Cost
of living
It is important that students make adequate
financial provision before they start a course of study.
In particular, non-EEA nationals studying in the UK
are expected by the Home Office to have enough money
to support themselves without working and without recourse
to public funds. The following is a guideline to show
how much an international student might expect to spend
on the basic costs of living and studying in London,
including food, books and personal expenses. The costs
of travel and accommodation are dealt with separately.
If the student’s food is included
in accommodation costs, students should expect to spend
at least £35 per week on additional food costs.
For students in self-catering or private accommodation
a figure of at least £55 per week for food costs
is suggested. The costs of books and personal expenses
will depend greatly on the availability of library resources
and on the requirements of the individual course. Language
students may have to spend as little as £60 per
year whereas students studying other courses may have
to make an allowance of up to £500. Personal expenses
will also vary but it would be sensible to allow at
least £20 per week for toiletries and household
articles, stationery, telephone calls and laundry.
In addition to the costs mentioned above,
students may have to allow for clothing, particularly
if coming from a different climate, and additional costs
such as field trips, entertainment and Council tax (see
below).
Council Tax
Most adults over 18 years who are resident
in the UK have to pay council tax. This tax is set by
local authorities to help pay for services such as libraries,
the police and the fire brigade. It is based on the
value of the accommodation in which you live. As a student
you may not have to pay council tax, this depends on
where you live and who you want to live with. It is
best to seek advice from a student adviser if you have
enquires about the council tax.
Television Licence
If you have a television in your home
then you must have a valid television licence. This
normally applies even if you are staying in college
accommodation. Licences are available from post offices
and cost £116 for a colour TV or £38.50
for a black and white TV. If you want further information,
contact TV Licensing on 0870 241 6468 or visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk
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