International Students' London Living Guide

where do international students live in london

London is a top destination for international students, with its array of prestigious universities, vibrant nightlife, and multicultural offerings. When it comes to accommodation, international students have a variety of options to choose from, depending on their budget and lifestyle preferences. Purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs) are popular, offering a similar setup to university halls but with more independence, often located near campuses and transport links. Private rentals, shared apartments, and luxury rentals are also available for those seeking more privacy and flexibility. Areas like Camden, King's Cross, Shoreditch, and Wood Green are well-known for their student-friendly vibes, offering a mix of entertainment, dining options, and proximity to universities.

Characteristics Values
Accommodation Types Luxury rentals, PBSAs, shared apartments, homestays, purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs), private rentals
Areas Camden, Kentish Town, Wood Green, King's Cross, Shoreditch, Hammersmith, Elephant & Castle, Lambeth, Westminster Bridge Road, Waterloo, Walworth Road, Mile End, Russell Square
Considerations Cost of living, transport, food, shopping, entertainment, proximity to the university
Amenities Supermarkets, gyms, bars, restaurants, clubs, museums, parks

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Purpose-built student accommodation

PBSAs in London typically feature private or shared rooms with en-suite options, communal study areas, and entertainment spaces. They provide a campus-like community experience while allowing students to live independently. This type of accommodation is ideal for those who want to enjoy the benefits of a student community but with more privacy and control over their living space.

Some popular areas for PBSAs in London include King's Cross, which is known for its vibrant city life and proximity to famous pubs and clubs. The area is also home to the British Library, providing a convenient study space for students. Other PBSA locations include Lambeth, Westminster Bridge Road, Waterloo, and Shoreditch, which is adjacent to the hip Hoxton area and offers easy access to universities such as UCL, Queen Mary, and City University London.

PBSAs are a great option for students who want a balance between independence and community. With a range of amenities and locations to choose from, international students can find a PBSA that suits their needs and preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable living experience during their time in London.

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Luxury rentals

International students in London have a variety of luxury rental options, which offer more privacy, space, and flexibility. These accommodations are equipped with upscale amenities and are located in desirable neighbourhoods close to universities.

Student Luxe®

Student Luxe® is a leading provider of luxury student apartments worldwide. They offer refined accommodations for students, interns, and professionals, with a diverse range of guests on longer stays. Student Luxe® apartments are located in various neighbourhoods near top London institutions, such as KCL, LSE, UCL, Imperial, and the University of Westminster.

Prestige Student Living

Prestige Student Living provides luxury accommodations in the heart of London, with easy access to top universities and the city's vibrant attractions. Their buildings offer a range of amenities, including comfortable beds, ample storage, study spaces, en-suite bathrooms, and communal areas like games rooms and quiet study rooms.

LS Rentals

LS Rentals offers premium student living with luxury accommodations that serve as a sanctuary away from academic pressures. They provide various services, including lease management, maintenance, and 24/7 emergency support, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable rental experience.

Neighbourhoods

For example, King's Cross has a wide range of private accommodation options, with rooms catering to different budgets. It is also home to the British Library and offers a variety of dining choices.

Additionally, areas like Camden and Kentish Town are recommended for their proximity to UCL and accessibility to main transport lines and stations like King's Cross and St. Pancras.

Cost

The cost of luxury rentals in London varies depending on the location and specific amenities. Renting a room in King's Cross, for instance, typically ranges from £700 to £780 per month. In contrast, the areas surrounding the UCL campus, such as Warren Street, tend to be slightly more expensive.

Overall, luxury rentals in London provide international students with a high-end living experience, offering comfort, privacy, and convenient access to educational and leisure opportunities.

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Shared apartments

London is a top student city, with many prestigious universities and a vibrant student life. The search for accommodation can be daunting, with factors like location, budget, and lifestyle preferences coming into play. One option for international students is to live in shared apartments, which offer a more affordable and social experience.

