Moving to London as a student opens up incredible opportunities for education and personal growth in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Quick Student Housing Guide
Student accommodation in London comes in three main types:
- University halls of residence (£180-350/week)
- Private student halls (£250-400/week)
- Private shared housing (£150-250/week per room)
Popular Student Areas
- Mile End: Near Queen Mary University, affordable, good transport links
- Stratford: Modern developments, Olympic Park, well-connected
- Camden: Vibrant culture, music scene, close to UCL and SOAS
- Shepherd’s Bush: Good value, diverse community, near Imperial College
Transport Tips
Get a Student Oyster card immediately to save 30% on transport costs.
| Zone | Monthly Cost (Student) |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | £90.80 |
| 1-3 | £106.20 |
Essential Student Services
- Banking: Set up a UK student account (Santander, HSBC, and Barclays offer good student packages)
- Healthcare: Register with a local GP – find yours at NHS GP Finder
- Mobile: Consider student plans from providers like GiffGaff or Three
Money-Saving Tips
- Get an NUS/TOTUM card for student discounts
- Shop at budget supermarkets like Lidl and Aldi
- Use apps like Too Good To Go for discounted meals
- Visit free museums and galleries
Pre-Arrival Checklist
- □ Confirm accommodation arrangements
- □ Arrange student visa (if required)
- □ Book temporary accommodation if needed
- □ Purchase travel insurance
- □ Plan airport transfer
Useful Resources
Students should budget approximately £1,200-1,500 per month for living expenses in London (excluding tuition fees).
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency Services: 999
- Non-emergency police: 101
- NHS non-emergency: 111
Student Social Life
London offers endless social opportunities for students to meet people and explore interests:
- University Societies: Join clubs ranging from sports to cultural interests
- Student Nights: Most clubs offer student discounts on specific nights
- Meet-up Groups: Connect with like-minded people through platforms like Meetup
Part-Time Work
International students can typically work up to 20 hours per week during term time:
- Campus jobs: Libraries, cafeterias, student ambassador roles
- Retail positions in shopping centers
- Hospitality work in restaurants and bars
- Tutoring and teaching assistance
Academic Support
- University Libraries: Most are open 24/7 during exam periods
- Study Spaces: Free workspaces in public libraries
- Writing Centers: Free academic writing support
Conclusion
Moving to London as a student requires careful planning but offers an unparalleled experience. Focus on securing accommodation early, understanding transportation options, and managing your budget effectively. Take advantage of student discounts and free activities to make the most of your time in this vibrant city while maintaining your financial health.
Remember that your university’s student services office is always available to help with any challenges you might face during your stay in London.
FAQs
- What documents do I need as a student moving to London?
A valid passport, student visa (if required), acceptance letter from your university, proof of funding/finances, accommodation details, and medical insurance documentation. - What’s the best time to look for student accommodation in London?
Start searching 2-3 months before your move. Peak rental season is July-September when most students secure housing. University halls applications usually open in spring. - How much should I budget monthly for living in London as a student?
Budget £1,200-£1,500 per month minimum, including £700-£1,000 for rent, £250 for food, £100 for transport, and remainder for utilities and entertainment (costs vary by area and lifestyle). - How do I set up a UK bank account as an international student?
Bring your passport, student visa, university acceptance letter, and proof of UK address. Major banks like Barclays, HSBC, and Santander offer student accounts. Online banks like Monzo and Revolut are faster alternatives. - Which areas in London are best for students?
Popular student areas include Stratford, Camden, Shoreditch, Brixton, and Greenwich. Areas near universities like King’s Cross, Bloomsbury, and South Kensington are convenient but expensive. - Do I need to register with a doctor when moving to London?
Yes, register with a local GP (General Practitioner) near your accommodation. You’ll need proof of address and student status. International students on courses longer than 6 months can access NHS services. - What’s the best way to get around London as a student?
Get a Student Oyster card for discounted travel on public transport. Consider cycling with Santander Cycles. Most students rely on buses and the Underground for daily commutes. - How can I save money on groceries and daily expenses in London?
Shop at budget supermarkets like Lidl, Aldi, or local markets. Get an NUS/TOTUM card for student discounts. Cook meals at home and use apps like Too Good To Go for discounted food. - What should I do first when arriving in London?
Register with your university, set up your bank account, register with a GP, get a UK phone number, and familiarize yourself with your local area and transport routes. - Do I need contents insurance for my belongings in London?
Yes, it’s recommended. University halls often include basic coverage, but private accommodation usually requires separate contents insurance. Compare providers like Endsleigh who specialize in student insurance.