Cost of Living in UK for Nepali Students: Complete Guide for 2026
The cost of living in the UK depends on the city, lifestyle, type of living space, and spending habits. London tends to be more expensive than other cities, but Manchester, Sheffield, Leicester, and Coventry are more affordable for students.
Students from Nepal should expect to pay around £1,300 to £1,400 per month excluding tuition fees in London and around £900 to £1,300 per month excluding tuition fees outside London. For visa purposes, the UK government currently requires proof of £1,529 per month in London and £1,171 per month outside London, for up to 9 months.
Estimated monthly expenses may include:
Students living outside London often experience lower living costs.
Please be aware that these figures are only an average of the monthly costs of living for international students in the UK and do not include tuition fees, visa fees, or other academic fees.
International students in the UK typically pay the highest amount for accommodation. The average monthly rent cost in London usually falls within the range of £700 to £1,500, while students residing in other UK cities might pay around £400 to £900 per month.
The average monthly cost of food and groceries in the UK is around £150 to £300 per month, depending on students' lifestyle and eating habits. International students can save money by preparing their own meals at home.
The cost of travelling within a city to university depends on the city and how often the student travels. It is typically around £40 to £120 per month for Nepali students.
There are also a variety of ways for students to save money with railcards, bus passes, and student travel cards. Many students also enjoy riding bikes or walking through student-friendly cities to save even more money.
If a student rents a private residence, they might be required to pay extra bills for electricity, gas, water, and internet. For some students, utility bills could already be part of the accommodation package, allowing them to better manage their monthly expenses.
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is typically paid by international students as part of the visa application process and is currently £776 per year.
The IHS is usually paid in full at the time of visa application and is calculated according to the length of the visa.
International students can manage their expenses by:
Good financial planning can help students enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while studying in the UK.
Most international students on a UK Student visa are able to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official holidays, subject to the work conditions written on their visa.
Raffles Educare provides expert guidance for:
Our experienced counselors help students prepare for both academic success and comfortable student life in the UK.
By knowing the costs of living in the UK, students will be better able to plan their finances and prepare themselves for a successful international education experience.
Contact Raffles Educare today for professional guidance on studying and living in the UK.
