Living Costs: What You Need to Know
London costs 1,300-2,000/month. Outside London 900-1,300. Interactive city selector, budget calculator, and visa financial proof requirements.
Interactive City Cost Selector
Rent (room in shared flat)
Food & groceries
Transport
Phone / Internet
Social / Entertainment
Monthly Total
Annual Total (12 months)
Visa Financial Proof Requirements
To get a UK Student visa, you must prove you have enough money. The official UKVI requirements:
London
£1,483/month
For up to 9 months = £13,347 minimum in your bank account
Outside London
£1,136/month
For up to 9 months = £10,224 minimum in your bank account
This is PLUS your remaining tuition fees. The money must have been in your account for 28 consecutive days before applying. See the full visa guide.
Where Your Money Goes: The Rent Problem
35-50% of your monthly budget goes to rent. In London, it's closer to 60%. Here's a typical breakdown:
Rent45%
Rent
Food20%
Food
Transport10%
Bills & Phone10%
Everything else15%