Cost of living

The cost of living in Scotland is generally less expensive than in other parts of the UK and there are many benefits available to international students to make it even more so.

The level of discounts negotiated for members of the National Union of Students (for which many students qualify for free membership) can save up to 50% off everything from books, stationery and food, to clothes, travel and entertainment.

It's worth noting too that a lot of Scotland's famous museums, galleries and libraries are free.

The figures below give a rough guideline to costs:

On average a student will need a minimum of £6,000 per year for living expenses.

• Food: per week £20-£40
• Loaf of bread: 50p
• Pint of milk: 40p
• Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: £10-£15 per person
• Drinks in a cafe/bar: Wine £1.50-5.00 a glass, Beer: £1.50-2.50, Soft drinks: 80p-£1
• Going to the cinema: £3-£5
• Sweater / Jeans: £20-£50
• Daily newspapers: 20p-80p
• Sports: £2-£4 per hour
• Student accommodation: self-catering: £30-£67 per week
• Student accommodation: private flat: £175-£450 per month (excluding bills)

Many of the universities and colleges provide a rough guide to the cost of living in their area on their websites.