Thinking of studying abroad in the UK but not quite sure where to land? Let us introduce you to one of England’s most student-friendly, budget-conscious, and culturally electrifying cities, Liverpool.
This study guide in Liverpool will walk you through everything: from top universities and accommodation options to costs, neighbourhoods, and real-life student hacks that you won’t find in brochures.
Whether you’re into music (yes, The Beatles), maritime history, medicine, or modern art, this northern gem has something for every kind of student. Let’s dive into the heartbeat of Merseyside.
About the City: Welcome to Liverpool
Liverpool isn’t just a city. It’s a living, breathing, music-blaring, waterfront-laced experience.
Located in northwest England, it’s got edge and elegance wrapped into one. Globally famous for football and The Beatles (obviously), Liverpool is also a UNESCO World Heritage City with world-class universities and one of the UK’s youngest populations. Over 70,000 students call the city home. That means student deals, student events, and a city that doesn’t go to sleep early.
In this study guide in Liverpool, you’ll see that this isn’t a cookie-cutter college town. It’s an open-minded, multicultural powerhouse with buzzing districts like Bold Street and the Baltic Triangle.
Here, you can study at libraries that overlook the docks, walk to lectures through Georgian streets, or celebrate with flatmates in vibrant clubs themed after music history. And thanks to high-speed rail, you’ll never be far from cities like Manchester, London or even Edinburgh.
It’s gritty, glorious and full of heart. And it might just be the boldest chapter of your student life yet.
Why Liverpool is a Magnet for International Students
Let’s talk numbers and vibe.
Liverpool attracts over 10,000 international students each year. And that’s not by accident. For starters, the city offers globally recognised universities with more affordable tuition fees compared to southern cities. Scholarships are widely available, and living costs? Fairly manageable.
But here’s what really makes Liverpool shine, the community. It’s known for being an inclusive, genuinely welcoming city. Locals are warm (and wildly chatty), while student hubs like Smithdown and Kensington are melting pots of cultures and cuisines.
Add in easy public transport, a thriving nightlife, and student jobs in everything from retail to research, and it’s clear: Liverpool isn’t just for studying. It’s for living.
So if you’re looking for an affordable UK option that still brings the global energy and career progression, Liverpool checks every box.
Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Liverpool
1. University of Liverpool
A founding member of the Russell Group and ranked in the world’s top 200. Known for life sciences, engineering, architecture, and research impact.
2. Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU)
One of the largest universities in the UK with real-world-focused programs. Strong in media, sports science, criminology, business, and maritime studies.
3. Liverpool Hope University
A smaller, values-driven university with excellent teaching credentials. Often preferred for education, theology, social sciences and teacher training.
4. The City of Liverpool College
A great stepping stone. Offers diplomas, apprenticeships and pathways into higher education or straight into industry.
5. Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA)
Co-founded by Sir Paul McCartney himself. Elite and intensive programs in performance, music, and theatre production.
6. Edge Hill University (nearby in Ormskirk)
Technically outside the city but hugely popular with Liverpudlian students. Excellent for education, nursing, and social sciences.
7. University Centre St Helens
Delivers practical, industry-linked degrees close to Liverpool. Plays a critical role in widening access to higher education in the region.
8. SAE Institute Liverpool
Industry-standard practical training in audio production, film, animation, and media.
9. Wirral Metropolitan College
Just across the Mersey. Offers access to higher education and vocational studies.
10. Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine
World-renowned for global public health and infectious disease research. Postgraduate focused.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Liverpool
- Ablett House
- The Arch
- Myrtle Court
- St Andrew’s Gardens
- Albert Court
- Atlantic Point
- Unity Square
- Byrom Point
- Copperas Hill
- Calico
Best 10 Student Areas in Liverpool (With Nearby Unis & Properties)
1. City Centre
Walkable to all major universities. Close to nightlife, Liverpool ONE, restaurants. Accommodations: Byrom Point, The Arch, Ablett House. Perfect for UoL, LJMU.
2. Kensington
Affordable and popular. Close to University of Liverpool. Many shared houses and student landlords. Walking distance to most campuses.
