How is student life in Leeds?

How to meet people and settle in Leeds

My journey to Leeds

“Keep moving forward, do not look back” were the words my father told me as I was saying goodbye to my family at the airport. Upon hearing that, my long-held efforts of not crying came crashing down. Although coming to do my master’s degree in the UK was a dream I had had for a long time, leaving the warmness of home was daunting. Looking at my dad, the man that never cried, with teary eyes, made me feel bittersweet. I knew that he was proud of me, and I intended to follow his recommendation. With a last hug, I embarked on a 12-hour journey to the city that would become my second home.

Since day one, the University makes it easy to meet people. The first friends I made were during the shuttle from Manchester to Leeds. Talking with each other, we found out that we were all master’s students from Latin America and coincidentally we were staying in the same residence.

We walked together at 9pm from the University to St. Marks accommodation. We were a little lost and carrying our luggage, but happy that we had found each other.
 

International Orientation Week

An unmissable opportunity to make long lasting friends is attending the International Orientation Week. Through the conferences, webinars, activities, and parties organized, you will meet people from all around the world. Don’t worry if you don’t remember all the details of the people you meet, because more likely than not, you will be seeing them in the next event. Take advantage of the closeness and familiarity that this week provides, to reinforce the initial connections you make. I would recommend keeping in touch through social media and don’t be scared to reach out!
 

Enhance your CV and your connections through societies

On the 23 and 24th of September, the Welcome Fair showcases many societies that both undergraduate and postgraduate students can join. Visit the stands at the fair, but also browse through the “Clubs & Societies” page to know the more than 300 groups you could be a part of. I joined the “Women in Leadership” society, where I could network with like-minded women, as well as benefit from events to improve my professional skills. 

Additionally, there are “Give it a Go (GIAG)” events where you can join activities before deciding to join a society. Follow the clubs’ social media to know the dates where the GIAG will take place. I went to the LATAM Society’s social at the Eldon, which was a great opportunity to meet a community that made me feel close to home. At their next GIAG, we went to a nightclub with Latin music. Because of the society, I got to know many places relating to my culture around Leeds. I strongly recommend looking for the groups that bring you close to home, they will help you avoid feeling homesick during your study abroad.
 

I have no doubt that you will love your time at Leeds!

Although doing something out of your routine can be difficult, take advantage of all the events and activities that the University and the Union organize. Don’t be afraid to be part of communities you are familiar with, but also be open to learn about other cultures. You will soon find out, like I did, that Leeds is a very close-knit town that makes it feel you have known your new friends since forever.

- Sandra
 

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Student accommodation in Leeds

My Experience Living in a Student Residence

Once I had made the decision to study at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom, my next step was choosing accommodation. There were several factors to consider: cost, proximity to campus, safety, opportunities for socialising, among others. I began by exploring the university’s student residence options on their website, followed by private accommodation listings. Each option varied in terms of the number of flatmates, shared or private facilities, and whether it catered to undergraduate or postgraduate students. 

To stay organised, I created a spreadsheet to compare each accommodation side by side, which helped me make a more informed decision. After weighing the pros and cons, I chose to live in university-managed accommodation, primarily because of the sense of safety it offered and how close it was to campus. I was asked to pay a deposit and was given the option of paying in instalments over the academic year. The residence application also allowed me to indicate preferences like living with people of the same gender, religion, or dietary requirements, which was essential to me. 

If you’re considering private accommodation, keep in mind that many landlords will ask for a guarantor, who must be based in the UK. Otherwise, they may require you to pay the full amount upfront before your arrival. 

Before moving in, I arranged for a postal delivery of essentials like a bedding set and towel so that I could settle in comfortably on my first night. Upon arrival, I received a welcome booklet that explained the main rules and offered useful tips for living in the residence, along with a kit with some snacks. 

