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<p dir="ltr" style=""><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/melbourne" rel="" style="">Melbourne</a> has built a reputation as one of the best cities in the world to live and study, but it’s also a place where the cost of living can catch students off guard. The city is home to more than 150,000 international students and is drawn by universities like the University of Melbourne, Monash, and RMIT. Plus, the fact that the city is packed with cafés, live music, and trams actually makes getting around pretty easy.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p>At the same time, things like rent, groceries, and transport can add up quickly if you don’t plan ahead. Knowing how much you’re likely to spend every month makes a huge difference, whether you’re budgeting for the first time or just comparing Melbourne with other student cities in <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia" style="">Australia</a>.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/14092023063716AM-Untitled-1-02.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 300px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="cost of living Melbourne" fr-original-style="width: 500px; height: 300px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"></p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Cost of Living in Melbourne</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">The cost of living in Melbourne for international students in 2025 is 817.4£ per month, excluding rent. It’s also important to remember that changes can occur due to lifestyle choices. Listed are the estimated costs of living in Melbourne based on data from <a href="https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Melbourne" rel="nofollow">Numbeo</a>:</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><table style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;" fr-original-style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Item</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Average Monthly Cost (£)</p></td><td><br></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">One-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">1,147.39</p></td><td><br></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">One-Bedroom Apartment (Outside Centre)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">871.07</p></td><td><br></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Utilities</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">124.65</p></td><td><br></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Mobile Phone Plan (10 GB+)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">17.38</p></td><td><br></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Internet (Unlimited, 60 Mbps+)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">37.77</p></td><td><br></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Public Transport (Monthly Pass)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">90.71</p></td><td><br></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 dir="ltr" style="">How Much Does Food Cost in Melbourne for Students?</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">In this section, we’ll list average food costs in Melbourne:</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><table style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;" fr-original-style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Item</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Average Price (£)</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Milk (regular), (1 liter)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">1.18</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">1.97</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Rice (white) (1kg)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">1.68</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Eggs (regular) (12)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">3.86</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Local Cheese (1kg)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">7.04</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Chicken Fillets (1kg)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">6.65</p></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Cheapest Shopping Brands</h2><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.uniqlo.com/au/en/" rel="nofollow">Uniqlo</a>: An affordable brand where students can get durable and basic wear like T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, and jeans at good prices.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.glassons.com/" rel="nofollow">Glassons</a>: A trendy brand where students can shop for affordable fashion pieces like tops, dresses, denim, and activewear with student discounts available.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://outlet.theiconic.com.au/" rel="nofollow">The Iconic Outlet</a>, <a href="https://www.asos.com/discover/asos-outlet/" rel="nofollow">ASOS Outlet</a>: Online outlets where students can score branded clothing, shoes, and accessories at heavily discounted prices.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://dotti.jgl.com.au/?srsltid=AfmBOop1kn84BktRNG4DSliA3dmWbT11zSZEP51SQnSp1QaS7q9iLtFO" rel="nofollow">Dotti</a>: Youth-focused fashion brands where students can find casual, trendy, and affordable clothing for everyday wear.</p></li></ul><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Most Affordable Mode of Transport</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">The most affordable mode of transport in Melbourne is walking or using the <a href="https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/assets/PDFs/Maps/Network-maps/5b4a3efe80/PTV-Free-Tram-Zone-Map.pdf" rel="nofollow">Free Tram Zone</a> in the CBD, which allows you to travel around central areas at no cost. Another cheap option is cycling, where you can either use bike-share services or buy your own bike for long-term savings. For longer commutes, students can benefit from a <a href="https://transport.vic.gov.au/tickets-and-myki/myki/myki-types/concession-myki" rel="nofollow">Concession Myki card</a> or the <a href="https://internationalstudent.ptv.vic.gov.au/" rel="nofollow">International Student Travel Pass</a>, which offer 50% discounts on public transport. The daily fares are capped at $5.50.</p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Saving Up in Melbourne</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Even though Melbourne is one of the more expensive cities in Australia, it offers an excellent quality of life that makes it worth the price. The city is known for its culture, diverse food scene, green spaces, and world-class universities that attract students from all over the globe. That said, there are always ways to save on expenses during your stay, from using the Free Tram Zone to shopping smart at affordable student-friendly stores and finding an affordable student accommodation option.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Finding Affordable Accommodation Options</h3><p><br></p><h4 dir="ltr" style="">Affordable casita accommodation options:</h4><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/110626-campus-melbourne-melbourne-australia">Campus Melbourne</a> (Most Affordable): <br>Campus Melbourne is a 15 to 20-minute tram or train ride from central Melbourne. It provides fully furnished studios with diverse spaces and prices to match different preferences. It’s also one of the more budget-friendly options for well-located, modern accommodation in the city.<br><br></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/584-scape-swanston-melbourne-australia">Scape Swanston</a> (Affordable and Close to the Centre):<br>Scape Swanston sits right near RMIT and within walking distance of Melbourne Central. You get your own en-suite or studio plus perks like a rooftop cinema, gym, study areas, and all-inclusive utilities.<br><br></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/69637-unilodge-carlton-melbourne-australia">UniLodge Carlton</a> (Affordable):<br>UniLodge Carlton is another solid choice, with en-suite and studio rooms about 20 minutes from the CBD by tram. It’s tucked in the Carlton area, near Lygon Street cafés and a buzzing student scene. You get decent privacy without overspending.</p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Student Discounts</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Never underestimate the power of your student ID card! It can be your golden ticket to substantial savings. Take advantage of student discounts offered by local businesses, cinemas, public transport, and even some grocery stores. Additionally, consider joining a student union or association, which often provides exclusive deals and events for members.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Part-Time Work</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Australia's student visa allows international students to work part-time during their studies. Securing a part-time job not only helps cover living expenses but also provides invaluable work experience. Melbourne's job market is diverse, offering opportunities in retail, hospitality, and even internships in your field of study. The city's strong economy and dynamic job market make it easier for students to find employment.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Other significant tips include the following:<br><br></p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Share accommodation with other students.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Cook for yourself instead of eating out.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Use public transportation instead of taxis or Uber.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Take advantage of free or low-cost activities in the city, such as visiting museums, parks, and libraries.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">That’s the basics of what it costs to live in Melbourne. The city has a lot to offer students with top universities, a lively culture, and a lifestyle that mixes study and fun in a way few other places do. It isn’t the cheapest city in Australia, but it also isn’t the most expensive if you keep an eye on your budget.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">The key is finding a balance. Choose accommodation that works for your needs, shop around for groceries, and make use of student discounts where you can. This way, you’ll still have money left to enjoy Melbourne’s food, music, and events without stressing too much about expenses.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">In the end, Melbourne gives you more than just a degree. It gives you an experience. With a little planning, you can enjoy it all without breaking the bank.</p>

Melbourne Cost of Living for Students

Explore the cost of living in Melbourne now as a student! If you want to study at one of the city's top universities, you need to know your finances.

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<p dir="ltr" style="">So you're thinking of studying abroad in 2025, and you’re not quite sure if you want to go full science or full humanities? You’re not alone. Students all over the world are ditching the old-school, one-track academic path and diving into interdisciplinary majors; the kind that let you mix psychology with computer science or design with AI. Yep, 2025 is all about academic flexibility and getting degrees that actually match real-life problems.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">In this blog, we’ll break down what interdisciplinary majors are, why they’re blowing up right now, and where you can study them (plus, where to live while you do it). The fact is that they’re not just trendy; they’re actually shaping the future of university programs.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/28082025023003PM-Interdisciplinary-Majors-Abroad-in-2025-Where-to-Study-and-Stay-03.png" style="width: 550px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="Interdisciplinary Majors Abroad " fr-original-style="width: 550px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Interdisciplinary Majors: Where It All Began</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Did you know the idea of interdisciplinary study dates back to the early 20th century? The University of Chicago was one of the first institutions to formally promote this approach, thanks to educational reformers like <a href="https://www.britannica.com/biography/Robert-Maynard-Hutchins" rel="nofollow">Robert Maynard Hutchins</a>. He believed education should reflect real-world complexities rather than be divided into isolated subjects. A radical idea at the time, but one that’s now shaping how universities structure their programs.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Why Are Interdisciplinary Majors a Big Deal in 2025?</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Let’s be real: the job market in 2025 doesn’t care if you’re just “good at one thing”. Employers are looking for people who can connect the dots between tech, creativity, data, and human behaviour. That’s where hybrid university degrees come in: they mix multiple fields so students can build well-rounded, super relevant skill sets.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Whether it’s <a href="https://www.snhu.edu/about-us/newsroom/liberal-arts/what-is-a-liberal-arts-degree" rel="nofollow">liberal arts</a> and <a href="https://www.stem.org.uk/" rel="nofollow">STEM</a>, business and AI, or environmental science and policy, these programs give you a more flexible and customisable academic experience. Plus, they teach you to actually think and not just memorise.</p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">The Numbers Don’t Lie: Why Interdisciplinary Majors Are Taking Over</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Let’s throw in some real talk (and stats): <a href="https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/" rel="nofollow">the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025</a> says nearly 40% of core skills will shift by 2030, and a whopping 63% of employers say skill gaps are the top barrier to transforming their workforce.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Translation? Sticking to just one lane might leave you stuck.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Hybrid university degrees are basically your way of staying ahead of the curve. If you're into tech + ethics or arts + analytics, these degrees aren’t just about being different; they’re about being future-ready. Employers want thinkers, not just doers. And interdisciplinary majors are the secret sauce.</p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Choosing the Right Combo: Passion + Purpose</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Wondering how to combine majors without going totally off-track? Start here:</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Pick one subject you love, and match it with one that opens doors. Like, maybe you’re obsessed with storytelling (Media), but also want real-world impact (Politics), so a career in digital advocacy or political journalism.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">If you’re more STEM-leaning, pairing Computer Science with Psychology can take you into UX, human-centred AI, or behavioural tech.<br><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Pro tip? Use your electives smartly and talk to an academic advisor to build a degree that reflects you, but also works for the job market.</p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">How Do You Combine Majors?</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Easy(ish). Many top universities now offer interdisciplinary tracks, where you can either:</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Double major in two separate but related fields (like Bio + Business).</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Pick a major-minor combo that spans faculties.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Or join a customised degree program that blends everything from day one.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Some universities let you build your own degree path (yes, freedom!). Just make sure your choices align with your career goals, or explore new ones entirely.</p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Real Talk: The Challenges You Might Face</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Okay, let’s keep it 100. Interdisciplinary majors are awesome, but they’re not all rainbows. You might hit stuff like:</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Having to juggle courses across two faculties with totally different teaching styles.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Academic advisors who aren’t always on the same page.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">The mental gymnastics of writing one paper in APA and another in MLA (yep, it happens).</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">But here's the flip side: the challenge builds skills, time management, adaptability, and grit, and makes us stronger. Stuff employers seriously rate.</p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Where to Study Interdisciplinary Majors Abroad in 2025</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Here are a few global hotspots where interdisciplinary majors 2025 are not just available. They're thriving:</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h4 dir="ltr" style="">United States: The OG of Academic Flexibility</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">Top Universities:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Stanford (Symbolic Systems = Philosophy + AI + Linguistics)</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/usa/new-york/new-york-university">NYU</a> (Gallatin School = Create-your-own degree)</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/usa/boston/massachusetts-institute-of-technology">MIT</a> (Media Arts &amp; Sciences)</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="">If you’re in <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/usa/new-york">NYC</a>, student accommodation like <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/248163-221-upper-west-side-new-york-usa">Upper West Side</a> or <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/248161-299-midtown-east-new-york-usa">Midtown East</a> can give you that ideal study-live-socialise balance.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h4 dir="ltr" style="">United Kingdom: Big on Innovation &amp; Research</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">Top Universities:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/university-college-london">University College London</a> (Arts &amp; Sciences BASc)</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/kings-college-london-strand-campus">King’s College London</a> (Liberal Arts)</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/edinburgh/the-university-of-edinburgh">University of Edinburgh</a> (Interdisciplinary Studies)</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="">London’s a big one! Look for student accommodation in Zones 1 - 2 for easy transport. Places like <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/213-north-lodge-unite-london-uk">North Lodge Unite</a>, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/82556-hayloft-point-london-uk">Hayloft Point</a>, and <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/1413-moorfield-liverpool-uk">Moorfield</a> are great options.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h4 dir="ltr" style="">Netherlands: Affordable &amp; Super Progressive</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">Top Universities:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">University of Amsterdam (PPE: Politics, Psychology, Economics)</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Leiden University College</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Utrecht University (Liberal Arts &amp; Sciences)</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="">Dutch student accommodation is known for being international-friendly. In Amsterdam, check <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/273691-homestay-ora-et-labora-amsterdam-netherlands">Homestay Ora et Labora</a> and <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/218728-private-suite-in-oostzaan-amsterdam-netherlands">Oostzaan</a>.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h4 dir="ltr" style="">Australia: Flexible Degrees &amp; Chill Vibes</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">Top Universities:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">University of Sydney (Bachelor of Advanced Studies lets you mix disciplines)</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">ANU (Flexible Double Degree program)</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Monash University (Arts + STEM options)</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/sydney">Sydney</a> and <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/melbourne">Melbourne</a> have perfect student apartments like <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/42238-scape-carlton-melbourne-australia">Scape Carlton</a>, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/112470-realm-caulfield-melbourne-australia">Realm Caulfield</a>, or <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/39759-iglu-broadway-sydney-australia">Iglu Broadway</a>, all close to campuses.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Beyond the Big Names: Future-Focused Universities to Watch</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">You’ve heard of the Stanfords and the UCLs, but what about the disruptors?</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style=""><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/usa/san-francisco/minerva-university">Minerva University</a> is a fully global, fully online university with a curriculum based on interdisciplinary problem-solving. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/usa/tempe/arizona-state-university-tempe-campus">Arizona State University</a> is leading in future university programs, offering degrees that combine liberal arts and STEM in ways that make you actually job-ready. These aren’t just trendy names; they’re redesigning what higher education can look like in 2025 and beyond.</p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">What Fields Work Well Together?</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Honestly? The possibilities are endless. But here are some of the on-fire interdisciplinary pairings in 2025:</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Computer Science + Psychology: Perfect for UX design or AI ethics</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Business + Sustainability: For future ESG consultants</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Biology + Data Science: biotech, public health analytics</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Design + Engineering: Smart product development</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Media + Politics: Careers in advocacy, digital journalism, or campaign strategy</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">If you’re asking how to combine majors, think about what lights you up, what’s hiring in the future, and how your skills can overlap to make you stand out.</p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Future Career Prospects: What Can You Do with an Interdisciplinary Degree?</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">In short: a lot. Companies love people who can think across fields. These degrees set you up for roles like:<br><br></p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Product Manager</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Data Analyst</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Policy Advisor</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">UX Designer</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Innovation Strategist</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Sustainability Consultant</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">AI Researcher with a humanities edge<br><br></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="">And if you ever want to switch paths (or countries), you’re way more adaptable than someone with a super niche degree.</p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Where You Study = Where You Live</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">One more thing: don’t forget that where you live affects your whole uni experience. When you’re checking out programs, also check out student accommodation nearby. Look for:<br><br></p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Good location (near uni, nightlife and transport)</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Student-friendly amenities (study areas, gym, laundry)</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">International vibes</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Flexible contracts (in case you switch majors or cities)</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><br>Also, Casita makes finding your student home abroad easy, fast, and verified. You can search by city, university, or even room type, all on one platform.</p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">It’s Time to Go Interdisciplinary</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Choosing one path is so last decade. Interdisciplinary majors in 2025 are for students who want it all: creativity, logic, flexibility, and real-world readiness. If you want to design climate tech, understand human behaviour through code, or solve problems that don’t even exist yet, going hybrid is the move.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">This isn’t about being indecisive. It’s about being future-proof. You’re not just learning; you’re building connections between disciplines, thinking critically, and gaining the kind of layered knowledge the world actually needs right now.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">So go ahead, mix your interests, break the rules (a little), and shape your own academic journey. Find the uni that fits your goals, live in a space that inspires you, and chase a career that doesn’t box you in.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Because the future doesn’t belong to specialists or generalists.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">It belongs to interdisciplinarians; the ones bold enough to study across borders, think across fields, and create across limits.</p>

