Staff
Rent:
This is likely to be your largest outgoing. University-managed accommodation costs from around £3100 for 40 weeks, or around £3900 for 50 weeks, although you will pay more for a larger room and/or en-suite facilities. This can be a good choice financially as you will be close to your lectures, therefore should not incur additional travel costs, and accommodation fees are usually inclusive of water rates, gas/electricity and broadband internet. Further details can be found on the Accommodation website: http://www.sunderland.ac.uk/studentlife/accommodation/
Another option would be to rent privately, perhaps sharing with other students. Rents can vary, depending on the location and size of the accommodation. You can use the Studentpad website to search for local accommodation, to get an idea of how much you would need to pay: http://www.sunderlandstudentpad.co.uk/Accommodation
Again, some landlords will include water and energy bills with your rent, which can help you to plan your finances. Check the terms of the tenancy carefully for this.
The following website also gives detailed advice on choosing accommodation:
http://www.ukcisa.org.uk/International-Students/Preparing--planning/Planning-your-accommodation/
Travel:
Again, living in University accommodation or private accommodation close to the University can remove the requirement to pay for day-to-day travel costs. If you do choose to live further away from the campus, a monthly travel ticket can be a good idea as this may be cheaper than paying per journey. See the following website for further information: http://www.nexus.org.uk/bus/tickets
Utility bills:
These may include gas, electricity and water charges, plus TV licence and telephone/internet connection. Prices can vary depending on the provider. As stated previously, University accommodation fees usually include these charges, and some private landlords will charge rent which is inclusive of certain bills. If your rent does not include these charges, you may need to arrange to split these bills with your housemates and plan these costs into your budget. The following website can help you to search for the best deals: www.moneysavingexpert.com
Insurance:
Contents/personal possession insurance can be good idea. This is also included in the cost of University-managed accommodation. Websites such as www.moneysavingexpert.com offer an overview of insurance policies for students.
Food and other household expenses:
This can vary greatly. It may be possible to eat for as little as £20-£25 per week, but this can take a great deal of planning. It may be wise to budget at least £30-£40 per week for food costs if you are living in Sunderland. Budget for more than this if you are living in London.
Books and other course materials:
Can vary depending on your course. The library is free to all students, although you may be advised to purchase several ‘core’ textbooks each year. Certain courses may also require you to purchase specialist materials or software. The programme leader for your chosen course should be able to give more information on what you will be required to purchase - so you could ask them in advance for an idea of what your course materials costs are likely to be.
Other:
In addition to the above, you may incur additional costs, including socialising - e.g. eating out, cinema, and sporting activities. These costs can vary, so it is essential to budget for the priority expenses such as rent, bills, and course costs first of all. You may also need to buy certain large/bulky items when you arrive, instead of bringing them with you e.g. bedding and kitchen utensils - although bedding packs can be included with your University accommodation package.
See also the University's guidance on our International Pre-Arrival Guide pages for essential advice on preparing for your studies in the UK.