In total, I shared the flat with five other female students. We shared a kitchen, washing machine, and dryer. One of my top tips is to get to know your flatmates early on. Attending events or joining activities together is a great way to bond and makes day-to-day life much smoother. If possible, consider pooling money to buy common kitchen items like pots, blenders, or toasters. It’s cost-effective and helps better utilize the kitchen space. 

One of the things I loved most about my accommodation is its location, just 10 minutes from the Business School. It’s incredibly convenient for attending lectures, conferences, and university events without the stress of a long commute. Another bonus is the variety of social events organised by the residence’s social committee, made up of student volunteers living on-site. It’s been an easy and low-pressure way to meet people and have fun within a comfortable space. 

Since my residence is primarily for postgraduate students, there’s a close-knit community vibe. It’s common to bump into friends in the hallway or common areas, and that familiarity makes it easy to organise small gatherings or celebrations together. 

Where you live can really shape your overall university experience. It influences your access to campus facilities, your social life, and your sense of comfort and security. I’d highly recommend doing thorough research, checking out past student reviews on social media, and reflecting on your personal non-negotiables, like whether you’re okay with sharing a bathroom or sticking to a set budget, before making your decision. 

- Sandra
 

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Why study at Leeds Business School?

Why study at Leeds Business School?

If you're interested in areas like data analytics, accounting, marketing, entrepreneurship, international business, among others, Leeds University Business School is an excellent place to grow both academically and personally. It’s part of the University of Leeds, one of the UK’s leading institutions, and holds the prestigious triple accreditation (AMBA, EQUIS, and AACSB). Located in one of the most vibrant and student-friendly cities in the UK, the School blends academic research with practical learning.

I'm currently pursuing a Master's in Business Analytics and Decision Sciences. One of the main reasons I chose Leeds was the wide range of scholarships available. The Business School offers over 100 Excellence Scholarships to both UK and international students starting a Master's course, covering up to 50% of tuition fees. As an international student from Mexico, receiving one of these scholarships played a big role in my decision, it made studying abroad more accessible and gave me a sense of being truly valued.

Once classes began, I found the transition to be smooth. The university uses an app that helped me track my timetable and access learning materials. Each term, I had four modules, made up of lectures, where concepts were introduced, and seminars that provided practical applications through interactive sessions. One thing that was new for me was that each module was assessed entirely through a final exam or assignment, which took some adjustment.

My highlight so far has definitely been the Postgraduate Study Tour Programme. Each year, a select group of 20 students from three Master's programmes are chosen to study abroad for a week. I had the amazing opportunity to visit the University of Antwerp in Belgium. We attended lectures in the mornings and spent our afternoons visiting companies and cultural landmarks like the European Parliament and Chocolate Nation.

Beyond the classroom, the Business School hosts competitions and challenges where students put their skills to the test for prizes and recognition. These events, combined with the University’s Careers Service and visits from major companies, create a strong foundation for gaining professional experience and building your CV.

As I approach the end of my degree, I’m incredibly grateful I chose to study at the University of Leeds. It wasn’t an easy decision at the time, but it’s been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. If you're unsure about studying abroad, don’t hesitate, it’s an investment in your future and a powerful opportunity for personal and professional growth.

- Sandra
 

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Study Food Science in the UK

Inspired me to return for my PhD

Choosing where to study is a significant decision that shapes your academic journey and personal growth. Leeds, a vibrant and dynamic city in the heart of the United Kingdom, stands out as a popular destination for students from around the world. It offers academic excellence, a lively campus life, and excellent career opportunities. Here’s why I chose to pursue my master’s degree and current PhD at the University of Leeds and why it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
 

Academic excellence

The University of Leeds is ranked among the top universities in the UK and globally, known for its research-driven approach and high-quality teaching. It offers a challenging academic environment that encourages learning and creativity.

Before coming to Leeds, I had gained work experience in the food industry and wanted to further develop my skills in Food Science. The School of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Leeds is globally recognized for its research quality, making it the perfect place to pursue my master’s degree. My time here was so fulfilling that it inspired me to return for my PhD.

