Welcome to Preston

A vibrant student city in North West England

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GBP 10,000–14,000/year
Annual tuition fees
GBP 700–950/month
Monthly living costs

Why study in Preston

Preston is a friendly and affordable city located in the heart of Lancashire. You’ll benefit from a strong student community, practical learning opportunities, and easy access to both countryside and major UK cities. It’s well-known for supporting international students, with a welcoming atmosphere, quality academic options, and a manageable cost of living—making it an ideal place to study and live.

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Student life

Student life in Preston is relaxed, social, and budget-friendly. You’ll find plenty of student-friendly cafés, music venues, and green spaces like Avenham Park to unwind. The city hosts regular events, markets, and cultural festivals, and the compact layout means you’re always close to everything. Whether you prefer quiet study spaces or fun nights out, there’s something here for every kind of student.

Avg. wage per hour

GBP 10–12/hour

Max. allowed part-time hours

20 hours/week

Cost of living

  • Food: GBP 160–230/month
  • Rent: GBP 350–600/month
  • Household Bills: GBP 80–120/month
  • Transport: GBP 50–90/month
  • Miscellaneous: GBP 100–150/month

Accommodation choices

  • University accommodation
  • Private halls
  • Shared houses
  • Studio apartments
  • Homestays

Most opted part-time jobs

  • Retail assistant
  • Barista
  • Tutor
  • Waiter/waitress
  • Office clerk

Public transport

  • Bus
  • Train
  • Bike sharing
  • Shared taxi
  • Tram

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CULTURE

Preston’s culture is a lively mix of tradition and modern student energy. You’ll experience music festivals, art exhibitions, and multicultural food events across the city. With roots in textile history and a growing creative scene, there’s always something happening. As a student, you’ll enjoy local markets, film nights, and inclusive cultural activities that help you connect and belong.

SAFETY

Preston is considered a safe student city, with an active police presence, community watch programmes, and secure campus environments. For emergencies, dial 999. For non-emergency support, call 101. Universities provide 24/7 campus security, late-night transport support, and student safety apps to keep you informed and protected during your time here.

Discover the city

Preston is a mid-sized city in the North West of England, known for its welcoming vibe, central location, and balance of urban convenience with nearby countryside. With direct train connections to Manchester, Liverpool, and beyond, it’s easy to travel and explore. The city offers a supportive student community and a vibrant, walkable layout that makes life convenient and affordable.

Language

English

Currency

GBP

Population

140K

Area

142 square kilometres

Frequently asked questions

Yes, Preston is a great choice for international students. It offers affordable living, a supportive academic setting, and a warm community. You’ll find it easy to settle in and make friends, and the city’s transport links mean you can explore other parts of the UK with ease.
Living in Preston as a student is affordable. Rent, food, and travel costs are lower than in larger cities, and there are lots of student discounts. With budgeting, you can comfortably manage your expenses while enjoying a high quality of life.
Preston offers a variety of student accommodation including university-managed halls, shared apartments, private rentals, and homestays. Most housing is close to campus and amenities, making life convenient. You can choose based on your budget and lifestyle preferences.
Yes, as an international student, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Part-time jobs in Preston include roles in retail, cafés, tutoring, and admin support. It’s a great way to earn money and gain experience while studying.