Accommodation is likely to be the largest expense for students. London is known for its high rental prices, and these can vary significantly depending on the area you choose to live in.

• University Accommodation: Many universities offer on-campus or nearby housing, which is convenient and often more affordable than renting privately. Expect to pay between £600 and £1,200 per month for student halls, depending on location and amenities.

• Private Renting: Renting a room in a shared flat is a common option for students who want more independence. Prices vary dramatically depending on the area. For example:

  • Central London (Zones 1 and 2): £800 to £1,500+ per month.
  • Outer London (Zones 3-6): £500 to £900 per month.

Keep in mind, rents in London usually don't include utilities like electricity, water, and internet, which will add an extra £50 to £100 per month.

London is well-connected by buses, the Underground (Tube), and trains, but public transport is not cheap.

• Oyster Card or Contactless Payments: For students commuting regularly, using an Oyster card or contactless bank card is essential. The cost of travel depends on the zones you're commuting between:

  • A monthly travelcard for Zones 1-2 costs around £147.
  • For students who qualify, a Student Oyster Card offers a 30% discount on travelcards and bus passes.

• Cycling: Many students opt for cycling to cut down transport costs. London has an extensive cycle lane network and bike-sharing schemes like Santander Cycles, costing as little as £2 for short journeys.

The cost of groceries and eating out can vary depending on your lifestyle. Budget-conscious students can save money by cooking at home rather than dining out.

• Groceries: On average, expect to spend between £100 and £200 per month on groceries if you're cooking most of your meals. Discount supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, and budget-friendly shops like Tesco and Sainsbury’s can help keep costs down.

• Eating Out: London has a fantastic food scene, but eating out regularly can quickly become expensive. Budget eateries and student discounts can help, but on average, expect to pay:

  • £8-£15 for a meal at an affordable restaurant or café.
  • £4-£7 for a coffee or snack at a local café.

While tuition fees are fixed, there are additional costs that come with studying in London, especially when it comes to books, materials, and technology.

• Books: Depending on your course, you may need to purchase textbooks or access journal articles. Libraries offer many resources for free, but expect to budget £20-£50 per month for study materials.

• Supplies: Basic study supplies (stationery, software) can cost £10-£20 per month, depending on your course requirements.

London offers endless entertainment options, but they come at a cost. However, students can take advantage of discounts and free events to stay within budget.

• Cinema: A standard movie ticket can cost between £10-£15. Student discounts can lower this to around £7-£10.

• Museums and Galleries: Many of London’s museums, galleries, and cultural sites are free to enter, including the British Museum, Tate Modern, and the National Gallery.

• Nightlife: Going out for drinks, clubbing, or concerts can be expensive, with a pint of beer costing around £5-£6 in most places. Student nights and happy hours can help reduce costs.

The National Health Service (NHS) provides healthcare to residents, and international students on a study visa are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application. This gives them access to the NHS for free or at a reduced cost.

• Private Health Insurance: Some students opt for private health insurance for additional peace of mind, which can range from £100 to £300 per year, depending on the coverage.

• NHS Prescription Charges: If you need medication, each NHS prescription costs around £9.65 in England, though some conditions are exempt from charges.

There are always miscellaneous expenses to consider, from phone bills to personal care.

• Mobile Phone Plans: SIM-only plans with data typically cost £10-£20 per month. Prepaid SIMs are often more expensive but offer flexibility.

• Gym Memberships: Many universities have on-campus gyms with discounted rates. Outside of university, expect to pay £20-£60 per month for a gym membership.

• Clothing and Personal Care: This will vary based on personal preferences, but budget £50-£100 per month for clothes, toiletries, and other personal care items.