London vs. Other UK Cities: Where Should Nepalese Students Study?
If you’ve recently completed your +2 or Bachelor’s degree and are dreaming of an international degree, the United Kingdom is likely already on your radar.
And for good reason, because they are globally respected universities, a multicultural environment, and a flexible work-study system have made the UK one of the top destinations for Nepalese students for decades.
Over the last few years, the number of students applying to study in the UK from Nepal has grown rapidly, especially after completing their +2 education, when many students seek a fresh start abroad, or after earning their bachelor’s degree, when career-driven students aim for a master’s with strong post-study work opportunities.
But here’s the catch: the UK isn’t just about Oxford or London.
Where you study, meaning which city, can shape your entire experience.
The cost of living, part-time job options, size of the Nepalese community, and even your academic focus can vary significantly from one UK city to another.
If you’re planning to study in the UK from Nepal, Goreto Educational Consultancy can help simplify the process.
Key Factors Nepalese Students Should Consider Before Choosing a City
Before you pick a university or city to study in the UK from Nepal, it’s crucial to consider these important points.
1. Admission Requirements (for +2 and Bachelor’s graduates)
Most UK universities accept students directly from Class 12 (+2) into undergraduate programs.
For Master’s degrees, a Bachelor’s degree from Nepal (especially with a 3.0 GPA or higher) is generally acceptable.
- For undergrad: You’ll need your +2 transcript, IELTS/PTE score, SOP, and reference letters.
- For postgrad: Your bachelor’s degree certificate, IELTS, SOP, and academic/work references.
Certain universities might allow applications based on predicted grades if you haven’t obtained your final results yet.
2. Tuition Fees and Living Costs
| Level | Tuition Fees (GBP/year) | Tuition Fees (NPR/year)* |
| Undergraduate | £12,000 – £18,000 | NPR 2,10,0000 – NPR 3,20,0000 |
| Postgraduate | £13,000 – £20,000 | NPR 2,30,0000 – NPR 3,60,0000 |
| City | Avg Monthly Living Cost (GBP) | Approx in NPR* |
| London | £1,300 – £1,800 | NPR 2,30,000 – NPR 3,20,000 |
| Other Cities | £800 – £1,100 | NPR 1,40,000 – NPR 1,95,000 |
(Note: Currency values vary. Consult Goreto for the latest information on fees and currency exchange rates.)
3. Nepalese Community Support
Adjusting to a new country can be emotionally intense.
A Nepalese community nearby can significantly impact your experience, from assisting with housing to sharing in the celebrations of festivals, including Dashain.
London has the largest Nepalese community in the UK, especially in areas like Aldershot and Plumstead.
Other cities, excluding London, like Leeds, Glasgow, and Manchester, also have active Nepalese student societies and local associations.
4. University Rankings and Subject Strengths
Top cities often house top-ranked universities — but not always. Some cities specialize in certain subjects.
- Universities in London, UCL, King’s, and Imperial are strong in STEM, Business, and Law.
- Manchester is known for Engineering, Data Science, and Business.
- Edinburgh is famous for its Arts, History, and Political Science.
- Sheffield and Nottingham are the most affordable with great reputations in Health, Engineering, and Education.
5. Work Opportunities During and Post-Students
The UK’s Graduate Route allows you to stay and work in the UK for 2 years after graduation (3 years for a PhD), which is one of the plus points of planning an international academic journey in London.
Students can work up to 20 hours/week, even while studying, which helps them manage their living expenses.
- Bigger cities like London and Manchester offer more part-time jobs, but a bigger city is a direct indication of higher competition.
- Smaller cities may have fewer opportunities, but as mentioned, smaller cities have less competition and friendlier employers when compared with employment opportunities in big cities.
6. Safety, Public Transport & Lifestyle
Your comfort level matters too.
Some cities are fast-paced, while others are more laid-back.
For instance,
- London is busier, more exciting, and is open to diversity, but it is pricey.
- Glasgow/Leeds are student-friendly, affordable, and have compact cities.
- Edinburgh is safe, scenic, and historic, which is ideal for focused students.
- Newcastle/Nottingham has a relaxed vibe, lower costs, and is great for undergrads.
