It's estimated that a single student living in London will need approximately £1,334 a month to meet basic living expenses such as accommodation costs, food, books and equipment as well as other necessities. This is in line with Home Office recommended figures for living inside London. These figures are given as a guide only and the amount you actually spend will depend a lot on your personal lifestyle. The following breakdown of costs can give you some idea of how this figure is reached. Don't forget that your costs will be much higher if you plan on bringing your family to the UK as your dependants.
Insurance
It's very important that you have insurance to cover your personal property. If your laptop and other belongings are damaged or stolen it will cost you a lot of money to replace them. Endsleigh is the recommended insurance company for students.
Student NUS discount
After you have enrolled at London Met, you can apply for an NUS (National Union of Students) extra (or TOTUM) card. The cost of the membership will vary but entitles you to discounts in hundreds of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, so it shouldn't take long for you to gain back the initial cost of the card.
Food
On average you will need to budget for spending an average of between £50 and £70 on food per week. This is based on eating breakfast, lunch and a hot evening meal. London is full of great places to eat. There are many outlets for buying food on and around our campuses that are extremely affordable. You can find out more about where to eat in London on the visit London website.
Heating and lighting
If you choose to live in private rented accommodation, the cost of heating will not be included in your rent. If you're not used to cold or damp weather, you may need to use the heating for up to seven months of the year.
Cheaper rented accommodation doesn't usually have central heating, and gas or electric fires provided can be expensive to run. Allow a minimum of £800 for the year.
Books and equipment
London Metropolitan University have well-stocked libraries where you should be able to find all the books required for your course.
There may also be times where you'll have to purchase your own books. The cost of books will vary for different courses. You're strongly advised to check with your department see if there are any extra costs. You'll have to pay for your own stationary, computer disks/memory sticks and photocopying.
Travel costs
All students are entitled to a 30% discount on travel in London but only if you have a Student Oyster card. You can apply for your Student Oyster card on the Transport for London (TfL) website.
A young person's railcard will entitle you to 1/3 off normal nationwide train fares, allowing you to visit other parts of the UK at discounted prices.
Cycling is a fast and affordable way of travelling but remember to stay safe and always wear a helmet. Cycling safety information can be found on the UK government website and also on the Transport for London (TFL) website.
Council tax
Council tax is the system of local taxation charged to all residents in the UK by the local government councils to part-fund local public services such as waste disposal, policing, fire service, schools etc. Council tax charges are based on the value of your property and consider the number and type of occupants.
Do I have to pay the council tax?
Full-time students usually don't have to pay council tax. If you live alone or in a household where everyone is either a student or a Student visa (previously Tier 4) dependant of yours, you won't need to pay any council tax as the property will be exempt. You should request a Council tax exemption letter from your School Office and then give it to your local council office.
Further details on council tax and international students can be found at GOV.UK and UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).
Further information
Food: Supermarket comparison
Books: Blackwells, Amazon
UK weather: BBC UK weather
How much will it cost to study in the UK?: UKCISA
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