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Cost of Living Support

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A group of students walking along the waterfront at Docklands Campus.

Cost of living crisis: We're here to help

At the University of East London, we believe higher education needs to be accessible to all so that everyone has an equal opportunity at achieving their career goals. We understand that cost of living is a big concern to students, and it shouldn’t be a barrier to advancing career aspirations. Regardless of your financial situation, we’re committed to make studying in London possible for everyone and providing our students with support throughout their university experience.

Keeping London affordable

Despite its reputation as an expensive city, London can be affordable for students from all backgrounds. East London is one of the most affordable areas of the capital and there are various budget-friendly areas to live and explore. We've put in place measures to help our students and offer advice on studying in London.

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Our financial support options

Higher education should be accessible to everyone. At the University of East London, we understand the challenges that students face when it comes to affordability. That's why we've put in place measures to assist and advise our students about studying in London.

  • We have a dedicated Student Money Advice and Rights Team (SMART) who can provide one-to-one advice.
  • We offer a wide range of bursaries and scholarships, including a hardship bursary for students from low-income households.
  • Our Clearing Support Package worth £1,000 during the first year of study, provides support towards travel, accommodation, and study resources.

Who are SMART?

Who are SMART?

Find out about the Student, Money, Advice, and Rights Team (SMART)

What financial support do SMART provide?

What financial support do SMART provide?

UEL offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to make studying in London accessible to everyone.

What funding is available for home students?

What funding is available for home students?

Our smart advisor Katarina Blanco discusses the different bursaries available to our home students.

What funding is available for international students?

What funding is available for international students?

Our hub advisor Matthew discusses the various bursary options available to international students.

What types of student finance advice does SMART provide?

What types of student finance advice does SMART provide?

SMART provides various types of finance advice for students.

What support does SMART provide vulnerable students?

What support does SMART provide vulnerable students?

Our dedicated Young Independent Students Team provides specific support to our vulnerable students.

View more

Student benefits

Studying with us means you have access to a variety of benefits such as:

  • Free essential groceries available fortnightly.
  • Free gym access for students during off-peak hours.
  • Free breakfast on campus every Wednesday.
  • Free period products in selected toilets across campus.

Employment

There are plenty of jobs available in London and our dedicated Career Zone is an excellent resource to help students find paid work whilst they study. Through our Career Zone you will be able to get valuable work experience, expand your network, and participate in work-based learning opportunities.

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 accommodation

Saving money in London

Just because you’re a student, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the exciting opportunities available in London. From discounted travel to free world-class museums and galleries, we'll show you how to get the most out of your time in London without breaking the bank.

 Help And Support

Financial support

  • Higher student loan for students studying in London.
  • Extra financial support for students with disabilities, caring responsibilities, and those from care-experienced backgrounds.
  • Extra financial support for students experiencing financial hardship.
 campus travel DLR

Travel

  • There are travel expenses grant for some students studying away from home.
  • Transport for London (TfL) offers discounted travel for students in London (18+ photocard) and advice on saving money.
  • We offer a free UEL shuttle between our three campuses.
 London Sightseeing

Entertainment and Leisure

  • Hundreds of restaurants, bars, cinemas, and theatres in London offer student discounts.
  • Most of London’s museums and galleries are free to enter.
  • London has many free activities for all people to enjoy.
  • East London is full of street markets, free museums and galleries, green spaces, and affordable food.

Join the UEL community

At the University of East London, we're dedicated to dismantling traditional obstacles to education and employment. We offer a career-focused education that empowers students from diverse backgrounds and helps to diversify the future talent pool. Join us to become part of a community that's making a real difference.

Apply now
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T. +44 20 8223 3000


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