Whether you're interested in engineering, business, arts, or sciences, Leeds is the ideal place to achieve your goals and make lasting memories.
 

A dynamic campus life

Student life at the University of Leeds is vibrant and exciting. With over 300 clubs and societies, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re passionate about sports, arts or cooking. Coming from Mexico and not knowing anyone in Leeds was a bit scary at first but joining the Mexican Society at the university quickly connected me with a supportive community. I also joined the hiking society because I wanted to explore the Yorkshire Dales, and here I met people from all over the world. These experiences helped me to transition smoothly from Spanish to English, making me feel more confident when speaking a second language.
 

Cultural and social life

Leeds is a thriving city known for its cultural diversity and lively atmosphere. As a student at the University of Leeds, you’ll have access to a wide range of cultural experiences, including galleries, music venues, and festivals.

Leeds is known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, making it easy to feel at home. Is also one of the more affordable major cities in the UK, offering a relatively low cost of living. This affordability extends to accommodation, food, and transportation, making it an attractive option for students.
 

Things to know before moving to the UK

Before moving to the UK, there are some things international students should consider. Understanding the UK’s academic system, as it may differ from your home country in terms of teaching styles and grading. Make sure you have all the necessary documentation for your student visa and apply well in advance. Whether you choose on-campus housing or private rentals, it's important to budget for living expenses, including food and transportation. And familiarize yourself with the local climate. Finally, take advantage of the support services offered by the university, such as international student organizations, which can help you settle in and make the most of your time in the UK.
 

A Special Thanks

Studying at the University of Leeds has been a dream come true, and I want to thank Across the Pond and my advisor for making this journey possible. Their expert guidance and support were essential for me during the university application/student visa process. I highly recommend them if you are interested in studying in the UK and don’t know where to start.

- Gloria
 

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Study TESOL abroad - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Four Reasons to Study in Leeds

1.    Academic Excellence

Universities in Leeds, particularly the University of Leeds, are internationally renowned and ranked among the best in the UK. They offer academic programs across a variety of disciplines, with notable strengths in Arts and Education. The facilities are modern, equipped with cutting-edge resources, top-quality faculty, and a strong support network for international students.
 

2.    Student-Friendly City

Leeds is a city with a vibrant, youthful atmosphere, characterised by a large and diverse student population. The city is designed to meet the needs of students, offering a wide range of social, cultural, and sporting events. Music and arts festivals are must-attend events that highlight the lively student life in Leeds.
 

3.    Affordable Cost of Living

Leeds is perfectly suited to a student budget. The costs of accommodation, transportation, and social activities are considerably lower compared to larger cities in the UK. Additionally, special student discounts allow you to enjoy the full university experience without the financial pressure often found in other locations.
 

4.    Cultural Richness

Beyond being a university city, Leeds is a cultural hub. The city offers a wide array of museums, art galleries, theatres, and live music events, enriching the cultural life of its residents and providing an ideal environment for the personal and academic growth of students.

- Karime
 

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Study High-Performance Graphics and Games Engineering abroad

The UK educational system is renowned

The why

They who have a why can bear almost any how.
-Friedrich Nietzsche, 1889.

The crucial first step. The why is often ingrained in our actions to the point where it melds with our instincts. We rarely put the why into concrete words. Yet, I have learned that a clear why sets up the what, where, when and how. My why started as “I want to make games”, a good though broad starting point. I took some time to reflect before revisiting the question. The answer that came out was “I want to make stunning games” as I realised that visuals were appealing to me. It still felt ample, and thus I repeated the process. I realised that it was the combination of visuals with fast pacing. “I want to make stunning and fast-paced games” was the result. After researching into the topic, the how revealed itself. I had to pursue computer graphics. The remaining pieces followed.
 

Choosing Leeds

Fortune favours the prepared.
-Louis Pasteur, 1854.

