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Best Cities to Study in UK for Indian Students

The UK is filled with opportunities for both academic excellence and cultural exploration for international students. The United Kingdom, renowned for its prestigious universities and vibrant student life, offers a diverse array of cities each with its unique and academic excellence.

This blog highlights the best student cities in the UK for international students, offering a blend of world-class education, rich cultural experiences, and vibrant student life. Each city in the UK has its unique charm and opportunities, making it an ideal backdrop for your academic and personal growth.

Top 10 Cities for Indian Students in the UK

Below are the top 10 picks of the best cities to study in the UK.  

City

Top Universities

QS World University Ranking 2024

London

Imperial College London, University College London (UCL), London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

10th, 13th, 49th

Manchester

University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University

28th, 601-650th

Edinburgh

University of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University

18th, 301-350th

Birmingham

University of Birmingham, Aston University

86th, 801-1000th

Glasgow

University of Glasgow, University of Strathclyde

73rd, 601-650th

Bristol

University of Bristol, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol)

61st, 801-1000th

Leeds

University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett University

94th, 1001+

Nottingham

University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University

109th, 801-1000th

Sheffield

University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University

94th, 801-1000th

Liverpool

University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University

157th, 801-1000th



London

Greetings from London, the pulsating center of the UK! World-class academic institutions such as the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), University College London (UCL), and Imperial College London can be found here. For Indian students like us, London is a cultural melting pot as much as a place to receive an excellent education. We join a worldwide family in this busy city because of the vibrant Indian student community and the abundance of career prospects.

Top 5 Universities:

  • Imperial College London
  • University College London (UCL)
  • London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
  • King's College London
  • Queen Mary University of London

Estimated Living Expenses: London is known for its higher living costs compared to other UK cities. On average, a student might spend between £1,200 and £1,500 per month, covering accommodation, food, transport, and other personal expenses.

Manchester

Manchester is more than just a city; it's a warm embrace. The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University are our academic sanctuaries. Indian students thrive here because Manchester offers excellence without breaking the bank. The city's Indian cultural tapestry makes it feel like a slice of home. And as you explore sectors like healthcare, technology, and finance, you'll find exciting avenues to shape your future.

Top 5 Universities:

  • University of Manchester
  • Manchester Metropolitan University
  • Royal Northern College of Music
  • The University of Law - Manchester
  • INTO Manchester

Estimated Living Expenses: Living expenses in Manchester are generally more affordable than in London. Students can expect to spend around £800 to £1,100 per month.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a living history book. The University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University are where we script our academic journeys. Beyond books, Edinburgh showers us with vibrant arts, breathtaking landscapes, and a passion for innovation. It's more than a city; it's an experience.

Top 5 Universities:

  • University of Edinburgh
  • Heriot-Watt University
  • Edinburgh Napier University
  • Queen Margaret University
  • The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh

Estimated Living Expenses: In Edinburgh, students may incur monthly expenses of about £800 to £1,200, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.

Birmingham

Birmingham, the UK's second-largest city, is a global microcosm. The University of Birmingham and Aston University are our academic compasses. Here, diversity thrives, and affordability is a bonus. As Birmingham's job market thrives, so do we, making this city a welcoming abode for Indian students.

Top 5 Universities:

  • University of Birmingham
  • Aston University
  • Birmingham City University
  • University College Birmingham
  • Newman University

Estimated Living Expenses: The cost of living in Birmingham is relatively moderate, with students spending approximately £700 to £1,000 per month.

Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland's beating heart, dances to the tunes of academia. The University of Glasgow and the University of Strathclyde are our educational companions. In Glasgow, culture meets academia, and the result is a lively city filled with friendly faces and boundless innovation.

Top 5 Universities:


Estimated Living Expenses: Glasgow offers a reasonable cost of living, typically ranging from £700 to £950 per month for students.

Bristol

Bristol, with the University of Bristol and the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), crafts an exceptional quality of life. Here, we embrace not only our studies but also a booming tech industry and a rich cultural scene. It's a city that nurtures both education and innovation.

