Know Before You Go
See where your budget goes further
Pick two cities and see a side-by-side breakdown of real student costs.
🇬🇧 London — Expensive but electric. Budget carefully.
🇩🇪 Berlin — Affordable, gritty, and deeply creative. Best value in Western Europe.
Pret a Manger, Wasabi, and uni cafeterias are your best friends. Borough Market on weekdays for cheap samples.
Döner kebab shops are everywhere and a massive kebab is €4–6. Rewe and Lidl for cheap, quality groceries.
Get an 18+ Student Oyster card for a 30% discount on Travelcards and Bus & Tram passes.
The €29/mo Deutschlandticket covers all local transit nationwide. One of the best transport deals in Europe.
Pre-drinks are essential in London. Check Dice and Fever for free or cheap event tickets.
Berlin's club scene is legendary. Many venues are free before midnight or charge €5–€15 entry.
Disclaimer: Data is estimated from public sources and student reports. Prices are approximate and vary by neighbourhood and lifestyle. Currency conversions use approximate fixed rates and are for reference only.
Straight from students who've been there
No marketing copy. Real experiences from real exchange students.
“London is incredible but it hits your bank account like nothing else. I burned through my budget in the first month before I found the student discounts and free museum scene. Once you figure it out, it's absolutely worth it — the energy here is unmatched.”
“Berlin is the best city in Europe for students, full stop. Cheap rent, legendary nightlife, incredible art scene, and people from literally everywhere. I spent half what I would have in Madrid and had twice the experience. Would go back tomorrow.”
“I genuinely couldn't believe how affordable Seoul was. A proper meal for under £3 equivalent, a metro that goes everywhere, and the most convenient city I've ever lived in. The culture shock is real but in the best possible way — give yourself a week to adjust and you'll never want to leave.”
“Paris is everything the clichés say and more. Finding affordable housing was stressful — start that search early. But once I was settled, living there changed how I see food, culture, and everyday life. Sunday mornings at a local boulangerie with a coffee for €3 — that's it, that's the city.”
“As an American used to paying $15 for a cocktail, Berlin felt like cheating. The Deutschlandticket alone saved me hundreds. My favourite thing was how the city rewards curiosity — there's always a free gallery opening, a cheap underground gig, or a park BBQ happening if you look.”
“Yes, London is expensive — but the opportunities are insane. I interned at a startup, met people from 40+ countries, and walked through world-class museums for free on weekends. Just get the student Oyster card immediately and meal prep on Sundays. You'll be fine.”
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