Accommodation and living costs in Europe

The UK is expensive, and London is the most expensive of all. The amounts you have to show for your visa are a good guide: £1,529 a month in London and £1,171 outside London. This is the minimum required by the authorities, not a guarantee that it will be enough.

According to UCL, travelling in London in zones 1–2 alone costs £119.90 a month on average. On top of that there is the Immigration Health Surcharge – £776 a year, paid upfront with your visa application.

Most universities have their own halls of residence and help students find a room, especially in the first year. Check the rules and prices on your chosen university's website – bookings usually open once you have accepted an offer.