Studying in London: How to Find the Right University For You

Choosing the right university is a decision that can feel overwhelming in a way many students will not have experienced before.

At LHA London, we believe that every student who decides to embrace the incredible opportunities London has to offer should be able to enjoy every second without worrying that they’ve made the wrong choice.

That’s why we’ve created a list of the most important considerations you need to make when choosing the perfect London university for you.

Research the universities

If you are planning on studying in London, then the first thing you need to do is look into the universities that are available to you. One of the best places to start is to find university courses offered that align with your chosen subject of study.

Make sure you conduct thorough research into the curriculum, the resources available, professors and culture surrounding that subject. You should also consider the university’s reputation, rankings and graduate employment outcomes to see what opportunities lie beyond your course.

Choosing the right course is a decision that should not be taken lightly, so weighing up the pros and cons can be a helpful step in making your decision.

Make sure to add the following research points to your list:

• University rankings
• Graduate outcomes
• Course prices
• Student reviews and statistics
• Entry requirements

Consider the location

London is not just a city, it is a collection of boroughs that consist of different landscapes and social scenes. And, the place you choose to study and live for the duration of your course can define the experience you have.

Most young people visiting universities will say they just had a feeling when they visited that it was the right place for them. They loved the area, they felt comfortable and safe, and they liked the feel of the university and what it could offer. But, you should also make sure that you are doing your research first.

It is important to look at the environment to decide whether you want to live in a built up area or somewhere a bit more peaceful. Check out the local study spaces, clubs, and accommodation, as well as the overall culture.

You can balance the best course for you with the place you feel most at home and make a decision based on a combination of the two factors.

Look into study spaces

Although your university will have plenty of spaces where you can study peacefully, you may be the sort of person who works more effectively in a public library, local cafe or study group.

When you are scrolling through the university website, and when you visit, take a tour of the study areas available. See what resources they have, and their availability. Access to excellent study material and accommodation can greatly impact how you study.

This can be particularly important for neurodiverse students who are more likely to require a more controlled or personalised study space.

What type of university do you want to go to?

There are so many different types of university across London, from specialist to large and multifaceted. Thinking about the type of university experience you want can help inform this decision, however you may find that upon visiting universities, you change your mind based on how you feel when you are there.

Evaluate course and living prices

Depending on the course you choose and the location of the university, the cost of living can vary greatly.

Before you start looking at universities and accommodation, it can be helpful to look at the government website and conduct an estimate of how much aid you are likely to get through a student loan.

You can then compare this to the cost of:

• Transport
• Accommodation
• Groceries
• Tuition fees
• Study materials
• Entertainment
• Social budget

Don’t forget that many places will offer student discounts, and you can ask for additional financial aid should you require it.

Explore job opportunities

Another important factor to consider are work experience opportunities nearby.

In advance of applying, make a list of the types of part-time jobs you would be capable and comfortable doing. This could be a retail job to contribute to paying for your time at university, or something related to your course that will give you real world experience in your chosen field.

Whatever it is, make sure it is accessible from your chosen university. If work is important to you, then you need to choose a university course with accommodating times, and that is within easy access of your chosen job opportunities.

Take advantage of open days

Open days exist so that you can visit your chosen university, see the facilities available for yourself, and immerse yourself for a day. Many students find that they make a decision on which university is their first choice based on these experiences.

It gives you a good idea of what student life will be like, as you will be taken on campus tours, and be able to attend lectures and speak to existing students.

Don’t forget your second choice

You need to make sure that you love your second choice university as much as your first. This is one of the best pieces of advice we can give you.

If you end up not getting the grades for your first choice, then you need to know that you will still have the best university experience possible.

Compare accommodation prices

Living costs in London can be high, so it’s important to consider accommodation prices when choosing a university. Look into the cost of living in different areas of London and compare accommodation options close to your university.

If you need help finding safe, secure accommodation in London the LHA London have you covered.

We believe that the cost of accommodation should never be a barrier to following your dreams. That’s why we provide affordable accommodation across London that gives you the freedom to live your London life as you choose.

Our hostels cover all major points on the city’s map and cover your bills too, so you don’t need to worry about any additional costs while you focus on building the life you want.

For more information about how our charity can help you get set up in the big city, take a look at our available accommodation and don’t forget to check out our offer to discover what we can offer you.