Interdisciplinary Majors Abroad in 2025: Where to Study and Stay

Thinking of going hybrid with your degree? Discover top universities, trending combinations, and how interdisciplinary majors are shaping the future of education.

<p dir="ltr" style="">Thinking of studying in <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/leicester" style="">Leicester</a>? With a rich past that honours its history and a cultural mosaic that celebrates its present, the city is also one of the UK’s most affordable destinations for students. Located in the heart of England, Leicester is a thriving city that buzzes with diversity and is already home to students from more than 100 different countries. </p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">From cafes and international cuisine to award-winning universities and green spaces, Leicester delivers the UK student experience without London’s hefty price tag. If you’re an international student aiming to study in the UK, then Leicester could be the perfect fit for you.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">In this guide, we’ll walk you through student life in the city: from the top universities, best neighbourhoods and student accommodation in Leicester, and part-time jobs, so that you can settle in with peace of mind.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/25082025023407PM-Study-in-Leicester-Student-Life-&amp;-Housing-Guide-03-(1).png" style="width: 550px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="Study in Leicester" fr-original-style="width: 550px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"></p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Why International Students Choose Leicester?</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">What makes Leicester stand out to international students and locals alike is that it offers a complete student experience: high-quality education, affordable accommodation, a vibrant social scene, great spots for hangouts, and an inclusive atmosphere.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Moving to Leicester is a good idea if you want:</p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Central Location</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Getting around Leicester is easy and affordable. Centrally located in England, the city is the perfect base for exploring the UK, whether by train to visit London, Birmingham, or Nottingham, or by plane, as it’s close to East Midlands Airport. Within Leicester, you can benefit from reliable local buses, student discounts, and a compact, walkable layout that makes everyday life simple and cost-effective.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Top Universities in Leicester for International Students</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Students choose to study in Leicester since it’s a student-centric city where everything is within reach, including universities, parks, shops, and cafes. Among the best universities in Leicester for international students are the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/leicester/university-of-leicester">University of Leicester</a> and <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/leicester/de-montfort-university">De Montfort University</a>. </p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Both universities provide high-quality education on a global scale, and students from all over the world enrol there. </p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h4 dir="ltr" style="">University of Leicester</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">Renowned for its academic and space research, the university has developed over 90 instruments for space missions and pioneered genetic fingerprinting, earning it fame in its own right. It also offers globally recognised degrees in various specialisations, including:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Law</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Natural Sciences</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Archaeology and history</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Medicine and Health Sciences</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Psychology</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Computer Science and Engineering</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="">Ranked 25th in the UK in the <a href="https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/best-universities/best-universities-uk" rel="nofollow">2025 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings </a>and the <a href="https://www.ncuk.ac.uk/study-abroad-resources/choosing-where-to-study-for-university/the-university-of-leicester-the-uks-university-of-the-year-2025-daily-mail/" rel="nofollow">Daily Mail University of the Year 2025</a>, the university has proved its academic excellence.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h4 dir="ltr" style="">De Montfort University (DMU) </h4><p dir="ltr" style="">De Montfort University (DMU) is also a top university in Leicester, and one of the few universities that offer the block teaching approach, where students focus on one subject at a time, receiving frequent feedback and assessments rather than a flood of exams at once. This approach helps reduce academic pressure and supports better performance. Its specialisations include:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Business and Marketing </p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Cyber Security </p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Accounting and Finance</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Computer Science</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="">As stated on the <a href="https://www.dmu.ac.uk/study/undergraduate-study/clearing/the-dmu-distinction.aspx" rel="nofollow">DMU website</a>, the university was rated as having the best work placement in the UK, according to RateMyPlacement Awards 2024 and 2025, which demonstrates its strong graduate prospects. </p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">A Diverse Community</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">The city’s community is welcoming of different ethnicities, making it one of the UK’s most culturally and spiritually diverse cities. The <a href="https://storyofleicester.info/city-stories/a-city-of-diversity/" rel="nofollow">Story of Leicester</a> notes that more than 70 languages are spoken, and over 240 faith groups representing 14 different beliefs are based there.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">For instance, the Diwali celebration in Leicester, which is celebrated on a grand scale, solidifies the city’s title as the host of the largest Diwali festival outside India. Moreover, in everyday life, you can see mosques, churches, gurdwaras, and temples throughout the city and explore Narbrough Road, which is one of the UK’s most diverse streets, or just have a bite at international restaurants that reflect Leicester’s global cuisine.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Student Life in Leicester</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Not only is there so much to look forward to in Leicester, but there’s always something to celebrate. Leicester’s cultural calendar marks exciting events, including Diwali, the Caribbean Carnival, Chinese New Year parades, and Eid festivities, which are also embraced across the city.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Leicester student-led initiatives are thriving and inclusive. The University of Leicester Students’ Union has over 200 societies, including numerous arts, cultural, and faith-based groups, which provide opportunities for multicultural student involvement. While at DMU, societies like the African &amp; Caribbean Society host student-led cultural events like “Take Me Out”, showcasing active multicultural participation.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Best Student Accommodation and Areas in Leicester</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">There are many options for where to live in Leicester as a student, as the city has numerous student-friendly neighbourhoods. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods to explore in Leicester and some accommodation recommendations:</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Clarendon Park</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Clarendon Park is among the most popular neighbourhoods for students and young professionals. Its charming Victorian houses, various shops, cosy cafes, and diverse restaurants all contribute to its appeal. </p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Within walking distance of the University of Leicester and just a quick bus ride from De Montfort University, it’s a highly convenient location. It also features Victoria Park, which is a great place for relaxation, peaceful strolls, or study breaks.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Here are options near Clarendon Park:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/100090-salisbury-road-leicester-uk">Salisbury Road</a> is a student accommodation in Leicester that offers a comfortable stay with facilities such as Wi-Fi, all-inclusive bills, an on-site gym, laundry, a social area, and a communal games room. </p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/1225-regent-road-leicester-uk">Regent Road</a> offers studio and one-bed flat options. It features Wi-Fi, all-inclusive bills, laundry facilities, parking, a social area, and a communal games room.<br><br></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">City Centre</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Student accommodation near the city centre is in high demand, and many international students are drawn to it due to its proximity to shops, cafes, markets, and various shopping centres, such as Highcross Leicester, at affordable prices. </p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Attractions and landmarks include Leicester Cathedral and the Clock Tower. It's a popular choice for many students who prefer accessibility, as it's within walking distance of DMU and also a short bus ride away from the University of Leicester.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Below are two of our options near the City Centre:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/1402-castle-court-leicester-uk">Castle Court</a> offers en-suite rooms, as well as facilities including Wi-Fi, an on-site cinema room, study rooms, all-inclusive bills, laundry facilities, and central heating. </p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/200-st-martins-house-leicester-uk">Unite Students St Martins House </a>is also an accommodation featuring en-suite and studio options, with Wi-Fi, a social area, laundry facilities, on-site maintenance, parking, and all-inclusive bills.<br><br></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Westcotes (also known as West End)</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">As one of the most popular yet affordable neighbourhoods among students, the West End is complete with green spaces, well-connected transport links, and the Narbrough Road, which has a wide range of quirky cafes, international grocers, and vintage collectables.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">The neighbourhood is a short walk to DMU, which is convenient for students who don’t mind a morning walk. Green spaces include Bede Park, which is ideal for study breaks.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">This student accommodation is close to the West End:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/104961-albion-court-leicester-uk">Albion Court </a>offers en-suite and one-bedroom flats, and its facilities include Wi-Fi, central heating, a cleaning service, laundry facilities, CCTV, and parking.<br><br></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Oadby</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">The leafy suburb of Oadby, in Leicester, offers a suburban feel while ensuring convenient student amenities. The amenities at The Parade, Oadby’s high street, include major supermarkets such as Lidl, Asda, and Sainsbury’s, as well as shops and restaurants. <br><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Oadby is a great choice for the University of Leicester students, thanks to its dedicated student village and regular bus links to the main campus. You can also unwind at Coombe Park or explore the Brocks Hill Country Park for football games or walks.<br><br></p><table style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;" fr-original-style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Neighbourhood                 </p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Closest University</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Highlights</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Clarendon Park</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">University of Leicester</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Cosy cafés, Victorian homes, Victoria Park</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">City Centre</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">De Montfort University     </p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Shops, nightlife, Highcross, walkable location</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">West End (Westcotes)</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">De Montfort University</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Narborough Road, Bede Park, budget-friendly</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Oadby</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">University of Leicester</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Suburban calm, student village, green spaces</p></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 dir="ltr" style="">More Student Accommodation in Leicester </h2><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">More accommodations near the Leicester City Centre include: </p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/459-newarke-point-leicester-uk">Newarke Point</a> is a student accommodation that provides en-suite rooms with Wi-Fi, all-inclusive bills, central heating, laundry facilities, parking, and study rooms. </p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/1139-edge-apartments-leicester-uk">Edge Apartments</a> offers studio options with Wi-Fi, on-site maintenance, all-inclusive bills, laundry facilities, on-site management, and insurance.  </p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/49659-the-summit-leicester-uk">The Summit</a> also has studios that feature all-inclusive bills, Wi-Fi, a social area, a garden, free contents insurance, and laundry facilities.<br><br></p></li></ul><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Part-Time Jobs for Students in Leicester </h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Balancing your studies with part-time jobs is an opportunity to broaden your horizons even more while getting involved in university life. Whether you want to gain work experience and new skills, support your education, boost your CV, or just stay active outside the classroom, Leicester’s in full support.<br><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">On-Campus Jobs </h3><p dir="ltr" style="">The University of Leicester’s Career and Development Service hosts Unitemps, while DMU’s Unitemps service is based within the Careers department at the Campus Centre. Unitemps is a recruitment service platform that provides students with job opportunities, suitable for those who are working full-time and want to balance their work with their student life. </p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Both the University of Leicester and DMU have branches in Unitemps.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""> </p><p dir="ltr" style="">The part-time jobs include:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Library assistants</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Research Participants</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Student ambassadors</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Student union roles (event coordinators, receptionists)</p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style=""><br></h3><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Off-Campus Jobs</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Employment options for students in Leicester are varied, such as:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Retail and supermarkets</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Restaurants and cafes</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Tutoring and admin jobs</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Staff for events like festivals and concerts<br><br></p></li></ul><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Tips for Working While Studying</h2><ol style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Prioritise a job with flexible working hours that won’t clash with your lectures and assignments.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">To reduce commute time, consider searching for employers in your neighbourhood or near your campus.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Keep track of payslips and contracts, and stay informed about the UK minimum wage, which varies according to your age. </p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">A part-time job is an opportunity to build your CV and develop transferable skills, such as teamwork, time management, and customer service.</p></li></ol><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Work Rights for International Students</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Under Student visa regulations, you can:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Work up to 20 hours per week during term time</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Work full-time during official university holidays.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Not to engage in self-employment or freelance work. </p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">To conclude, Leicester is a student city of culture, with many neighbourhoods to choose from. That said, the city has a great deal to offer in terms of education, culture, and accommodation. It’s a great choice to experience what the UK is like, without going to expensive cities such as London.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Ready to make your move? </p><p><br></p><p>Start your search with <a href="http://casita.com" style="" rel="nofollow">Casita</a> to compare verified Leicester student accommodation, book with no visa/no pay protection, and get 24/7 multilingual support.</p>

