United Kingdom

The UK is a multicultural country as it has a diversity of people from all over the world. This cultural diversity enhances the UK’s appeal to international students. It is particularly evident in cities like London, which serve as a hub for UK international students. Having diverse communities also encourages students to study in the UK, where they find support networks that help them adjust to their new life.

The UK Student Visa is required for international students intending to study in the UK for courses longer than six months. Students who want to get a UK student Visa must have an offer from a UK institution with a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). They also need to prove sufficient financial resources and meet English language requirements (such as IELTS or TOEFL). The application is submitted online, and the standard process for the UK Student Visa takes around 3 weeks. However, priority services are available for an additional fee.

Part-time jobs are a great option for students who want to gain work experience while focusing on their academia. Working and studying in the UK can help them develop their skills, such as time management, communication, and problem-solving. Students with part-time roles are allowed to work 20 hours per week (4 hours daily if spread over 5 days), which gives them the space and flexibility to attend their classes, study and prepare for their assignments and exams.

1. University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is one of the oldest universities worldwide. It has 44 colleges with around 22,0000 students, of whom 40% are international. The university has 48 undergraduate degrees, and it also offers a high reputation in post-graduate programs.

• Ranking: The University of Oxford is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities according to QS World University Rankings. However, it holds the 3rd position for 2025 in the same ranking.

• Known for: Humanities, Medicine, Law, Business, Engineering and Computer Science.

• Campuses: Oxford's colleges and university buildings are spread throughout the city. For example, Balliol College is in the City Centre and Christ Church is in St Aldate's. Plenty of student accommodation in Oxford City Centre and student apartments in St Aldate's are available.

2. University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge is one of the most prestigious and ancient universities in the UK and worldwide. About 21,000 students attend the university, 38% of whom are international.

• Ranking: The university ranks 5th for 2025, according to QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education.

• Known for: Psychology, Arts and Humanities, Computer Science, and Life Sciences.

• Campuses: The university has 31 colleges with multiple departments across the city of Cambridge. Rather than a single campus, the colleges are spread throughout different neighbourhoods. For instance, Trinity College and St. John's College are in the City Centre, while Girton College is in the Girton area. There are numerous affordable Cambridge student accommodation options in City Centre and student studio rooms in the Girton area.

3. Imperial College London (ICL):

Imperial College London is one of the best universities in the UK. It has a large international student population, with 51.7% of its students being international.

• Ranking: The university ranks 2nd for 2025, according to the QS ranking for universities.

• Known for: Engineering, Natural Sciences, Medicine, and Economics.

• Campuses: The university’s main campus and Key buildings, such as the Imperial College Business School, Imperial college London (ICL), the White City Campus and The Royal School of Mines, are in South Kensington. A variety of student accommodation options in South Kensington is available, including studios, student apartments and co-living spaces.

4. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE):

LSE is one of the world's leading universities for social sciences, which attracts students from across the globe. 65.1% of its students are international.

• Ranking: According to the QS 2025 ranking, the school ranks 50th among the top universities worldwide.

• Known for: Economics, Political Science, and Social Sciences.

• Campuses: LSE's key buildings, like the Old Building and the London School of Economics Library, are in Central London, while other departments are across the neighbourhoods of Clerkenwell and Bloomsbury. Affordable student accommodation in London City Centre Studio rooms in Clerkenwell and student apartments in Bloomsbury are available.

5. University College London (UCL):

UCL, London’s prestigious university, offers a variety of programs for postgraduate and undergraduate students. Students from all over the world choose to study at this university, with 57% of international students.

Ranking: The university ranks 9th for 2025 according to the QS World University Rankings 2025.

Known for: Engineering, Medicine, and Social Sciences.

Campuses: (UCL) key buildings like the Wilkins Building are in Bloomsbury.  However, UCL's where additional departments and research centres are nearby Fitzrovia and Euston. Various student accommodation options in Bloomsbury, Fitzrovia and Euston are available.

6.  University of Manchester:

The University of Manchester has a broad range of programs and a strong research reputation. 45% of its students are international.

Ranking: The university ranks 34th in the world and 6# in the UK according to the QS ranking.

Known for: Engineering, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences.

Campuses: Key buildings like the John Rylands Library are in the University District on Oxford Road. A variety of student accommodation options in the University District and Oxford Road are available.

7.  University of Edinburgh:

The University of Edinburgh was established in 1582 and is one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world and the best universities in the UK.

Ranking: The university ranks 27th according to the QS ranking.

Known for: Medicine, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences.

Campuses: The university’s main buildings, such as the iconic Old College and George Square, are in Edinburgh City Centre. In addition to these, there are campuses in Newington and Marchmont. Students can find a variety of Edinburgh accommodation options in City Centre, Newington and Marchmont.