Understanding what you are looking for propels the next step: creating a list of potential courses. The list can be subsequently filtered by pondering candidates based on preferences of choice. Personally, I recommend going through enough iterations until the result is no more than 3 to 5 options. Application processes are rather involved and universities are looking for commitment. The chances of success greatly improve when the proper research is done so a timely and personalised application is realised. Finding the High-performance Graphics and Games Engineering MSc at the University of Leeds was the result of employing this strategy. The UK educational system is renowned, Masters programmes last 1 year, I was familiar with the language and the module catalogue is fantastic. However, I was foreign to the UK itself. This is where Across the Pond came into the picture. I was introduced to who would become my advisor. His role in my success was far more significant than words can convey. He went above and beyond to help me at every step of the process. This includes contacting the University and helping me push through the initial rejection to finally get accepted. Furthermore, we also discussed Visa application, UK culture and a range of topics that fully prepared me for the journey ahead. The what, when, and where fell into place.
 

Life in a city within a city

The city is like a great house, and the house in its turn a small city.
-Leon Batista Alberti, 1854.

The University of Leeds boasts a massive campus at the heart of Leeds, often characterised as a student city. Through the University, I was able to find affordable and comfortable accommodation. I cannot recommend this enough, especially for new coming international students as having the University as intermediary greatly simplifies the process. Finding well managed and located accommodation enhances the experience on the whole. Leeds is vibrant, both on and off campus. The Union hosts a plethora of student run societies, ranging from Meditation to Salsa, the latter which I participated in. Societies present themselves during introduction week, though are free to explore through the website or by simply showing up. The University itself has various departments aimed at assisting students. Of particular interest to international students is the Language Learning Centre. It is an excellent resource to improve your English, even offering pre-term English courses to prepare you for the academic year ahead. The University has all fronts covered to ensure a smooth student experience. As for the city itself, Leeds is UK’s third largest city and has become quite international due to the influx of students, there is no shortage of activities. Moreover, it is at the centre of the UK making it ideal for short trips to famous locations such as Liverpool or hidden gems such as York. Overall, the experience felt lively and supportive throughout the entire stay. Truly a city within a city, ready to welcome everyone.
 

Making it happen: the seesaw of work and play

Balance is not something you find, it is something you create.
-Jana Kingsford, 2016.

Achieving success in the UK’s educational system demands a delicate equilibrium between rigorous academic commitment and personal enjoyment. The academic calendar is designed around this balance: periods of rigorous work during term time are complemented by opportunities for leisure during breaks. This approach seeks to push your boundaries without neglecting well-being. However, it is easy to be thrown off balance as one navigates the deadlines. I had to relearn this valuable lesson after finding myself entrenched in an all-work, no-play lifestyle: you have to make it happen. Moreover, it starts well before you embark. I encourage prospective students to research the programme catalogue thoroughly and communicate with the school to gain insights. Understanding and practising its fundamentals in advance is essential for cultivating the habits that will enable you to excel academically and enjoy your time to the fullest. Striking this balance is a skill that empowers us to face not only academic but life's many challenges.
 

Socrates and a journey Across the Pond

I do not know what I am doing, but I am learning. I am asking questions and searching for answers. 
- Socrates, long before phones were invented.

Unknowingly, I was applying the Socratic method all along, a fact that was coincidentally pointed out to me by a University of Leeds tutor. The whole process was kindled by a single question, triggering a domino effect. It ultimately led me to pursuing the High-performance Graphics and Games Engineering MSc at the University of Leeds. As linear as it might be painted out to be, this chain of events was only possible thanks to the collective support of many individuals. By this point, it should be evident that I posed numerous questions along the way, and my advisor met them all with clear answers. My advisor, who became my friend, and the entire crew at Across the Pond make these dreams happen. The guidance I received was nothing short of monumental, and I will forever appreciate it. My hope is that readers will embrace this spirit of curiosity and sharing so that everyone can realise their own journey across the pond.

