The Ultimate living guide to Glasgow for Pakistani students: Cost, jobs, Lifestyle

• Why Glasgow?

• Education in Glasgow

• Cost of Living in Glasgow

• Student Accommodation in Glasgow

• Job Market and Employment

• Healthcare Services

• Student Life in Glasgow

• Outdoor and Cultural Activities

• FAQs

Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city and one of the most vibrant destinations in the UK. Located on the banks of the River Clyde, it combines rich history with modern living, making it an attractive choice for international students.

The city is a hub for education, hosting world-renowned institutions. These universities offer a wide range of programs ensuring students have access to globally recognised degrees.

Beyond academics, Glasgow offers an exciting lifestyle. It boasts a thriving and vibrant culture with numerous green spaces for relaxation. Students can enjoy affordable living, along with affordable public transport and convenient access to the rest of Scotland.

With strong career opportunities, cultural diversity, and a reputation for hospitality, Glasgow is a study destination where students can learn, grow and experience life to the fullest.

Glasgow is renowned across the globe for its education, especially in fields such as community development, technological education, teacher education, and educational leadership. The city is home to several prestigious institutions, including:

• The University of Glasgow

• Glasgow Caledonian University

• Glasgow Metropolitan University

These institutions provide a wide range of programs in various specialisations. Glasgow’s universities offer Pakistani students, excellent opportunities for innovative research and academics.

The cost of living in Glasgow is moderately affordable compared to other major cities in the world. Here is a table summarising the monthly cost of living in Glasgow:

Source: Expatistan.com

Living in Glasgow is a smart choice for budget-conscious students, thanks to its reasonable and manageable cost of living. To find accommodation in Glasgow, you can contact the university housing services or private landlords. The cost of rent depends on the location and what type of property. Renting a private flat off campus usually costs more, and you have to consider paying extra utility bills.  Check out the average cost for each accommodation type to make the best decision:

Source: Expatistan.com, uhomes.com,  University of Glasgow

(Please refer to the official university website for more information regarding charges.)

Don’t walk this search alone! Contact IDP counsellors for seamless support with all your Student Essentials.

Finding the perfect place to live as a student in Glasgow is an important step in adjusting to university life. Glasgow, being one of the UK's most student-friendly cities, offers a variety of housing options to suit different budgets and needs. You can choose to live in neighbourhoods such as the West End, City Centre, and Partick. For accommodation types, your options are university halls, private student houses, and shared apartments.

Housing expenses tend to be higher in the city centre compared to the suburbs. However, living closer to universities, stores, and nightlife can make the extra cost worthy. For students looking to save money, areas such as Dennistoun and Govan offer more affordable options without compromising convenience.

Many students' housings include utilities such as the internet, water, and heating in the rent, making it easier to keep track of monthly expenses. International students mostly prefer to live in shared accommodation as it is more affordable and gives them a sense of community.

For Pakistani students, Glasgow is an excellent place to live and study. However, when planning your budget, it’s also important to consider additional costs such as food, transportation, and leisure activities.

Glasgow offers numerous job opportunities across a wide range of fields. Some of the most prominent sectors include human health and social work, administrative services, retail, professional and technical training, education, and hospitality.

The city's strong and diverse economy gives students and graduates many chances to find both part-time and full-time work.

Local job boards and university career services tailored to Glasgow's job market are among the best places for students to search for work.  Having major businesses located close to your university also makes it easier to find work during or after study hours.

Glasgow provides comprehensive healthcare services for international students with well-equipped hospitals and Medicare facilities. These institutions offer accessible, high-quality care to ensure students' well-being throughout their stay.

Healthcare in Glasgow is supported by the National Health Service (NHS) Scotland, which covers most medical needs. It’s important to register with a local general practitioner upon arrival. Health insurance is recommended for non-EU international students to ensure additional coverage and peace of mind.

Glasgow offers a vibrant student life enriched by active student unions and organisations. The Glasgow University Union (GUU) is a focal point, featuring nine bars, libraries, cafes, and a debating chamber. It hosts social and cultural events throughout the year. Other unions, such as the Queen Margaret Union (QMU), focus on live music, club nights, and cultural performances that bring both local and international artists to the student community.

The Students' Representative Council (SRC) advocates for student rights and offers numerous clubs and volunteer opportunities. Postgraduate students benefit from dedicated spaces such as the Gilchrist Postgraduate Club. Together, these student bodies create a strong sense of community and engagement among Glasgow's students.

Life in Glasgow extends beyond academics, offering a rich blend of outdoor and cultural activities. The city features beautiful parks, such as Glasgow Green and Kelvingrove Park, which provide expansive green spaces perfect for relaxation and exercise. Glasgow Castle, a notable historical site, attracts visitors interested in the city's heritage and architecture.

The Riverside area also adds to the city’s vibrancy with scenic waterfront views and modern attractions. The city’s cultural scene features world-renowned museums, galleries, live music venues, and theatres, reflecting its reputation as a cultural hub.

As an international student, you can enjoy countless opportunities to explore and immerse yourself in Glasgow's unique lifestyle.

What is the average cost of living in Glasgow?

The average monthly cost of living for a single person in Glasgow is approximately £1,939, which typically covers rent, food, transport, and other personal expenses.
Source: Expatistan.com

Which area is best for living in Glasgow?

The best suburbs for students are those located close to university campuses, such as Cathays and other neighbourhoods near Glasgow Metropolitan University. These areas offer convenient access to campus, a safe environment, and affordable rents.

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