Bills and Utilities

Information on how to budget, considering typical costs and how to get financial support, if needed.

Typical living costs

Fixed living costs are regular costs relating to where you live, typically paid on a monthly basis. You should budget accordingly to factor in these costs. Examples include:

  • rent 
  • internet charges
  • utility bills (gas and electricity)
  • council tax bills 

Additional regular payments may include: 

  • mobile phone bills
  • TV licence
  • digital TV subscriptions or streaming services
  • insurance costs

Depending on whether you are living in University managed accommodation or private accommodation, you will need to check what is included in your monthly rent, and what you will need to pay for separately.  

University WiFi

Internet access is included in the rent of most University-managed accommodation. 

You can also access wireless internet (eduroam) for free at all University campuses

Contents insurance

You may want to pay for contents insurance for your home to protect your belongings in case of theft or damage. Comparison sites such as ComparetheMarket will help you select the best supplier for your situation.

TV Licence

You need a TV licence to watch or record live TV programmes on any channel, or download or stream TV. This also applies to students who live in University-managed accommodation. 

International Students

Mobile phone bills

In the UK, there are two options to take when setting up a new phone:

ContractA fixed monthly cost including phone calls, texts and internet access. Contracts usually last between 12 and 24 months.
Pay-as-you-goPre-pay for phone calls, texts and internet access by buying credit. There is no contract so it can be a better option if you will be in the UK for less than a year.

Mobile phone deals for students (Save the Student website)

Advice on making international calls (Save the Student website)

Financial support

It can take time to build up budgeting skills and at some point, you might need extra help or even financial assistance. 

We have more detailed information to help you with budgeting and with saving on essential and non-essential expenses. It also covers free and discounted products and services that might make the cost of living easier to manage. 

 

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