- Emanuel
 

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Discover UK Universities

Student Accommodation in the UK

Where do you live when studying abroad? Do universities in the UK offer student housing? How much does student accommodation cost? Did you know that as an international student, you are guaranteed on-campus accommodation for the first or all your years studying at most of our UK universities? You will need to apply by the housing application deadline, and of course the best student accommodation in the UK goes first - so that is a good reason to apply early! There are several different student accommodations, price levels and facilities to choose from!

Most students choose to live on campus in their first year. This is social and a fantastic way to get to know students from all over the world! After that, most students choose to move into privately rented accommodation with their new friends. We recommend everyone to live in university accommodation in their first year, as it is a great way to get to know other students (and not just those on your degree).

Learn more about the different options, on-campus accommodation, how to arrange private accommodation and everything you need before applying for student accommodation in the UK via this webinar!
 

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We would love to be able to help all students in all circumstances but unfortunately US federal rules prohibit third party involvement for candidates anticipating making use of federal funding.

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Discover UK Universities

Visa for European Students who want to study in the UK

Do you want to study in the UK and are wondering if you need a visa? Maybe you have applied to British universities already, or are considering applying to university in London or elsewhere in the UK, but would like to know more about the UK student visa for European students? This webinar recording is about the UK Student Visa for students who will be starting their studies at a British university and are from European countries. We cover everything regarding the CAS, the application process, cost and other practicalities worth thinking about when applying for a student visa.

Did you know that all non-UK students need a visa to study in the UK? How much does a student visa cost? Is it difficult to get a student visa if you want to study in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland? For most European students in the UK, a student visa is now a fact. 

After the UK left the EU, student visas have now become a reality for the vast majority of international students. It is therefore important to familiarise yourself with this process as early as possible, so that you are well prepared when the time comes to submit an application for a student visa. In this webinar recording, we will go through useful information about student visas, when to apply, what you need for the application, costs, and other tips and tricks that can make the process easier. This webinar is suitable for those who have already applied, those who have accepted an offer, but also those who are considering studies in the UK and want to know more about the visa process.

We have the information and tools most people need to be able to go through the visa process without the need for individual follow-up/advice beyond the general information and guide from us. Remember that Across the Pond cannot provide individual advice on your visa application, only certified immigration staff can.  In this webinar recording, you will learn about a number of important points that are good to be aware of when you familiarise yourself with the visa process.
 

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Which country are you from?

We noticed you chose the United States.

We would love to be able to help all students in all circumstances but unfortunately US federal rules prohibit third party involvement for candidates anticipating making use of federal funding.

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Study International Development abroad - study development studies in the UK

The University of Leeds provides an incredible study atmosphere

Studying abroad was something I wanted to do since I was little; I craved the independence, the idea of being exposed to a multicultural environment and studying something I was passionate about. The UK was a no brainer for me, not only it offers one of the highest educations around the world, but also it was a country that appeal to me given that I already speak the language.
 

Student Life

One of the biggest differences between studying in the UK and in my home country, Peru, must be the student life. While in Peru, most people live with their parents throughout their university years, in the UK you reach a level of independence from a very young age. However, the thing that surprised me the most, was the student life at campus; from spending hours in the library, to going for a pint after class at the Old Bar on campus. Another major difference was the idea of living with friends, which felt like a sleepover every day. In general, I believe that the University of Leeds provides an incredible study atmosphere to dive deep into your studies, making the experience incredibly pleasant. Choosing the University of Leeds has been one of the best decisions of my life. The campus is beautiful, with different architectures all over it, in some areas, modern buildings and in other the traditional red-brick buildings. The green areas with rabbits running through campus motivated me to go even when the weather was not the nicest. My favourite place on campus has to be St George’s Field. It’s a large green space situated near the School of Chemical and Process Engineering. I cannot even remember the amount of picnics and strolls I did with my friends in that area. I think that what appeal me the most to it, was the close contact with nature and that it is a quiet space in which you can go and relax and enjoy yourself.
 