Study in Leicester: Student Life & Housing Guide

Leicester offers top universities, budget-friendly student accommodation, and a multicultural community. Explore part-time jobs, student life, and more.

Student Housing

Careers

Parent's Guide to Student Accommodation in the UK

Discover UK student accommodation costs in 2025 with Casita’s guide to PBSA, halls, and rentals. Clear insights to help students and parents.

<p><p dir="ltr" style="">Liverpool, a city with a rich history and vibrant culture by the Mersey, has more to offer than meets the eye. For a student, there’s much more to it, from Liverpool’s affordable cost of living, its well-known attractions, and its renowned football clubs. It’s a treasure trove of fascinating facts that are bound to surprise even the most dedicated Liverpudlians.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">In this article, we delve into the city's hidden charms to uncover interesting facts about Liverpool that often go unnoticed. So, put down your guidebook and prepare to be surprised!</p><p dir="ltr" style="">&nbsp;<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/08022024125835PM-Untitled-4-03.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 300px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="interesting facts about Liverpool" fr-original-style="width: 500px; height: 300px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"></p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Top Interesting Facts About Liverpool</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">The following list has some of the most intriguing facts about Liverpool and will give you a hint about things to do in Liverpool during your stay there. Let’s get started!</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Liverpudlians or Scousers?</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">During your stay in Liverpool, you will notice that natives tend to call themselves Scousers, but Scouse is not just a local nickname. It’s based on lobscouse, a meaty stew rich in vegetables that was popular among sailors working on the city’s seaports back in the 19th century, and remains a beloved comfort food to this day. Today, Scousers are known for their distinctive Scouse accent, along with Scouse jokes and their unique Scouse slang, which may require some decoding.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">The people of Liverpool are also referred to as Liverpudlians. The word itself is associated with the word 'puddle', meaning a small pool, as the city originally started as a tidal pool on the River Mersey. Therefore, a native is a Liver-puddle-ian, or Liverpudlian.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Who are the “Kopites”?</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">If you’re a major football fan, you're probably familiar with this term. It’s no secret that Liverpool is an extremely popular and internationally successful football city, with its major football teams, Liverpool FC and Everton.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">When you visit Liverpool, you’ll notice the fans. They call themselves Kopites. The name is a tribute to the fans who once stood and currently sit on the Kop in Anfield Stadium, one of the most famous football stadiums in the world. If you’re a football enthusiast, like most of the earth’s population, Liverpool’s the city for you!</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Once the European Capital of Cool</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Liverpool held the prestigious title of European Capital of Culture in 2008, celebrating its diverse cultural landscape and artistic heritage. Keep an eye out for the lasting legacy of this title in its thriving art scene and innovative projects.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Liverpool Cathedral’s Towering Bells</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Liverpool Cathedral is the UK's largest Anglican cathedral and one of the city's greatest attractions. Designed by Giles Gilbert Scott, it features the heaviest collection of church bells in the country. There’s also a whimsical element to it, namely a gargoyle holding a Beatles album, which is a testament to Liverpool's musical heritage and the timeless quality of these architectural marvels.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">A Major Musical Hub</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Liverpool is known as the Capital of Pop, and for good reason. Beyond The Beatles, who have their own museum, The Beatles Story Liverpool, the city has had a significant influence on the music scene. While the Fab Four remain legendary, the city holds the Guinness World Record for the most number-one hit singles produced by its artists, boasting bands like Gerry &amp; The Pacemakers, Echo &amp; The Bunnymen, and Frankie Goes to Hollywood, and many more.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Additionally, the city is home to the oldest professional symphony orchestra, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, founded in 1840, and has played an essential role in shaping Liverpool's music.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">A Literary Powerhouse</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Liverpool is renowned for being home to literary icons. Whether it be the Gothic chills of Bram Stoker in his Dracula or social observations and insights by another Liverpool-based writer, Alan Bleasdale, in his Boys from the Blackstuff, Liverpool has birthed literary giants who have managed to encapsulate the city’s essence and social realities.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Shakespeare lovers, too, rejoice! Everyman &amp; Playhouse theatres are located in the city, and they hold the distinction of staging every single one of Shakespeare’s plays, which is quite an achievement for any theatre company and one of the most iconic things to see in Liverpool!</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">The Birthplace of Modern Railways</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Forget the King’s Cross; Liverpool holds the distinction of being home to the world’s first inter-city rail line. The Liverpool and Manchester Railway has transformed transportation since 1830, laying the foundation of modern rail travel.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">It is Home to The World's First Commercial Wet Dock</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Again with the docks! Step back in time with the world’s first commercial wet dock, the Old Dock, which opened in 1700. While Canning Dock, which opened in 1753, has also witnessed centuries of maritime trade, it now serves as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting a range of events and exhibitions.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Liverpool has Special Birds</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">The iconic Liver Birds on the top of the Royal Liver Building are symbols of Liverpool, though their symbolism goes deeper than most people realise, as each bird holds its own unique token. The male, "Bertie," holds an oak branch, representing strength and resilience, while the female, "Bella," carries a sprig of seaweed, a nod to the city's maritime roots.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">The names and individual offerings of these majestic statues embody Liverpool’s protective spirit and enduring connection to the sea.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">A City with Secret Tunnels</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">The Williamson Tunnels stretch out beneath the busy streets of Liverpool, creating a mysterious web beneath the city. Created by the eccentric philanthropist Joseph Williamson in the 19th century, the purpose of their construction remains unknown, sparking curiosity and speculation.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Through guided tours, visitors can cross these passages that were once used for smuggling and wartime shelters and experience a mix of chills alongside captivating historical insights.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Liverpool is a city woven from intriguing history and cultural strands, with hidden surprises at every corner. Just ditch the map and make your own path of discovery!</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">If you want to learn more about the UK, check out our <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/things-international-students-need-to-know-about-living-in-the-uk" style="">Things Students Need to Know Before Studying in UK</a> blog. Good luck!</p></p>

Interesting Facts About Liverpool You Didn't Know

Discover interesting facts about Liverpool, England’s charming city. From “scousers” to "liver birds,” this guide unravels it all!

