Liverpool is not just a global education hub; it is the birthplace of The Beatles, the home of two legendary football clubs, and one of the most culturally and historically rich maritime heritage sites as a major historic port (the Port of Liverpool spans over 800 years and was once the second most important port in the British Empire).
But this city is richer than this; students love an array of other perks, such as affordable student accommodation in Liverpool, a vibrant student nightlife, excellent public transport, diverse food scenes, and a welcoming, inclusive community that makes settling in easy.
Above all, this guide will walk you through in detail with every cheat that you would like to have (travel passes, student places, and whatnot…). Let’s dig in and unravel 10 things international students love about Liverpool.
- The Scousers: Forget the hesitation, as you will land in Liverpool, within 5 minutes, some random stranger will probably call you LUV and offer you help with your suitcase, or maybe they can ask you to grab a coffee with them, or ask how your journey was. That is what hospitality and The Scousers (the OG people of Liverpool) are well-known for: their helping nature, and they are genuinely curious about the world. The peak of living in Liverpool as an international student is that you will never feel like a stranger in the city, but it will be like you are just staying a block away from your family.
- Your Wallet Will Love This City: The entire UK knows that Liverpool is one of the most student-friendly cities. Tuition fees might be a bit steep, but the cost of living in Liverpool is roughly 50% lower than in London and other major cities in the UK. The best part is the rent of student accommodations in Liverpool is nearly 65% cheaper than in London. And all of these student apartments are waiting for you on University Living.
Some of the cheap student housing in Liverpool are:
- Europa
- Arrad House
- Grand Central
- Moorfield
- The Bridewell
- Walking in the Footsteps of The Beatles: Living here in Liverpool means that you will know The Beatles in and out (Fans might be like Yayy won a lottery), and so much more. Life in Liverpool is a superfan to get chills walking across the Cavern Club floor. Plus, you have the Tate Liverpool art gallery, the Museum of Liverpool, and the stunning Royal Albert Dock. You could spend a whole semester just playing with tourists and never get bored.
- World-Class Unis: University of Liverpool (QS world ranking -143) – a Russell Group member, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool Hope University and many other academic centres make sure that you are ready for real world; not only academically, but also professionally and personally.
- The Nightlife is a Vibe (and safe!): Liverpool is a Purple Flag city, which indicates that you are safe and secure here 24/7. Moreover, Concert Square and the Baltic Market are basically student playgrounds. The best part? The atmosphere is inclusive. Whether you want a quiet cocktail, a cheesy 00’s disco, or a massive club night, Liverpool has it. Plus, because the city is compact, you can walk home safely (and quickly) with your mates.
- It Breathes Football (Even if you don’t play): Whether you like sports or not, you will not be able to corner kick from a goal kick. The energy on match day is infectious; you will be cheering for the teams and will enjoy every goal, and might be sad when your team loses. The city is split between red (Liverpool FC) and blue (Everton), and the passion is electric. Many international students become fans because it’s the easiest way to bond with locals over a pint or by wearing the same jersey.
- The Food Scene is a Global Affair: Not going to miss your home food; Liverpool has already sorted everything for you. Or you can say Liverpool has your back. Because it’s such a diverse port city, you can find authentic Chinese dumplings, Kurdish kebabs, Caribbean jerk chicken, and Polish pierogies within a two-block radius. And yes, you have to try the local dish, Scouse (a hearty stew), which is like a warm hug served in a bowl.
- The Walkable Grounds: If you’re from a place where driving is a necessity, you’ll love Liverpool, as this city is super walkable. The plus point is that health and finance can be managed conveniently, without any fuss. You can walk from the University district to the city center in ten minutes. Above all, the Merseyrail train system is easy to navigate, and Manchester is just a 40-minute train ride away.
- A Celebration of Cultures: Not just British ones, Liverpool proudly calls itself a city with a multicultural identity. So, for international students, it is very easy to enjoy and appreciate their culture as well as learn and understand a different or new culture. For example, they will find celebrations for Chinese New Year (Europe’s oldest Chinese community is here!), Africa Oyé, and the Liverpool Arab Arts Festival. There’s a strong sense that every culture adds value to the city, so you’ll never feel pressured to erase your own identity.
- Part-Time Jobs are Plentiful: To be honest, extra money does not hurt the pocket, right? We all need some extra cash for those late-night takeaways, or maybe for lazy Sunday brunches with our special ones. Thus, to solve, or we can say to help students, Liverpool offers a massive retail and hospitality hub (Liverpool ONE is always busy) with multiple part-time gigs as a waiter, barista, or shop assistant is relatively easy. The city understands student schedules, and many places hire internationals without a fuss.
The Real Tea:
You will not only be going to Liverpool for education, but you will also be growing here as a person, as a student, or more as a human. Above all, you are going to find your second family here, the people who will love you for who you are. Additionally, the city has grit, soul, and a sense of humor. By the time you graduate, you won’t just love Liverpool: you’ll miss it like crazy.
