A Complete Guide to Student Life in London

Living in London is like ‘living like the Royals.’ The enchanting and attractive city is also a dream destination for thousands of aspiring students. They get attracted towards the top 10 universities in London. Moreover, they feel at home in their student accommodation in London. For students who love history, art and fashion, the city has many places to visit. This guide covers everything you need to know about studying in London as an international student.

Why International Students Choose London

London is the dream of many students. Students have a lot to learn there, and those who have come to London for education must know about the city. The London student guide can help you with that and you will know why international students choose London. 

World-class Education

There are over 40 universities in London, and the city ranks 1st in the QS best student cities list globally. Thousands of students aspire to study at these top universities in London that provide quality education. Imperial College London rules the science and engineering sector, while UCL excels in research facilities. For medicine and the humanities, King’s College London is the best choice. If you are into economics and politics, the LSE is unmatched. Your degree carries serious weight worldwide. For a deeper understanding of the advantages and disadvantages, refer to our pros and cons of studying in London. 

Cultural Diversity

There are students from more than 200 nationalities. You'll meet people from everywhere. This creates an incredibly diverse environment. No single culture dominates.

Walking through campus feels like touring the world. Different languages mix in conversations. London also arranges numerous cultural festivals once a year. And for food lovers, there are multiple places where they can get continental food. 

Career Opportunities

London's economy is massive. It's Europe's financial capital. Tech companies have major offices here. Creative industries thrive. Startups launch daily.

Graduate visa rules help international students. You can stay two years after finishing. Three years for PhD graduates. This gives time to find work.

Major employers actively recruit from London universities. They know the quality of education here. Moreover, there are lots of benefits of part-time jobs for students in the UK, including financial support and skill enhancement. 

University Life and Academics

Academic Standards

British education demands independent thinking. Professors expect critical analysis. You won't just memorise facts. You'll challenge ideas and form arguments.

Lectures happen 2-3 times weekly per subject. Seminars involve smaller groups. You'll present ideas and debate topics. Reading lists are extensive.

Campus Culture

Most London universities integrate with the city. There aren't huge isolated campuses. Buildings spread across neighbourhoods. This creates a different feel from traditional campus universities.

Student unions organise events constantly. Societies cover every interest imaginable. From debate clubs to cultural associations. Sports teams compete nationally.

Assessment Methods

Essays and exams dominate assessment. Group projects are common. Presentations happen regularly. Some courses include practical work.

Deadlines are strict. Late submission means penalty marks. Time management becomes crucial. Libraries in London stay open late during exam periods. Libraries stay open late during exam periods.

Accommodation Options

Before you choose any property for your London student living, study the whole accommodation market and what housing types it offers. You can refer to the types of student accommodation in London for affordable living. 

University Halls

First-year international students get priority for university accommodation. Halls offer different room types. En-suite rooms include private bathrooms. Standard rooms share facilities.

Catered halls provide meals. Self-catered halls have shared kitchens. Prices range from £180 to 400 weekly. Location affects cost significantly. If you're specifically looking at options near a particular university, our guide on the best student areas near the University of Westminster for ideal accommodation in London might be helpful.

Private Student Accommodation

Private student accommodation in London offers different room types. They come in different types, such as spacious studios and private en-suites. These properties offer different amenities such as a gym, games room, common lounge, and coverage of utility bills.

Best Student Halls provides verified PBSA options across London. Properties like Chapter Kings Cross offer premium amenities. Locations include transport links to major universities. For insights into the pros and cons of upscale living, explore the pros and cons of luxury student accommodation in London.

House Shares

Second and third-year students often share houses. Groups of 4-6 friends rent together. This reduces individual costs. Here are the 5 best student neighbourhoods in London:

• Bloomsbury (near UCL)
• South Kensington (near Imperial)
• Aldgate (near City universities)
• Greenwich (more affordable)

If you have decided to choose premium living, you must know some affluent areas in London. You can refer to the top 10 richest areas in London.

Best Student Accommodation in London

Along with added security, housing properties in London offer budget-friendly options for student halls. For international students seeking affordable student accommodation in London, Best Student Halls offers verified properties across London. Popular options include:

Chapter Kings Cross: Modern apartments near major universities. Excellent transport links to UCL and other institutions.

Depot Point: Well-furnished and beautifully finished student housing with study areas and social spaces. Universities are in easy reach.

iQ Bankside: Premium facilities including gyms, cinemas, and roof terraces. Purpose-built for student life.

All Best Student Halls properties include:

• 24/7 security and support
• High-speed internet
• Maintenance services
• Social spaces and study areas
• Bills included in the rent

Apart from that, students who are seeking premium living will get lots of options for luxury student accommodation in London. 

Cost of Living Breakdown

Monthly Expenses

London is quite expensive when it comes to spending money. The approximate cost of living in London for students can be £1,600-2,000 per month. From accommodation rent to entertainment, this cost covers everything. 

