Studying in London as an International Student

Why students consider London

London is home to a large concentration of universities and specialist institutions, giving international students a wide choice of subjects and programmes in a single city. Among them are broad research universities and focused specialist schools, several of which appear in global rankings by bodies such as QS and Times Higher Education (THE) — read any ranking alongside its issuing body and year.

Beyond the universities themselves, students are often drawn to the city for its cultural institutions, libraries and the chance to study alongside a highly international student community. What suits you depends on your subject, budget and preferences, so compare specific courses on each university's official pages rather than choosing by reputation alone.

Cost of living: London is more expensive

London generally has a higher cost of living than most other UK cities, particularly for accommodation. The UK Student visa rules require applicants to show they can cover living costs (maintenance funds), and the required amount is set higher for students living in London than elsewhere in the UK.

Because these maintenance amounts, tuition fees and typical rents change and vary widely, do not rely on figures from third parties — confirm the current Student visa maintenance requirement on the official UK government source, and check tuition and estimated living costs on each university's official fees pages. Universities also publish their own cost-of-living estimates, which are a useful planning starting point.

• Accommodation is usually the largest expense in London
• The Student visa maintenance amount is higher for London than the rest of the UK
• Verify the current maintenance figure on the official UK government source
• Check each university's official living-cost estimate for planning

Getting around: transport

London has an extensive public transport network including the Underground, buses, and rail services, which many students use to travel between accommodation and campus. Fares are charged by zone and can add up, so transport is a real part of a London student budget.

Discounted student travel options may be available, but eligibility and pricing change, so check the current details on the official Transport for London (TfL) website. When comparing where to live, factor in both rent and the likely transport cost from that area to your campus.

Student visa and working while studying

Most international students taking a full-time degree in London need a UK Student visa, which requires a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university, payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and meeting the maintenance and English-language requirements. Working rights while studying — such as any permitted hours during term time — are defined by the visa conditions.

This is general information, not immigration advice. Visa rules, fees, the IHS amount and permitted working hours change, so verify the current Student visa requirements and conditions on the official UK government source before making any plans. After your course, the Graduate Route may allow eligible graduates to stay and work for a period — check the current rules on the official UK government source.

Healthcare and student life

International students who pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of their Student visa can generally access the National Health Service (NHS) on the same basis as a UK resident for the duration of their visa; confirm the current arrangements and what is covered on the official NHS and UK government sources. Registering with a local doctor (GP) after arrival is a common first step.

London's universities offer student societies, sports, careers services and support for international students, which help with settling in and building a network. Student experiences vary by university and personal circumstances, so use official university student-life and support pages to understand what each institution provides.