Locations

There are several student-friendly neighbourhoods in London with shared housing options. Here are some areas to consider:

  • Camden and Kentish Town are popular choices, known for their proximity to UCL and good transport links. The areas offer a walkable lifestyle and access to main lines and King's Cross.
  • King's Cross is ideal for those who want to be in the hustle and bustle of the city. It offers a range of private accommodation with rooms at different price points. The British Library, various dining options, and a vibrant nightlife are all nearby.
  • Shoreditch is a lively neighbourhood adjacent to Hoxton. It offers vintage shops, top-rated restaurants, and a dynamic atmosphere by the River Thames. It is also conveniently located near several universities, including UCL and Queen Mary.
  • West Hampstead is another student-friendly neighbourhood, with accommodations like Nido West Hampstead catering to both domestic and international students.
  • Wood Green is well-connected via the Piccadilly Line, offering a diverse range of shopping and entertainment options. It provides a more affordable alternative for commuters.
  • Walthamstow in North-East London is an up-and-coming area, close to the nightlife of Hackney and peaceful green spaces like the Walthamstow Wetlands.

Considerations

When choosing a shared apartment, consider factors like proximity to your university, transport links, cost of living, and entertainment options. Websites like amberstudent.com can help you find suitable shared accommodation options in London. It's also beneficial to think about your budget and lifestyle preferences, as shared apartments offer a more cost-effective and communal experience compared to luxury rentals.

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Homestays

Homestay hosts vary from a single host mother, a retired couple, a family with pets and children, to a professional couple offering independent accommodation with self-catering facilities. Hosts do not usually live in the town centre as much of central London is commercial and not residential. Homestays are located mainly in zones 2, 3, 4 and 5, with zone 4 and 5 offering more spacious accommodation in less crowded areas.

Students can expect a continental breakfast, and language students can benefit from the chance to practise their English. Hosts will provide accommodation and meals as booked. Rooms will be cleaned and bed linen and towels changed at least once a week. The student will be provided with their own house key and the host is there to offer help and advice as well as to take an interest in the student’s well-being.

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Student-friendly neighbourhoods

London is a top student city, with many distinct neighbourhoods offering a unique vibe, amenities, and proximity to universities. The best student neighbourhoods will offer a balance of cost of living, transport, food, shopping, and entertainment options.

One of the most popular neighbourhoods for students is Camden, which is near UCL and accessible to most main lines and King's Cross. It's a walkable neighbourhood with plenty of transport options, and students can find accommodation in the surrounding areas of Kentish Town, Euston, Islington, and Holloway.

Another student-friendly neighbourhood is King's Cross, which has lots of private accommodation options in different price ranges. Students can experience great nightlife with famous pubs and clubs, and the British Library is also nearby.

Shoreditch is another dynamic neighbourhood for students, with a lively and artistic vibe. It's adjacent to Hoxton and offers vintage shops, top-rated restaurants, and clubs. It's also close to several universities, including UCL and Queen Mary.

For those looking to save on rent, Wood Green is a diverse and well-connected neighbourhood with the Piccadilly Line. It offers shopping and entertainment options, and students can enjoy the nearby Ally Pally for outdoor activities.

Lastly, Mile End is full of students, being home to a Russell Group university. It's just down the road from Liverpool Street and Aldgate, offering all the amenities one could need.

Frequently asked questions

International students in London can choose from a variety of neighbourhoods and accommodation types. Some popular areas include Camden, Kentish Town, King's Cross, Shoreditch, Mile End, and Wood Green. The choice depends on factors such as proximity to universities, transport links, amenities, and budget.

International students in London can opt for purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs), shared apartments or houses, luxury rentals, or university halls of residence. PBSAs offer a similar setup to university halls but with more independence and are often located near campuses and transport hubs. Luxury rentals provide more privacy, space, and flexibility but are more expensive.

Yes, websites like amberstudent.com and studentluxe.co.uk offer accommodation options specifically for students, including luxury apartments near popular institutions. University websites also often provide information and advice on student-friendly areas and accommodation options.

International students should consider factors such as proximity to their university, transport links, cost of living, food and shopping options, entertainment, and nightlife. It's also essential to think about your budget and lifestyle preferences, as some areas and accommodation types are more expensive than others.

Yes, areas near UCL that are popular among international students include Camden, Kentish Town, King's Cross, and Shoreditch. These areas offer good transport links, proximity to the university, and a range of amenities and entertainment options.

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