​​​Cost of living in the UK for Malaysian ​​students

The United Kingdom (UK) is an attractive study destination for international students, renowned for its world-class universities and diverse culture. However, if you want to enjoy a balanced and less stressful experience, you’ll need to know how to budget and plan finances accordingly. Knowing how much you need to pay for living expenses is a great starting point, but keep in mind the cost of living may be higher or lower depending on where you choose to live and your individual spending habits.  On average, the UK Government suggests you will need:  

• A minimum of £12,180 per year 

• A maximum of £15,180 per year 

Do note that these figures do not include the cost of tuition fees for international students. There are some handy websites you can use to help budget for your time in the UK. One option is Expatistan, which calculates the cost of living in the UK using up-to-date, crowd-sourced ​​​​data.  

Overview of living costs in the UK 

Based on the prices for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses, the average annual cost of living in the UK for international students is:  

• £1,265 per month if you live in London for the majority (more than 50 percent) of your study. 

• £1,015 per month if you live outside London for the majority of your study. 

Of course, the above is just an average. The city or regional area you choose, your chosen accommodation type, your lifestyle, and your personal spending habits will all significantly impact your actual expenses.

In comparison to living costs in Malaysia, the UK’s living costs can be notably higher, particularly in major cities like London. London, in particular, is known for its high rent and transportation expenses. 

However, you can find more affordable options in other UK cities. For example, studying in Cardiff is generally less expensive than studying in London, offering a more budget-friendly experience for students.

Here are the typical costs for accommodation to consider when calculating your overall monthly expenses as an international student in the UK: 

On-campus accommodation 

Campus dorms typically range from £360 to £1000 per month, depending on the university and the type of accommodation. This typically includes the cost of utilities like electricity, water, and internet. 

Private accommodation (off-campus) 

Renting alone in London can cost between £1,600 and £2,190 per month, while in other major cities, this ranges from around £300 to £700 per month. For international students, shared housing is a common option, with costs ranging from £320 to £1,000 per month. 

Homestays 

Staying with a local family in a homestay arrangement typically costs between £400 and £800 per month. This price often includes meals, which makes it a convenient option for students who are new to the UK and prefer a structured living environment. 

Student halls of residence 

Purpose-built student halls of residence generally cost between £480 and £1,400 per month, depending on the location and facilities. These differ from on-campus dormitories as they are usually managed by private companies rather than the university itself, often offering more modern amenities and independent living spaces.  

Tips for managing accommodation costs 

Several factors influence how much you'll pay for accommodation. Location is a primary driver, with city-centre accommodation typically commanding higher rents. Proximity to your campus and the availability of convenient public transport also play a significant role.  If you're looking to find affordable accommodation, here are some tips:  

• Use platforms like ​​University Living and Best Student Halls. 

• Consider shared accommodation or student housing to reduce costs.

On average, expect to spend for food and grocery between £80 and £250 per month, depending on your shopping habits and dietary preferences. If you prefer eating out, a basic meal at an inexpensive restaurant might cost between £10 and £20, while fast food is relatively cheaper, at around £5 to £10 per meal. 

Tips to save on food costs 

To keep your food expenses down, consider these tips: 

• Cook meals at home and shop at local supermarkets. 

• Look for student meal deals and discounts at local eateries. 

Transportation costs are another essential part of monthly expenses for international students in the UK. 

Public transport 

Public transport costs vary depending on the city. In London, using an Oyster Card or contactless payment typically costs between £70 and £150 per month. In other cities, expect to spend between £50 and £100 per month, depending on the city and the distance you travel. 

Bicycles and car rentals 

If you prefer alternative modes of transport, renting a bicycle typically costs between £20 and £50 per month. There’s also the option to rent a car. Although this is less common for students and can be expensive, ranging from £150 to £980 per week. 

Tips for saving on transport 

Here are some ways to minimise your transport expenses: 

• Use student travel discounts and passes (e.g., the 16-25 Railcard). 

• Walk or cycle for short trips. 

Your monthly expenses as an international student in the UK should also factor in the costs for utilities and internet, since these are must-haves for everyone. 

Utility (gas, electricity, water) costs 

Utility costs typically range from £60 to £150 per month, depending on the accommodation type and the city. If you live in shared housing, these costs are usually split among the residents, making it relatively affordable. 

Internet and phone costs 

Broadband services generally cost between £30 and £50 per month. Meanwhile, mobile phone plans can range from £10 to £40 per month, depending on the plan and your usage.  

