Many options are available when considering studying in the UK, but Nottingham is the perfect multicultural city for international students. I’m Naomi, a third-year student from Zimbabwe at Nottingham Trent University. With plenty of experience over the last three years, I’m excited to tell you about student life in Nottingham.
International students choose Nottingham for its affordable living costs, prestigious universities and vibrant student life. Here’s why Nottingham is a top study destination:
1. Affordable Student City
Nottingham offers a lower cost of living compared to major UK cities like London and Manchester, making it an attractive choice for international students.
2. World-Class Universities
- University of Nottingham – A globally ranked institution with a strong reputation.
- Nottingham Trent University – Known for its industry-focused courses and excellent student support.
3. Great Transport Links
Located in the heart of England, Nottingham is just two hours by train from London and Manchester, providing easy access to major UK cities.
4. Safe and Student-Friendly Environment
Nottingham has a diverse and welcoming student community, with plenty of student accommodations, social spaces and support networks.
5. Career Opportunities
With strong connections to industries and businesses, Nottingham provides great opportunities for internships and graduate employment.
Table of Contents
- Why do international students choose Nottingham?
What makes Nottingham an ideal city for international students?
Nottingham is an ideal city for international students. With two world-class universities, a rich student community, many global cultures and easy access, It offers a great blend of quality education and an exciting university experience. Of the city’s over 60,000 students, 23% are international students from over 150 countries.
Cost of living
While an excellent quality of life is essential, the cost of living in Nottingham for international students will play a crucial role here. Nottingham is a relatively inexpensive city to live in. However, if not planned out, regular expenses can cost you a lot. Below are some key insights on the cost of living in Nottingham for international students.
Food and housekeeping
- Budgeting £30 – £50 per week for groceries and housekeeping items, such as paying for laundry facilities, is ideal.
- Shopping at affordable stores like Asda, Lidl and Tesco can help cut grocery costs.
Rent
- The rent for student accommodation averages £100 – £280 per week, depending on whether it’s university halls, private student accommodation, or a shared house.
Leisure and culture
Although Nottingham is a relatively small city, there’s no lack of entertainment. You’ll find it in Notts, whether you’re looking for something exciting to do on the weekends with your friends or something to help you relax solo after class.
Leisure
- Head to Discobowl, which is perfect for a night out with friends. Besides bowling, you can enjoy arcade games, scrapyard minigolf or sing your heart out in the karaoke room.
- Roxy Ball Room is another incredible place to play games. You can enjoy two vast gaming floors with plenty of drinks all night. From crazy pool and tech darts to ice-free curling, 15 activities will make for an exciting evening.
Arts and Culture
- If you’re one for sensational orchestra concerts and rich music, Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall is for you. There’s always something on for you to indulge your ears. Perfectly placed in the city’s heart, the two venues are accessible by public transport.
- Awarded the UK’s most welcoming theatre in 2023, Nottingham Playhouse is a leading theatre. With various productions throughout the year, there’s never a shortage of great acting and music to enjoy.
Nottingham is an art lover canvas with two significant galleries. Being the UK’s most extensive gallery dedicated to contemporary visual arts from the Global Ethnic Majority, you’ll feel welcome as an international student at the New Art Exchange.
Transport
Public transport is highly accessible, considering there are both buses and a tram that runs through the majority of the city. Additionally, Nottingham is in the east-midlands of the UK, making it about two hours from the country’s capital, London.
Tram
- The NET tram operates daily from 6 am to 12 am and runs through the city. If you take the tram daily, you can save on tickets by purchasing the academic annual pass – specifically for students, which costs £325 as of 2024. Alternatively, if you take the tram occasionally, buying a day pass (£4.40) or a single pay-as-you-go pass from £2.70 – both student fares would be better.
Buses
The NCT buses operate daily like the tram and have student-specific routes to university campuses. You can buy your student pass on the NXTC Buses app for £299 (as of 2024).
