Lift-off to Birmingham Starts Here

Considering studying in the UK? Birmingham is Britain and is the first city which have world-class universities, an exciting multicultural experience with much lower prices than London. In this guide, you will find all that you need on starting your adventure, tips on campus information, to budgeting tips to start. In addition, learn how Student Tenant makes life easier when finding safe and low-cost student accommodation in Britain.

Why Birmingham Stands Out in the UK

Top-Ranked Universities

  • The University of Birmingham is a member of the Russell Group and top 100 globally, hosting over 8,700 international students from approximately 150 countries.

  • Aston University is renowned for business and engineering, with a growing international cohort.

  • Birmingham City University & University College Birmingham offer specialised professional courses and a strong employability focus.

  • Newman University provides a smaller campus, personalised support, and an inclusive community.

Living international comune

Over 50,000 international students in the West Midlands region is confirmation of the international appeal of Birmingham. Find out more here at City-REDI, University of Birmingham. You will find fellow learners representing China, India, Nigeria, and much more all around you, and this will create a diverse atmosphere.

Cheaper Rent and Lease Prices Than Other UK Cities

The living expenses in London approximate 1000-1200 pounds per month. It nearly beats the average of the other cities, especially the likes of London, which runs at a higher ratio of 1,400+.

Navigating Costs: Budget Breakdown

Expense Category

Estimated Monthly Cost

Rent (shared flat)

£390–£850

Halls of residence

£430–£810

Groceries & essentials

£144

Utilities & bills

£76

Transport (bus pass)

£60

Leisure & entertainment

£40–£50

Student Life & Culture

Vibrant Campus Societies

From robotics and finance to Bollywood dance and Model UN, you’ll find societies for every interest—great for networking and making friends.

Events & Nightlife in the City

Bullring & Grand Central consist of shopping, cinemas and restaurants. Custard Factory in Digbeth is renowned on the grounds of street arts, concerts, and indie markets. Canal-side bars around Harborne or Brindley are great places to hang out.

Green Spaces

Enjoy parks like Cannon Hill and Sutton Park, perfect for study breaks and weekend picnics.

Practical Tips for International Students

  1. Book Early – Secure housing before July to access better rates.

  2. Use Student Perks – Download UNiDAYS and TOTUM for discounts on travel and tech.

  3. Work Part-Time – Up to 20 hours per week during term; explore on-campus roles or local cafés.

  4. Register for Healthcare – Enrol with a local GP and apply for the NHS Immigration Health Surcharge in advance.

  5. Attend Welcome Fairs – Meet services, societies, and find freshers’ week deals.

Finding Your Home in the UK with StudentTenant.com

Navigating UK rental law, contracts, and deposits can be daunting. Student Tenant offers:

  • Verified Listings: All properties vetted for safety and quality.

  • Flexible Options: En-suite rooms, studios, shared flats—filter by budget and location.

  • Local Insights: Guidance on Edgbaston, Selly Oak, City Centre, and beyond.

  • Dedicated Support: From viewing bookings to deposit protection, our team has you covered.

Ready to find your perfect place? Explore Birmingham listings now at StudentTenant.com.

Expert Insights

According to Wikipedia, international students in the United Kingdom in 2023 24, there were 732,285 international students in the United Kingdom, internationally 25.2 per cent of higher-education enrolments internationally. The group had a net economic impact of 37.4 billion pounds in 2021 22, the importance of foreign study. The strategic nature of Birmingham in international education in the UK can be highlighted by the role played by the West Midlands in that impact. The demographics of the city can also be found on Wikipedia, Birmingham.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many universities are in Birmingham?
A: Five major higher-education institutions, each with a strong international presence.

Q: What visa support is available?
A: UK Graduate Route visas allow post-study work for 2 years (3 for PhDs). Check gov.uk for the latest requirements.

Q: Is Birmingham safe for students?
A: Yes—campus security teams, neighbourhood watch, and well-lit transport routes make it student-friendly.

Call to action

Birmingham in the UK is a world-renowned academic provider that has a neuro-diverse community and a low budget lifestyle. You can be attracted by research at the University of Birmingham or by the course on being an entrepreneur at Aston, but there is something in this city that could attract every international student. And finding trusted and affordable accommodation with Student Tenant is easy.

Ready to start your Birmingham experience? Visit StudentTenant.com to browse verified student homes.