A Guide to Living in London as a Student
One of the biggest and the most popular cities in the world and home to some of the world’s top universities, London is nothing short of a dream. Thousands of students from all around the world come to this city every year to study at universities like Brunel University, Central Saint Martins, University of Arts London, City University of London, Goldsmiths, Imperial College London, Kings College London, UCL, University of Westminster and more.
With so many universities in this city, and a huge population of students, London has tons of things to do for students. Be it restaurants, clubs, cafes, parks, museums, or galleries, you name it, London has the best of everything for you. And if you’re moving to this massive city and are confused about finding the right accommodation, a safe neighbourhood or figuring out the cost of living, don’t worry. We’re here for you with this guide to living in London as a student that covers it all!
What is Student Life in London Like?
Nevertheless, to say, London is one of the most liked cities by students in the world. Owing to its one-of-a-kind nightlife, a mix of all cultures of the world, Victorian architecture, and some of the world’s best museums, galleries and parks. Here is all you need to know about this city before you move:
- Cost of Living: According to Numbeo, the average rent of living in London is £229 per week excluding rent. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant would cost you about £20. And a room for rent in the city centre would cost around £450 per week.
- Transport: London has a massive network of underground, overground rail, trams and the famous red buses. If you’re planning on travelling through public transport very frequently, it is best to get a Student Oyster Photocard that will help you save money. The fares of Underground depend on when you’re travelling and which zone you’re travelling to. It usually ranges between £2.4 to £6. Another great way to get around London is by bike. You can rent a Santander cycle from 800 docking stations across London at any time of the day. The first half an hour on these cycles is free. And it only costs £2 for every additional 30 minutes afterwards.
- Healthcare: NHS or National Healthcare System in UK provides great healthcare facilities to all. Free checkups and treatments are provided for international students by NHS. A health surcharge fee is paid when you pay for your visa and it covers your health insurance with NHS. You can contact your university to ask for the nearest NHS clinic for a checkup.
Finding the Right Student Accommodation in London
One of the best ways to find accommodation in London is on websites like Rightmove and Zoopla. But if you’re specifically looking for student accommodation in London, you can check out Unilodgers. Unilodgers is the world’s largest student housing provider. Here, you can find student flats in London that fit all your needs- be it a specific budget, a specific duration of tenancy, or a type of student apartment in London.
- Budget-friendly: You can find tons of great student flats in London under 200 pw. These student accommodations are all fully-furnished and have all the amenities you’ll need for a comfortable life.
- Private Apartments: If you like having the whole space to yourself and are looking for a 1 bed flat in London or a student studio, you’ll find tons of those in London too. All these places will be fully furnished and will be designed tastefully to make you feel right at home.
- Short Stays: If you’re travelling to London for a short course and are looking for student rooms for short stays, all you have to do is go to Unilodgers and search for them! You can choose between private rooms, studios and shared rooms in the city.
- Accommodation for Senior Year Students: There are no special student rooms in London for senior year students in London. Most senior year students stay in the same accommodations as freshers and the process of booking rooms is the same for every student.
Popular Neighborhoods of London for Students
London has lots of popular neighbourhoods for students that are not only near major universities but also safe. You will find all essential facilities like markets, hospitals and pharmacies in these areas along with some of London’s major attractions. Some of these areas are:
- City Centre: London’s city centre is home to iconic buildings, amazing architecture and some of the best markets, restaurants, pubs and cafes in the world. The city centre or zone 1 can be more expensive than the outer zones of London. But you may find some hidden gems here that fit your budget. Some of the most affordable student apartments in London city centre area are iQ East Court, iQ Haywood House and Host View Studios.
- University Campuses: Universities like KCL, CSM and City University of London are thickly populated with students from all over the world. When you’re living on campus, you not only get to mingle with your batchmates but also utilize all the university facilities to the fullest. Some of the most popular on-campus accommodations in various universities are Hayloft Point (for KCL), Furzedown Student Village (for CSM) and Arbour House (for City University of London).
- Camden: One of the most popular neighbourhoods of London for students is Camden. This neighbourhood is safe, near most major universities in the city and has all the facilities you’ll need within a walking distance. Camden is also very famous for its local markets, street food and nightlife, so you’re sure to always have a blast here. Some of the most popular accommodations in and near this area are Mannequin House, Chapter Spitalfields, and Canvas Walthamstow.
Looking for Last-Minute Student Accommodation in London?
We completely understand how hectic preparing to live in a city can be. And in the whole process, you might also forget to book accommodation for yourself at the right time. But hey, worry not. You can still book some great last-minute student accommodation in London with Unilodgers. All you have to do is search, explore, compare and book.
All set to begin a new life in London? We hope this guide has been helpful for you. And that it helps you plan your budget and choose the right place and accommodation for yourself. Now all you need to do is book your tickets and live the life you’ve always dreamt of in the city!
