Studying in London is more than a dream for thousands of students across the UK and all over the World. London is a paradise of opportunities- a city that never sleeps. Is London costly? Obviously. What about those dreams stuck in a budget box? How to live cheap in London as a student? Are you looking for a way? In this article, you’ll get every detailed tip step-by-step. We’re here to make your London study easier.
Where there is a will, there is always a way. Although other areas in the UK cost way less than London, students want to graduate in London, the heart of the United Kingdom. Cutting costs may save a lot of money, which might help you in times of need. Let’s delve into the cheaper, cost-effective hacks for a student to live in London.
How to Live in London Cheap as a Student?
London is the most expensive city in the UK. There are too many costs to consider for a student. So, when planning a budget to live cheaply in London, you must know the probable expenses. Let’s see the cost factors first.
Accommodation:
It is one of the major priorities to know where you will stay in London, whether a university hall room or a private property rental room, residential costs are higher.
Study:
Study costs are high as you’ll need tuition fees per academic year, with proven funds in your bank account, books, stationery, other equipment, graduation convocation ceremony accessories, etc.
Food:
Food costs can be higher if you habitually order food online and takeaways. In addition, shopping for groceries is expensive.
Transport:
Buses, the Tube’s underground rail, overground rail, trains, Uber taxis, etc., are the most popular transport systems in London. These transports cost depending on your zone. It can be zone 1- zone 4.
Personal Expense:
Apart from basic needs, clothing, toiletries, wifi bills, mobile bills, etc, are necessary. Some other personal expenses are getting a gym membership, an open concert ticket, entry tickets to parks or museums, etc.
You may face some emergency expenses as well. Let’s break down how to live cheap in London as a student!
12 Pro Tips for Students Living in London on a Budget
When your dream is at stake, utilise the proven best ideas. Still, wondering how to live cheap in London? Manifest the pro tips given below:
Prioritise Your Expenses
Identify your requirements and prioritise them based on your needs. For example, buying a book is more important than buying an open concert ticket. You need to make a list and position your requirements by ranking them based on your priority.
Plan a Budget
After prioritising your requirements, you need a solid plan to estimate within your budget. London is highly expensive. You can make a weekly or monthly budget according to your lifestyle and expense range.
Look for a Small Uni Hall room or a Shared Accommodation
University hall rooms usually cost less than private accommodation. If you get the opportunity to get a university hall room, try choosing a standard or en-suite room. Shared flats are also cost-effective. Please get 3 or 4 flatmates to make it within your budget.
Try to Get a Scholarship, Funding, or Grants for Tuition Fees
If you have a scholarship already, that’s incredible. Even if you don’t have any scholarship, try getting financial support from local or government funding or grants. In London, tuition fees are high and cut down almost 60% of your whole budget. A funding/grant can be a great opportunity.
Buy Second-Hand Books or Download Online PDF
Buying second-hand books may save you some money. Nowadays, many books are available online too. You can download those books. New books can be heavy on your budget. Second-hand books are highly available. Grab them or download them online.
Cook Yourself and Shop Groceries from Non-Brand Shops
Eating in a restaurant or getting takeaways is not a healthy or cost-saving way. Instead, you should cook for yourself. There’s no better idea than cooking with self-picked groceries. You can shop from discount supermarkets like Lidl or ALDI. Both shops are well-known for their low prices.
Walk or Use a Bicycle as Your Transport
Using transport can be another cost factor for you. If your university is within walking distance, walk by and save money. But if it’s far away, you can cycle to the institute with your bicycle. Without your own bicycle, hiring one won’t be fruitful. In that case, go to the university by bus.
Cut Down Unnecessary Expenses
Fruitful compromises always shine in the long run. When you’re running on a tight budget, you must be aware of and avoid unnecessary expenses. We are not asking you to shut yourself off from all types of entertainment. Just avoid costly open concerts, paid tours, gym, etc.
Grab the Discounts
Students in London are fortunate to have numerous discount offers available. Grab as many discounts as possible till you’re a student in London. Various cards are available for students, including a railcard, an Oyster card, and a student card.
Do a Part-Time Job
Part-time jobs are highly available and the best opportunities for students to manage their expenses in London. Retail shops, cafes & restaurants, supermarkets, etc., always offer students part-time jobs. Though it’s hard, a part-time job is beneficial for London students.
Try Free Activities
Free activities help to stay fit, free of cost. For example, you can do free-hand exercises and walk instead of exercising in a gym. If you ask yourself, ‘How to live cheap in London as a student?’ The answer will include avoiding unnecessary expenses and finding an alternative way.
Use Finance Management Apps
Sometimes we spend money unnecessarily. Use finance management apps such as PocketGuard, Mint, etc. Track your expenses and how much is left for the month. It will help you balance the monthly budget. Spend your money wisely to avoid running under budget.
How Much Does it Cost for a Student in London?
Living costs for a student in London vary from student to student. Depending on the lifestyle and other activities, it can be a higher or cost-effective rate. Unfortunately, there is no exact cost rate for London students. However, we can give you an idea of how much it may cost a student monthly in London!
Student costs are higher for international students than for local ones. If your monthly residential budget is around £1000, then it is pretty challenging to manage expenses. Keep the budget at least £1500 or more, especially if you’re a student from another country. If you are moving from another region of the UK to London, you can take help from professional movers like Jambo Removals.
Wrapping Up
London offers a bunch of opportunities for students. Completing graduation or post-graduation from London enhances your value as a student. Apply the hacks in this article practically and let others know how to live cheap in London as a student. Sometimes, a cost-effective budget may help you in emergencies as well. Live in London on a budget and study happily.
FAQ:
Where is the cheapest place to live in London for students?
Many places in South London are the cheapest for students to live in. Among them, Britannia is one of the most affordable accommodations in South London. You can move to South London with the help of a moving company. Choose the best moving company and live cheaply.
How much money does a student need to live in London?
Usually, a student needs £1000-£1500 per month to live in London. It’s better if your monthly budget is more than £1000.
Can you survive on 1000 pounds a month?
Yes, I can. Surviving on £1000 in London is possible. However, managing and balancing expenses is slightly tricky when you have a tight budget of 1000 pounds.
Can I live in London without a job?
Well, it’s tough to live in London without a job. Part-time jobs are especially highly recommended for students. An emergency can happen anytime. A job ensures security and helps financially.