Entertainment

Interesting Facts About Liverpool You Didn't Know 2025

<p><p dir="ltr" style="">So, you’re headed to <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/manchester" style="">Manchester</a> for uni in 2025? Big move and a solid one. Manchester isn’t just known for Oasis, footie, and rainy weather. It’s one of the UK’s most iconic student cities, and it is home to over 100,000 students across major universities like <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/manchester/university-of-manchester" style="">the University of Manchester</a>, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/manchester/manchester-metropolitan-university" style="">Manchester Metropolitan University</a>, and <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/salford/university-of-salford" style="">Salford University</a>. It is a city with world-class research, a music scene, indie cafés, nightlife and some of the friendliest locals you’ll meet (yes, really).</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">But before you pack your tote bags and plan your first trip to Afflecks or the <a href="https://www.visitmanchester.com/things-to-see-and-do/explore/neighbourhoods/northern-quarter/" style="" rel="nofollow">Northern Quarter</a>, there’s one major thing to sort out: where are you going to live?</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">In Manchester, students are usually stuck choosing between two options: student accommodation (halls or private providers) or renting a flat privately. Both come with their own perks and downsides, and what’s right for one student might be totally wrong for another. That’s why we’re breaking down everything: cost, safety, vibes, social life, flexibility, and all the Manchester-specific details no one tells you until you’re already stuck in a year-long lease with mouldy windows. We’re also providing you with the best of both options. Ready? Let’s go.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/14082025022133PM-x.png" style="width: 550px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="Manchester Student Guide: Accommodation vs. Private Rent" fr-original-style="width: 550px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"></p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">The Student Accommodation Scene in Manchester</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Manchester is very rich in options. The city’s accommodation scene is wildly diverse. That’s what makes it both exciting and confusing, especially if you’re new.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">The city is split into student areas like:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Fallowfield: A very popular student area. It’s full of student houses, shops, and fun places to go out. It also has many buses from Platt Lane and Copper Place that take you straight to the university or the city centre.&nbsp;</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="">Check out <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/student-accommodation-fallowfield-manchester">Best Student Accommodation in Fallowfield, Manchester</a>.<br><br></p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Withington: Quieter than Fallowfield but still fun. You can take the bus from Withington Library or use the tram from Burton Road to get around.<br><br></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Rusholme: Close to the universities and has lots of great food places on the famous Curry Mile. It’s also one of the cheaper areas to live. Buses like the 147 stop at Rusholme Centre and Derby Road, so it’s easy to get to the university.<br><br></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">City Centre and Northern Quarter: This is the busy part of Manchester where everything is close. You can get buses from Piccadilly Gardens and Oxford Road to go anywhere in the city.<br><br></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Hulme: Close to the University of Manchester. It’s a good place if you want peace and still want to live near the university. Bus 53 goes through here and takes you to places like Salford and Old Trafford.<br><br></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Ancoats: A calm place near the city centre. It’s a good choice for older students. The 147 bus stops at Central Road and Sheffield Street, and it goes straight to the uni area.<br><br></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Student Accommodation in Manchester: What to Expect</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Private student accommodation in Manchester is basically purpose-built living. Bills are included, security is tight, and there are options ranging from en-suite rooms to private studios. You’ll find verified and trusted buildings with on-site gyms, common rooms, cinema lounges, laundry, and sometimes rooftop views.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Pros:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">All-in-one rent that covers utilities and Wi-Fi.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Close to campus.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Built-in community and social events.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Modern and secure.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="">Cons:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">You can’t always choose your flatmates, unless you all book together.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">The rooms might be small and not easy to decorate your way.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">If you're planning to stay close to your University or want to meet other students fast, this is the easy, no-headache route. Marketplaces like Casita can help you find the right fit, whether you want a social cluster flat or a quiet studio.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Private Renting in Manchester: Is It Worth It?</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">If you want more freedom or you’re moving in with friends, private renting is your other option. You can live in a house share, a flat, or even get your own place if your budget allows.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Pros:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Often cheaper per week, especially if sharing.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">More variety in locations and house styles.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Feels more independent and grown up.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="">Cons:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Bills are usually not included.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Landlord quality varies a lot.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Maintenance and safety are not always reliable.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">You might end up far from campus and need to rely on buses or long walks.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Fallowfield and Withington are go-tos for student renters, while the city centre is ideal if you can afford the extra cost. Just be ready to deal with council tax if you're living with non-students, dodgy landlords, and the great Manchester mould. You can also book with Casita with private renting options like co-livings, private lets, and even homestays if you're after something more lowkey.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Manchester Cost of Living: How Much Should You Budget?</h3><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Let’s talk money.<br><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Manchester isn’t the cheapest student city, but it’s more affordable than London. Here’s a rough monthly breakdown for 2025:</p><table style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;" fr-original-style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Expense</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Student Accommodation</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Private Rent (shared)</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Groceries</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Around £100</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Around £100</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Rent</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">£750–£950</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">£450–£650</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Transport</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Around £35</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Around £35</p></td></tr><tr><td><p dir="ltr">Utilities and Wi-Fi</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Included</p></td><td><p dir="ltr">Around £70</p></td></tr></tbody></table><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Private renting might look cheaper, but unexpected costs like maintenance or council tax can sneak up on you. That’s why choosing between student accommodation and private rent really depends on how much independence and responsibility you’re comfortable with.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Side tip: Students can save up to 30% with a TfGM ‘AnyBus’ pass—around £68/month vs. £95 full fare.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Manchester Student Life: Social Vibes and Daily Life</h3><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Living in Manchester means you’re never bored.</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Music? Check out <a href="https://www.viagogo.com/ww/Manchester/O2-Ritz-Manchester-Tickets/_V-5989?PCID=PSROWBINHOME45775092788AD&amp;ps=&amp;ps_ad=83838191148622&amp;ps_ag=1341406660982842&amp;ps_c=663138850&amp;ps_d=c&amp;ps_n=o&amp;ps_p=1&amp;ps_tg=kwd-83839036529358" rel="nofollow">gigs at O2 Ritz</a> or <a href="https://www.manchesteracademy.net/" rel="nofollow">Manchester Academy</a>.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Food? Curry Mile, indie cafés, vegan junk food, and international eats.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Uni societies? There are hundreds of them, and they’re genuinely active.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Student accommodation options often come with built-in social calendars, while private rentals let you explore the city at your own pace. Either way, Manchester student life is electric. The city is diverse, loud, proud, and budget-friendly if you know where to look.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Safety and Support</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Safety matters.<br>Student accommodations usually have 24/7 security, CCTV, and keycard entry. There’s also on-site staff if something goes wrong. With private renting, it depends on the area and your landlord. Some places are chill, others not so much.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Avoid listings that look too cheap to be real. They usually are.<br>The good news is that all three major universities have solid student support services. Whether it’s mental health help, financial advice, or housing guidance, the support is there; use it.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Uni-Specific Advice: What’s Best for You?</h3><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">University of Manchester: Living near <a href="https://oxfordroadcorridor.com/about-us/" rel="nofollow">Oxford Road</a> puts you close to lectures, libraries, and nightlife. Most student halls here are in prime locations.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Manchester Metropolitan University: A lot of MMU students live in the city centre or the south side.&nbsp;</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Salford University: It’s a bit further out, so think about transport. <a href="https://www.salford.gov.uk/peelpark" rel="nofollow">Peel Park</a> is a good local option, or some students choose to live in central Manchester and commute.<br><br></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Quickfire Renting Tips for First-Years</h3><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Start early</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Ask about hidden costs like admin fees</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Get everything in writing</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Know your rights as a tenant</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Talk to second-years or freshers' groups for recommendations</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Don’t forget renters’ insurance if you’re going private<br><br></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Where to Actually Live: Top Picks from Casita in Manchester</h3><h4 dir="ltr" style="">Best PBSA options in Manchester</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">If you’re leaning toward student accommodation in Manchester, there are plenty of options. Casita makes it super easy to find verified, fully furnished student rooms in all the right places. If you want to be five minutes from campus or live somewhere more chill, here are a few popular spots to check out:<br><br></p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/496-circle-square-manchester-uk">Vita Student Circle Square</a>: More of a luxe vibe. This Manchester student accommodation from Vita offers a collection of studios and en-suite rooms. It’s very well-equipped with premium amenities, including private gyms, social events, a coffee lounge, and an on-site laundry.<br><br></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/496-circle-square-manchester-uk">121 Princess Street</a>: This unique option is right near the heart of the city and perfect for University of Manchester students. Think of modern studios and apartments, super-fast Wi-Fi, and walking distance to both campus and vibey attractions.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/569-iq-kerria-apartments-manchester-uk">iQ Kerria Apartments</a>: A great option for those students of Manchester Metropolitan University. It has a wide range of apartments and studios. Stylish, very sleek, and close to Oxford Road.<br><br></p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr" style="">Private Renting with Casita</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">Not everyone vibes with halls or big student blocks, and that’s totally valid. If you’re more into having your own space or picking your flatmates, private renting could be your thing. And the good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone, as Casita has a massive collection of private lets, co-living options, and home stays.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">All listings at Casita come with student support, flexible contracts, and a booking process that’s actually stress-free. So if you’re skipping traditional halls, you’ve still got solid housing lined up. Here's a quick peek at some private renting options:<br><br></p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/216514-best-house-in-manchester-manchester-uk">Best House in Manchester</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/218331-bolefield-house-manchester-uk">Bolefield House</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/121028-piccadilly-manchester-uk">Piccadilly</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/225846-room-for-rent-manchester-uk">Room for Rent</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/216557-warm-cozy-home-in-manchester-manchester-uk">Warm Cozy Home in Manchester</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/225560-monton-village-manchester-uk">Monton Village</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/131207-manchester-arndale-suites-manchester-uk">Manchester Arndale Suites</a></p></li></ul><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Making the Right Move in Manchester</h2><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">At the end of the day, where you live will shape your entire uni experience. Whether you’re all about the convenience and built-in social life of student accommodation or craving the freedom of private renting, Manchester’s got something for every vibe and budget.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">The key is knowing your priorities. Want to roll out of bed and walk to lectures in five minutes? Go for a PBSA near campus. Looking to split bills with your besties and decorate your own space? A private let might be calling your name.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="">Manchester won’t disappoint, whatever you choose. It’s one of the best cities to kickstart your next chapter with its mix of academic powerhouses, buzzing culture, and student-friendly housing. Ready to move in? Manchester’s waiting.</p></p>

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<p dir="ltr" style="">Who would think that something like salmon, laundry, or an innocent costume could get someone arrested or fined? Well, that might actually happen in the UK! Every country has its fair share of strange, amusing laws that are probably outdated and never got removed. If you’re about to study in the UK, you should know some of these weird UK laws that you wouldn’t expect to be in place, just in case you are ever in one of these situations, unlikely as it seems!</p><h2 dir="ltr">1. No Fishy Behaviour</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">If you happen to go on a fishing trip and catch yourself a nice big salmon, be careful not to handle it suspiciously. That’s right; there is a weird British law called the Salmon Act, established in 1986 and titled ‘Handling Salmon in Suspicious Circumstances.’ While suspicious behaviour isn’t clarified in this law, a police officer can stop you on the road and investigate why you’re carrying around a salmon. It even extends to any freshwater fish like trout, eels, lampreys, and smelt!</p><h2 dir="ltr">2. Fancy Dress Rules</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Is it Halloween, and you’re going to a fancy dress party? Well, you might get arrested if you dress up as a member of the police, military or marine forces. While impersonating armed forces is an understandable serious offence, there’s not even room for tolerating it as a Halloween costume under the Seamen’s and Soldiers’ False Characters Act 1906 and the Police Act 1996. Don’t worry, though. You can still dress as a paramedic and not get arrested.</p><h2 dir="ltr">3. No Cows in the Daylight!</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">You’re walking your cow in broad daylight? How dare you, sir! Yes, another strange UK law states that you are not allowed to walk your cow in the street between 10 am and 7 pm under the Metropolitan Streets Act, Section 7. Apparently, no one wants to see you strolling with your cow, so just do the decent thing and keep your walks to the night when no on*e can see you.</p><h2 dir="ltr">4. Those Aren’t Your Whales!</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">It’s a beautiful sunny day on the beach, and you suddenly find a whale lying on the beach, don’t even think about taking it for yourself. That’s right, that’s a royal whale according to a 14th-century statute called the “Prerogative Regis” or “the King’s Prerogative”. The law states that all whales and sturgeons found on the coast are the property of the Crown and should be offered to them. So next time you find a whale, call the royal guards to come and pick it up.</p><h2 dir="ltr">5. Drop That Plank</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">The strange thing about this law is that it even exists in the first place! The Metropolitan Police Act states that you can’t walk around on the pavement carrying a wooden plank. The law also extends to ladders or any other long heavy objects. We can understand this since it would be very hazardous, but shouldn’t this just be common sense!?</p><h2 dir="ltr">6. Don’t Shake Your Rug!</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">You are not allowed to shake or beat your rug in the street….after 8 AM. Yes, another law under the Metropolitan Police Act strikes again. It’s almost like this weird UK law has no regard for cleaning day! Now you have to set your alarm so you can shake your rug in the street without hearing any sirens. </p><h2 dir="ltr">7. Don’t Ring That Doorbell</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">We’ve all done it as kids; ringing on someone’s doorbell or knocking then running away. It was harmless fun for us but definitely annoying for the adults, so much so that the UK decided to make an entire law dedicated to stopping that behaviour. The Metropolitan Police Act 1839 states that it’s an offence to “willfully and wantonly disturb any inhabitant by pulling or ringing any doorbell or knocking at any door without lawful excuse”. This weird UK law seems to have something against child’s play because it even extends to prohibiting flying kites in public spaces as well as sledding on ice. Someone had a really mischievous child around them to come up with this law! </p><h2 dir="ltr">8. Hide Your Laundry</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Your dry-cleaner’s out of service? Don’t even think about hanging your laundry outside for it to dry, or you’ll be spending the night in jail. You heard us, it is literally against UK law to hang a washing line in the street. Again, just no regard for laundry day!</p><h2 dir="ltr">9. Polish Potatoes Ban</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Don’t you dare even think about smuggling potatoes into the UK! We have our own potatoes, and we’re very proud of it!! As weird as some UK laws go, this is one of the weirdest we’ve seen. There’s a whole act stating that bringing potatoes into the UK, especially from Poland, is against the law. Guess Polish potatoes are just not as tasty?!</p><h2 dir="ltr">10. No Lingering At Funerals</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Once a funeral you’re attending is over, you better pack up and leave right away! Lingering after a funeral is illegal, so watch out for that fine! They say, in 2015, a man was fined £160 for staying an extra 20 minutes after his late wife's service had finished!</p><p dir="ltr" style="">These weird UK laws present a nice amusement for newcomers like yourself; however, always remember that the UK actually has one of the world’s strongest constitutions. Their laws aim to protect and serve their people’s best interest and help visitors.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""> If you think these laws are weird, you should take a look at <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/weirdest-laws-and-regulations-in-canada">Weirdest Laws and Regulations in Canada</a> and <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/9-weird-state-laws-you-never-knew-about">9 Weird State Laws You Never Knew About</a>. </p>

Weirdest Laws and Regulations in the UK

As a student in the UK, you should know some of these weird UK laws, just in case you are ever in one of these situations, unlikely as it seems!

