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Top 8 Reasons for Studying in Manchester
- It has excellent universities
- The cost of living for students are affordable
- There are plenty of student-friendly accommodations
- Manchester is a great cultural hub for students
- Sports is big in Manchester [Scholarships and Grants]
- The Northern Quarter is packed with activities
- Manchester graduates have great career opportunities
- Mancunian Hollywood: Broadcast and Television
- It's all about the money: Finance and Accounting
- Gadgets and Gizmos: Technology and Innovation
- Manchester is simply accessible for students
Having studied in Manchester schools almost my whole life, I can say that the college experience does not disappoint.
You should study in Manchester if you want a dynamic academic environment that is within reach of a vibrant cultural social scene. Plus, the city is home to renowned universities that offer a wide range of opportunities for its students.
Let’s know more about the student’s life in Manchester and why studying in the city is a great choice to make!
It has excellent universities
Manchester has always been known in the UK as one of the cities that’s perfect for students with excellent academic establishments. In fact, it’s ranked among the top 10 in the UK alone!
Let’s take a look at this chart by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings (2023) below so we can compare how schools (elementary schools manchester) like the University of Manchester compares from the rest:
University | Ranking |
University of Oxford | 1 |
University of Cambridge | 2 |
Imperial College London | 3 |
UCL | 4 |
University of Edinburgh | 5 |
King’s College London | 6 |
London School Economics and Political Science | 7 |
University of Manchester | 8 |
University of Bristol | 9 |
University of Glasgow | 10 |
Note: To know how the council ranks, here is their official page for more info.
As you can see, the University of Manchester is ranked at a decent eighth place–just a spot behind the London School of Economics and Political Science.
Being ranked eighth, I think it’s rather commendable for Manchester University to hold such a position and call it a university that’s worth considering.
The cost of living for students are affordable
Studying in Manchester is more affordable for students in their day-to-day activities, including commuting, dining, and lodging, compared to many other regions in the UK.
The cost of living for students in Manchester is generally considered affordable within the £800 to £2,500 range when compared to other major cities in the UK. Here are some facts and a table to support this statement:
Manchester Expenses | Cost Range (GBP) |
Accommodation | £300 – £500 per month |
Transportation | £40 per month |
Groceries | £120 – £200 per month |
London Expenses | Cost Range (GBP) |
Accommodation | £800 – £2,500 per month |
Transportation | £100 – £200 per month |
Groceries | £200 – £300 per month |
Oxford Expenses | Cost Range (GBP) |
Accommodation | £600 – £1,800 per month |
Transportation | £60 – £120 per month |
Groceries | £150 – £250 per month |
One of the primary areas where this advantage becomes apparent is commuting. Manchester boasts an efficient and well-connected public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains.
The cost of commuting within the city is generally more budget-friendly compared to other major cities in the UK.
For comparison, London or Oxford have areas that are further away and cost at least 50% higher than Manchester’s student costs— that’s a lot to consider when studying.
This cost benefit allows students to save on transportation expenses, making it easier for them to explore the city, attend classes, and participate in various activities without breaking the bank.
There are plenty of student-friendly accommodations
Manchester is known for its vibrant student population and offers a wide range of student-friendly accommodations.
Accommodation type | Average Monthly Rent Range |
En-suite Room | £500 – £800 |
Studio Apartment | £700 – £1,200 |
Shared Accommodation | £300 – £600 per person |
In Manchester, there is a significant number of Purpose-Built Student Accommodations (PBSAs) available in areas like the Northern Quarter and Rochdale.
These accommodations are made for students and have everything they need. They have furnished rooms, shared spaces, places to study, gyms, laundry facilities, and fast internet.
When it comes to safety, these accommodations usually have 24/7 security, cameras, and electronic entry systems to keep students safe.
Compared to places like London, Manchester has cheaper rent options for students. The rent difference can be around a hundred pounds, which is a significant amount.
London | Average Monthly Rent Range |
En-suite Room | £800 – £1,500 |
Studio Apartment | £1,200 – £2,000 |
Shared Accommodation | £500 – £900 per person |
Oxford | Average Monthly Rent Range |
En-suite Room | £600 – £900 |
Studio Apartment | £900 – £1,500 |
Shared Accommodation | £400 – £700 per person |
The price of student accommodations can vary based on where they are, what kind of place it is, and what’s included. Sharing a house or apartment with other students can make it cheaper since the rent can be split among everyone.
Pro tip:
If you’re on a budget, I highly recommend opting for shared accommodations as these not only cut your monthly expenses by a good margin, but you’ll also have the opportunity to meet some Mancuian friends along the way.
