If you’re a prospective international student interested in studying and living in the UK, why not consider the energetic city of Liverpool in the country’s stunning northwest? A hub of nightlife, beautiful architecture, and locals so friendly that they are celebrated nationally for their charm, Liverpool is undeniably a great study destination. With such a famous social scene in addition to a prestigious university, this is a city that quite understandably attracts students from all over the world.
What is Liverpool like?
Location and demographics
Situated on the bank of the River Mersey, right where it meets the sea, the bustling city of Liverpool is one of the UK’s top city locations. Positioned less than an hour from the urban hub of Manchester and only a short drive from the Welsh border, Liverpool offers all the benefits of a northern city whilst still feeling like a coastal getaway.
With almost half of Liverpool’s 500,000 residents being under the age of 30, it certainly stands out as a young, dynamic city. And, whilst it is famous for its two starkly different cathedrals, it also holds significance to several religions and welcomes people of all faiths. In fact, in the 1880s, it became home to England’s first mosque.
Culture and history
A valuable port city, Liverpool was founded in the 13th century and since then has become a centre of innovation and industry, with a long history of manufacturing and engineering accomplishments. These days, it has one of the largest economies in the UK.
As the 6th most visited city in the country, it also serves as a popular tourist destination, famous for its beautiful architecture, friendly locals (known as Liverpudlians) and of course its world-famous races at Aintree.
And perhaps most notably, there’s the draw of The Beatles. You won’t get far in the city without being reminded of its justifiable pride for perhaps the four most famous Liverpudlians of all time.
What universities are in Liverpool?
The University of Liverpool is ranked number 189th in the QS World University Rankings 2023. With several notable alumni across all fields, including several Nobel Prize winners, this institution has a significant global reputation.
Other institutions in the city include:
- Liverpool John Moores University
- Liverpool Hope University
Read more about the top universities in the UK.
What does Liverpool offer students?
What is transport like in Liverpool?
In Liverpool, it’s easy to walk and cycle short distances, provided you don’t need to cross the river. But if you’d rather make use of public transport, there are plenty of trains and buses available. You can even hop onto a ferry for river crossings! The easiest way to get tickets is with a MetroCard, a pre-paid smartcard you can use to travel in the area.
Liverpool is well-connected, with trains and coaches running directly to lots of other UK cities. The nearest airport is in Manchester, only an hour’s drive away or an hour and a half by rail.
What about entertainment and food?
There’s plenty to keep you entertained in Liverpool. With several museums and galleries, historic architecture, and the beautiful waterfront to explore, we doubt you’ll find yourself bored in this city!
If you’re interested in studying in Liverpool, you probably also want to know more about the nightlife. And in this area, the city excels! With pubs, bars, and nightclubs, as well as plenty of music and comedy venues, there’s something for everyone.
And if eating out is your idea of fun, living in Liverpool won’t leave you disappointed. Though there are eateries all over the city, you’ll want to check out Bold Street, famed nationwide for its independent cafés and restaurants from all over the globe. Keen to try a local delicacy? Be sure to grab yourself a bowl of Scouse, Liverpool’s famous meat stew.
Investigate the different types of British accents you’ll hear if you choose to study in the UK.
What is the accommodation like in Liverpool?
For most people studying in the UK, it’s common in your first year to live in university-owned accommodation if your institution offers it.
The University of Liverpool, for example, boasts over 4,500 rooms split between its city campus and its student village. And as with most universities, you can choose between catered or self-catered options.
For subsequent years of study or if you’d rather rent privately, Liverpool has plenty of other student accommodation options. The city is home to a few privately run halls of residence and another common option is to rent a flat or house share with friends. Of course, if you’d rather live alone, that’s an option too.
It’s worth researching your accommodation options carefully, to be sure you get a good deal. Your university should be able to offer advice and recommendations, even if you are not looking to rent one of their properties. Student accommodation costs in Liverpool are usually around GBP 125 to GBP 200, although this amount may increase depending on what is included in your rent.
Explore more about some of the best student cities in the UK.
Are there public services for students?
Your university will supply resources and services for its international students via a designated international office. They should be able to answer queries about everything relating to immigration – from visas to general questions about living in Liverpool.
Discover more about how to apply for a student visa in the UK.
How much does it cost to live in Liverpool?
The general cost of Liverpool
Compared to many other UK cities, the cost of living in Liverpool is relatively low, making it a desirable place to live. It is known for its low rental costs and as a result, Liverpool can be a very cost-effective study destination.
Get information on how much tuition fees in the UK cost.
Student budget
Budgeting is an important part of student life. The University of Liverpool recommends a budget of around GBP 200 to GBP 300 a week to make sure you can enjoy a happy student lifestyle.
Find out more about student cost of living in the UK.
What are Liverpool’s main attractions?
Famed worldwide for both its culture and nightlife, Liverpool certainly has no shortage of things to do for its student population. For a big night partying, try some of the clubs and bars in Concert Square. If traditional pubs and smaller venues are what you’re after, look no further than Hardman Street or Seel Street. Or if you want to experience Beatles-related nightlife, visit Mathew Street.
If sports are more your scene, why not watch a football match? Liverpool FC is in the UK’s world-famous Premier League. Meanwhile, the local area is also an international golfing destination, as well as being home to Aintree Racecourse – perfect for a unique day out.
For students wanting to keep to a tight budget, try visiting one of the many free museums and art galleries the city has to offer or take a wander along the waterfront or through some of its beautiful parks. With several stunning beaches just a short bus or train ride away, summer can be transformed in an instant!
Another fantastic Liverpool attraction is the Baltic Triangle. Here you can spend as little (or as much!) as you want, experiencing eateries, shopping, street art, music festivals and dynamic nightlife. It’s a true mix of culture and an absolute must-see no matter what your interests are.
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