<p dir="ltr" style="">Choosing a country to study in could be one of the most difficult decisions you’ll have to make. It would be your home for the next 4 years or more, so you must carefully consider your choice. While it’s important to consider the choice of university, you should also consider the factor of personal fulfillment by choosing a country with a happy, engaging environment that complements the academic aspect. To find a country that is both happy and academically achieved, turn to the index of the happiest countries in the world made annually by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The choice is based on material living conditions (housing, jobs, income) and quality of life (education, governance, life satisfaction, safety and work-life balance). Some of the major factors are freedom to make life choices, generosity, income, perceived corruption, trust, healthy life expectancy, and social support.</p><h2 dir="ltr">1. Finland</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">For the third year in a row, Finland took the top spot for the happiest country in the world with a score of 7.809. Its low levels of unemployment, high-income rates, and overall relaxing lifestyle are what always brings it out on top. It was the fourth country to land on the Better Life Index top 10 with an impressive score of 2.5 for communal support among citizens. According to the index, education in Finland is considered one of the highest quality globally, with 84% of citizens with high-school degree level and the University of Helsinki ranking 69th in the world and 10 other universities in the recent World University Rankings.</p><h2 dir="ltr">2. Denmark</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">The clear air, free education, and healthcare put Denmark in second-ranking for the world’s happiest countries. Its highest scores are in the community and work/life balance categories. The main difference between Denmark and Finland is a relatively higher level of corruption perceived by the people, but it has a higher calculation of generosity than Finland. All EU/EEA students can attend university in Denmark for free, with 5 universities featured in the World University Rankings. The University of Copenhagen is the only one in the top 100, landing at number 68.</p><h2 dir="ltr">3. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/switzerland">Switzerland</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Home to some of the world-leading Institutes, Switzerland climbed up this year’s happiness rankings, knocking Norway from third place and surpassing Netherlands and Iceland. The ranking is well-deserved for being one of the world’s safest countries along with its strong economy and life satisfaction. The country is full of happy, healthy people with a very high median salary and the lowest rates of obesity in the world. In the OECD Better Life Index, Switzerland impressively scores highly for employment, job security, and earnings. There are two Swiss universities included in the latest World University Rankings, with two in the top 20. Its highest-ranked institution is ETH Zurich, ranked 12th globally, and there’s also the highly renowned <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/switzerland/zurich/university-of-zurich">University of Zurich</a>.</p><h2 dir="ltr">4. Iceland</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">With a total score of 7.494, Iceland has its seat in the top 5 happiest countries in the world. It has the lowest amount of perceived corruption among the five countries and has impressively low crime and corruption rates. It has seven major universities and a unique social scene and natural scenes you won’t see anywhere else. </p><h2 dir="ltr">5. Norway</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Norway comes in fifth place with staggeringly low rates of crime and incarceration. High citizen satisfaction levels come from the country’s free healthcare and education and an outstanding work-life balance. Even though it’s not the cheapest country in the top 5 regarding the cost of living, it’s the most affordable university student option. Ranked 113th globally, the University of Oslo is one of the best places to study in the country. </p><h2 dir="ltr">6. the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/netherlands">Netherlands</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">The Netherlands’ robust economy and its high income and low unemployment landed it the 6th place in the happiest countries rankings. The country is also known for its heightened sense of individual freedom, and the clear air and beautiful landscapes add to its people’s satisfaction with the quality of life. The educational power of the Netherlands is quite underrated even though it has two universities in the top 100 worldwide; the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/netherlands/delft/delft-university-of-technology">Delft University of Technology</a>, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/netherlands/amsterdam/university-of-amsterdam">University of Amsterdam</a>.  </p><h2 dir="ltr">7. Sweden</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">With a progressive political system and free education for its citizens, it was only natural for Sweden to be in the top 10 happiest countries in the world. Its education system is highly renowned worldwide, with Lund University and KTH Royal Institute of Technology in the top 100 best universities in the world.</p><h2 dir="ltr">8. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/new-zealand">New Zealand</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">New Zealand’s efforts in  supporting wellbeing at individual and governmental levels did not go in vain as it takes 8th place in the happiest countries list. With specific budgets dedicated to climate change, well being, social exclusion, poor health, and domestic violence. Another factor that earned New Zealand its place in the list is the people’s sense of being connected in times of distress. It also has a university ranked in the top 100 in the world, the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/new-zealand/auckland/the-university-of-auckland">University of Auckland</a>.</p><h2 dir="ltr">9. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/austria">Austria</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">After increasing its efforts towards GDP and establishing a more robust economy, Austria manages to be the 9th happiest country globally. Its score highlights are social support, healthy life expectancy, generosity, and freedom to make life decisions. With a high-quality education system, many Austrian universities are ranked among the world’s top universities like the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/austria/vienna/university-of-vienna">University of Vienna</a> and Vienna University of Technology.</p><h2 dir="ltr">10. Luxembourg</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">After being in 14th place last year, Luxembourg managed to snatch 10th place this year, surpassing Canada and Australia. The upgrade comes due to the country’s strong social security system and high salaries, not to mention excellent healthcare. Luxembourg also scored high in the work-life balance category and has a top-ranking university, The University of Luxembourg.</p><h2 dir="ltr">11. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/canada">Canada</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">With the third place in the list for best countries in the world for education, it’s only right that Canada takes place in this list. It has 3 universities in the top 100 QS University Rankings 2021, the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/canada/toronto/university-of-toronto-scarborough">University of Toronto</a>, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/canada/montreal/mcgill-university">McGill University</a>, and <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/canada/vancouver/university-of-british-columbia">University of British Columbia</a>. </p><h2 dir="ltr">12. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia">Australia</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">It’s not just the sandy beaches and great weather that got Australia a place on this list. It has impressively low unemployment rates, and the minimum wage is double that of the United States. It also scores highly on civic engagement, health, and safety with low crime rates. Its highest-ranked university, the Australian National University, is ranked 27th in the world. It has 4 other universities in the top 100 in the world; The <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/sydney/university-of-sydney">University of Sydney</a>, the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/melbourne/university-of-melbourne">University of Melbourne</a>, the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/sydney/university-of-new-south-wales-unsw">University of New South Wales</a>, and the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/brisbane/university-of-queensland-uq">University of Queensland</a>.</p><h2 dir="ltr">13. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk">United Kingdom</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Known for being one of the top education destinations for students worldwide, the United Kingdom is one of the happiest countries to study in. It’s not only for its excellent education system and housing that the UK landed a place on this list; it also had one of the best generosity scores. The UK has some of the oldest and highly renowned universities globally, including the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/oxford/university-of-oxford">University of Oxford</a>, the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/cambridge/university-of-cambridge">University of Cambridge</a>, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/imperial-college-london">Imperial College London</a> and <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/university-college-london">University College London</a>. </p><h2 dir="ltr">14. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/israel">Israel</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Israel also managed to take a spot in this list,  it is a highly recognized for its excellent education system. It has a wide range of universities you can choose from, like the University of Tel Aviv and the University of Haifa.</p><h2 dir="ltr">15. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/costa-rica">Costa Rica</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">The clean environment, strong social bonds, and investment in education, not to mention the stunning views, earned Costa Rica a place in the happiest countries list. The <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/costa-rica/monteverde/university-of-costa-rica">University of Costa Rica</a> and <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/costa-rica/monteverde/national-university-of-costa-rica">Universidad Nacional</a> are some of the top universities in Costa Rica and are proof of the country’s generous investment in education.</p><h2 dir="ltr">16. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/ireland">Ireland</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">With impressive GDP per capita scores, freedom to make life choices, and life expectancy, it was only natural for Ireland to earn a spot on this list. In fact, it came in the top 10 countries for generosity, social support and lack of perceived corruption. This makes it a perfect destination for international students, along with the fact that it has some of the best universities in the world like <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/ireland/dublin/university-college-dublin">University College Dublin</a>, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/ireland/galway/national-university-of-ireland">National University of Ireland</a> and <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/ireland/dublin/trinity-college-dublin">Trinity College Dublin</a>. </p><h2 dir="ltr">17. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany">Germany</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Germany’s excellent healthcare and education systems are the main reasons Germany features in the happiest countries list. Other factors, like the regulation of working hours, also gave it an extra boost. There’s also the support for sporting groups and hobbies, which makes it a great place for students along with the highly-acclaimed universities such as the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany/munich/technical-university-of-munich">Technical University of Munich</a> and <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany/heidelberg/heidelberg-university">Heidelberg University</a>.</p><h2 dir="ltr">18. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/usa">USA</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Moving up from 19th place, the United States seems to be looking forward to climbing the happiest countries list in the years to come. Despite its growing economy and high ranking for income, the country’s social issues and over-use of media gave it this lower ranking. However, the USA remains one of the top destinations for an international student with worldly acclaimed universities like <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/usa/boston/harvard-university">Harvard University</a>, Stanford University, and <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/usa/new-york/columbia-university">Columbia University</a>.   </p><h2 dir="ltr">19. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/czech-republic">Czech Republic</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Managing to grab one of the last few spots in the top 20 happiest countries, the Czech Republic had an impressive jump from its 23rd place in 2017. It had great scores in social support, GDP per capita, health and life expectancy. It’s also home to prestigious universities like <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/czech-republic/prague/charles-university">Charles University</a> and Czech Technical University in Prague. </p><h2 dir="ltr">20. <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/belgium">Belgium</a></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Belgium snatches the last spot in the top 20 happy countries this year, knocking out France in the process. The country is widely known for its wonderful health system, high-quality public transport network, access to various sports activities, and overall high quality of life, which makes Belgians one of the happiest people in the world. Higher education in Belgium is worldly renowned for its excellence with top-ranking universities like Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/belgium/ghent/ghent-university">University of Ghent</a>, and Université Catholique de Louvain.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">There you have it! These are the top happiest countries in the world that you can study at and guarantee a prospering life both academically and socially. Just make sure you do your research on your chosen study destination to ensure it meets your lifestyle needs, budget and take into consideration the weather as these are all important factors for a happy study abroad! </p><p dir="ltr" style="">If you have not booked your student accommodation in these countries yet, <a href="https://www.casita.com/" style="">Casita</a> will help you find your perfect room near your university in any city that suits your budget.</p><p><br></p>

20 Happy Countries You Should Study in

To find a country that is both happy and academically achieved, check the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