Money-Saving Tips

If you want to reduce your expenses, here are the tips to afford student life in London on a budget. 

• You can cook at home with your friends in batches. Instead of eating outside every day in restaurants that cost £15-25 per meal, home cooking is a better option. Home cooking costs £3-5 per meal. Use student discounts everywhere. Many shops offer 10-20% off.
• Buy textbooks second-hand. University libraries have copies too. For commuting, you can use public transport. The city also has a facility for night buses after midnight.
• There are many must-visit sightseeing places in London for students. From free visits to museums and gardens to bustling nightlife, you will not get bored at all! London has 170+ free museums. Many galleries cost nothing.
• London offers the best student housing. Here is your guide to finding the best student accommodation in London, which will give you an idea of affordable choices. This can also reduce your expenses. 

Transport and Getting Around

Student Oyster Card

The student Oyster card saves 30% on transport. You need proof of enrollment. Application takes 2-3 weeks. The card works on buses, tubes, and trains. London offers great services through the Oyster Card for students. It's a great resource for students who are travelling regularly.

Transport Options

Transport in London is very beneficial for students. They can travel by buses, trains and Tubes.

London Underground: The fastest way to travel. 270 stations across 11 lines. Runs 5 midnight on weekdays. Limited weekend night service.

Buses: 700+ routes operate. Night buses run 24/7. A single journey costs £1.75. Cheaper than underground.

Walking: You can take a lovely walk while you are exploring the city. It is healthy and reduces expenses. 

Cycling: Boris Bikes are available citywide. Students get discounted memberships. Cycle lanes cover most major routes.

Moreover, a comprehensive student guide to London travel zones 1-9 can give a thorough idea of London transport.

Social Life and Entertainment

Nightlife Scene

Enjoying the nightlife in London as a student is mesmerising. The Shoreditch area never shuts down and you can buzz until dawn. Camden offers live music venues. Soho has cocktail bars and clubs.

Student nights happen throughout the week. You can visit the best clubs in London for better entertainment. Many venues offer free entry before 11 pm. Student-friendly bars offer drinks only between £5 and £8. 

Cultural Activities

London hosts world-class theatre. West End shows cost £15-100. Student discounts reduce prices significantly. The city also arranges free concerts in the Summer season. 

If you want to explore the historical side of London, these are the top 9 best museums in London you must visit. The British Museum and the Tate Modern are perfect options—they offer free entry! Special exhibitions may charge entry. Student memberships often include benefits.

Recharge Through Sports

Hyde Park and Regent's Park have big green spaces so that you can walk or go jogging. You can jog, play sports, or relax. University sports clubs compete nationally.

Gyms cost £30-60 monthly. Student centres often include fitness facilities. Many accommodations have gyms too.

Food and Dining

International Cuisine

London serves food from everywhere. Exploring the best restaurants in London is a great way to enjoy the diversity of local cuisine. Chinatown offers authentic Asian meals. Brick Lane has excellent curry houses. If you want to try London’s street food, visit Borough Market—excellent food!

Student-friendly Options

Some restaurants and cafes have student-friendly options. They also have beautiful and subtle ambiences. Students can visit the top 10 best aesthetic cafes in London that also offer good discounts. 

Pret A Manger: Provides fresh coffee and tasty sandwiches. It also offers discounts on the menu for students. 

Nando's: Portuguese chicken chain. Popular with students.

Wetherspoons: It is a pub chain for affordable meals. The main course costs around £4-8. 

University canteens: Subsidised food on campus. Often the cheapest option.

You can also visit the best budget-friendly vegan restaurants in London to reduce your expenses on food. 

Cooking at Home

You will need some groceries to cook at home. 

Lidl and Aldi: Affordable food items and groceries are available.  

Tesco and Sainsbury’s: They provide fresh produce cheaply. They also give good discounts to students. 

Shared kitchens in student accommodation have basic equipment. You might need to buy extra items. Cooking with flatmates saves money.

Academic Support and Resources

Library Systems

London University libraries are extensive. The British Library holds 150+ million items. University libraries focus on your subject area. Study spaces book up quickly during exams. You can visit the top 10 libraries in London for students to study. Apart from that, 24-hour libraries are open during busy periods. Online resources complement physical collections.

Student Support Services

Academic support: Tutors help with study skills. Writing centres improve essays. Subject-specific help is available.

Mental health: Counselling services operate on every campus. The NHS provides healthcare. They prioritise students’ mental health and take care of them. 

International student support: Every university has dedicated teams to help students with their visa issues. There are also programs for cultural adjustment. English language support continues throughout my studies.

Student societies and clubs in London are the backbone of student support. They help international students to make bonds, mix with the culture and pursue careers. 

Working While Studying

Visa Regulations

Student visas allow 20 hours of weekly work during term time. Full-time work is permitted during holidays. You can support your student living with this extra money. 