Top 5 Universities:

  • University of Bristol
  • University of the West of England (UWE Bristol)
  • Bristol Old Vic Theatre School
  • City of Bristol College
  • Trinity College Bristol

Estimated Living Expenses: Students in Bristol might spend between £800 and £1,100 per month on living expenses.

Leeds

Leeds, nestled in West Yorkshire, houses the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University, where diversity thrives. Our academic endeavors are complemented by the city's diverse student body and numerous employment prospects. And when the day's work is done, the city's music and arts scene awaits.

Top 5 Universities:


Estimated Living Expenses: The cost of living in Leeds is generally affordable, with monthly expenses around £700 to £950.

Nottingham

Nottingham, home to the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, blends history with modernity. Here, we experience the charm of history, the convenience of modern amenities, and the promise of a bright future.

Top 5 Universities:

  • University of Nottingham
  • Nottingham Trent University
  • The University of Law - Nottingham
  • Confetti Institute of Creative Technologies
  • Nottingham College

Estimated Living Expenses: Nottingham is known for its student-friendly budget, with living costs ranging from £650 to £900 per month.

Sheffield

Sheffield, known for the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University, welcomes us with open arms. It's a city where affordability doesn't compromise quality. With a lush green environment and strong programs in engineering and technology, Sheffield is our academic haven.

Top 5 Universities:

  • University of Sheffield
  • Sheffield Hallam University
  • The Sheffield College
  • Sheffield International College
  • The University of Law - Sheffield

Estimated Living Expenses: Students in Sheffield can expect to spend about £650 to £900 per month on living expenses.

Liverpool

Liverpool, housing the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University, is a city that resonates with music, culture, and growth. We, as Indian students, cherish its rich musical heritage, cultural festivals, and promising career opportunities.

Top 5 Universities:

  • University of Liverpool
  • Liverpool John Moores University
  • Liverpool Hope University
  • Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine
  • The City of Liverpool College

Estimated Living Expenses: Liverpool offers a cost-effective living, with monthly expenses for students averaging between £650 and £900.

Selecting the right city for your international education is more than a choice; it's a thrilling adventure. Each of these top 10 UK cities offers a unique chapter in your journey, and finding the one that resonates with your academic and personal aspirations is the key to a successful adventure.

The UK boasts diverse cities offering unique experiences for international students, from the vibrant cultural life of London to the historic charm of Edinburgh. Each city presents a blend of top-tier universities and varied living costs, catering to different preferences and budgets. 

For Indian students aspiring to study in these prime UK destinations, AECC is a leading study abroad consultancy, that provides invaluable guidance. AECC's expert counsellors assist with university selection, application processes, visa requirements, and pre-departure briefings, ensuring a smooth transition to your UK educational journey. Connect with AECC today to start your academic adventure in the UK's best student cities!

FAQs

What are the top student cities in the UK for international students?

The UK offers several cities renowned for their student-friendly environment. The top picks include London, known for its dynamic lifestyle and prestigious universities; Edinburgh, famous for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene; Manchester, celebrated for its diverse community and lively urban life; Glasgow, known for its friendly locals and artistic heritage; and Birmingham, appreciated for its multicultural atmosphere and excellent academic institutions. 

How affordable is student living in the UK's top cities?

The cost of living for students varies across UK cities. London is on the higher end of the spectrum, while cities like Manchester, Glasgow, and Birmingham are more affordable. Students should budget for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.  

Are there good employment opportunities for international students in these cities?

Yes, many of the top student cities in the UK offer part-time employment opportunities for international students. Cities like London and Manchester have thriving job markets, particularly in sectors like retail, hospitality, and services. Universities often provide career services to help students find suitable job opportunities. 

How do these cities cater to the needs of international students?

UK cities are well-equipped to cater to international students, offering a range of services including language support, international student societies, and dedicated administrative assistance for visa and accommodation issues. Universities in these cities also often have extensive global alumni networks, providing valuable connections worldwide.

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