<h2 dir="ltr" style="">What is IELTS? What does IELTS Stand for? </h2><p dir="ltr" style="">IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. It is a three-hour international standardised test that evaluates your English language proficiency.  </p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Academic IELTS vs General Training IELTS </h2><p dir="ltr" style="">There are two types of IELTS certification; Academic and General Training. You should consider taking the Academic IELTS if you plan to study in a college or university, find a job, or search for an internship in practical fields such as medicine or engineering. This version assesses your readiness for academic study or training in English. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">On the other hand, the General Training IELTS is for those who wish to study, train, work or migrate to an English-speaking country like the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk">UK</a>, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia">Australia</a>, or <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/canada">Canada</a>. This version focuses on assessing your everyday use of the language in the workplace and social situations and as the name suggests, is more general.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">The exam sections are the same in both versions, but the reading and writing sections’ content is different. So before applying for the IELTS exam, search and read about the sections in detail to choose what suits you.</p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">IELTS vs. TOEFL</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Both TOEFL and IELTS assess your linguistic skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Nevertheless, they differ in their scoring scale, exam cost, exam duration, and accents you might hear in the listening section.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">IELTS is the International English Language Testing System that uses British English during the test. However, TOEFL is the Test of English as a Foreign Language that assesses your linguistic skills in American English. </p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Tips to Prepare for IELTS</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Preparing for IELTS can be daunting. You might feel overwhelmed about where to start and how to plan, especially if it is the first time you take the IELTS exam. But try to stay calm! We will give you tips and tricks to develop your linguistic skills and maximise your overall IELTS score. Here are useful tips to prepare for IELTS.</p><h3 dir="ltr">1. How do I Improve my Reading Skills for IELTS?</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Many IELTS takers think that the reading section is the hardest part of the IELTS exam. It’s true that reading three different sections and answering 40 questions in only 60 minutes requires concentration and a lot of practice. Don’t worry about that! Let’s tackle this part head on! With the following tips to prepare for IELTS Reading, you can expect to get a band score higher than 6.0.</p><h4 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">1. Read Frequently</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">The most important step in preparing for IELTS Reading is reading a page or two every day. Whether you are a fan of reading on-screen or in print, there are thousands of resources you can choose from both online and offline, like blogs, magazines, newspapers, and books. Try to read not only the things you are interested in, but also explore a wide range of topics such as the news, current affairs, history, economics, animals, climate change, science, astronomy, etc. To practice reading, you can access <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/" rel="nofollow">National Geographic</a>, <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/" rel="nofollow">Science Daily</a>, <a href="https://www.economist.com/" rel="nofollow">The Economist</a>, <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">BBC</a>, and more.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Additionally, reading aloud is useful as it improves your comprehension, vocabulary, and information processing skills. Besides, it gives you confidence and motivates you to read more.</p><h4 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">2. Study Vocabulary</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">The more you read, the more vocabulary you will become familiar with. Learning vocabulary is not only about knowing the meaning of a word. It is also about learning when and how to use it in a context,  its synonyms and antonyms, and what it means in idiomatic expressions. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">To improve your vocabulary, underline the words that you don’t understand when you read. After reading a page, turn back to the difficult words and see if you understand their meanings in the context. If not, look them up in an English - English dictionary. </p><h4 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">3. Learn How to Skim and Scan</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">You are not supposed to read the whole passage in detail in the test. Just skim through it in two to three minutes to get its general idea. Then, read the questions and scan the paragraph for the answers. Scanning means your ability to locate particular information quickly. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">When you skim, it is beneficial to underline any keywords you see. This will help you later when you scan the passage for the answer.</p><h4 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">5. Familiarise Yourself With the Test Format</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">It’s essential to practice all question types using authentic IELTS exams. Read the questions and instructions carefully before answering. There are around 10 types of questions in the IELTS Reading section so you should familiarise yourself with all of them before you sit for your exam as you won’t know which types will be in the exam. </p><h4 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">6. Choose Your Test Type:</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">Consider which test version you are taking and practice accordingly:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr">In the Academic IELTS Reading, you will read texts taken from books, journals, newspapers, and magazines and written for non-specialist readers. The exam contains three long passages which are descriptive, factual, analytical or discursive. A simple glossary is provided if the text includes technical terms.</li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Similarly, the General Training IELTS Reading contains three sections. However, the first one is “social survival” with general factual information like ads and notices. The second is “workplace survival” which might be an extract from a job description or a contract. The third part is “General reading” with descriptive and instructive extracts from newspapers, magazines, fiction and non-fiction books.</p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">2. How to Prepare for IELTS Listening</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">The second receptive skill is listening. It is possible to get a high band score in listening. Following these tips and tricks, you can achieve the score you need. Here are tips to prepare for IELTS Listening. </p><h4 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">1. Listen to English Every Day</h4><p dir="ltr" style=""> ”What has she just said?”</p><p dir="ltr" style="">“I totally missed what he said!”</p><p dir="ltr" style="">If this sounds like you, you need to practice listening well before taking the exam. Before practising your authentic IELTS Listening tests, improve your general listening skills. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Listen to a wide range of topics in English podcasts, TV shows, documentary programs, lectures, monologues, TED Talks, and YouTube videos. Familiarise yourself with a range of accents since the exam includes different accents, mainly British, American, Canadian, New Zealand (also called Newzild or Kiwi), and Australian (also known as Aussie).</p><p dir="ltr" style="">In the IELTS exam, you will have only one chance to listen to the recording. So try to listen to any recording only once to get used to it. To practice your listening, you can use <a href="https://www.esl-lab.com/" rel="nofollow">Randall’s ESL Cyber Listening Lab</a>.</p><h4 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">2. Practice Multitasking When Listening</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">It is normal to get lost during a lecture or a conversation, especially when it is in an unfamiliar accent or uninteresting topic. Therefore, when you start practising, it is beneficial to listen to recordings with scripts or to watch videos with subtitles at first. Doing that will develop your listening skills and improve your pronunciation, understanding, spelling and vocabulary.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Later on, you can take notes when you listen to a recording then go back to the audio-script to check your accuracy, understanding and spelling. This way you can be sure you won’t miss anything.</p><h4 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">3. Understand the Test Format</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">In the IELTS Listening, both exam versions are the same. Similar to the types of reading questions, you will find around 10 types you should familiarise yourself with. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">During the test, you will listen to four recordings; the first two recordings deal with everyday life, however, the last two are set in educational and training contexts. The second and fourth recordings will be monologues. The first and third recordings will be conversations.</p><h3 dir="ltr" style="">3. How to Prepare for IELTS Writing</h3><h4 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">1. Paraphrase What You Have Read</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">After reading an article, it is useful to paraphrase what you have read. You will ensure that you have learnt new vocabulary and practice them in a context. </p><h5 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">2. Make an Outline</h5><p dir="ltr" style="">Before starting to write, you should make an outline. Outlining your piece of writing will save you time since it will help you organise your ideas and put them in the correct order. Consequently, you will focus on using appropriate grammar and correct spelling while you’re writing.</p><h5 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">3. Stick to the Recommended Number of Words</h5><p dir="ltr" style="">The IELTS Writing test has nothing to do with the length, quality is definitely more important than quantity.. Stick to the required word count. In Task 1, you should write 150 words or slightly more, and in Task 2, write 250 words or slightly more. Don’t write below the minimum length, as you may lose marks. Also, do not write too much or you will lose valuable time.</p><h5 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">4. Watch Your Time</h5><p dir="ltr" style="">Practice timed writing before the exam to improve your speed. If you are taking the paper-based test, practice your handwriting under time pressure to make sure your handwriting is tidy and neat in the exam. Also, you should stick to formal English in the writing part and not use spoken English.</p><h5 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">5. Proofread Your Writing</h5><p dir="ltr" style="">After each task, leave a couple of minutes to proofread your piece of writing. Check its cohesiveness and edit it for spelling, grammar, capitalisation, and punctuation mistakes. </p><h5 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">6.  Familiarise Yourself With the Test Format</h5><p dir="ltr" style="">Before the IELTS exam, understand the test format. In the Writing section, there are some differences between the General Training IELTS test and the Academic test. So consider the test version you are applying for. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">There are two tasks in each version; Writing Task 1 and Writing Task 2.</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">In Writing Task 1, you will be asked to write 150 words in both test versions. You will write a letter explaining a situation or requesting information in a personal, semi-formal or formal style on the General Training test. However, in the Academic test, you will summarise, explain or describe the information presented in a table, diagram, chart, or graph in your own words.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">In Writing Task 2, the minimum required length is 250 words. In both versions, you will write an essay in response to an argument, a point of view or a problem. However, you will write in a formal style on the Academic test and a more personal style in the General Training test.</p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">4. How to Prepare for IELTS Speaking</h3><h4 dir="ltr">1. Discuss What You Have Listened to</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">Similar to the reading and writing sections, developing your listening skills will enhance your pronunciation and, therefore, will improve your fluency in speaking. After listening to a recording or watching a video, discuss the story in front of a mirror or to one of your friends in English.</p><h4 dir="ltr">2. Record Yourself</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">Record yourself when you are speaking on different topics. Doing so will help you carefully check your pronunciation and feel confident when you speak in public. </p><h4 dir="ltr">3. Your Answer is Always Right</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">There are no right or wrong answers. The examiner assesses your use of language, not your opinion. They examine your pronunciation, coherence and fluency, grammatical range and accuracy, as well as lexical resources.</p><h4 dir="ltr">5. Don’t Fear Your Accent</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">Speak clearly and at a natural pace. The examiner will not assess whether you sound native. Alternatively, they will assess how you choose your words, how coherent your speech is, your use of intonation and stress, and the way you pronounce the words. Try to use advanced vocabulary in the correct way to get a band score higher than 6.0. However, choose simple and commonly-used vocabulary if you are not sure of how to use the advanced word in a sentence. </p><h4 dir="ltr">6. Vary Your Tone</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">Always vary your stress and intonation. Speaking in a monotone makes it difficult for you to express your thoughts clearly. Try to make your conversation with the examiner more engaging by pausing at sections and emphasising certain words.</p><h4 dir="ltr">7. Understand the Test Format</h4><p dir="ltr" style="">IELTS Speaking is the same in General Training and Academic tests. There will be three parts:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr">Speaking Part 1, you will speak for four or five minutes about yourself, your home, interests, family, study, or work. </li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Speaking Part 2 where you will speak for three to four minutes about a particular topic. </p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Speaking Part 3 where the examiner asks you further questions to discuss more ideas and issues related to the topic in Part 2 for four to five minutes.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="">Finally, The <a href="https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/?_ga=2.128784648.505589363.1614567778-1425453238.1614567778" rel="nofollow">British Council</a> website has <a href="https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/getting-started?promo_id=fr01&amp;promo_name=free-resources&amp;promo_creative=cards&amp;promo_position=homepage" rel="nofollow">free diverse resources</a> in learning grammar, vocabulary and the four English skills; reading, writing, listening and speaking. You can also take a <a href="https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/english-levels/online-english-level-test?promo_id=olt01&amp;promo_name=online-level-test&amp;promo_creative=cta&amp;promo_position=homepage" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">free online test</a> to assess your current level and identify your points of strength and weakness. Check that out and remember only to book your test when you are ready. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Preparing for the IELTS exam takes three to six months. Self-learning is good if you are committed; however, if you are unable to commit, find an institution or a private tutor to make you a study plan and give you feedback. Here are the <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/top-ielts-preparation-centres-in-liverpool-">top IELTS preparation centres In Liverpool</a>.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Good luck with your test!</p>

Tips to Prepare for IELTS

Tips to Prepare for IELTS listening, reading and writing exams.

<p dir="ltr" style="">St. Patrick’s Day - also known as the Feast of Saint Patrick - is a religious and cultural holiday celebrated on March 17, which is the day Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland, passed away. St. Patrick’s Day is a holiday that later became a celebration of Irish culture with special food, parades, dancing, music, drinking, and a whole lot of green decoration! </p><h2 dir="ltr">1. Who was St. Patrick?</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Saint Patrick was born in Roman Britain in the 4th Century. At age 16, he was kidnapped by Irish raiders and taken to Ireland as a slave. After toiling for six years as a shepherd, he escaped back to Britain but  later returned to Ireland as a Christian missionary.  By the time of his death on March 17, 432, he had established churches, monasteries, and schools. He was also known for using the three leaves of the native Irish clover, the shamrock, to explain the Holy Trinity - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. </p><h2 dir="ltr">2. The First Celebration of St. Patrick’s Day</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">The Irish have considered this day a holiday for over a thousand years. St. Patrick’s Day takes place during the Christian period of Lent, when Irish families would traditionally go to church in the morning and then celebrate in the afternoon. The earliest known celebration of St. Patrick’s Day was held on March 17, 1631. However, the first St. Patrick’s Day parade didn’t take place in Ireland, but in America on March 17, 1601, in a Spanish colony which is now known as St. Augustine, Florida. A year earlier, the Spanish Colony's Irish vicar Ricardo Artur organised the celebration and the parade. Boston held its first St. Patrick’s Day parade in 1737, and then New York followed in 1762. </p><h2 dir="ltr">3. The Chicago River Going Green </h2><p dir="ltr" style="">In 1962, Chicago coloured its river green in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. The tradition began when dyes were used by city pollution-control workers to trace illegal sewage discharges; they then thought that the green dye might be a unique way to celebrate the holiday. That year, 100 pounds of vegetable dye was released into the river, which was enough to keep the river’s colour green for a week. Nowadays, only 40 pounds of green dye is used to minimise environmental damage, making the river turn green for just several hours. Irish and non-Irish people commonly participate in the tradition of “wearing green”, and that’s why the shamrock is the traditional plant of this holiday. </p><h2 dir="ltr">4. The Shamrock</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">The shamrock - which is also called “the seamroy” by the Celts - is a three-leaf clover that was considered a sacred plant in ancient Ireland because it symbolises spring’s rebirth. The shamrock became a symbol of emerging Irish nationalism by the 17th century when the English seized the Irish land and banned the use of the Irish language and Catholicism. The Irish began to wear the shamrock as a symbol of their pride in their heritage and as an act of rebellion against the English rule. Since it already held positive connotations for the Irish, St Patrick used the Shamrock in his teachings to represent the Holy Trinity.</p><h2>5. Leprechauns </h2><p dir="ltr" style="">The green-clothed, red-headed Leprechaun is commonly associated with St. Patrick’s Day. The original Irish name is “lobaircin”, which means “small-bodied fellow”, and it stems from the Celtic belief in fairies and tiny men and women who use their magical powers to serve good or evil. Leprechauns are considered a symbol of St. Patrick’s Day, with many people dressing up as fairies. </p><h2>6. Cabbage and Corned Beef</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Eating a meal consisting of cabbage and corned beef is considered a “traditional” meal on St. Patrick’s Day. Cabbage and ham were traditionally eaten in Ireland; however, immigrants in the 19th and early 20th century introduced corned beef as a cheaper alternative. </p><h2>7. St. Patrick's Day Celebrations Around the World</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">People of all backgrounds celebrate St. Patrick’s Day nowadays, especially throughout Canada, Australia, and the United States. It’s also celebrated around the world in many locations far from Ireland, such as Russia, Japan, and Singapore. The holiday’s recipes include cabbage, corned beef, champ, and Irish soda bread. People in the United States usually celebrate by wearing green coloured clothes on this day. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

Everything You Need to Know About St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick’s Day is a holiday that celebrates the Irish culture with special food, parades, dancing, music, drinking, and a whole lot of green decoration!