My Course

I decided to study International Development which was a bit surprising for my family and friends because they had never heard anything about it. To begin with, it is not a course that was on offer at any universities in my home country and that idea terrified my parents. However, after reading about it, my parents were completely happy and excited with the idea. Given that it was not a well-known course I did LOTS of research and discovered University of Leeds. The curricula was completely different from others I have researched online and that is what drawn me to the university. The campus, the modules they offer, the vibrant student life everyone talk about are a couple of things convinced me straight away that Leeds was the university for me, and I’m so thankful I listen. After 4 years, I cannot express how much I have enjoyed my course and the university; from the academic challenges to the friends, I have made along the way. My course challenge me to open my mind to diverse perspectives and be able to critically analyse political and economic measures that have been taken. It taught me things about my own country that I was completely unaware of and made me realized the impact of the decisions we, collectively, as a society have on others.
 

Leeds as a City

Studying in Leeds has been a wonderful experience, not only is the campus is extremely pretty but the city has lots of things to offer. When I first started university I was scared of not being in a ‘big city’, but Leeds did not disappoint. The number of activities the city has to offer exceeded my expectations. From numerous gigs to restaurants all over the city, it never feels too small. The friendliness of people, the vibrancy of the city, and the atmosphere of the university has made my time here unforgettable. In conclusion, if I could do it all over again I would a 100%.

- Almudena
 

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Study Environment and Business abroad in the UK

Outstanding Academic Experience

Having attended a British school in Mexico City from the age of 2, it had always been my dream to one day live in the UK. When I was in high school browsing sustainability-related undergraduate courses, I came across Environment and Business in Leeds. It seemed like the perfect course for me, and after doing more research I fell in love with Leeds as a city too. It certainly did not disappoint! I have thoroughly enjoyed my academic journey at the university; from the engaging lectures, to the challenging assignments. The interactive and dynamic learning/teaching environment we have here is quite different from the more traditional teaching in Mexican schools and universities. My favourite thing about studying in Leeds is that I have been able to take various modules that cover a wide range of subjects, including modules such as Sustainable Development, Environmental Politics and Policy, Economics and Sustainability, Social Ecological Systems, People, Sustainability and the Environment, and Strategic Energy Issues.
 

Fun Student Life

I have not only enjoyed my academic life, but also the day to day. Leeds is a beautiful city, with hundreds of things to do, I have never been bored for a day! It is full of delicious restaurants, bars, nightclubs, shopping centres, parks, cinemas, and much more. Coming from such a big city, Leeds seemed like a very small place, but I had nothing to worry about. In fact, I really like how different the lifestyle is here. Having access to safe and reliable public transport, easily visiting nearby towns and cities on train, being able to walk pretty much anywhere I need to go. Student accommodation has also added to my student experience, and is one of the biggest differences I find between being here and living at home. In my first year I lived in university residences, which was such a fun experience! I met all the people who, still today, are my best friends and helped me get adjusted to British culture and introduced me to some of their friends as well. After that, in my second and third years I lived with friends in private accommodation in a popular student area called Hyde Park. This allowed me to become much more independent and responsible, and to truly experience what it is like to live on my own.
 

Diverse Welcoming City

From day one, everyone in Leeds has made me feel welcome. From students and lecturers to random people on the street, everyone here is polite and kind, always willing to lend a helping hand if you’re in trouble. Especially as international students, people understand we might experience a few extra struggles when we first move in, and they are therefore very supportive. Both the city and the university are very diverse; we have students from over a hundred different countries! I have made friends here not only from the United Kingdom, but also from Japan, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Ecuador, Spain, France and Kenya, to name a few. This has allowed me to learn about and appreciate different cultures, lifestyles, foods, traditions, and also to share my own!

- Almudena
 

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