Tips for managing utility costs 

To manage your utility costs effectively, you should:  

• Opt for prepaid mobile plans for flexibility. 

• Consider room sharing to help split the utility costs. 

• Choose efficient, budget-friendly internet and phone providers.

Healthcare is a vital consideration for international students living abroad. In the event of illness or injury, it's crucial to have access to appropriate medical care. Here’s an overview of the health insurance system in the UK and related expenses: 

NHS surcharge 

International students must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application costs £470 per year for students. This allows students to be covered under the National Health Service (NHS), which is the UK's publicly funded healthcare system. 

The NHS covers most healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital treatments, and some medications. However, it does not cover certain services like dental care, eye care, and prescriptions, which can be costly, depending on the treatment required and your individual needs. 

Private health insurance 

While the NHS provides comprehensive healthcare, some students may prefer to have additional coverage or wish to access services not covered by the NHS such as dental and optical care. The cost of private health insurance typically ranges from £150 to £500 per year, depending on the provider and the level of coverage. 

Tips for managing health insurance costs 

To best manage your healthcare expenses:  

• Be sure to pay the NHS surcharge as part of your visa application. 

• Consider purchasing additional private health insurance for extra coverage. 

• Check if your university offers any health plans or discounted services for international students.

Monthly expenses for international students in the UK should also include entertainment and personal spending. It's important to track and budget for these costs, as they can quickly add up and impact your overall finances.  ​​​

Entertainment 

Entertainment costs can vary widely. Here are some basic examples:  

• Cinema: £10 to £20 per ticket for a standard movie. 

• Concerts and Theatre: £20 to £100 per event, depending on the venue and performer. 

• Nightlife: Going out for drinks or socialising at bars/clubs can range from £10 to £60. 

Tips for saving on personal expenses

Here are some ways you can lower your entertainment and personal expenses: 

• Find discounted student memberships or take advantage of university gyms. 

• Opt for activities that provide student discounts. 

• Take advantage of free local events (community festivals, outdoor movies). 

Tuition fees for international students in the UK vary widely depending on the university, course, and location. Understanding the general fee structure is essential for planning to study in the UK, as it will significantly impact your overall budget and cost of living.  

Undergraduate tuition fees 

Undergraduate tuition fees typically range from £10,000 to £38,000 per year. The cost varies depending on the subject, with arts and humanities generally being more affordable compared to specialised fields like medicine or engineering. Here’s an overview of typical annual fees:  

• Arts and Humanities: £10,000 to £18,000 per year 

• Business/Management: £12,000 to £30,000 per year 

• Engineering/Technology: £15,000 to £35,000 per year 

• Law: £15,000 to £40,000 per year 

• Science: £12,000 to £25,000 per year 

• Medicine and Health: £20,000 to £50,000 per year 

Postgraduate tuition fees 

Postgraduate tuition fees generally range from £12,000 to £35,000 per year, depending on the programme. However, the exact cost will depend on the specific university and course you choose. Here’s an overview of typical fees for postgraduate programmes: 

• Master’s Degrees (Taught programmes): £12,000 to £30,000 for the entire programme 

• Research Degrees (MRes, MPhil, PhD): £15,000 to £30,000 per year 

• MBA and Business-Oriented Programmes: £20,000 to £50,000 for the entire programme 

Additional costs 

• In addition to tuition fees, remember to budget for these potential additional costs, such as:  

• Student Services Fees: £300 to £1,000 per year, depending on the institution and services offered. 

• Study Materials and Books: £300 to £800 per year, depending on the programme and resources required. 

International students in the UK can work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and full-time during vacations. For those aged 18 to 22, the minimum wage is £7.49 per hour for roles in retail, hospitality, tutoring, and administration. This is a great opportunity for students to gain work experience, develop valuable skills, and contribute towards easing their monthly living expenses. 

Tips for balancing work and study 

While working can provide financial support and valuable experience, it’s also important to effectively manage both your work and studies by: 

• Taking advantage of flexible working hours. 

• Creating a schedule that allocates specific times for studying and working. 

• Communicating your work availability clearly to your employer. 

Planning to study in the UK requires careful financial preparation. A proper understanding of the cost of living in the UK, from accommodation and food to tuition and personal expenses, can go a long way in ensuring you can both experience the UK and maintain financial stability. 

By creating a detailed budget and exploring cost-saving strategies, you can confidently pursue your academic goals and make the most of your time overseas.