Job Opportunities

During your summer breaks, you can find part-time jobs in London for students. On-campus jobs include library assistance, helpers for research and tour guides. These jobs understand student schedules.

For part-time jobs, you can look into the retail, hospitality, and tutoring sectors. Central London offers numerous opportunities.

Internships: Many companies offer paid placements. These provide experience and income.

You can get £8.15 to £15 per hour, depending on the employer and your role. Higher-skilled positions pay more.

Healthcare and Well-being

NHS Access

International students pay an Immigration Health Surcharge. This provides full NHS access. GP appointments, hospital treatment, and prescriptions are covered.

Register with a local GP practice immediately. This ensures quick access when needed.

Mental Health Support

Moving abroad creates stress. Universities provide counselling services. Peer support groups help with adjustment.

There are mental health apps available for students. Moreover, do not forget about any online resources that are specially designed to solve students’ issues. If you need help, do not hesitate. Contact early. 

Visa and Legal Requirements

Student Visa Process

Student visas require university acceptance and financial proof. Refer to the UK student visa guide for a detailed look at the process. You need £1,334 monthly for London living costs. Plus full tuition fees.

Applications take 3-8 weeks. It is advisable to apply early and avoid delays. You will require documents like a passport, academic certificates, and English proficiency tests. 

Staying Legal

Attend classes regularly. Maintain academic progress. Report address changes to universities. Don't exceed work hour limits.

Visa violations can affect future applications. Keep documentation organised. University international offices provide guidance.

Cultural Integration

British Social Norms

British people value queuing, politeness, and understatement. Small talk about the weather is common. Pub culture is central to social life.

University societies help with integration. Join clubs related to your interests. This creates natural friendships.

Dealing with Homesickness

You are away from your lovely home. It is obvious to feel homesick. However, you are here on a mission—to get a quality education and make your family proud. Video calls with family help maintain connections. Create routines that include home traditions. Local cultural centres support specific nationalities. These provide familiar food and social connections. Moreover, a guide for dealing with homesickness for international students will be of great help. 

Building Your Network

Professional Networking

London hosts numerous industry events. University career services organise company presentations. Alumni networks span globally.

Join professional associations in your field. Attend lectures and conferences. Build relationships with professors and classmates.

Social Connections

Flatmates often become lifelong friends. Study groups create academic bonds. Society membership develops shared interests.

Don't stay in your room. Common areas encourage interaction. Say yes to invitations initially.

Practical Daily Life Tips

Banking

There are many banks in the UK for international students. You can refer to the top UK bank accounts for international students to understand the process. Open a UK bank account quickly. You'll need proof of address and student status. Major banks include Barclays, HSBC, and Santander.

Student accounts often include overdrafts and perks. Compare offers before choosing.

Shopping

Supermarkets operate everywhere. Tesco, Sainsbury's, and ASDA are the largest. Express stores stay open late.

Oxford Street offers major retail chains. Markets like Camden and Portobello provide unique items.

Mobile Phones

UK networks include EE, Vodafone, and Three. Student deals reduce monthly costs. Pay-as-you-go suits short stays.

Ensure your phone is unlocked before arriving. SIM-only contracts cost less than phone packages.

Safety and Security

London is a big city. Before sending their children to one of the biggest and fastest cities, parents must wonder whether London is safe for international students. Here are your answers: 

Personal Safety

London is generally safe for students. Use common sense precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas.

Emergency services dial 999. Police response is quick in central areas. University security operates 24/7 on campuses. For more details, refer to the student safety guide for London.

Accommodation Security

Student accommodations include security features. CCTV monitors entrances. Key cards control access. Report suspicious activity immediately.

Best Student Halls properties prioritise security. All verified accommodations meet safety standards.

Seasonal Considerations

Weather Preparation

London's weather is unpredictable. Rain happens year-round. Temperatures rarely go below freezing or above 30°C.

Layered clothing works best. A waterproof jacket is essential. Umbrella becomes a constant companion.

Seasonal Activities

Summer: Outdoor concerts, park festivals, river activities.

Autumn: University freshers' events, museum exhibitions.

Winter: Christmas markets, theatre season, indoor activities.

Spring: Garden visits, Easter breaks, exam preparation.

Future Planning

Graduate Opportunities

London's job market favours graduates. International companies recruit actively. Networking during studies pays off later.

The graduate visa allows job searching after graduation. Many students find work and apply for skilled worker visas.

Further Education

London offers excellent postgraduate opportunities. Research positions are competitive but rewarding. Industry connections facilitate career transitions.

Conclusion

London offers unparalleled opportunities for international students. World-class education combines with cultural diversity. Career prospects are excellent. The experience shapes your entire future.

Yes, it's expensive. Yes, it's challenging. But the rewards last a lifetime. You'll develop independence, a global perspective, and valuable skills.