About Manchester
Manchester is a hub of education and culture. It has various museums, stadiums, and music venues that attract thousands of tourists from around the world. The city also houses some of the world’s top-ranking universities, like the University of Manchester and the Manchester Metropolitan University. Being a combination of academic excellence and an exciting art and culture scene makes Manchester nothing short of a dream for students. Affordable housing, brilliant public transport, and a great social life- Manchester has everything that makes a city a great place for students to live in.
Best Student Accommodation in Manchester
You’ll find tons of great options for Manchester student accommodation. Most of these are fully furnished, equipped with all modern amenities, and just a few minutes from major university campuses. Here are the most popular options of student housing in Manchester:
Why Choose Manchester for Higher Education
Manchester is known for world-class universities like the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. Students come here from across the globe to study everything from business to healthcare. It's also a budget-friendly city, with cheaper rent, food, and transport than London. With a lively student scene and a growing job market, Manchester is easy to settle into and hard to leave.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Manchester
Manchester is filled with safe and convenient areas to live in for students that are also just a few minutes from major universities. You'll find various affordable and safe student accommodations in these areas:
- Fallowfield: Fallowfield has all types of student accommodations- from affordable shared rooms to luxury student accommodations and premium studios. This area is located just a few minutes from the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University by bus. So, if you’re looking for Manchester University student housing, this is the best area to consider.
- Rusholme: Famous for its Curry Mile (home to dozens of South Asian restaurants), Rusholme offers affordable student flats and shared houses within walking distance of the universities.
- Hulme: Located close to the city centre, Hulme provides good transport links and a mix of student apartments and private rentals.
- Oxford Road Corridor: This area is located near the University of Manchester and has tons of luxurious and affordable student homes.
- Didsbury: Didsbury has various parks, markets, affordable cafes, and homes, some of the most luxurious student accommodations in Manchester.
- Withington: You’ll find some of the most premium and affordable student housing in Manchester here. It also has local supermarkets, pubs, and great restaurants for students, and lets you enjoy your student life away from the crowds.
- Salford Quays: This area in Manchester offers high-end modern student apartments and studio flats. The area is very close to MediaCityUK and is thus hugely populated with students who are pursuing courses in media and business.
Different Types of Student Accommodation in Manchester
- Private Student Halls or PBSAs: These are Manchester student accommodations managed by private accommodation providers. These types of student housing in Manchester offer different types of rooms that are fully furnished and have ample storage, study space, and all modern amenities. It offers different types of rooms, like shared, ensuite, and studios. Private student accommodations often have luxurious amenities like study rooms, coffee bars, cinema rooms, games rooms, gym, etc. These Manchester student accommodations also have all-inclusive rent, which means all bills are included in the rent and are well equipped with safety amenities like key card entry, 24/7 security staff, and CCTVs.
- University Halls: University halls are Manchester student accommodations managed by the university. They offer fully furnished rooms and are often located on campus or near campus. Although university halls tend to get filled up quickly and may have stricter rules than other types of student housing in Manchester.
- Shared Housing and HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupations): These are shared student apartments in Manchester to rent and are managed by individual homeowners. These can be 1, 2, or 3-bedroom flats that allow room sharing. Although rent is not always all-inclusive. Bills must be taken care of separately.
Cost of Living in Manchester
Cost of living in Manchester for students varies depending on lifestyle, type of student room and area you choose to live in. Here is a breakdown of the cost of living in Manchester:
- Rent: Shared houses and en-suite rooms cost around £400-£700/month. Studios and private halls range from £550-£900/month.
- Utilities: If not included, expect £100-£130/month for electricity, gas, water, and internet.
- Groceries: Weekly supermarket runs come to £120-£150/month. Shop from the local market for affordable groceries.
- Dining Out: Budget around £100/month for casual meals and coffee shops.
- Transport: A student bus pass or tram card costs £40-£70/month.
- Entertainment: Nights out, gym, and cinema/events may total £80-£150/month.
Transportation in Manchester
It is super easy to get around Manchester with its wide network of public transport. Here’s everything you should know about it:
- Metrolink Trams: The Metrolink trams connect all of Manchester. This is the easiest public transport option for getting to the city center, university campuses, and suburbs like Fallowfield and Didsbury. It runs every 6-12 minutes until midnight.
- Buses: The main providers of buses in Manchester are Stagecoach, First Bus, and Arriva. Local buses also run late at night during weekends.
- Cycling: Manchester is a bike-friendly city. You’ll find dedicated bike lanes all over the city, along with safe storage areas.
- Student Discounts on Travel: Students can save on travel with discounted bus, tram, and train passes, including options like UniRider, Stagecoach, and the 16-25 Railcard for reduced fares across Manchester and nearby cities.
