Life as an International Student in the UK

Intro

Studying in the UK isn’t just about lectures and libraries — it’s a journey of growth, discovery, and unforgettable experiences. From navigating life in diverse cities to managing budgets and building lifelong friendships, international students find that every day brings something new to learn, explore and enjoy.

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Accommodation

Finding the right home is your first big step. Most students choose shared apartments or university halls for convenience and community.

Where to look: Check Rightmove, SpareRoom, or your university housing portal for trusted listings.

Average rent:

• Shared flats – £400–£700/month (outside London)

• London apartments – £800–£1,200/month

• University halls – £900–£1,500/month

Tip: Start early and verify listings before paying deposits — good places go fast!

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Grocery Shopping & Indian Stores

Familiar flavours are easy to find across the UK, with plenty of stores that help students stay stocked up without overspending.

• Tesco, Aldi, Lidl, and Asda – budget-friendly supermarkets and everyday student staples

• Wing Yip – a one-stop shop for Asian ingredients, sauces, and frozen foods

• Ambala – known for authentic Indian sweets, savouries, and snacks

• Pak Supermarket – well-stocked with affordable South Asian essentials

Together, these spots make grocery runs less of a chore and more of a reminder that home isn’t too far away.

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Where Students Unwind

Cafés are where student life in the UK truly comes alive — perfect for studying, catching up, or relaxing between classes.

Try Pret A Manger, Costa Coffee, or The Coffee House for quick bites and reliable Wi-Fi. You’ll also find plenty of independent cafés around campuses that serve as cozy study spots.

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Getting Around

Public transport in the UK is reliable and well-connected across cities.

Get a 16–25 Railcard or Student Oyster Card to save on daily commutes. Apps like Trainline and Citymapper make route planning simple.

Tip: Many cities also offer student bus passes — a smart choice if you travel frequently.

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Shopping & Essentials on a Budget

You’ll find plenty of affordable stores for clothing, dorm needs, and homeware:

• Primark – low-cost fashion and basics

• Wilko – kitchenware, stationery, and essentials

• IKEA – great for setting up your space

• Poundland / B&M – budget-friendly for daily items

Tip: Always carry your student ID — most retailers offer 10–20% discounts!

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Affordable Eats

Eating out doesn’t have to stretch your budget. Students love:

• Dishoom – comforting Indian meals with a modern touch

• Tuk Tuk Indian Street Food – quick, flavourful dishes under £10

• TiffinBox – homely South Indian food that tastes like home

Many campuses also have canteens and local diners offering meal deals — great for when you’re on the go.

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Part-Time Jobs

Working part-time is a great way to earn, learn, and gain experience.

• Common roles include cafés, retail, and delivery, with pay ranging from £10–£14/hour. Tutoring or assistant jobs can pay even more

• Look at Indeed, StudentJob, or your university career portal, and remember to follow your 20-hour per week visa limit during term time

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Life Beyond Studies

Student life in the UK goes far beyond classrooms.

• Join University clubs and societies to meet people, explore hobbies, and make lifelong friends.
• Weekends are for adventure — visit Oxford, Bath, or Brighton, catch live music events, or unwind at city parks and festivals. Some of your best memories will come from these little moments.

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Final Thoughts

Studying in the UK is more than academics, it’s about growth, independence, and experiences that shape your future. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll find the perfect balance between study and exploration. At Onebounce, we’re here to help make your UK journey smooth, exciting, and truly unforgettable.