How is the Student Life in Exeter for International Students: Complete 2025 Guide

Are you curious to know how Exeter will pamper you? Well, this happens when you're flying away from your family and home country. It’s normal to wonder what life on the other side will be like. But let us tell you, Exeter might just surprise you in the best way possible.

Exeter is home to prestigious universities that allow you to passionately pursue your dreams.  With over 7,000 students from more than 150 countries, it’s a city where global perspectives thrive. Despite the growing number of international students, the city has thoughtfully designed its student life. There is no shortage of well-placed student accommodation in Exeter, giving you the freedom to pick what suits your lifestyle best. 

From making lifelong friends to discovering new ways of thinking, Exeter offers more than just education; it provides personal growth and unforgettable memories.

Academic Life: 

Exeter is remembered for its top universities, including the University of Exeter. This learning centre ranks among the UK’s top 15. It is well known for research and faculties including Science and Economy, as well as Health and Life Sciences.

Academic Reality Check:

• Way more independent study than most systems
• Professors expect you to speak up in seminars
• Critical thinking beats memorisation every time
• Deadlines are usually non-negotiable

UK Grade Translation:

• 70%+ = Exceptional (like an A+ elsewhere)
• 60-69% = Good work (solid A/B+ territory)
• 50-59% = Satisfactory (B/C+ range)
• 40-49% = Basic pass (C level)
• Under 40% = Fail

Language support exists if you need it. Pre-sessional courses, academic writing, and workshops. 

Money Talk: The Brutally Honest Breakdown

The table below offers a practical view of student expenses. Your cost of living in Exeter will depend on factors like housing, food preferences, and how often you explore the city’s social scene. 

Money-Saving Reality:

• Shop at Lidl/Aldi religiously
• Cook with flatmates (saves loads)
• Walk everywhere possible
• Buy secondhand textbooks

Making Friends: Harder Than You Think

Here's something nobody warns you about. Making real friends takes effort, especially as an international student. To get close and build lasting friendships, you’ll need to step out of your comfort zone. One great way to do that is by exploring things to do in Exeter, including meetups at local cafes and experiencing vibrant nightlife. Additionally, joining student societies and clubs in Exeter also opens up plenty of chances to bond with others. 

What Works:

• Be the person who organises things
• Learn to appreciate British humour
• Don't stick only with your nationality group

Accommodation: Where You'll Live

Exeter’s student accommodation guide will help you find safe and premium housing options. Based on personal preferences, including lifestyle, proximity to the university and local amenities, students can book one. The guide also recommends the best areas to live in Exeter, where students can find a comfortable, convenient, and student-friendly community. 

First-year international students usually get guaranteed university accommodation. Take it. Makes everything easier. 

University Halls Pros:

• Bills included (massive stress relief)
• International student communities are ready-made
• Support staff who understand visa issues
• Social events organised for you
• Walking distance to everything

Private Housing Reality:

• More independence, but way more responsibility
• Safe and convenient 
• Flexible lease terms
• Classy amenities and room features
• Spacious rooms 

Best Area To Live:

• Pennsylvania: Close to campus, lots of students
• Heavitree: Good for St Luke's campus students
• St Thomas: Cheaper but further out
• City centre: Convenient but expensive

If you are thinking about why live in an Exeter student accommodation, the answer lies in the safety, social opportunities, and hassle-free living it provides for new students. Not just luxurious, but also affordable student accommodation options are available in Exeter, catering to different budgets without compromising on comfort.

Healthcare: NHS Navigation

Registering with the NHS feels complicated, but it's straightforward once you know the steps. Check out the safety guide in Exeter for extra tips on staying safe and healthy during your studies.

Essential Healthcare Tasks:

1. Register with the Student Health Centre immediately
2. Get a GP in the local area
3. Understand prescription charges
4. Know where the nearest pharmacy is
5. Save emergency numbers (999 for emergencies, 111 for advice)

Common Health Issues:

• Vitamin D deficiency (lack of sunshine)
• Seasonal depression (winter months)
• Stress from academic pressure
• Homesickness affecting appetite/sleep
• Minor illnesses from weather changes

Dealing with Homesickness

Everyone gets homesick. Even students from nearby countries and it's normal. One way to lift your spirits is by exploring fun facts about Exeter. Learning more about the city can help you feel more connected and refreshed. 

Homesickness Triggers:

• Family celebrations you can't attend
• Comfort foods you can't find
• Time zone challenges for calls home
• Academic stress without familiar support
• Holiday periods when the campus empties

What Helps:

• Schedule regular video calls 
• Find international food shops
• Create new traditions with other international students
• Plan visits to home strategically

Banking and Money Management

Opening a UK bank account takes longer than expected. Start the process immediately.

