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Posted March 5, 2025

Your postgraduate student city guide: Studying in Leeds

Home to four universities – namely the University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds Trinity University and Leeds Arts University – Leeds is a student-friendly city with so many great educational opportunities at its heart, including a plethora of postgraduate programs.

With this, the northern city is becoming an increasingly popular place to study for UK-based postgrads as well as international students. But, what is it really like to study here? Read our postgraduate student city guide to find out!

What is it like living in Leeds?

Leeds is about as student friendly as it gets, and its thriving student population means one thing in particular – a more manageable cost of living.

Studying and living in Leeds is affordable, with the average student rent currently standing at around £526 per month according to this research. This figure is lower than the national average and based on a mixture of students living in halls and privately rented accommodation. Other costs are cheaper too, including travel and eating out. The same study found that living and studying in Leeds costs 16.98% less than in London.

For affordable accommodation and a diverse student population head to Hyde Park, Burley Park or Headingley. Out of these popular student areas, Hyde Park is based closest to the city centre, with just a 20-minute walk between you and a whole range of amenities and entertainment options.

Are there opportunities for part time work?

Postgraduates looking to top up funds with part-time work will find Leeds particularly accommodating. Here University of Leeds student Poppy Davison describes her experience finding work:

“Finding work that is suitable for part-time students can be challenging if you’re looking for term-time work only, plus you have study commitments. However, living so close to the city centre opens up a wider range of job opportunities with the variety of shops, cafes and restaurants. Uni or subject courses frequently send emails about job or volunteering opportunities which may be helpful. For example, there are jobs within the university, such as student ambassador or working in the union.”

What about after I graduate?

The graduate jobs market is thriving in Leeds, with financial and business services the biggest area of growth. In fact, 90% of UK-based graduates from the University of Leeds’ world ranked, triple accredited business school are in employment and/or further study within 15 months of graduation according to these statistics.

What about when I’m not working or studying?

Being able to enjoy your free time will enrich your postgraduate experience no-end, and Leeds is the perfect place to do just that. It has lots to see and do, both inside and outside the city centre, with its position at the heart of Yorkshire putting you on the doorstep of some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the entire country.

By day, Leeds city centre is a metropolis for shopping (it’s known as the ‘Knightsbridge of the North’ and is home to the Corn Exchange which is a mecca for independent retailers), eating out (even on a budget), and culture. It has countless activities to get involved in all year round, including Light Night Leeds, North Leeds Food Festival and Leeds Festival.

The city is also packed with museums, galleries, live music venues and theatres. Leeds nightlife is legendary too, with bars and clubs for every musical taste and budget.

Is it cheap to get around Leeds?

The compact nature of Leeds means you can often get around on foot pretty easily. If you do have to venture a little beyond walking distance, bus travel is the cheapest way to explore the city and beyond.

Halls residents at the University of Leeds have access to a £1 night bus service that transports them from the Student Union directly to their accommodation. Student discounts are available across other bus services serving Leeds and the surrounding areas. Those residing in Burley Park or Headingley may find travelling by train more convenient.

Ready to make the move to Leeds? It all starts with the perfect postgraduate program. Search for yours right here.

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