- Manchester Airport: Manchester Airport has direct flights to over 200 destinations in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the USA. It is 15-30 mins away by train, tram, or cab.
- Walking: Most student areas are a 10-30-minute walk from university buildings.
Student Life in Manchester
Manchester is filled with beautiful cafes, restaurants serving mouth-watering food, and exciting outdoor activities for students at a discount. Whatever you’re looking for, Manchester will have something for you to do! Here’s where all the buzz is, in Manchester:
- Where to Go Out: Most students head to Wilmslow Road in Fallowfield for a night out at spots like The Font and The Friendship Inn are always buzzing. If you're after something a bit different, the Northern Quarter is full of indie bars and hidden gems like The Washhouse.
- Best Cafés to Study In: Takk in the Northern Quarter is perfect if you need good coffee and some quiet time. Chapter One Books is another great spot with loads of plug points and a super relaxed vibe to get your uni work done in peace.
- Staying Active: Uni gyms are usually the cheapest, and they’ve got everything from swim sessions to boxing. If you prefer off-campus, PureGym and The Gym Group have student deals and 24/7 access.
- Outdoor Sports & Rec: Whether you're into football, rugby, or climbing, loads are happening at Fallowfield grounds and places like the Manchester Climbing Centre.
- Everyday Discounts: Always check apps like UNiDAYS or Student Beans. They’ll save you money on meals, clothes, and even concert tickets. They’re seriously useful.
Universities in Manchester
- University of Manchester: According to QS World University Rankings, the University of Manchester is among the top 30 universities worldwide. The University of Manchester is well-known for its research in artificial intelligence, life sciences, and sustainable development, and its programs in Engineering, Medicine, Computer Science, and Business.
- Manchester Metropolitan University: Manchester Metropolitan University is known for its programs in Business, Arts, and Science, and attracts thousands of students from around the world for these programs. Other than academic excellence, the university also offers unparalleled career opportunities from its strong ties with Manchester’s creative and digital sectors.
- Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM): The Royal Northern College of Music is one of the most prestigious institutes in the UK for music and performing arts. The university is known for its programs in classical, jazz, and contemporary music.
- University of Salford: The University of Salford is known for its programs in Media, Engineering, and Health Sciences. The MediaCityUK campus of the University of Salford is home to BBC and ITV, which gives students in journalism and broadcasting unparalleled opportunities and exposure.
- Manchester College: Manchester College is known for its vocational courses and further education programs in fields like Healthcare, Construction, IT, and Hospitality.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- University of Manchester: Offers the Global Futures Scholarship for top students from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Humanitarian Scholarships cover full tuition and living costs for students from conflict zones.
- Manchester Metropolitan University: The Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is awarded automatically to high-achieving students. MMU alumni also get a 10% discount on postgraduate programs.
- University of Salford: Their International Excellence Award offers a Scholarship based on academic merit. Exceptional PhD students may be eligible for a full tuition waiver through the Chancellor’s Scholarship.
- UK Government Loans: Home/EU students can apply for Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans.
- International Scholarships: Chevening covers full master’s costs for students with 2+ years’ work experience. Commonwealth and GREAT Scholarships offer full or partial funding to students from eligible countries.
- Other Funding Sources: Explore grants like Saltire Scholarships (for Canadian, US, and Indian students), British Council awards, and private sponsors like Santander or HSBC.
Tips for International Students
- Join a Few Clubs: Joining some student groups, be it a cultural society, sports team, or debate club, is one of the easiest and most organic ways to make friends.
- Open a UK Bank Account Early: If you visit a local branch to set up your account within your first week, it will relieve a lot of stress for the remainder of your time in the UK when it comes to rent payments, receiving part time job wages, or spending on day to day necessities.
- Save on Travel: If you use public transport frequently, getting a 16-25 Railcard or Student Oyster card will save you money in the long run.
- Go to Welcome Events: Even if you're feeling shy or overwhelmed, give them a try. These events are full of students just like you- new, nervous, and eager to make friends. You might just meet your future best friend there.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: Whether it’s about classes, accommodation, or the best place for a meal deal, don’t hesitate to reach out. Most students and staff are happy to help, and chances are they’ve been exactly where you are.
Health & Safety Tips & Student Well-Being Resources
- Register with a GP so you can use the NHS if needed.
- Save your uni’s emergency numbers. You never know when you might need it.
- Most universities offer free counselling. Don’t hesitate to use it.
- Stick to well-lit routes or share Ubers if heading home late.
- Talk to someone if things feel overwhelming. You're not alone here.
