Studying in the UK is an achievement for most Indian students & once this dream comes true then there's no looking back. Though it's an opportunity to celebrate, there are a lot of things that an Indian student needs to segregate before moving to the UK for pursuing their further education.Foremost comes the finances & it's very common for an Indian student living in the UK to compare the cost of things to what it would cost to them back home.It's also essential to keep in mind that London and the South East of England are more expensive places to live as compared to the other regions of the UK.

Although there are various stats and data across the internet which showcases the cost of studying and living in the UK, self-research is the most prominent tool opted by students.In relevance with the similar context,Speak2university team has jotted down all the essential information related to cost of living expenses in the UK & we hope that this will help you to plan your budget accordingly.

Travel & Accommodation Costs in the UK 

For-profit corporations operate the majority of public transit in the United Kingdom.UK public transit is entirely out of the hands of the government.The cost of a one-hour bus ride in London is $1.50 approximately.London has the highest monthly commuting costs globally, at $186. As a result of private ownership,trains in the UK are likewise found to be more expensive.

The cost of renting a place to live in the United Kingdom will take up a significant portion of your monthly budget (apart from your tuition fees). The university you plan to choose can also provide you with on-campus accommodation or you can look for a private residence outside the campus. The cost of essential utilities (electricity, gas, and water), welfare support workers, 24-hour security, and personal items is included in the university accommodation. 

Dorm Rooms and House Apartments

Money spent on lodging will be a critical component of your overall budget.Students can choose various housing alternatives, including university residence halls, private apartments, communal housing, dorms, and local homestays.That's not all: these accommodations are tailored specifically for you, the bewildered and ecstatic college student, so you won't have to worry about a thing when it comes to looking for a place to live.

Food Expenses

Food prices in the United Kingdom might vary widely depending on where you buy them. However,some supermarkets cater to all budgets in the country.There's something for everyone, from cheap stores like Aldi and Lidl to farmers and producers markets if you're searching for something which is way more  unique.

Entertainment & Miscellaneous Outlays

In addition to necessities like housing, food, transportation, clothing, and school supplies, a significant portion of your budget goes into entertainment and miscellaneous living expenses.The amount you spend on non-essentials like movie tickets, cell phone service, and internet access is highly dependent on your spending habits and way of living.While there are numerous advantages to living on campus,such as access to DJs, parties, and student organizations, remaining off campus allows you to see the country beyond your university's borders.

Textbooks and Study Materials

Books and stationery might vary in price depending on your course and if you wish to purchase used or new books.You may be able to get some books for free from older adults.

Insurance and taxes

Health insurance for international students has been introduced by several UK universities, although this only applies while you are enrolled and terminates once your program is over. Some colleges pay for Indian students quarantine fees.The best way for international students to pay for their everyday costs in the UK is through part-time employment. Working 20 hours per week is an option which is available for all Indian students living in the UK. 

Tips to Maintain an Efficient Student Budget

• Sharing a flat with a roommate or relative can be the best way to save money.
• Obtaining a bank account at a local financial institution is the second step.
• It is possible to lower the overall use of household utilities such as electricity, heaters and air conditioners, etc.Instead of constantly cranking up the heat, you might want to consider donning some cosy clothing,just like you would in the winter.
• Pay off all your debt,including credit cards,student loans,or other personal obligations.If you're looking to save money,you must first pay off your debt because interest on loans is too high & would not let you save enough for the future.
• You can't afford to spend a lot of money on restaurants and cafés regularly if you want to save money.Use discounts and special offers to your advantage by seeking out establishments charging less while maintaining a high standard of quality. 
• You can save by looking for products with bright yellow stickers in the supermarkets to save money on high-quality food.
• Bargaining is a must in the UK to save money and make ends meet on a shoestring budget.Possess the self-assurance to negotiate a price decrease with the shopkeeper. 

International Student Scholarship

If you're an Indian student looking forward to pursuing your studies in the UK,consider applying for one of the many available scholarships.To help you pay for your education and cover your living expenses while studying in the UK, here is a list of the best scholarships available.

• UK Government Sponsored Scholarships for International  students who wish to pursue postgraduate (PG)  degree at one of the popular UK Universities.
• One-year Master's and PhD programs in the UK are available under the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan.
• Undergraduate (UG) students from many countries are eligible for Castle Smart & Chevening Scholarships too.

FAQ'S

• Is the UK expensive for international students?
• The expense of studying abroad is approximately $12,000 per year. International full-time postgraduate students pay between £10,000 and £13,000 per year for tuition fees.
• How much is it worth to live & study in the UK?
• Depending on where you're studying in the UK, the price can vary greatly. Living in London costs £13,400 ($21,800) per month, while for the rest of England it's only £12,100 ($15,200). According to Queen's University Belfast, the average tuition in Northern Ireland is $10,200 per year. Also, the cost of accommodation stated by Queen Mary University of London & University of Dundee is found to be extremely affordable for the students making them the most popular choice opted by the students.
• Is the UK the cheapest country for studying?
• When comparing costs, it's easy to see that going to school here is a better deal.To get the worthiest of their spending, students should study in the UK, where degree programs tend to be shorter.
• How much does studying in the UK cost for international students?
• Between $17,000 to $25,000 is the average cost of undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) studies in the United Kingdom.Amounts may vary based on exchange rates used at the research time.Students should expect to spend anything from $1,300 to $1,600 a month on living expenses (whether you decide to live inside or outside London).

Conclusion

Most colleges provide on-campus housing or subsidized accommodation for international students. You can obtain this for free or for a price.Generally, university living halls are the best and cheapest options.If you choose private housing, check for possibilities close to your university.Speak2University counsellors can help you out with budget and accommodation issues.Book a consultation call now to know more about the accommodation and living expenses of the prestigious UK universities.