Budgeting for life in the UK

The cost of books varies for different courses and continues to rise; the average figure for one year is £480.

You are strongly advised to check with your college if there are any extra costs anticipated. There are many public computers available to use on campus, but most students choose to bring their own personal computer. If you are not in University accommodation you may be charged extra for internet connection in your room.

The price of clothes varies enormously and how much you spend will depend on your budget. Shops such as Primark, TK Maxx, H&M and some large supermarkets have very inexpensive clothing lines. The average figure for warm clothes, for one year, is £540. Please see our ‘what to pack’ section for more information.

Should you need to renew your visa whilst you are in the UK, you will need to make payments towards the application fee (currently £494.20, more if you choose priority service) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (£470). Costs per applicant. You may have to attend a biometrics appointment.

To cover such items as laundrette and dry-cleaning, personal hygiene items and household articles, you will need approximately £400 for the year.

You will also need some money to follow interests beyond your academic studies. Even the most dedicated students need time to relax and unwind! Here is an idea of how much it might cost you:

Travelling around the UK can be expensive if you don’t plan ahead. There are student discount cards you can buy for national rail and bus networks and these are worth purchasing in if you will use these services. For example, a single rail ticket bought on the day of travel from Exeter to London could cost £80, but if you book in advance and with a student card it could cost around £50. National Express offers cheaper alternatives. Low cost airline carriers operate from Exeter, Bristol and Newquay airports and are worth considering if you are looking for a closer alternative to Heathrow.

Useful reference websites: International student calculator: studentcalculator.org.uk numbeo.com

Books: bookshop.blackwell.co.uk amazon.co.uk

UK weather: bbc.co.uk/weather

UK living and culture: britishcouncil.org

The cost of an evening out will vary. There are a wide range of places and prices in Exeter, Falmouth and their surrounding areas and many offer a student discount. For example, if you go clubbing at the weekend expect to pay between £5 –£10 for entry, or pay £8 for an inexpensive lunch.