<p dir="ltr" style="">A high-quality education has become a necessity to ensure promising career prospects. However, with education fees increasing each year, this necessity has become more challenging to achieve. Even when students maintain a perfect academic record, most scholarships still do not cover the entire cost of university education, whether locally or abroad. In India, it’s no different; students also struggle to avail themselves of the opportunity for higher education in the main educational institutions of their choice. That’s why it might be a good idea to apply for a student loan in India to achieve your ideal educational experience. Here’s all you need to know to apply for a student loan in India:</p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">How Do Student Loans Work?</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">A student loan is an amount of money that is borrowed from the government or a private entity to facilitate finances for students applying to higher education in India or abroad. Students can apply for a loan whether they are pursuing a graduate or postgraduate degree, a full-time course, a part-time course, or a vocational course. These loans cover tuition fees, <a href="https://www.casita.com/" target="_blank">student accommodation</a> fees, books, examination fees, travel expenses, and other costs. Government loans have the perk of lower interest rates and can be returned either after a specified period of time or after the student starts earning a certain amount. The amount loaned varies depending on the destination and the bank. </p><ul><li><h3 dir="ltr">Who is Eligible?</h3></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">Any student can apply for an education loan in India with the requirement of having a parent, sibling, or spouse as a co-applicant and with the following eligibility criteria:</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">1. The student must be an Indian citizen.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">2. Students must be between the ages of 18-35. Note that some banks do not have an age limit for students applying for a student loan in India.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">3. Students must have completed higher secondary education.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">4. Students must secure admission into a college or university that is recognised in India or abroad. Note that some banks offer the loan before securing admission.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">5. Students must have a good academic record.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">6. Students seeking to study abroad must have part-time jobs or sponsorship.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">7. Studying abroad requires insurance.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">8. Students must apply to one of the courses eligible for an education loan by the chosen bank.</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><h3 dir="ltr">Student Loans Features</h3></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">Applying for a student loan in India varies according to the bank or entity you are applying for, but here are some standard features you can expect to see:</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">1. Loans below a certain amount won’t require a guarantor or security (up to Rs 7.5 lakh/$9400). Loans above this amount will require either collateral or a third-party guarantor.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">2. Repayment starts between 6 months to a year after completing the course with the possibility of extending it to 5-7 years and with some banks offering extension up to 15 years.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">3. Interest rates range between 12.00% and 16.00% depending on the bank’s base lending rate.</p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">4. There are special concessional interest rates for female students who apply for a student loan in India. </p><p dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 40px;">5. Acceptable forms of collateral include residential or commercial property, insurance, or fixed deposits.</p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Things To Consider Before You Apply for a Student Loan In India</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Applying for an education loan in India is not a light decision; there are some things you need to consider before taking that step. Especially since it’s a decision involving some risk as you are borrowing money from an entity to be returned with interest over a period of time; it’s almost a lifetime commitment! That’s why the most important thing you need to consider is your choice of major as well as your destination. It’s a one-time decision, so it needs to be thought through carefully. Make sure you choose a university with a high ranking and a major with high employability rates to ensure you can repay your education loan after graduation. Calculate the debt you’ll owe in the future and your expected earnings and expenses, and develop a repayment plan.</p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">How to Apply For A Student Loan In India</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">If you want to apply for a student loan in India, it’s highly recommended that you start as early as possible since it can be a long process. It consists of application, approval, and loan disbursement, but there are a few things you need to do first. It’s advisable to take your time in researching all the Indian banks offering student loans and carefully read each bank’s terms and conditions after ensuring that they cover your chosen course. Loan amounts and types can differ from one bank to another, so it’s always smart to view all your options, compare, and choose from a position of knowledge.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Once you’ve set your sights on a bank offering a suitable loan for your study option, you can either move forward with the entire process online or head over to the bank itself. If you choose the online application option, the bank might offer virtual assistance in filling out the application form and attaching the required documents. Otherwise, you can take all your documents to the nearest branch to apply and await your approval. Once approved, a loan document containing various loan elements will be issued by the bank to be signed. After that, the amount loaned will be disbursed in instalments as required by the educational institution.</p><p dir="ltr" style=""><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/14032021110524AM-2-(1).jpg" style="z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="Student Loans " fr-original-style="z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"></p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Education Loan Providers in India</h2><p dir="ltr" style=""><a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/best-education-loan-providers-in-india">Education loan providers</a> in India can be categorised as follows:</p><h3 dir="ltr" style=""> 1) State Banks</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">State banks are institutions chartered by the government to provide commercial banking services. There are a few specific features regarding taking an education loan from a state bank in India. For starters, public sector banks are overall considered more trustworthy due to their transparent policies.  In state banks, any changes in repo rates by the central banks are transferred to customers and immediately applied. As for processing, the fees usually range between 0.5% to 1% of the total loan amount, which is considered low compared to private banks. A great perk about state banks is that they don't levy any prepayment charges, not to mention there isn’t a condition for a prepayment period. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Some of the top state banks in India are:</p><ul style=""><li dir="ltr">State Bank of India</li><li dir="ltr">Punjab National Bank</li><li dir="ltr">Bank of Baroda</li><li dir="ltr">Canara bank</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">2) Private Banks</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">On the other hand, private banks offer more personalised financial services and products targeted specifically for high-net-worth individual (HNWI) clients. When it comes to taking an education loan from a private bank in India, their policies are slightly more complex than state banks, in part because they are able to offer very large loans. Processing fees in private banks are usually higher than state banks, reaching 2% because private banks give commissions to agents who bring them customers. If you want to repay the loan in private banks, they usually charge 2% of the remaining loan amount, and you can’t start repaying until you’ve received  6 months of the loan payments. The overall perks of choosing private banks for your education loan are good customer care, a hassle-free documentation process, and better concession rates. Some of the top private banks in India are:</p><ul><li>ICICI</li><li>HDFC</li><li>HDFC Credila</li></ul><p><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/14032021110724AM-3.jpg" style="width: 300px; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="Casita Student loans" fr-original-style="width: 300px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"></p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">The Benefits of Applying for a Student Loan In India</h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Even though taking any kind of loan has its risks, applying for an education loan in India is a good kind of risk as it could count as an investment. There are many perks of applying for an education loan, like how it’s applicable for a wide range of courses, giving you flexibility while choosing a major. It’s also repaid only when you finish your education, eliminating financial pressure and allowing you to focus on your studies. Getting a student loan also means you’ll have a lot of expenses covered aside from tuition, such as travel costs, study materials and supplies, and you might even get a student laptop. There is also the fact that a student loan would reduce a huge financial burden from your family, and they won’t need to diminish their investments or savings. It’s generally a great way to pay for your education and kickstart going into adulthood by taking care of your own expenses.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Now you know all about applying for an education loan in India; the next step is to check the <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/best-education-loan-providers-in-india">top loan providers</a> after choosing your major and university. Make sure you get specific details about your loan, what it covers, interest rates, and repayment plan in order to avoid any surprises along the way. Once you’ve got your education loan sorted, you can venture into your new journey of studying abroad without any financial burdens on your shoulder.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Get your student loan through <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-loans">Casita</a> and secure your education journey now!</p><p><br></p>

How to Apply for a Student Loan in India

Here’s all you need to know to apply for a student loan in India.

<p dir="ltr" style="">Did you get accepted into a university in Sheffield? Now, is the time to book your student home! Don't worry, it's not too late! There is a wide range of affordable student housing in Sheffield. In this blog, we provide you with a list of affordable student housing in Sheffield. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">What Are Some Positive Sides to Living in Sheffield?</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Full of green spaces, Sheffield is considered one of the UK's greenest cities since it has a lot of parks, gardens and countryside. Sheffield is the fifth county in the UK, but its cost of living is below the national average, thanks to its large student community. </p><h2 dir="ltr" style=""><strong>Affordable Student Housing in Sheffield</strong></h2><p dir="ltr" style="">Here is a list of cheap <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/sheffield" target="_blank">student accommodation in Sheffield,</a><strong> that cost below £100.</strong></p><h3 style="margin-left: 20px;">1. <u style=""><strong>Truro Sheffield</strong></u></h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Offering fully-furnished studios, single rooms, en-suites, and flats, Truro Sheffield’s prices range from £67 to £212 per week. It is 7 minutes walk to <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/sheffield/sheffield-hallam-university--city-campus">Sheffield Hallam University</a> and 22 minutes walk to the University of Sheffield. There are many nearby transport links to connect you to several cultural and entertainment places around the city. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">There are many tourist attractions around this affordable student housing in Sheffield. With around 5000 species of plants in 19 acres, the Sheffield Botanical Gardens is the perfect place for you to relax and unwind with your flatmates. To learn more about Sheffield’s industrial story from industrialisation to modern times, visit Kelham Island Museum and see how steelmaking shaped the city and the world. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Truro Sheffield student housing offers high-speed Wi-Fi and 24/7 security to ensure you are safe. There are several amenities, including a quiet study area and communal areas. It also has vending machines, bike storage, all-inclusive bills, and content insurance to protect your personal items against accidental damage. The building organises social events around the year in communal areas. </p><p dir="ltr" style=""><span contenteditable="false" style="text-align: center; position: relative; display: block; clear: both;" fr-original-style="text-align: center; position: relative;" fr-original-class="fr-video fr-dvb"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CT42BFfKMEo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" style="box-sizing: content-box; max-width: 100%; border: 0px;" fr-original-style="box-sizing: content-box; max-width: 100%; border: 0px;"></iframe></span><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><br></p><h3 style="margin-left: 20px;">2. <strong><u>Leadmill Point Unite</u></strong></h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Ranging from £70 to £107 per week, Leadmill Point Unite offers fully-furnished en-suites and single rooms. It is a five-minute walk away from Sheffield Hallam University and a 16-minute bus ride away from the University of Sheffield. Sheffield Station is just six minutes away from the building. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">There are many must-visit tourist attractions near Leadmill Point Unite Sheffield student housing. Enjoy the cutting-edge sculpture and spectacular water cascade and fountain at Sheaf Square. To see the archaeology and natural history exhibits, visit Weston Park Museum, Sheffield’s biggest Victorian museum. <img src="/assets/images/city_placeholder.png" alt="250" style="cursor: pointer; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto;" fr-original-style="cursor: pointer;" fr-original-class="fr-dii"></p><p dir="ltr" style="">This affordable student housing in Sheffield has various amenities, including a study area, a communal area to socialise with your flatmates and watch the TV, an on-site laundry facility, a swimming pool, and an outdoor courtyard. There is also Wi-Fi, free contents insurance, bike storage, table football, all-inclusive bills, a recycling service, a printing service, vending machines, fire system, and secure access. There is a 24/7 call centre for emergencies, CCTV, and on-site management and maintenance teams to ensure your safety. </p><h3 style="margin-left: 20px;">3. <strong><u>Central Quay</u></strong></h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Central Quay is another affordable student housing in Sheffield. Prices range between £78 and £143 per week. The <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/sheffield/university-of-sheffield-international-college">University of Sheffield, International College</a> is an eight-minute walk away, and Sheffield Hallam University is 18 minutes walk away from the building. Excellent transportation links are nearby to give you easy access to the vibrant city.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">This affordable student housing in Sheffield is near many museums, parks, cafes, and restaurants. If you are fond of video games, then head to the <a href="https://thenvm.org/" rel="nofollow">National Videogame Museum</a> to explore how videogames are made, play them and attend workshops to make them. Visit <a href="http://www.penninewaterways.co.uk/sheffield/sy21.htm" rel="nofollow">Victoria Quays</a> to see the <a href="https://www.streetcheck.co.uk/postcode/s25st" rel="nofollow">Merchants Crescent</a> and the large Canal Basin. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">With stunning views across the River Don, Central Quay offers studios and en-suites with a double bed, under-bed storage and a wardrobe in each room. It offers free content insurance and Wi-Fi. The building has on-site vending machines with snacks, on-site laundry with a £100 laundry free card for a limited time, an emergency contact centre, an on-site gym, a communal lounge, a games lounge, and bike storage. There is also a 24/7 security team, CCTV and an on-site management team to ensure you are safe. If you need to fix something, there is also an on-site maintenance team. All bills are included in the rent, and there are no extra fees.</p><h3 style="margin-left: 20px;">4. <strong><u>Aspect 3</u></strong></h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Aspect 3 student accommodation costs from £85 up to £152 per week. This student accommodation is in Sheffield, close to the Sheffield University, International College; it is a 7-minute walk away from the building. It is also a 20-minute walk away from Sheffield Hallam University. The building has several nearby transport links. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">There are various nearby tourist attractions. Relax with your flatmates at the recreation park, the Ponderosa. If you are fond of architecture and cutting-edge buildings, don’t miss out on visiting The Diamond, at the Engineering campus.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">This affordable Sheffield student accommodation offers fully-furnished en-suites, studios, and single rooms. It has Wi-Fi, a secure entry, a concierge, an on-site management team, 24/7 security and CCTV, an on-site maintenance team, a laundry facility, a communal area, contents insurance, and all-inclusive bills.</p><p dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/sheffield" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11032021034403PM-1.jpg" style="margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto;" alt="Student Housing in Sheffield" fr-original-style="margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"></a><br></p><h3 style="margin-left: 20px;">5. <strong><u>Phoenix Court</u></strong></h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Like Aspect 3 student housing, Phoenix Court costs start from £85 up to £170 per week. It takes 12 minutes to walk to Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield. Tesco Express is just a 7-minute walk away, where you can purchase your daily essentials at good prices.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">This affordable student accommodation in Sheffield is in the city’s vibrant heart with lots of tourist attractions, cafes, and restaurants around. Enjoy yourself at Peace Gardens or Devonshire Green with your flatmates. Also, take a stroll at Matilda Street Pocket Park with your friends and enjoy the beautiful scenery there. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Phoenix Court offers fully-furnished single rooms and shared flats with an electric cooker, microwave and fridge/freezer. The building has Wi-Fi, all-inclusive bills and an on-site laundry facility.</p><h3 style="margin-left: 20px;">6. <strong><u>Archways Unite</u></strong></h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Another affordable student housing in Sheffield is Archways Unite. It offers en-suites for only £89 up to £110 per week. It takes four minutes to reach Sheffield Hallam University and 24 minutes to the University of Sheffield. Four minutes walking will take you to Sheffield Station to get easy access to the city.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">There are various tourist attractions near the building. Visit the Millenium Gallery with its metalwork collection and Ruskin collection of prints, drawing and paintings. Also, visit the Confluence of River Sheaf and Porter Brook and see the historical landmark there. To relax and unwind with your flatmates, head to South Street Park and enjoy the beautiful amphitheatre and the living tree collection. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Archways affordable student housing in Sheffield has many amenities, including a study area, a communal area with a TV to socialise with your flatmates, an outdoor courtyard with picnic tables and ping-pong, a recycling service, a vending machine, bike storage, and an on-site laundry facility. It offers Wi-Fi, secure access, a pool table, table football, and free contents insurance. There are no extra fees since all bills are included in the rent. To ensure your safety, there are 24/7 security + CCTV, a call centre for emergencies, an on-site management team, and an on-site maintenance team.</p><h3 style="margin-left: 20px;">7. <strong><u>Central Place</u></strong></h3><p dir="ltr" style="">The cost of Central Place student housing starts from £89 up to £195 per week. It takes 12 minutes to walk to the University of Sheffield and 20 minutes to Sheffield Hallam University. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">With various attractions around, this Sheffield student housing is a 14-minute walk away from the bustling city centre. If you would like to explore British and European art, visit Graves Art Gallery. Relax with your flatmates at Crookes Valley Park and enjoy its stunning views. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">This affordable student housing in Sheffield offers fully-furnished single rooms and flats. It has a lot of amenities such as study areas, a communal lounge, a games area, an on-site laundry facility, bike storage, and a yoga and fitness studio. The building offers high-speed Wi-Fi, contents insurance to fix anything if you are not responsible for the damage, flexible payment terms, printing services, and year-round social events. Also, it has an on-site management team, an on-site maintenance team, and all-inclusive bills. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Like the Archways Unite and Central Place, the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/721-sheffield-3-roost-sheffield-uk">Sheffield 3 Roost</a> and <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/1268-beton-house-sheffield-uk">Beton House</a> prices start from £89 per week.</p><h3 style="margin-left: 20px;">8. <strong><u>Devonshire Courtyard</u></strong></h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Ranging from £92 to £110 per week, Devonshire Courtyard offers en-suites with a bed, a wardrobe, a study desk, plenty of storage, and a shared kitchen. It is a 13-minute walk from the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">If you like shopping, Earl street with its brand shops is within a short walking distance from the building. There are various nearby Japanese, Chinese, and American restaurants to enjoy eating cuisine from different countries. Take a stroll with your flatmates to Endcliffe Park and enjoy the beautiful waterfalls there. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">This affordable student housing in Sheffield has Wi-Fi, free contents insurance, an on-site management team, an on-site maintenance team, vending machine, and bike storage. It also has several amenities, including a communal area, a study area, a courtyard, an on-site laundry, a recycling service, and a printing service. To ensure you are safe, there is secure access, 24/7 CCTV and security, a 24/7 call centre for emergencies, and a fire safety system. All bills are included in the rent, and there are no surprise fees. </p><h3 style="margin-left: 20px;">9. <strong><u>Sharman Court</u></strong></h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Sharman Court is another affordable student housing in Sheffield. It offers en-suites, flats, and studios with £95 and up to £230 per week. It is a 7-minute walk away from the University of Sheffield, International College, a 12-minute walk from the University of Sheffield and a 17-minute walk from Sheffield Hallam University. There are transport links within a short walking distance from the building.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">There are multiple restaurants and tourist attractions around the building. Visit the bronze memorial statue of King Edward VII. Also, enjoy walking with your friends at South Street Park with its arboretum and beautiful amphitheatre. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">This Sheffield student housing has free Wi-Fi, 24/7 security and CCTV, an on-site management team to ensure your safety, bike storage, a communal area and a TV lounge. Depending on availability, there are flexible move-in dates. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Hurry! Book your affordable student housing in Sheffield now with <a href="https://www.casita.com/">Casita</a>. Our student accommodation experts will help you find exactly the room that you want at a perfect price.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Have a nice educational journey at Sheffield with Casita!</p><p><br></p>