8. King's College London:

King's College London was established in the 19th century by King George IV. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK.

Ranking: This UK university ranks 40th in the QS 2025 Ranking.

Known for: Medicine, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences.

Campuses: The main campus is in Central London, while additional campuses are in Waterloo and Guy's Hospital. London Student accommodation options in City Centre and student apartments in Waterloo, South Bank, and Holborn are available.

9. University of Warwick:

The University of Warwick is known for its high academic and research standards. It is also home to Warwick Business School (WBS), one of the top business schools in Europe.

Ranking: The university ranks among the best universities in the world according to The QS ranking, with the 69th rank.

Known for: Economics, Business, and Social Sciences.

Campuses: The university's main campus is the Gibbet Hill area of Coventry. Coventry Student accommodation options and student rooms in Gibbet Hill are plentiful.

10. University of Bristol:

The University of Bristol is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and worldwide. It is a member of the Russell Group, which represents leading research-intensive universities.

Ranking: For 2025, the university ranks 54th among the top 100 universities.

Known for: Engineering, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences.

Campuses: The university’s main campus is near the city of Clifton. Other campuses are in Stoke Bishop and Frenchay. Students are offered numerous Bristol student accommodation options in Clifton. There is also a wide range of student studios in Stoke Bishop and Redland.

11. University of Glasgow:

The University of Glasgow was established in 1451, which makes it the fourth-oldest university in the English-speaking world.

Ranking: The university ranks 78th for 2025.

Known for: Medicine, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences.

Campuses: The main campus is in the West End of Glasgow. Additional campuses are in Garscube Estate. Students can find a wide range of Glasgow student accommodation options in the West End, as well as student apartments in Garscube Estate.

Please note that these costs are approximate and subject to change over time.

According to Atlas Apply, 125,000 international students in the UK choose London as their study destination, making it the most preferred city. This is followed by Manchester, with 50,000 international students and Birmingham, with approximately 30,000 international students.

London: As the capital city, London is a global hub for education, culture, and business. It has numerous top-ranked universities, such as University College London (UCL), the London School of Economics (LSE), and King's College London. As a global hub, the city provides internships and job opportunities in industries like finance, tech, and media. Students can also find a variety of student accommodation options in London to suit different budgets and preferences.

Edinburgh: Scotland's capital, Edinburgh, is known for its educational institutions like the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University. The city’s historical landmarks, such as Edinburgh Castle and festivals, like the Edinburgh Fringe, attract students globally. It is also home to green spaces like Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat. A wide range of Edinburgh student accommodation options is available to suit different needs and budgets.

Manchester: Compared to London, Manchester offers a lower cost of living while maintaining a high quality of education. The city is home to institutions such as the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. The city hosts major employers like the BBC at MediaCityUK and global firms in finance and engineering, offering strong internship and job vacancies. Furthermore, there is a wide range of student accommodation in Manchester that matches various budgets and preferences.

Glasgow: Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow, is home to prestigious universities such as the University of Glasgow and the University of Strathclyde. The city offers a lower cost of living than many UK cities while providing high-quality education and research opportunities. Students can also find diverse student accommodation options in Glasgow.

There are several aspects you need to consider when choosing your student accommodation for a better experience:

1. Location

The nearer your accommodation is to your university, public transport, and essential amenities like supermarkets and medical facilities, the more time and transportation costs it saves you.

2. Type of Accommodation

From private options and co-living spaces to purpose-built student accommodation and homestays, students have a range of accommodation options, each with its own advantages depending on individual lifestyles and preferences.

3. Facilities and Services

Features such as Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, study spaces, social areas, and security measures are essential. Some properties offer additional amenities like on-site gyms, courtyards or cleaning services.

4. Safety and Security

Ensure the accommodation has proper security features, such as CCTV, secure entry systems, and on-site staff. Your safety should always be a priority.

5. Budget

Set a budget covering rent, bills (electricity, water, internet), and other costs like maintenance fees.

AXO Oxford Circus:

A London student accommodation that’s only a two-minute walk to central London, offering proximity to vital attractions and universities. This property also provides plenty of amenities to enhance the student’s experience, including high-speed Wi-Fi, on-site laundry, and social areas.

Westfield:

One of the best Edinburgh student accommodation. It offers a wide range of studios and en-suite rooms. It’s also minutes away from the University of Edinburgh and The Open University in Scotland.

Manchester Court:

An affordable student accommodation in Manchester. This property combines proximity to the central city, vital attractions and universities with modern amenities and a variety of room options, offering students the best possible experience.

Glasgow West End:

Glasgow West End is the best student accommodation near the University of Glasgow. The property is an 11-minute walk to the university and a 21-minute by public transport to Glasgow City Centre.