Studying in the UK is a dream for many Pakistani students, but it’s no secret that it can be expensive. From tuition fees to accommodation and daily living expenses, the costs can quickly add up. That’s why having a solid financial plan is essential. In this guide, we’ll share budgeting tips for Pakistani students in the UK and help you understand UK living expenses for international students.
🎯 Why Budgeting Matters for Pakistani Students in the UK
When you’re managing everything from tuition fees to travel costs, budgeting becomes your best friend. The cost of studying in the UK for Pakistani students varies depending on the city and lifestyle, but on average, you’ll need £1,136 outside London and £1,483 for London per month for living expenses as per UKVI new rules.
With the recent changes in international student maintenance requirements, students are now expected to show even higher financial proof for their visa. That’s why having a financial plan is not just helpful—it’s necessary.
💷 Average Living Expenses in the UK
Here’s a general breakdown of monthly living expenses in the UK:
|
Expense
|
Estimated Monthly Cost
|
|---|---|
|
Accommodation (shared)
|
£300–£600
|
|
Food and groceries
|
£200–£400
|
|
Transport
|
£50–£100
|
|
Mobile & Internet
|
£20–£40
|
|
Leisure & Entertainment
|
£50–£100
|
|
Study Materials
|
£20–£50
|
These costs may vary based on your lifestyle and the city you live in. London and major cities like Manchester or Birmingham are more expensive.
💡 Financial Tips to Save Money While Studying
- 📱 Track Your Spending
- Use budgeting apps like Emma, Mint, or Revolut to monitor your spending and stay within your limits.
- 🏠 Choose Affordable Accommodation
- Avoid high-end housing and instead opt for shared apartments or university dorms. Websites like SpareRoom and Rightmove offer affordable options.
- 🍽️ Cook at Home
- Eating out can be costly. Learning to cook not only helps you eat healthier but also saves money. Local halal stores often offer cheaper groceries for Pakistani students.
- 🎓 Use Student Discounts
- Leverage student discounts on transport, clothing, tech, and more through platforms like UNiDAYS, Student Beans, and NUS card.
- 🚍 Get a Railcard or Bus Pass
- Transport in the UK can be expensive. Pakistani students can save by getting a 16–25 Railcard or university-discounted bus passes.
- 📚 Buy Used or Digital Books
- Avoid buying new textbooks. Use university libraries, Amazon used books, or PDF versions to save on costs.
💼 Part-Time Work Opportunities
To support your finances, you can work part-time while studying. Here’s what you need to know about UK student visa work restrictions:
- ✅ Work up to 20 hours/week during term time
- ✅ Work full-time during holidays
- ❌ Cannot be self-employed or freelance
- ❌ Cannot take up permanent full-time roles
Explore part-time jobs for international students in the UK such as:
- Retail assistant
- Barista
- University ambassador
- Tutor
- Delivery rider (check restrictions)
Search on best job portals for students in the UK like:
💳 Open a UK Bank Account
Opening a student bank account in the UK helps manage your money safely and conveniently. Many banks offer special accounts for international students with no monthly fees and free international transfers.
Popular banks include:
🧾 Plan for Unexpected Costs
Always keep an emergency fund of at least £300–£500. This can help during medical emergencies, sudden travel, or when part-time work income is delayed.
📝 Apply for Scholarships & Bursaries
Don’t forget to explore financial aid options for Pakistani students such as:
- Commonwealth Scholarship
- Chevening Scholarship
- University-specific merit scholarships
Check eligibility and apply as early as possible to reduce your tuition burden.
Conclusion
Financial planning for Pakistani students in the UK is not just about saving money—it’s about smart spending. By budgeting wisely, working part-time, and using every available resource, you can make your study abroad journey stress-free and successful.
Remember, the goal is to focus on your studies while being financially responsible. With these tips, you’ll be able to confidently navigate your UK education journey without breaking the bank.