Affordable Student Housing in Sheffield

In this blog, we provide you with a list of affordable student housing in Sheffield

<p dir="ltr" style="">Have you thought about working part-time while studying in the UK? Balancing your studies and work is not easy since you need to find a flexible job to fit around your university schedule. That’s why many students overlook the idea of working part-time while studying, thinking that it will not affect their future career. In fact, working part-time while studying is beneficial since it increases your income and your chances of getting hired quickly after obtaining your degree. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Depending on your visa as an international student, you can seek a<a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/parttime-jobs-for-international-students-in-the-uk"> part-time job in the UK</a> for up to 20 hours per week. There are part-time jobs on campus for students. You can work as a research assistant, library assistant and many more. You can also work part-time outside the university with many possible options like an au pair, a chef, a waiter/waitress, a graphic designer, a tutor, and <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/parttime-jobs-for-international-students-in-the-uk">more</a>.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">In this blog, we will provide you with some benefits of working part-time while studying in the UK.</p><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Benefits of Working Part-Time While Studying in the UK</h2><h3 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">1. Earn While You Learn </h3><p dir="ltr" style="">If you are tired of your current financial position, working part-time while studying could be a great solution! A part-time job pays lower than a full-time job; however, it could help you fund a part of your studies and contribute to your living costs.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">Tuition fees for international students studying in UK universities can cost up to £38,000 per year and even more for medical degrees. Also, living expenses are not cheap in some cities in the UK. Therefore, working part-time while studying in the UK can help improve your financial situation.</p><h3 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">2. Gain Work Experience </h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Not only will you make money, but you will also gain professional experience. After graduation, employers will not assess your resume or application by your degree and grades only; they expect you to have work experience as well. Working part-time while studying in the UK gives you relevant experience that will give you a headstart when you start working full-time after graduation. </p><h3 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">3. Sample Your Career Choice</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Gaining experience in your field of interest is one of the benefits of working part-time while studying; it will help you to better understand the area of work, the pros and cons of working in the field as well as helping you decide if you really want to work in this area. You can think of it as a test-run!. </p><h3 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">4. Practice What You Have Studied</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">If you start working in an industry related to your major, you can put the concepts you are learning at university into practice. For example, if you majored in English studies, working as a part-time blogger or English-language tutor requires applying what you have studied during your classes to your work and a real-life situation. </p><h3 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">5. Develop Your Skills</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Besides gaining professional experience, you will develop your skills through any part-time job. Even if you are working in a position unrelated to your degree, you will develop your soft skills applicable in any context, like communication, problem-solving, analytical thinking, leadership, adaptability, and more. On the other hand, if you worked in an industry related to your field of study, you will also gain the ‘hard’ skills that will help you land your dream career after graduation. </p><h3 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">6. Improve your English</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">One of the benefits of working part-time while studying in the UK is improving your English language proficiency. Listening to everyday English and being exposed to a variety of accents will help you advance your listening skills. As time goes on, you will find yourself speaking with a more native-like accent. You will also be able to have a conversation using local language and slang words.</p><h3 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">7. Experience Local Culture</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Work interactions will not only develop your linguistic skills but also improve your local culture knowledge. You will observe society’s values, relationships, and ways of communication. Immersing yourself in the local culture, you will learn <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/ways-to-embrace-cultural-differences-while-traveling">how to embrace cultural differences</a> and gain an open mindset. Consequently, you will see life from a broader view and become a more integrated member of the local community. </p><h3 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">8. Gather Work References</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">In the workplace, we all know how important references are. So working part-time while studying in the UK can help you gain references you can later use when applying for graduate jobs. Juggling your student and work life, you will have more references than your university colleagues who did not work while studying. Your references would include your professors, your managers at work, and professional team members you are working with. </p><h3 dir="ltr" style="margin-left: 20px;">9. Stand Out From the Crowd</h3><p dir="ltr" style="">Part-time jobs allow you to stand out from the crowd, especially if you made positive contributions to the workplace while you were working part-time. Moreover, your resume will not be blank since you will write down the qualifications and the skills you developed while working. This work experience will attract employers to offer you a job of a lifetime over the other candidates.</p><p dir="ltr" style="">In a nutshell, earning and learning at the same time allows you to live both a student and professional life. This could be tough since it puts stress on you; however, by scheduling your time carefully and focusing on investing your time and money for your future, you could turn the pressure into motivation and get wonderful results. </p><p dir="ltr" style="">Don’t forget, it is always important to prioritize your studies over work! Good luck!</p><p>If you have not booked your <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk" target="_blank">student accommodation in the UK</a> yet, <a href="https://www.casita.com/" style="">Casita</a> will help you find your perfect room near your university in any city in the UK that suits your budget.</p>

Benefits of Working Part-Time While Studying in the UK

<p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Back in the day, universities only admitted males when they were first established, and women weren’t given the right to education. However, all of this has changed now! Nowadays, women have the right to education, just like men. Women are now doctors, engineers, physicists, and anything they want to be. They are pioneers in many industries! Let’s discover the tale of “the London Nine”, the first women admitted into higher education institutions in the UK. </span></p><h2><span data-preserver-spaces="true"><strong>The First Admission </strong></span></h2><p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Women’s higher education in London dates back to the late 1840s when Bedford College was established by the Unitarian benefactor Elisabeth Jesser Reid. Initially, Bedford was an independent teaching institution of the University of London, an examining institution founded in 1836. </span></p><p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Before 1868, the University of London examinations were only accessible to male students. In June 1868, it became the first British university to start admitting women to higher education when the university’s Senate voted to admit women to sit for the General Examination. Demands for women to sit for examinations and receive degrees increased in the 1860s, and in August 1868, the University of London announced that female students aged 17 and above would be able to apply to the university and sit for the new General Examination for Women. </span></p><h2><span data-preserver-spaces="true"><strong>General Examination for Women</strong></span></h2><p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">On May 15, 1896, seventeen examiners of the University of London gathered and had a task to grade and assess the university’s first “General Examination for Women”; nine candidates had sat for the examination earlier that month. </span></p><p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">The examiners - which were all men - awarded honours to six out of these nine women, Eliza Orme, Sarah Jane Moody, Kate Spiller, Louisa von Glehn, Isabella de Lancy West, and Susannah Wood. The remaining three students: Mary Baker Watson, Hendilah Lawrence, and Mary Anne Belcher, didn’t pass the examination; however, all nine of them became pioneers in women’s higher education. </span></p><p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">At the time, the general examination subjects included Latin, English History, English Language, Mathematics, Geography, Natural Philosophy, French, Italian, German, and either Chemistry or Botany. A pass in the examination required high grades in at least 6 of these subjects. </span></p><h2><span data-preserver-spaces="true"><strong>Certificate of Proficiency</strong></span></h2><p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Unlike their male peers, women didn’t receive a degree; they only received a “Certificate of Proficiency”. Women were admitted to the degree programme a decade later, the University of London was also the first university to offer this option to female students. </span></p><h2><span data-preserver-spaces="true"><strong>London Nine Future</strong></span></h2><p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Out of the nine women who sat for the first General Examination, many went on to prominent careers. </span></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true">1. Eliza Orme (1848-1937) studied a law degree and had a successful legal career; she was actively involved in the suffrage and prison reform movements. </span></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true">2. Louise Hume von Glehn (1850-1936) became a writer of popular histories, which were published under her married name - Louise Hume Creighton - she was also a campaigner for working women. </span></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true">3. Three of the candidates decided to follow a career in education; Sarah Moody and her sisters established a preparatory school in Guildford, while Susannah Wood taught Maths in Bath, Cheltenham, and Cambridge. </span></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true">4. In 1891, Susannah Wood was appointed Vice-Principal of the Cambridge Training College for Women that later became Hughes Hall, Cambridge. </span></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true">5. Finally, Kate Spiller became a member of her local school board in her hometown Bridgwater, Somerset. </span></p><p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Between 1869 and 1878, more than 250 female students sat for the General Examination, and 139 of them passed while 53 were awarded ‘Honours’. Students came from many different educational institutions such as Bedford and other London colleges as well as schools such as Cheltenham Ladies’ College. </span></p><p><span data-preserver-spaces="true">The University of London’s </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Leading Women website</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true"> holds a gallery of 150 notable London staff and alumni active from the 1860s to the present day, and among them are Elisabeth Jesser Reid and Louise von Glehn, as well as many others who were inspired by this story. The London Nine proved that women could do anything and their success and hard work are what gave women all over the world the right to education. </span></p><p><br></p>

The London Nine: The First Women at The University of London

Back in the day, universities only admitted males and women weren’t given the right to education. However, all of this has changed now!

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Casita offers an international student guide and/or student blogs, to student accommodation, student activities, and student life in the UK & Australia.

คู่มือสำหรับนักศึกษา รวมเนื้อหาทั้งเรื่องหอพักและวีถีชีวิตในสหราชอาณาจักรและประเทศออสเตรเลีย