide comprehensive guidance tailored to your needs. We help students find the best University, best course, and affordable accommodation options. We help in budgeting for daily expenses such as food, transportation, and utilities. Education Vibes enables study-abroad aspirants to focus on their academic journey. Contact Us Now!