{"id":8775,"date":"2026-07-15T15:05:20","date_gmt":"2026-07-15T15:05:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.extravelmoney.com\/blog\/?p=8775"},"modified":"2026-07-15T15:12:32","modified_gmt":"2026-07-15T15:12:32","slug":"hidden-costs-studying-in-uk","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.extravelmoney.com\/blog\/hidden-costs-studying-in-uk\/","title":{"rendered":"Hidden Costs While Studying in the UK\u00a0for International Students"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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How much does it really cost to study in the UK? The real cost of studying in the UK often goes beyond the expenses shown in university brochures as several everyday and unexpected expenses can quickly increase a student\u2019s monthly budget. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This article looks at these hidden expenses through the experiences of an international student. Rose Maria Job, a Master\u2019s graduate from Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge, shares the practical lessons she learned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also Read: How to Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad for Indian Students<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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1. Travel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Trains are generally the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between UK cities. However, ticket prices vary significantly depending on the route, travel time and how early you book. However, the UK government offers a \u2018Rail Card\u2019 for students and other eligible groups, offering significant discounts. Another way to save on train fares is to purchase an \u2018advance ticket,\u2019 available when you book 2-3 days before the trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Buses are the next-best option, although travel time is generally longer than with trains. For example, the journey from London to Manchester by train takes about 2.5 hours, and the ticket price is approximately \u00a3100 (~INR 12,800). Meanwhile, the bus journey takes around 9 hours, with ticket prices ranging from \u00a315 to \u00a325 (~INR 1920- 3200).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u201cFor short journeys, I usually recommend checking buses first because they can be much more economical. For longer trips, trains are often worth considering because of the time and comfort they offer,\u201d says Rose.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2. Housing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Property owners usually require a security deposit equal to one or two months’ rent before providing access to the property. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Activation charges for utilities such as electricity, heating, and internet are seldom factored into the advertised rent. Additionally, you will need funds to purchase essential furniture and basic household items. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The initial setup expenses can range from INR 1.2 to 2.5 lakh. Be prepared to pay these setup fees for these services during your first week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Food Delivery<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Food delivery is expensive overseas as it comes with a lot of charges. A meal listed at \u00a312 may cost significantly more after delivery charges, service fees and small-order fees of around \u00a35 are added.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u201cI would always suggest going for home-cooked meals whenever possible. A weekly meal prep saves a lot of time and money. But there will be days when you finish a long 9-hour shift, can barely stand, and just want someone to bring you a warm meal. On those days, it’s perfectly fine to choose food delivery as a little treat for yourself.”<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

The important thing is to treat food delivery as an occasional expense rather than part of the everyday routine. Even one or two unnecessary orders every week can make a substantial difference to a student\u2019s monthly food budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3. Books and Other Course Requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Some courses require textbooks, special software licenses or lab equipment not covered by tuition fees. Additionally, some courses may involve mandatory field trips or projects that incur extra costs for travel and materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rose recommends checking these requirements before the course begins rather than assuming everything will be provided by the university.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Students can reduce these expenses by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n