Let’s start with the basics: Newcastle upon Tyne, or just Newcastle if you want to blend in, is a buzzing student city in North East England. And when we say “student city,” we mean it. With nearly 50,000 students living and studying here, Newcastle feels engineered for academic life, minus the stuffy parts.
Rich in history but totally modern in spirit, the city spreads along the River Tyne with iconic bridges, a thriving tech and arts scene, and sunsets that make you pause (even on the way to class).
Famous for its Geordie warmth, you’ll quickly discover the locals are some of the friendliest in the UK. You’ll also find great food, quirky shops, a world-class music scene, and pubs that become your second library (in a good way).
And did we mention affordability? Because student living here costs around 30% less than in London, without compromising lifestyle.
In short: if you’re looking to study in Newcastle upon Tyne, you’re picking a city that’s exciting, welcoming, and proud of its roots.
🌍 Why Newcastle upon Tyne Works for International Students
For international students, Newcastle is the perfect collision of everything you probably want in a study abroad location, and none of the hassle.
1. Academic Excellence
Let’s talk quality. Newcastle University is part of the prestigious Russell Group, meaning it’s in the UK’s top tier of research institutions. Northumbria University ranks high too, especially in business, fashion, and health-related programmes. Translation? You’re in good hands academically.
2. Compact, Student-Centric City
Everything in Newcastle feels purpose-built for students. The two main universities are a 10-minute walk from each other. Need to hit the library, gym, lectures, and a burrito place all in one day? Totally doable. No hour-long tube ride needed.
3. Affordable City Living
Rent, groceries, travel, it’s all manageable. Average weekly student rent is around £120–£160, compared to London’s £250+. That’s a lot more money for experiences, not bills.
4. The Culture Scene is 🔥
From the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art to local gig venues, Newcastle offers culture without being pretentious. Look out for events during Student Welcome Weeks, they’re a big deal!
5. You’re Instantly Part of the Community
Newcastle doesn’t just tolerate students; it celebrates them. With diverse societies, international food festivals, mentorship schemes, and a friendly Geordie crowd, you’re never just a number here.
If you’re ready for a mix of academic intensity, social fun, and real cultural immersion, study in Newcastle upon Tyne and you’ll see why students don’t just visit, they stay.
🎓 Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Newcastle upon Tyne
Newcastle brings strength in both high-tier universities and hands-on technical colleges. Here’s a mix of the best the city and surrounding areas have to offer:
1. Newcastle University
One of the UK’s oldest and most respected unis. Excels in medicine, engineering, computing, business, and social sciences. Beautiful red-brick campus in the heart of the city.
2. Northumbria University
Modern, creative, and ranked high for graduate employability. Huge strengths in business, fashion, design, sports science, and law.
3. Newcastle College University Centre
A great alternative route for degrees and HNDs. Offers courses in art, aviation, digital media, and performing arts.
4. Medical School – Newcastle University
Globally recognised for research in ageing, cancer, and healthcare innovation. Highly competitive.
5. Newcastle Sixth Form College
Popular for international students doing A-levels or foundation courses before heading to university.
6. Tynemet College
Located just outside Newcastle, strong pathway options for engineering, applied science, and vocational courses.
7. Gateshead College
Across the river, but closely tied to Newcastle’s business and tech scene. Great for digital training and apprenticeships.
8. Bede College
Focuses on creative industries; dance, drama, and music are top-rated here.
9. University of Sunderland (City Campus is Commutable)
Accessible in 30–40 mins by Metro. Offers nursing, pharmacy, and computing. Many postgrad students live in Newcastle.
10. Open University North of England Office (via Newcastle)
Distance-learning students often use local resources in Newcastle to support their studies.
🛏️ Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Newcastle upon Tyne
Finding a place to recharge between lectures (and late-night kebabs) matters. Here are Newcastle’s most popular and student-vetted accommodations:
- iQ Stephenson House – Close to Northumbria Uni
- The Shield – Walking distance to both campuses
- Liberty Quay – A favourite among Newcastle Uni students
- St. Mary’s Student Village – Budget-friendly in Fenham
- True Newcastle Opto – Luxury vibes, closer to Quayside
- Urban Study Tyne Bridge – With Insta-worthy views
- Nido Union Square – All bills included + strong location
- The Foundry – Stylish, social, and centrally located
- Mansion Tyne – Affordable studios loved by postgrads
- Vita Student Westgate – Premium amenities, near train station
🗺️ Where to Live: Best Student Areas in Newcastle (And What Makes Them Great)
Newcastle is built around students, so you can’t really go wrong, but here’s where most students settle, broken down by vibe, value, and what’s nearby.
1. City Centre
- Nearby Unis: Both Newcastle & Northumbria
- Properties: iQ Stephenson, The Shield, The Foundry
- Why It Works: Everything’s within walking distance. It’s the heartbeat of student life, bars, shops, food, gyms.
2. Jesmond
- Nearby Unis: Northumbria & Newcastle Uni
- Properties: House shares + private rentals
- Why It Works: Socialise hard, study harder. Known for student parties, but quieter streets too. Boutique cafes and leafy roads.
3. Heaton
- Nearby Unis: Short bus to both campuses
- Properties: Shared houses, affordable flats
- Why It Works: Creative, community-filled, less touristy. Plus Heaton Park is a great revision escape.
4. Sandyford
- Nearby Unis: 10–15 min walk to both
- Properties: True Newcastle, The Shield
- Why It Works: Close to nightlife and lectures. A happy medium neighborhood.
5. Shieldfield
- Nearby Unis: Especially close to Northumbria
- Properties: Urban Study Tyne Bridge, iQ Stephenson
- Why It Works: Border of the city centre, close to everything. Artsy, student-heavy, dynamic.
6. Fenham
- Nearby Unis: Bus or bike ride
- Properties: St. Mary’s Student Village
- Why It Works: Affordable, quiet, with diverse culinary options nearby. Great for families or students on tighter budgets.
7. Ouseburn
- Nearby Unis: 20-min walk or shorter bus
- Properties: Boutique student apartments
- Why It Works: The creative soul of the city. Perfect if you’re into music, craft beer, murals, and chill vibes.
8. Quayside
- Nearby Unis: Metro ride to campuses
- Properties: True Opto, Nido Union
- Why It Works: Scenic, quiet on weekdays, popping on weekends. Sunset walks? Always on the menu.
9. Westgate Road
- Nearby Unis: Walkable to city centre
- Properties: Vita Student Westgate
- Why It Works: Close to transport, great for postgrad students & internationals.
10. Gosforth
- Nearby Unis: 20–30 minutes by Metro
- Properties: House shares
- Why It Works: Upper-tier housing. Great for mature students looking for a low-key lifestyle.
✍️ Final Word: Why You’ll Love to Study in Newcastle upon Tyne
Newcastle upon Tyne isn’t just another UK university city. It’s a blazing mix of community, culture, and education, served with a thick Geordie accent and a whole lot of personality.
With world-class universities, affordable student living, walkable streets, and a more welcoming community than many of its southern counterparts, Newcastle delivers the full package.
Whether you’re diving into data science, performing on stage, planning public health, or painting murals in Ouseburn – there’s a home for you here.
If you’re looking to study in Newcastle upon Tyne, you’re not just earning a degree, you’re creating a lifestyle. And it’s one hell of a good one.
