About London
London is more than a place you visit; it's an experience. With iconic monuments like Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and red buses all around, it's hard to find a city that meshes proud history and youthful energy like London. Students from all corners of the world visit, creating a diverse, open-minded city. London is home to worldwide-renowned universities such as University College London (UCL), King's College London (KCL), Imperial College London, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), and the London School of Economics (LSE). There is never a dull moment in this iconic city for students, whether you’re wandering around the quirky shops of Camden, working in a quaint café in Notting Hill, or simply looking at the view from the London Eye. If the city becomes overwhelming and you want a change of scenery, you can take a quick train to cities like Oxford, Brighton, and Cambridge.
Best Student Accommodation in London
You’ll find affordable and luxury student accommodation in London with Alphaway. Whatever you’re looking for, be it a shared student apartment in London, mid-range en-suite student room, or private student studio in London, we have it all. Our London student housing options are verified, safe, and supported by a 24/7 team. Here are some of the top-rated London student accommodation options:
Why Choose London for Higher Education
London offers students so much more than just great universities. There are fantastic internship opportunities with multinational companies, a limitless cultural scene, and one of the most fun and social atmospheres in the world. It is also home to a welcoming community of students from all over the world. The multicultural scene of the city, its iconic landmarks, libraries, museums, and unmatched job and internship opportunities for students make it one of the best cities for students in the world.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in London
London is a huge city, and you’ll find some areas more populated with students than others. This is due to their proximity to major university campuses, nearby markets, libraries, and availability of affordable student housing options. Here are some of the best areas in London for affordable student housing:
- Camden: Known for its music scene, street markets, and alternative vibe. Close to UCL and SOAS, with great transport links.
- Stratford: It is modern and well-connected, home to Westfield Mall and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Great for students at UEL and Loughborough London.
- Shoreditch: A trendy place full of life, with lots of art, food spots, and nightlife. Perfect for you if you love a buzzing atmosphere.
- Bloomsbury: Quiet and central, ideal for students at UCL, Birkbeck, and other University of London colleges.
- Whitechapel: Affordable and lively, near Queen Mary University of London. Well connected by the Tube.
- Hammersmith: Great balance of peace and convenience, close to Imperial College and scenic riverside walks.
Different Types of Student Accommodation in London
- Private Student Accommodation (PBSA): These are purpose-built student housing in London and managed just for students. These student rooms in London are all-inclusive, fully furnished, including amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, study lounges, gyms, laundry facilities, and security detail on-site 24/7. They are the best option for student living, providing both comfort and convenience. Choose from shared configurations (shared living), ensuite (private room and bathroom with shared kitchen), and studio (private everything).
- University Halls: Managed by universities and usually located near campus. The facilities and room styles may vary according to the university.
- Shared Student Apartments: These are privately rented flats with other students. These offer more independence but require managing bills and leases.
Cost of Living in London for International Students
London may not be as affordable as other cities in the UK, but if you budget smartly, you can save money on travel, food, and rent easily. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living in London for students:
- Rental prices: £180-£350/week depending on location and type of room. Most PBSA includes bills and Wi-Fi.
- Groceries: £100-£150/month at local supermarkets.
- Travel: £80-£100/month (with the precious 18+ Oyster card or Travelcard).
- Eating Out: £10-£25 per meal. London has cheap eats and fancy restaurants both; you can choose which one to go for.
- Entertainment and shopping: £60-£100/month at the movies, a show, or shopping on Oxford Street or at places like Camden.
Transportation in London
- Tube (Underground): The fastest way to get around town, especially in Zones 1-3.
- Buses: The Cheapest way to travel, and buses run every day of the week, every hour. Great for late-night trips.
- Overground: Connects outer boroughs to greater central London.
- National Rail: Great for weekend escapes or commutes if you live nearby.
- Airport Trains: Direct trains to Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted.
- Student Travel Passes: You can get a student Oyster card (30% discount) or a 16-25 railcard for discounts.
Student Life in London
London offers the perfect balance between academic focus and a vibrant social life. With students from across the world calling it home, the city is welcoming, dynamic, and full of opportunities to learn, connect, and explore.
- Restaurants & Cafés: Whether it’s a cosy brunch in Notting Hill or midnight biryani in Brick Lane, there’s always something new to try.
- Student Clubs & Events: From university societies to open mic nights, there’s something for every interest- academic, cultural, or creative.
- Markets & Malls: Spend your weekends at Camden Market, Borough Market, or shopping at Westfield for fashion, books, and food.
- Weekend Getaways: Quick train rides can take you to Oxford, Brighton, Windsor, or even Paris via the Eurostar.
- Libraries & Study Spots: London is filled with beautiful public libraries, university study spaces, and quiet cafés to focus when you need to.
- Live Music & Art: Catch gigs in Shoreditch, explore the Tate Modern, or unwind with outdoor cinema in summer- culture is everywhere.
Universities in London
- University College London (UCL): Located in Bloomsbury, UCL is one of the best universities in the world and is well known for its research and diversity.
- King's College London (KCL): King's excels in law, health, and humanities, and has various campus throughout central London, including Strand, Denmark Hill, and Guy's Hospital.
- Imperial College London (ICL): ICL is strong in science, engineering, and business, and is in South Kensington with some of the best research facilities in the world.
- Queen Mary University of London (QMUL): Queen Mary is to be found in East London and is well-respected for work in medicine, law, and social sciences.
- London School of Economics (LSE): LSE has a world-renowned reputation in economics and political science and attracts students from around the world.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- University Scholarships: UCL, KCL, QMUL, and others offer merit and need-based scholarships.
- Government Student Loans: Domestic students may be eligible for a tuition loan and a maintenance loan.
- GCC Scholarships: There is funding available through embassies and ministries of education for students from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and so on.
- External Scholarships: See Chevening, Commonwealth, and others, or private international scholarships.
Tips for International Students
- Open a UK Bank Account: Go with HSBC, Lloyds, or Barclays.
- Set up a Local SIM: GiffGaff, EE, and Lebara have solid student plans.
- Learn the Lingo: "Cheers" or "You alright?" goes a long way.
- Use Discount Services: Sign up for Student Beans or UNiDAYS.
- Alphaway Services: We provide airport pickups and an arrival welcome kit to help you settle into your new home and a new city seamlessly.
Health & Safety Tips & Student Well-Being Resources
- Join the NHS: Once you're registered with your local GP. You will have access to free healthcare.
- Emergency services: Save 999 and your university emergency line into your phone.
- Smart Travel: Stick to well-lit areas when walking, particularly at night.
- Mental health support: All universities will have counselling and wellness services - make use of them if needed.
