The UK is a huge destination for international students from all over the world. And I believe London is one of the main reasons students are so attracted to Great Britain.

There are almost 40 higher education institutions, and according to latest statistics, there are more than 400,000 students currently studying in London! Just to give you an estimate, this is more than the population of Iceland currently studying in London alone.

London is a world capital, this is without a doubt. But, what makes it so attractive for students? Having done my Master’s degree in London I share 9 reasons why London is the best city for students.

1) Diversity of Students

London is a super multinational city and this is reflected in its student population. Driven students from all parts of the world rush to London for education: a Bachelor’s, a Master’s, a PhD, an English language certificate, law qualifications, engineering degrees, medical education, and so on….

Obviously, travel is the best way to learn about other cultures, but not the only way. Studying, socialising and living with other international students can open your mind to other cultures. I think London creates a perfect atmosphere to explore the diversity of the world.

Also, it is a gift to be able to study with students who are different from you and London offers this. The classrooms are filled with diverse opinions, interesting examples from various countries and multicultural atmosphere. Next thing you know, you have friends from all over the world!

2) Entertainment

Being a student could mean extra free time, long holidays and most of all energy to experience various things! (Believe me, whatever you think, most likely the actual job will be much harder than studying).

London is the best “sponge” for students’ free time. Musicals, concerts, shows, plays, restaurants, exhibitions, you name it! Whatever your budget or interest, London has something to offer.

There is a saying: “if you are bored of London, you are bored of life”. Having lived in London for 4 years now, I completely agree with this statement. This city is an endless source of entertainment. Not only London has a lot to offer already, it also attracts people from all over the world. For example, try to find a world-famous artist that did not perform in London!

3) Number of Universities and Courses

Let’s say you are set to moving to London for whatever reason (reason number one is that it is the best city out there). When it comes to choosing what, where and when to study you will not be disappointed.

With more than 40 institutions spread around this large city, you can study whatever your heart desires. There are evening universities, professional schools, art schools, law schools, open universities, and colleges.

There are also different entry requirements across universities and courses in London. So no matter what your experience, level, and background – you can easily pursue higher education in London.

4) Guest Lectures, Conferences, Talks and Other Student Events

The number of universities in London leads to my next point. There are tonnes of student conferences, talks, fairs and events happening every day in London.

When I was a student in London, I could literally go for a talk any day. Do you feel like a lecture on human rights at London School of Economics – done! Thinking of attending a career fair at the University of London – check! Do you wish to observe a Q&A session with a leading politician – easy! All of these sessions are available for students, mostly for free and even if you have to pay – at a very reasonable price.

Some of the examples of events that happened during my student days: Angelina Jolie gave a talk at LSE on world peace and ex-mayor of Moscow held a guest lecture on foreign affairs at UCL! So you get it, London is a happening place.

5) Nightlife

Ok, now to some fun stuff! I think you will believe me that nightlife in London is huge. Bars, clubs, concerts, pubs  – all open their doors for students every day of the week.

Whether you like a chilled atmosphere with live jazz music, a club night with cheesy music or secret cocktail bar – London will show you how to party!

Also, there would be many student-only events organised across London. For example, one of the most popular student events is a cruise along the evening Thames with drinks, dancing, and fellow students!

6) Employment Opportunities

Having studied both in and outside London, I can firmly say you are much more connected to potential employers if you are based in London. This being said, it is from my experience with law firms, financial sector, as well as political sector and NGOs. I have also found that most start-ups are based in London.

The proximity of prospective employment firms allows students to attend their events, open days, conferences, and talks. Moreover, the employers are more likely to visit London university due to convenience.

This also applies to part-time jobs and volunteering opportunities. There is just so much choice and places available. In London, it is much easier to find a part-time job or volunteering opportunity in the sector that interests you.

7) Museums and Galleries

And back to boring facts!  London offers more than 200 museum and art galleries! All of these mostly free for students.

Whatever the subject you are studying, you can find something to explore outside your uni. Actually, even University College London has its own museums on campus…

Tip: If you like art, head to Courtauld Gallery and get a free entrance with your student card. Go during less busy hours and enjoy the greatest artworks without unnecessary distractions from tourists.

8) Connectivity to the World

5 airports, 300 train stations, 11 tube lines and 21,000 black cabs available for you to get to, around and from London.

There are straight flights from London to nuuuuumerous destinations. There are direct trains to Paris, Brussels, Lyon, French Alps and Amsterdam departing from Central London every day.

So London is a perfect spot for traveling around Europe and the world. But also if you are planning to go home a lot, you will be able to do this with ease.

9) It is LONDON, baby!

And finally, it is London!

London is beautiful, cultural, historical, inspirational, fashionable, atmospheric, romantic, breathtaking… the list goes on.

If you care about your surroundings and have a taste for architecture, your eyes will never be bored in London.

Yes, I am biased, but give it a try, and you will fall in love with London like I did… <3   I hope the above reasons inspired you to move to London. You can continue your inspiration by watching our vlog on 5 top universities in London.

Bets of Luck,

From Mind The Grad 🙂

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave