How much does it cost to live in the UK as an international student?

Living costs in the UK vary significantly between London and other cities. Here is a realistic breakdown:

London (most expensive):
- Rent (university hall or shared flat): £800–£1,800/month
- Food: £250–£400/month
- Transport: £150–£200/month (Oyster Card/Travelcard)
- Phone: £15–£30/month (SIM only)
- Social/personal: £150–£250/month
- Total: £1,400–£2,600/month

Other major cities (Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Edinburgh):
- Rent (shared flat): £450–£800/month
- Food: £200–£300/month
- Transport: £60–£120/month (bus pass)
- Total: £900–£1,500/month

Smaller university cities (Sheffield, Nottingham, Leicester):
- Lower rents: £350–£600/month
- Total: £700–£1,100/month

UKVI financial requirement:
For visa purposes, UKVI requires you to show:
- £1,334/month for up to 9 months in London = £12,006 minimum for London students
- £1,023/month outside London = £9,207 minimum for non-London students
These amounts must be held in your bank for 28 consecutive days before applying.

Student discounts:
- TOTUM (formerly NUS Extra) card: Discounts at restaurants, clothing, tech
- 16–25 Railcard: 1/3 off train fares (student visa holders are eligible)
- Many museums and galleries in London are free
- Student union bars and events are significantly cheaper

Working up to 20 hours/week at UK minimum wage (approximately £11.44/hour) can generate £900–£1,000/month to offset costs.