3. Smithdown Road
A student classic. Home to budget eateries, indie coffee shops and buses that don’t quit. Great for LJMU and Liverpool Hope.
4. Wavertree
Right next to Smithdown. Quieter but very student-heavy. More green space, ideal for group housing and cheaper groceries.
5. Baltic Triangle
Trendy and creative. Loft-style apartments and artsy hangouts. Expensive, but attractive for students of LIPA and media students at LJMU.
6. Ropewalks
Central and stylish. Packed with boutique housing and fab nightlife. Perfect for students who love vibrant city energy.
7. Toxteth
Budget-friendly and diverse. Becoming more popular among international students. A bus ride gets you to any campus quickly.
8. Everton
Unexpected gem for LJMU students. Affordable, well-connected, and a 15-minute walk to most campuses.
9. Aigburth
Leafy and residential. Slightly removed but lovely for postgrads or those studying at Liverpool Hope (Taggart Avenue campus).
10. Vauxhall
Up-and-coming area. Close to the docklands and ideal for university accommodation halls like Copperas Hill.
Cost of Living in Liverpool for Students
Good news: Liverpool is one of the more affordable cities in the UK for students.
Here’s an average month in numbers:
- Rent: £450–£700/month
- Utilities: £60–£90 (many student halls are all-inclusive)
- Groceries: £100–£150
- Transport: £30–£50 (with rail/bus passes)
- Social/Leisure: £80–£120
- Miscellaneous: £30–£60
So, your total monthly spending could range from £900 to £1,200, depending on location and lifestyle. Pro tip: Take full advantage of student discount cards. They actually help here.
Getting Around: Liverpool Transport for Students
Transport in Liverpool? Simple, cheap, and student-friendly.
- Buses: Stagecoach and Arriva are the main players. Get a student travel card through Merseytravel for massive savings. Buses run frequently across student areas like Smithdown and Kensington.
- Trains: Lime Street Station and Liverpool Central connect you to Manchester, London, Leeds, and more. Local Merseyrail routes make campus-hopping fast and easy.
- Bikes & Scooters: E-scooters are available in the city centre. It’s also relatively bike-friendly, though maybe not in winter.
- Walking: The city is pretty compact. Most universities are no more than a 15–20-minute walk if you’re living centrally.
- Ferry across the Mersey? Yep, it’s a touristy option, but hey, it’s Liverpool.
Summary: Why Liverpool Could Be Your Next Academic Adventure
To wrap this all up, Liverpool is not a one-size-fits-all city. It’s flexible, friendly, and full of possibility.
From this complete study guide in Liverpool, you’ve seen that the city offers unbeatable academic options, world-class cultural life, diverse neighbourhoods, and a realistic cost of living. The people are warm, the music is foundational, and the experience? Truly unforgettable.
Whether you’re planning a year abroad, a full degree, or a pathway course , Liverpool is more than ready for you. You just have to show up.
Top 10 FAQs: Studying in Liverpool – Answered
1. Is Liverpool safe for international students?
Yes. It’s generally safe, especially in student-heavy areas. Always stay aware in night-time zones, like any major city.
2. Which university is better: UoL or LJMU?
Both are respected. University of Liverpool is research-intensive; LJMU focuses on real-world skills and practical learning.
3. What’s the average student rent in Liverpool?
Between £450–£700 per month, depending on location and amenities.
4. Are part-time jobs available in Liverpool?
Absolutely. Retail, hospitality, cafés, and on-campus jobs are available. Tier 4 visa holders can work up to 20 hours/week.
5. What is the weather like?
Mild and wet. Winters aren’t too harsh, but yes, bring a raincoat.
6. Can I get student discounts on transport?
Yes. Student travel cards are available for buses and trains through Merseytravel.
7. Are scholarships available for international students?
Yes. Most Liverpool universities offer scholarships based on merit, need, or nationality.
8. Where do most international students live?
City Centre, Kensington and Smithdown Road are popular among internationals.
9. What’s unique about studying in Liverpool?
It combines academic excellence with culture, affordability, and world-famous hospitality.
10. Can I stay in the UK after finishing my degree?
Yes. The Graduate Route visa allows you to stay for 2 years after graduation.