Bank Account Essentials:

• Passport and visa
• University enrollment letter
• Proof of address (accommodation letter works)
• Patience (appointments booked weeks out)

Best Banks for International Students:

• Santander: Specifically caters to international students
• HSBC: Global presence helps with transfers
• Lloyds: Good online banking
• Halifax: Competitive overdraft offers

Food and Eating Culture

Most international students cook for themselves. Shared kitchens in accommodation mean you'll learn about your flatmates' food habits quickly. Moreover, on the weekends, you can tempt your taste buds by visiting top restaurants in Exeter and enjoy delicious food with friends. You can also try

Campus Food:

• Multiple dining halls with international options
• Decent quality but expensive
• Limited late-night options
• Dietary restrictions accommodated

Eating Out:

• Student discounts are widely available
• Indian restaurants everywhere
• Chinese takeaways abundant
• British pub food is worth trying
• International options are limited but growing

Job Opportunities and Work

Exeter is an ideal student destination that offers plenty of job opportunities for students. After completing graduation or post-graduation, you're eligible to apply for full-time roles and start your professional journey. There are also many part-time jobs in Exeter, allowing students to study, work, and manage their finances effectively. A student visa allows 20 hours per week of work during term time. 

Common Student Jobs:

• Retail (shops, supermarkets)
• Hospitality (pubs, restaurants)
• Campus work (library, admin)
• Tutoring (if your English is strong)
• Delivery driving (need UK license)

Work Reality Check:

• Applications often require UK experience
• References can be challenging initially
• Interview skills differ from the home country
• Tax and National Insurance are deducted
• Hours fluctuate based on business needs

On-campus work often suits international students better. Employers understand visa restrictions and academic commitments.

Transport and Getting Around

Exeter's compact size helps. Most things are walkable if you don't mind hills. Students can experience excellent transportation systems in Exeter for their daily commute and for exploring the city.  

Transport Options:

• Walking: Free but hilly
• Cycling: Popular with students
• Buses: Regular, but can be expensive
• University shuttles: Free for students
• Taxis: Expensive but useful for late nights

Beyond Exeter:

• Trains to London: 2.5 hours, book ahead for cheaper fares
• Coaches: Slower but much cheaper than trains
• Exeter Airport: Limited but useful for European trips
• Car rental: Possible but expensive for students

Safety and Security

Exeter genuinely ranks among the UK's safest cities. Campus security is visible and responsive. Students can easily roam around or commute to clubs in Exeter, even after long lectures, and enjoy their evenings while feeling safe and supported.

Safety Reality:

• Walking alone at night is generally safe
• Emergency phones around campus
• Police response good

Precautions:

• Lock accommodation doors
• Share your location with friends on nights out
• Keep emergency contacts accessible

Weather and Seasonal Challenges

Weather Reality:

• Rain year-round (invest in good waterproofs)
• Winters are mild but damp
• Summers rarely get hot
• Wind from the coast is constant
• Seasonal depression affects many students

Seasonal Student Life:

• Autumn: Beautiful colours, freshers' excitement
• Winter: Shorter days, academic pressure peaks
• Spring: Weather improves, spirits lift
• Summer: Exams, then gorgeous weather

Technology and Staying Connected

UK mobile networks work well. International roaming charges vary by network and home country.

Tech Essentials:

• UK SIM card or international plan
• Reliable laptop for coursework
• Adapters for UK plugs
• External hard drive for backing up work
• Good headphones for video calls at home

Staying Connected:

• WhatsApp most popular messaging app
• Zoom/Teams for video calls
• Social media varies by country
• A VPN is useful for accessing home country content
• Time zone apps help schedule calls

Cultural Events and International Community

The university organises loads of international events. They're genuinely fun and great for meeting people.

Regular Events:

• Cultural festivals throughout the year
• International food days
• Traditional celebration parties
• Language exchange meetups
• Country-specific society events

Academic Support and Success

International students often need extra academic support initially. For academic materials or research resources, libraries in Exeter are always there to support you with access to books, journals, study spaces, and helpful staff. 

Support Services:

• Academic skills workshops
• Writing Centre for Essays helps
• Study groups for difficult subjects
• Office hours with professors
• Peer tutoring programs

Success Strategies:

• Attend everything in the first term
• Ask questions in seminars
• Form study groups early
• Start assignments early

Planning for Holidays and Travel

University holidays don't align with all international holidays. 

Holiday Challenges:

• Accommodation contracts continue during holidays
• Storage is needed if going home
• The campus becomes very quiet
• Part-time work hours might increase
• Travel costs spike during peak times

Holiday Strategies:

• Book flights early for better prices
• Arrange storage with continuing students
• Plan European trips during breaks
• Consider staying for some holidays
• Budget for higher holiday expenses

Post-Graduation Options

Graduate visa rules have changed recently. Currently, you get two years post-graduation to work in the UK (three for PhD graduates).

Career Pathways:

• Graduate jobs in the UK
• Return home with UK experience
• Further study (master's/PhD)
• Start-up visa routes
• Skilled worker visa transition

Building Networks:

• Connect with alumni in your field
• Attend career fairs regularly
• Build a LinkedIn presence early
• Join professional societies
• Maintain university connections

Final Words

Student life in Exeter for international students is challenging but rewarding. You'll grow more than you expect. The international community here is genuine. Support exists when you need it. But you have to seek it out and put in effort. The students who thrive here tend to be adaptable, financially prepared, and socially proactive. Exeter provides incredible opportunities for personal and professional growth. Know the pros and cons of living in Exeter of the city, and get ready to explore an educational journey.