City Profiles at a Glance: Comparing London with Other UK Cities
| City | Top Universities | Avg Living Cost (GBP/NPR)* | Nepalese Community | Part-Time Jobs | Lifestyle |
| London | UCL, King’s, Imperial | £1,300–£1,800 / NPR 2.3L–3.2L | Very High | Very High (also competitive) | Fast-paced, diverse |
| Manchester | University of Manchester, MMU | £1,000 / NPR 1.8L | High | High | Lively, multicultural |
| Birmingham | University of Birmingham, BCU | £950 / NPR 1.7L | Moderate | Good | Big-city vibe, calmer |
| Edinburgh | University of Edinburgh | £1,100 / NPR 2L | Moderate | Moderate | Historic, academic |
| Glasgow | University of Glasgow, GCU | £900 / NPR 1.6L | Moderate | Moderate | Friendly, creative |
| Leeds | University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett | £900 / NPR 1.6L | Moderate | Good | Student-focused |
| Sheffield | University of Sheffield, Hallam | £850 / NPR 1.5L | Low | Moderate | Calm, green |
| Nottingham | University of Nottingham, NTU | £850 / NPR 1.5L | Low | Moderate | Safe, relaxed |
| Newcastle | Newcastle University, Northumbria | £850 / NPR 1.5L | Low | Moderate | Affordable, friendly |
Actual costs may vary based on the dynamic exchange rate.
Goreto can help you calculate the latest living budget and plan accordingly.
Goreto Educational Consultancy provides personalized counselling for Nepalese students who want to study in the UK from Nepal.
In-Depth Comparison: London vs Other Cities
London: The Hub of Everything
Pros:
- Top-ranked universities: UCL, King’s College London, Imperial College London – all within the world’s top 50.
- Largest Nepalese community: Easier cultural adjustment and peer support.
- Career & networking: Better access to internships, job fairs, and international companies.
- Cultural exposure: Museums, global cuisines, festivals.
Cons:
- The highest cost of living in the UK: Rent and transport costs are significantly higher.
- Intense competition: From admissions to part-time jobs.
- Pace of life: Can feel overwhelming, especially for students from smaller towns in Nepal.
Other Cities: Smart Alternatives with Big Benefits
Pros:
- Budget-friendly living: Cities like Leeds, Sheffield, and Glasgow offer quality education at lower costs.
- Student-friendly environment: Accessible campuses and safer communities.
- Personalised education: Smaller class sizes and better professor access.
- Part-time jobs: Decent availability with less competition.
Cons:
- Fewer global employers: May need to move post-graduation for job markets.
- Smaller Nepalese communities but often more supportive and close-knit.
Many students choose these cities when planning to study in the UK from Nepal, with support from consultants like Goreto, who understand both the academic and cultural transition.
Decision Support: Match Your Goals with the Right City
| Student Type | Recommended Cities |
| Budget-focused +2 student | Leeds, Sheffield, Glasgow |
| Bachelor’s graduate, career-driven | London, Manchester, Edinburgh |
| Needs a calm and supportive setting | Nottingham, Newcastle |
| Looking for an active Nepalese group | London, Manchester |
| Creative/Art students | Edinburgh, Glasgow |
| Health/Engineering focus | Sheffield, Birmingham |
Before finalizing, check course availability — even a top city won’t help if your desired program isn’t offered there.
Practical Tips for Nepalese Students Planning to Study in the UK from Nepal
Whether you’ve just completed +2 or are a Bachelor’s graduate, the UK application process involves a few key steps — here’s a simple breakdown:
Step-by-Step Application Timeline
| Stage | When to Start (For Fall Intake) |
| Research universities and courses | Sept – Dec (1 year before) |
| Take IELTS/PTE | Oct – Jan |
| Prepare documents | Nov – Feb |
| Submit applications | Dec – March |
| Receive offers | Jan – May |
| Apply for a visa | May – July |
| Book accommodation & flight | July – August |
| Fly to the UK | September |
You may apply with anticipated +2 grades or temporary bachelor’s results.
Goreto helps you choose universities that accept such documents.
Scholarships Available for Nepalese Students
| Scholarship | Level | Coverage |
| Chevening Scholarship | Master’s | Full tuition, living costs, and flight |
| Commonwealth Scholarship | Master’s/PhD | Full or partial |
| University-specific bursaries | UG/PG | £1,000 – £5,000 |
| GREAT Scholarships | PG | £10,000 (selected universities) |
Apply early.
UK Student Visa Process (Student Route Visa)
To accomplish an international academic journey in the UK from Nepal, you need to apply for the Student Route Visa.
- Get an unconditional offer from a UK university.
- Receive your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies).
- Prepare financial documents showing tuition + 9 months of living costs.
- Apply online via gov.uk and pay the visa fee + health surcharge.
- Attend a biometric appointment at VFS Nepal.
- Wait for your decision (typically within 3 weeks).
Post-study: The Graduate Route allows students to work in the UK for 2 years (or 3 for a PhD).
There isn’t a single solution for everyone.
The ideal city for you depends on how you prefer to live, your financial conditions, educational aspirations, and long-term objectives, like career goals.
Whether or not you choose the career thrill of London or the peace of smaller towns, your decision should be careful and intentional.
If you’re still confused about what steps to take when planning to study in the UK from Nepal, contact us at goreto.edu.np for specialized and personalized assistance suiting your preference.
