Student life at De Montfort University from an international perspective

De Montfort University (DMU) does everything in its power to make the transition to living in England as smooth as possible for international students.

The university is situated in Leicester, a proudly multicultural area of the East Midlands, UK.

Research from HEPI (the UK’s only independent think tank) shows that 41.1% of individuals living in Leicester were born outside the UK. In a broader context, 59.1% of the population living in Leicester are from ethnic minority groups.

International students therefore arrive in a community that welcomes them, as the streets are lined with various restaurants and bars offering world cuisine, halal meat, and different places of worship within easy walking distance of the centre.

As an internationally focused university, DMU offers an airport pickup service for international students that transports students directly from the airport to the DMU campus.

Most first-year international students live in on-campus accommodation as student life at De Montfort University can be best described as inclusive.

The institution of De Montfort University prides itself on its diverse student body, including a significant number of international students, with over 130 countries represented!

This article dives into the facets of student life at De Montfort University, exploring accommodation, campus life, facilities, and the experiences of international students, providing a comprehensive view of what to expect and whether the destination might be right for you.

What is student accommodation at De Montfort University like?

Student accommodation at De Montfort University (DMU) is designed with the student in mind, offering various living options to suit diverse individual needs and preferences.

For international students, finding a welcoming place to live is crucial, and DMU's accommodation options aim to make the transition to university life straightforward thanks to the ease of campus life at De Montfort University.

On-campus residences provide the convenience of being just a short walk from lecture theatres, libraries, and student support services, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere where students can easily meet and make friends.

From modern on-campus halls of residence to off-campus housing in Leicester, there's something to match everyone's lifestyle.

Off-campus options, meanwhile, offer a taste of Leicester's rich cultural life, with easy access to shopping, entertainment, and eateries.

All accommodation options prioritise safety, comfort, and community as students are protected by campus facilities at De Montfort University such as on-campus security teams.

Also read: Top Courses at De Montfort University

Can international students work part-time whilst studying at De Montfort University?

For international students at De Montfort University (DMU), part-time employment offers a practical way to support their studies and living expenses while gaining invaluable work experience in the UK.

The amount international students can earn through part-time jobs varies, depending on factors such as job type, skill level, and the number of hours committed.

In the UK, the national minimum wage is a helpful baseline—ranging from £6.56 per hour for those aged 18-20 to £8.36 per hour for individuals 21 and older (as per the last update in April 2023).

However, it's common to find wages in Leicester that exceed this minimum, particularly in roles requiring specific skills or experience.

International students are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, as per Tier 4 visa regulations.

This enables them to explore employment opportunities in various sectors, including retail, hospitality, or even on-campus jobs, which are often designed to accommodate students' academic schedules.

Successfully balancing work and campus life at De Montfort University demands effective time management, but it can significantly enrich the university experience by providing both financial support and a chance to engage with the local community and culture.

Also read: Accommodation and campus life De Montfort University

Why do students choose De Montfort University?

International students choose De Montfort University (DMU) for its excellent teaching and research facilities, famed student support, international scholarships, and high graduate employability.

Located in Leicester, DMU offers a practical approach to education, ensuring students gain the skills needed for the job market. Courses are designed with input from industry experts in order to provide relevant, up-to-date content that prepares students for their future careers.

The graduate employment rate at DMU is an eye-watering 97%, meaning almost all De Montfort University graduates find employment within six months of graduation. 

Student life at De Montfort University also stands out in its placement opportunities for in-demand careers, allowing students to gain valuable work experience in their field before graduation.

The university's commitment to international students is shown via its comprehensive support services, including visa application guidance, English language support, and a successful careers service.

Furthermore, DMU's vibrant campus life, with numerous clubs and societies, ensures a well-rounded university experience. With these specific offerings, DMU not only attracts students from around the world but also equips them with the tools needed for success in their professional lives.

Also read: Benefits of studying at De Montfort University

What are the benefits of studying at De Montfort University?

For international students, choosing De Montfort University (DMU) opens the door to numerous benefits that extend far beyond the lecture theatre.

The Faculty of Art, Design and Humanities is new, appealing heavily to students pursuing careers in fields such as fashion, the arts and history, etc.

In fact, the campus facilities at De Montfort University have undergone a £90 million transformation so students on a virtual tour are often amazed by the first-rate amenities on offer. The campus even features a parkland, signifying to international students that England’s greenery is on offer just outside their student accommodation.

The University actually runs International Digital Events for students to find out more about student life at De Montfort University and how they can become a part of it in order to further its international reach.

The university's strong links with industry giants such as Network Rail and Epic Games solidify the standard of the employment opportunities on offer at the university.

High value employers look for graduates who have studied subjects with practical, hands-on learning incorporated into the course and are more likely to give these international students work experience through placements and internships.

Student life at De Montfort University is therefore particularly appealing to international students as those who have had to work hard to get where they are going appreciate these opportunities just as much as domestic students.

What support services are available for international students?

DMU offers a campus life enriched by a wide variety of societies and clubs, catering to a multitude of interests and allowing students to connect with peers from similar and different backgrounds.

Naturally, international students want to know if the university they are about to join will look out for them.

The university's dedicated International Student Support team offers tailored advice and assistance, from visa and immigration guidance to language support and beyond, to help international students navigate their university journey with ease.

At DMU, international students find not just a place to study, but a supportive and dynamic environment where they can thrive academically, professionally, and personally.

Is De Montfort University right for you?

At DMU, international students find a welcoming community that understands and addresses their unique needs, from student accommodation at De Montfort University to a range of campus facilities designed to make university life comfortable and rewarding.

The university's commitment to inclusivity and diversity is evident in every aspect of campus life in De Montfort University too.

Whether it's participating in one of the many student societies, engaging with the local community, or utilising the state-of-the-art campus facilities, international students at De Montfort University are encouraged to dive into the full British university experience.