Manchester is a great cultural hub for students
Manchester is a lively city with a diverse culture and fascinating history. It’s known for its vibrant arts scene and has a great reputation as a cultural center.
You can enjoy music festivals, visit art galleries, museums, and theaters to immerse yourself in the arts and culture. History lovers will love the museums in Manchester, especially the famous Manchester Museum.
It has a wide collection of natural history items and artifacts that tell the story of the city’s past. The museums in Manchester are educational and offer valuable insights into the city’s history and its contributions to various fields of knowledge.
Pro tip:
Manchester’s culture is extremely rich in art and music, so why not minor in one of these subjects? Making it through your first semester with these disciplines in mind will be a breeze knowing there are a lot of references in the city itself!
Sports is big in Manchester [Scholarships and Grants]
Scholarships are a big part of universities, and it’s no different in Manchester. It’s a way to make your student life much more stable financially.
For instance, Manchester University offers sports scholarships to talented student-athletes who demonstrate exceptional abilities in their respective sports.
These scholarships aim to support athletes in achieving both academic and athletic success during their time at the university, providing a range of benefits to recipients.
Pro tip:
It is advisable to start the application process well in advance, as competition for these scholarships can be quite competitive.
The Northern Quarter is packed with activities
The Northern Quarter of Manchester is an amazing district with lots of things to see and do. It has beautiful street art, which is perfect when strolling by to see great views of the city.
Also, it’s a local haunt for students to mingle and find new things to do with close friends and family.
Regardless of age and social status, the Northern Quarter is jam packed with awesome things to do and is a perfect place for those who love to experience the ultimate student life!
Another nearby place in the Northern Quarter is Affleck’s. Here, Affleck’s in Manchester is a fantastic place for students.
From clothing to accessories, vintage finds, and unique gifts, Affleck’s has something for everyone.
The affordable prices and student-friendly atmosphere make it a go-to destination for students looking for a distinctive and budget-friendly shopping experience.
Manchester graduates have great career opportunities
Manchester is truly a vibrant city with an incredibly dynamic job market. It’s not just about the impressive architecture and rich history; it’s the people and the industries that make this place truly special.
Mancunian Hollywood: Broadcast and Television
When it comes to work, Manchester is a hotbed of opportunities across various sectors. One of the sectors that Manchester truly excels in is the media industry.
According to official data, the media sector in Manchester greatly affects the economy, with an estimated annual turnover of over £1 billion.
The city has been the filming location for popular television shows, such as ‘Peaky Blinders’ and ‘Coronation Street’, showcasing its importance in the broadcast and television industry.
Manchester’s media prowess extends beyond the UK, as it has attracted international production companies and has become a hub for global audiences.
It’s all about the money: Finance and Accounting
In addition to media, the finance industry in Manchester is robust and constantly evolving. With major financial firms like banks having a strong presence in the city, students studying business have a wealth of chances to explore.
Manchester ranks among the top UK cities outside of London for finance and professional services employment, with over 280,000 people employed in the sector.
The city’s financial district is home to leading firms, including several international banks and investment companies.
The finance and accounting sector in Manchester contributes significantly to the economy, with an estimated annual GVA of £7.6 billion.
Gadgets and Gizmos: Technology and Innovation
The technology sector in Manchester is another area that’s booming. From startups to established tech giants, the city is home to a thriving tech ecosystem.
According to recent reports, the digital tech sector in Greater Manchester employs over 100,000 to 250,000 people, with a turnover of £4.1 billion.
Manchester’s thriving tech scene attracts talent and investment, offering students studying computer science and related fields a wealth of opportunities.
Students studying computer science or related fields can immerse themselves in this exciting tech scene, which opens up doors to internships and job placements with some of the brightest minds in the industry.
Manchester is simply accessible for students
Manchester is an excellent city for students when it comes to transportation. It’s not just about its already affordable accommodations, but also about the vibrant and student-friendly atmosphere that makes getting around a breeze.
One of the key reasons why Manchester is accessible for students is its efficient public transportation system.
The city boasts a comprehensive network of buses, trams, and trains that can take you anywhere you need to go.
The buses are particularly convenient and cover a wide range of routes, including those that connect the university campuses with various neighborhoods.
You can easily hop on a bus, scan your student pass, and be on your way to class or any other destination.
Many students choose to ride their bikes to university, enjoying the fresh air and avoiding traffic congestion. Plus, it’s a great way to stay active and explore the city at your own pace.
Pro tip:
If you prefer a more eco-friendly option, cycling is a popular mode of transportation in Manchester. The city has an extensive network of bike lanes and dedicated paths, making it safe and convenient to cycle around.