London may be the first choice for an international student to study in the United Kingdom. Nevertheless, when it comes to the opinion of those already studying in varsities situated up the north, their verdict is different. One cannot doubt that London comes among the top-most cities in the United Kingdom and full of opportunities. Northern England, however, gains an advantage when it comes to education for international students, along with all facilities that London provides.

Students from all over the globe fly down to the south to take a share of the educational quality and lifestyle it has on offer. Educational hubs in North like Leeds or Manchester also provide some attractive opportunities for non-UK students.

Here’s a list of most popular factors that make Northern England an educational hotspot.

1. Cost of living

The most important consideration that makes Northern England a favourite for students is the affordable cost of living it offers. Cost of accommodation and other expenses significantly affect students, especially when they finance their education independently.

Unlike London which attracts a high cost, be it for accommodation, food or any other expense, North is considerably cheaper. A recent HSBC study says weekly expense for students living in locations like Sheffield, Leeds, and Manchester goes up to Euro 220. An expense like this can help students in long term savings.

2. The best universities

The varsities in the northern UK come at the top when looking for the best British universities. One can choose from a variety of top-class varsities situated in Northern England like Newcastle, Manchester, Leeds, and more.

These educational institutions provide almost all state-of-the-art facilities that a university situated in London can boast of. Besides, they also feature among the top 25 UK varsities of 2018 released by TES.

3. Lively cities

Coincidently, some best cities in Britain are situated in Northern England. They also house a few of the leading UK varsities. Hence, a student studying in North not only gets access to high-quality varsities but also experiences the bustling environment of a lively city. A list of top UK cities that are also popular for a large population of students, both from the UK and outside it, includes –

• Liverpool
• Newcastle
• Leeds
• Manchester

The cities buzzing with entertainment offer numerous activities to participate in besides bringing a fair share of career options. Thus, they also rank high on the quality of living index for cities.

4. Cultural richness

Northern England acquires a pretty good reputation when it comes to flaunting cultural heritage. The cities there are dotted with art galleries and museums that show off their rich history. Places like Liverpool’s Walker Art Gallery are brimming with the heritage value this country carries. Thus, a student can always opt to visit these prestigious venues while studying there.

5. A buzzing nightlife

Fun would fall on top of everything if tried the activities that Northerners love. Cities like Newcastle and Leeds are hosts to varieties of bars, pubs, and nightclubs. They are some of the world renowned cities high on nightlife. Irrespective of your idea of a thriving nightlife, you are going to find something or the other that sparks interest.

6. Plenty of music fests

Music fests are common in North while attracting the best of names in the music industry. Rihanna, Eminem, Kasabian – name any, and you would find a music fest featuring one. Festivals like Creamfields or Yorkshire’s Leeds Fest can be effective stress busters after achieving long and tiring deadlines or completing exams.

7. Comfortable transportation facilities

Northern England may not be home to sophisticated tubes. Nevertheless, transportation in these cities is made comfortable with the help of night bus service of Manchester and Metro service in Newcastle. Also, you do not have to worry if you need to travel for an early lecture.

8. Thriving job opportunities

The Northern UK has seen considerable economic expansion in recent years. It falls among the best reasons why a student would choose studying in North than in any other part of the nation. Cities like Leeds and Manchester have a growing number of vacant positions for graduates or junior level associates.

9. The charm of northern people

Standing against the general perception of English people being unwelcoming, people living up in the North carry charm and warmth in their conduct. Shed your stereotype to witness some most charming humans here.

These nine factors make Nothern England an undisputed choice for pursuing higher education in the UK. Students enrolled in Northern varsities pass out with the cultural richness of these cities imbibed in them.