How much does living in Swansea really cost?
Although the cost of living in Swansea is more than 20% cheaper than London, and is very good value for the UK, it may still be considerably more expensive than your home country.
In the last year or so we have seen many students arriving who have unrealistic expectations of living costs. Many believe that if they can get to the UK, then part-time work and/or the University will provide enough income to support them. For the majority of students, this is simply not true. This means students are getting into financial difficulty and, sometimes, having to leave the UK before completing their studies. We do not want this to happen to anyone.
It is important that you properly know and understand about UK finances before you choose to come to the UK. In addition, if you have a family you should know that you can find them suitable and affordable housing, as well as arrive in proper time for the start of the School term, before you travel. Failure to do so can be extremely stressful for you and especially any children who may be travelling with you.
IMPORTANT: Remember - the cost of living is affected by inflation. The UK has seen significant price rises for food, rent and utility bills (gas and electric etc.). While inflation is reducing, it remains above the UK target of 2%.
The UK Government requires all international students coming to the UK under University Student Route immigration sponsorship, to have all the money for their fees plus significant living costs in place before travelling to the UK. You must sign an affidavit stating the proof of funds used in your visa application is solely for that purpose. Using money that does not belong to you, or that you have secured as a short-term loan, is deception - you could face a 10-year immigration ban if caught. You are being asked to show you have this money to make sure you can settle and study in the UK safely - which is the primary reason students should be coming to the UK.
Example: currently a 12-month Masters student, would need £9,207 living costs (plus all their study fees) and each dependant needs £6,120. All applicants would also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge plus the visa fee (at point of application) totalling £1,501 each. If our example Masters student had a spouse and 2 children, they would need to have £33,571 in place before coming to the UK.
For detailed information about how much money you need for your visa, head to our Finances for Student Visa Applications. Additionally, if you are intending to bring any dependants, please see the information for Families in our Immigration for Dependants and Families- International Students sections.