Benefits of living in Nottingham for overseas students
- Affordable cost of living, compared to other major cities in the UK.
- The multi-cultural student community in the city.
- Rich cultural scene and plenty of social activities.
- High-quality secondary education at world-class universities.
Universities in Nottingham
Nottingham is home to two highly rated universities, each offering its appeal.
Nottingham Trent
Courses
- NTU offers various. These include aerospace engineering, fashion management, zoology, nursing and more.
Tuition Fees
- As of 2025, undergraduate entry international students pay £18,250 for courses in the Nottingham School of Art & Design and Nottingham Business School. All other subject areas pay £17,500.
- Postgraduate/Masters fees range from £16,800 to £20,250 (2025 intake) for different subject areas.
- International students also stand the chance to be awarded a scholarship for undergrad or postgrad based on academic excellence or region.
Application Deadlines
- Undergrad applications are typically due by the end of January. However, the university may consider international student applications well into June, considering there is space on your desired course.
Open Days
- NTU typically hosts two open days a year, in January and March, each year for undergrad studies, whereas postgraduate open days are usually held in March and June.
Key Benefits
- Voted for (by students) as the 2nd best university for student life.
- Modern facilities.
- Excellent international student support in all areas.
- Rated the number one university for employability (how the university helps you to prepare for life after graduation).
University of Nottingham
Courses
- UoN is renowned for its law courses and research. It offers multiple college, undergraduate and postgraduate course types.
Tuition Fees
- As of the 2025/26 academic year, undergraduate entry international fees range between £23,000 and £30,750, depending on your chosen subject area.
- Postgraduate/Masters fees fall between £9250 and £36,400 depending on the subject.
- Being a very sporty university, international students can be awarded a scholarship for undergrad or postgrad based on sporting potential, academic excellence or international research.
Application Deadlines
- Like NTU, UoN’s undergrad applications are typically due by the end of January.
Open Days
- The university hosts up to four open days annually, typically in June, September and October and gives you many opportunities to visit the campus in person.
Key Benefits
- Rated 3rd in the UK for top employers.
- Strong international alum network.
- Modern facilities.
Rated 7th in the UK for university research power.
Accommodation for international students in Nottingham
Lenton is Nottingham’s main student area, though Nottingham Trent and the University of Nottingham are easily accessible from Study Inn’s luxury serviced apartments, such as Triumph House and Talbot Street. These accommodation options make for an excellent choice for international students as they welcome students from all across the globe. Study Inn accommodation regularly hosts events (no matter which building you choose) that’ll make you feel right at home. From beautifully lit Diwali celebrations and colourful Mooncake festivals to Mother Language Day, you will feel closer to home.
Talbot Street
Location
Set in the city centre, Talbot Street is a two-minute walk from Nottingham Trent’s main campus and an eleven-minute bus ride from the University of Nottingham’s Jubilee Campus.
Facilities
- En-suite rooms, whether in an apartment or studio room.
- Regular room cleaning service complete with towels and linen.
- Private wellness spa, onsite gym and yoga studio.
- Large entertainment area with poker table, ping-pong, piano and cinema.
- Plenty of study space and board rooms – perfect for practice presentations.
- All-inclusive bills.
Triumph House
Location
Study Inn’s Triumph House accommodation is conveniently located within the University of Nottingham’s Jubilee Campus –a four-minute walk to the main buildings and an eleven-minute bus ride to Nottingham Trent’s main campus.
Facilities
- En-suite rooms, either in an apartment or studio room.
- Regular room cleaning service complete with towels and linen.
- Private wellness spa and onsite gym.
- Large entertainment area with pool, ping-pong, cinema and board games.
- Plenty of study space and board rooms.
Making the move to Nottingham
Nottingham is an excellent city for international students because it offers the perfect blend of quality education, affordability and rich cultural experiences. With two world-class universities and luxury student accommodations like Study Inn, moving to the city becomes a smooth and exciting transition.
