About Brighton
Popularly known for its gorgeous pebble beaches, unique Brighton Pier, and creative vibe, Brighton is filled with quirky boutiques, performers, and independent coffee shops, making it a fun and interesting choice for students looking for both academic excellence and social adventure.
Brighton is home to the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex, and it welcomes thousands of students from all over the UK and abroad. Brighton offers everything from vegan brunch in the Lanes to live music gigs at the Brighton Dome. The seaside city is the perfect combination of culture, comfort, and community. And with cities like London, Portsmouth, and Southampton a quick train ride away, weekend trips are also super easy from here.
Best Student Accommodation in Brighton
Alphaway offers you the best Brighton student accommodation, from budget-friendly shared student apartments to mid-range Brighton student rooms and luxury private student studios. All listings are safe, verified, and provide a comfortable student lifestyle. We provide 24/7 support to our students. Explore the best of student housing in Brighton:
Why Choose Brighton for Higher Education
Brighton is a great place to study, offering top-quality education along with a fun coastal lifestyle. It is home to creative industries, large companies, and budding companies, giving students endless opportunities to explore and learn. The city is also home to an inclusive student community that makes everyone feel right at home. Being the perfect combination of excellent education, opportunities, and a friendly environment, Brighton is a great place to study and live for students.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Brighton
Brighton has numerous budget-friendly neighbourhoods that provide great location, reasonable rent, and lively communities:
- Lewes Road: A popular student corridor that is easily accessible to the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex. The area has excellent bus services in addition to shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Elm Grove: Well-known for being residential, having reasonable rents, and being within walking distance from campus and the city centre.
- Moulsecoomb: Moulsecoomb is close to the University of Brighton campus. It is well-connected to the rest of the city and is budget-friendly.
- Kemp Town: A vibrant and artistic neighbourhood that is well-suited for students looking for fun by the beach with plenty of pubs, art galleries, and diversity.
- Hove: A little quieter and calmer area for the student who doesn’t prefer the city rush, Hove has a relaxing atmosphere consisting of parks, cafes, a beach, and sea views.
Different Types of Student Accommodation in Brighton
- Private Student Accommodation (PBSA): Purpose-built student housing in Brighton is designed for comfort, safety, and convenience. These fully furnished private student studios in Brighton offer shared apartments, en-suite rooms which include a private bedroom, bathroom, and shared kitchen. Studios include a private kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. All-inclusive rent typically covers Wi-Fi, utilities, on-site laundry, gyms, and communal lounges-ideal for international student housing in Brighton.
- University Halls: Managed by universities and often located close to campus, these residences vary in facilities and room types.
- Shared Apartments: Shared student apartments in Brighton are privately rented student flats near universities in Brighton, shared with fellow students. These offer flexibility but usually require independent management of bills and maintenance.
Cost of Living in Brighton for International Students
The cost of living in Brighton for students is moderate compared to other UK cities. Here's a breakdown:
- Rent: £180-£300/week depending on location and room type. Many student residences in Brighton offer all-inclusive rent.
- Groceries: £120-£160/month. Affordable supermarkets include Lidl, Aldi, and Sainsbury’s.
- Travel: £40-£60/month with a student bus pass. Brighton has excellent bus coverage.
- Dining Out: £10-£20/meal. Try student favourites in the Lanes or casual beachside bites.
- Entertainment & Shopping: £50-£100/month. From indie cinema nights to local thrift shopping and live music gigs.
Transportation in Brighton
Brighton’s public transport connects the city very well and is super convenient and affordable. Here’s what you need to know about transport in Brighton:
- Buses: The primary form of public transportation, with frequent and low-cost service throughout the city and campuses.
- Trains: Quick, same-day access to London, Gatwick Airport, and other major cities.
- Walking & Cycling: Brighton is a bike-friendly city and is small enough to get around easily on foot or by bike.
- Airport: Gatwick Airport is only 30 minutes away by train, facilitating easy travel for international students.
- Travel Passes: Discounted travel is available on local buses and trains with a student ID or travel card.
Student Life in Brighton
Brighton offers a vibrant and inclusive student life with endless options to explore:
- Restaurants & Cafés: Brighton has a great selection of restaurants and cafés, from seaside fish and chips to vegan cafés and beach bars, which are exciting and student-friendly.
- Student Clubs & Events: Student societies, open mics, or dancing the night away in beachfront clubs.
- Markets & Malls: Explore and shop at Brighton Open Market or Churchill Square Shopping Centre.
- Weekend Getaways: Take the train to London, Hastings, or Portsmouth for a weekend away.
- Libraries & Study Places: Jubilee Library and local university spaces that allow you to study with a view of the sea.
- Live Music & Art: Catch an indie gig, visit the Brighton Museum, or participate in the city's many famous annual festivals.
Universities in Brighton
- University of Brighton: The University of Brighton offers undergraduate and postgraduate degree options in a wide range of subjects such as arts, engineering, healthcare, and business. It prides itself on being inclusive with real-life experiences at its forefront, alongside working closely with national and local businesses and industries. The University also has strong links with local companies and high-quality placement opportunities.
- University of Sussex: Located on the edge of the South Downs National Park, only a few miles from Brighton city centre, the University of Sussex is regarded as a research-intensive university and sits alongside some of the best institutions in the UK. The University of Sussex is well known for its International Relations, Social Science, Life Science, and Digital Media programmes. This self-contained, modern campus, surrounded by natural beauty, is at the top of many students’ lists.
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS): BSMS forms a consortium between the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex and is one of the leading medical schools in the UK. The BSMS medical and health degrees place emphasis on community and clinical excellence education, meaning students receive a high-quality medical education. It comprises formal and informal learning, as well as being exposed to the facilities and networks of two universities.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- University Scholarships: Both the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex offer scholarships based on academic merit, subject, and financial need.
- Government Grants & Loans: UK government funding options are available for eligible domestic students.
- GCC Country-Specific Scholarships: International students from the Gulf region can apply for scholarships from ministries and embassies.
- External Scholarships: Look into the Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships for international student funding.
Tips for International Students
- Set Up a UK Bank Account: This helps manage rent and everyday expenses more easily.
- Buy a Local SIM Card: Student-friendly plans are available from giffgaff, O2, and Vodafone.
- Learn Local Phrases: A friendly “HELLO!” goes a long way in Brighton.
- Budget Wisely: Track expenses and use student discount apps like Student Beans and TOTUM.
- Alphaway Support: We offer airport pickups, welcome kits, and relocation help to make your arrival in Brighton stress-free.
Health & Safety Tips & Student Well-Being Resources
- Register with the NHS: Book a GP near your student housing in Brighton to access free healthcare.
- Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: 999 is the emergency number. Save your uni’s security number too.
- Stay Safe at Night: Use lit paths and opt for trusted taxis or night buses.
- Mental Health Services: Both universities offer free counselling, student helplines, and well-being support services.
