Prospects Postgrad UK 2007/2008 - (Page 22) 22 ADVICE AND INFORMATION www.prospects.ac.uk/PostgradUK SPONSORED BY LIVING IN THE UK Moving to a new city can be stressful enough, let alone a new country, but understanding the culture of that country will allow you to adapt to life quicker. Prospects sheds some light on what you can expect from living in the UK. COST OF LIVING As well as course fees, which can be anywhere between £6,000 and £29,000 depending on what course and institution you study at, you will need to budget for general living costs. The cost of living in the UK will depend on where you choose to study. At City University in London, for example, international students can expect to spend between £9,000 - £12,000 in 12 months on accommodation, bills, food, books, clothes and social activities, whereas in Swansea, this figure is much less at £7,000 £9,000. Of course, what you spend will depend on how well you budget but it is recommended that you allow for 12 months even if your course is shorter. It is important that you check how much money you will need with the institution you wish to study at. Most universities produce a pre-arrival guide for international students with information on costs, travel, and accommodation. UK COSA advises that you do not bring large amounts of cash with you and instead bring most of your money in travellers’ cheques. Speak to the institution about how to pay your fees, as you may be able to transfer these fees in advance through your bank. For more information on how much money to bring with you and details on opening a bank account see UKCOSA guidance notes ‘Fees and student support’, ‘Preparing for study in the UK’ and ‘Council tax and international students’ at www.ukcosa.org.uk/ pages/guidenote.htm ACCOMMODATION Most universities offer international students priority accommodation in student halls of residence which you will share with other students. If the university is unable to provide you with a place in halls, they will be able to give you information on private accommodation that can be rented relatively cheaply. A number of housing associations build housing blocks for students, which are usually near to the university. If you’d rather live in a flat, a shared house or a bed-sit, however, the university will have some information on where to find this accommodation. For renting a place to live, prices vary up and down the UK. In general, living on your own will cost you more than if you share. If you share with two or more people, it is likely to cost you less still, but this will depend on where you live. As a rule, the north of the country is cheaper than the south. In London, for example, you could pay anywhere between £80-120 per week, whereas in Leeds, you could rent a shared house for as little as £35 per week. For both university and private accommodation you will be required to sign a contract and to pay a deposit, which you will get back once your contract has finished. The International Office will be able to explain the terms of the contract to you, whether you are renting university or private accommodation. If you rent with an agency, there may also be an administration fee to pay on top of your deposit. But remember, always get some advice on where to live and have your contract checked by the university before you sign it. http://www.prospects.ac.uk/PostgradUK http://www.ukcosa.org.uk/pages/guidenote.htm http://www.ukcosa.org.uk/pages/guidenote.htm
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