International exchange in Preston

Information and advice for international students in Preston

Preston is a small University City with one of the highest quality of life in the United Kingdom. It has a strong student atmosphere thanks to the fact that it houses the prestigious University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), which attracts students from all over the country and the world. Besides, its convenient location allows you to approach any of its important neighbouring cities whenever you want, such as Liverpool or Manchester. It also has a rich architectural heritage and incredible landscapes. Here we tell you everything you need to make your study exchange in Preston unforgettable!

Cost of living in Preston, United Kingdom

You have to keep in mind that the quality of life in England is usually very high, and its prices too. Although this country is somewhat expensive for international students, Preston has a cheaper cost of living than the rest of the great English cities. Anyway, it all depends on your lifestyle. That is why we are going to tell you about some key points you need to take into account when managing your expenses:

First, the price of the accommodation is typically between 350-800 GBP (approx. 400-900 €) per month. Prices vary depending on the location or the amenities offered by the accommodation. For this reason, students often rent a room in a shared flat or in a student residence, since it’s cheaper than renting a private apartment.

Secondly, when you go out to eat, the prices can be a bit high. To save money, most students cook at home. When they go shopping, they tend to avoid supermarkets such as Tesco, which has quite high prices. Instead, they go to a very popular supermarket called Morrisons, where you can spend an estimated amount of 30 GBP (35 €) on weekly purchases.

Finally, students of UCLan can use the bus network called Preston Bus to move around the city. The price of the tickets for these buses is much lower than that of the others that also circulate the city.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Preston

Thanks to its strong student atmosphere, Preston offers its residents a great night scene, there is a party almost every night! It is very common for students to start the night drinking in some pub, as Roper Hall or Adelphi. Later, they continue the party in a nightclub, such as Warehouse. As these venues close at three in the morning, those left wanting more end the night dancing until dawn in an after party, like the Loft.

If you manage to wake up strong the following day, these are some of the plans that you can’t miss: explore the beautiful Avenham Park, visit the Harris Museum, ride the Ribble Steam Railway, go shopping at the St George's Shopping Centre... And, if you like sports, the UCLan has a sports centre (UCLan Sports Arena) where you can practise almost any sport you can think of, such as rugby, hockey or cricket.

Culture and gastronomy in Preston, United Kingdom

The town is characterized by its architecture, especially its old religious buildings. Some buildings that you should visit are the cenotaph to the fallen soldiers in the world wars (Preston Cenotaph), St Walburge's Church, Syro-Malabar Cathedral of St Alphonsa, the Cathedral of Saint John (St John's Minster), and the Sessions House.

Because it has residents from all over the world, most of the restaurants in Preston serve food from different cultures (Arabic, Italian, Indian…). But there are also many markets and local establishments where you can savour its traditional cuisine. Some of its most typical dishes are:

• “Black pudding and poached egg”

• “Lancashire hotpot”: stewed pork, lamb and potatoes.

• “Potted shrimps”: prawn casserole.

• “Manchester tart”: puff pastry tartlet with jam.

Advantages of doing an international exchange in Preston

• Studying at the UCLan, you will receive a first-class education, since it is considered one of the best educational institutions in the country.

• Thanks to the high number of students it hosts, the city enjoys a very lively student atmosphere, so there are always plans to do with your friends.

• Compared to other major English cities, Preston offers a more affordable cost of living than the rest of them.

• It’s in the centre of Lancashire and the municipality is very well connected with the rest of the region. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore more of the country and get closer to other nearby emblematic places, such as Manchester, Liverpool, Blackpool…

Cheap student flats in Preston, United Kingdom

Do you want to get accommodation in Preston? You are in the right place! At Erasmus Play we help you compare the best flats, rooms and apartments for students from the city. Find your ideal accommodation with us!

Frequently asked questions about student life in Preston

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