Cost of Living Support
We know the cost of living is a big concern for students. It shouldn’t be a barrier to your studies or career goals. Whatever your financial situation, we’re here to support you while you study at UEL.
Get help now
Use these first - they’re the quickest routes to support:
- Use our funding calculator to see what help you may be able to get.
- Speak to the Student Money Advice and Rights Team (SMART) for one-to-one advice.
- Explore bursaries and scholarships, including a hardship bursary for students from low-income households.
Keeping London affordable
London can feel expensive, but many students find ways to make it work. East London is one of the more budget-friendly parts of the city, with affordable places to live and explore. We also provide advice and support to help you manage costs while you’re here.
Our financial support options
We offer practical support to make studying in London more manageable:
- Student Money Advice and Rights Team (SMART): one-to-one advice.
- Bursaries and scholarships, a wide range of support, including a hardship bursary for eligible students.
Funding calculator
Find out how much financial support you could get for your studies and living costs by answering a few quick questions.
Use the funding calculatorMeet our Student Money Advice and Rights Team (SMART)
![]()
Who are SMART? Find out about the Student, Money, Advice, and Rights Team (SMART)Image 1 of x![]()
What financial support do SMART provide?Image 1 of x![]()
What funding is available for home students?Image 1 of x![]()
What funding is available for international students?Image 1 of x![]()
What types of student finance advice does SMART provide?Image 1 of x![]()
What support does SMART provide vulnerable students?Image 1 of x
- Who are SMART? Find out about the Student, Money, Advice, and Rights Team (SMART)Image 1 of x
- What financial support do SMART provide?Image 1 of x
- What funding is available for home students?Image 1 of x
- What funding is available for international students?Image 1 of x
- What types of student finance advice does SMART provide?Image 1 of x
- What support does SMART provide vulnerable students?Image 1 of x
Student benefits
Studying with us comes with benefits that can help lower everyday costs:
- Free off-peak gym access.
- Free period products in selected campus toilets.
- Access to a weekly student pantry, or use the Too Good to Go app to get discounted food from our cafes.
- Get a part-time job. UEL’s location means there are tons of retail, hospitality, and freelance opportunities.
Employment
London has a wide range of job opportunities. Our dedicated Career Zone can help you find paid work while you study, build experience, and grow your network.
Affordable accommodation
We know that finding affordable accommodation in London can be a challenge. That's why we offer on-campus accommodation starting from just £165 a week. If you prefer to live off-campus, our Docklands campus is based in a residential area with various affordable student housing options. Additionally, students renting in London are not required to pay council tax.
Explore our accommodationSaving money in London
There are plenty of ways to enjoy London on a budget. Below are common cost-saving routes and where to find them. Read our blog on ways to save money in London.
Financial support
- Higher student loans for students studying in London.
- Extra financial support for students with disabilities, caring responsibilities, care-experienced backgrounds or in hardship.
Travel
- Travel expense grants for some students studying away from home.
- Transport for London (TfL) discounted travel for students in London (18+ photocard) and advice on saving money.
- Free UEL campus bus between our three campuses.
Entertainment and leisure
- Many venues across London offer student discounts.
- Most of London’s museums and galleries are free to enter.
- London has many free activities for people to enjoy.
- East London has street markets, free museums and galleries, green spaces, and affordable food.
Join the UEL community
We’re committed to breaking down barriers to education and employment and supporting students from all backgrounds to succeed.
Cost of living FAQs
What support is available if I’m struggling financially?
You can get one-to-one help from SMART and check bursaries and scholarships, including hardship support.
What bursaries and scholarships can I apply for?
We offer a wide range, including a hardship bursary for eligible students. See the bursaries and scholarships page.
What does the funding calculator do?
It helps you estimate how much financial support you could get for study and living costs.
Are there ways to reduce day-to-day costs on campus?
Yes. Students have access to things like free off-peak gym, free period products, and a weekly student pantry
Can UEL help me find paid work while I study?
Yes. Career Zone supports students in finding paid work and work-based learning opportunities.