Location Matters: 5 Key factors to consider when choosing a university in the UK 

Studying at a university in the UK can be an exciting and life-changing experience.  With so many universities to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this blog, we will explore some of the things that prospective students should consider when choosing which university to attend. 

1. Course Availability 

The first thing to consider when choosing a university in the UK is the availability of courses. Prospective students should research which universities offer courses in their field of interest and whether the course is taught in a way that suits their learning style. Additionally, students should consider whether the course is accredited and recognized by professional organizations, which can be important for future career prospects. 

2. University Rankings 

University rankings can be a useful tool for prospective students to use when choosing a university. Rankings take into account factors such as research quality, student satisfaction, and graduate employability. Students should research and compare university rankings to determine which universities are best suited to their needs and goals. 

3. Student Support

Student support is an important consideration when choosing a university in the UK. Prospective students should research the range of support services offered by the university, such as academic support, mental health services, and disability support. Additionally, students should consider the availability of extracurricular activities, such as clubs and societies, which can provide a sense of community and help students to develop skills outside of their academic studies. 

4. Cost and Funding

The cost of attending a university in the UK can be a significant consideration for prospective students. Students should research the cost of tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses. Additionally, students should consider the availability of funding options, such as scholarships, bursaries, and loans, which can help to offset the cost of attending university. 

5. Location

Which university and where it is are also really important so we will explore some of the best student cities in the UK for students from Asia and why they are worth considering. 

  • London 

London is one of the most popular cities in the world and a top destination for students from Asia. As the UK’s capital, London offers a diverse and vibrant cultural scene with a wealth of museums, galleries, and theaters. London is also home to some of the world’s top universities, including University College London, Imperial College London, and King’s College London. Students from Asia will find a welcoming community of international students and a wide range of courses to choose from. 

  • Edinburgh 

Edinburgh is a beautiful and historic city that is home to some of the UK’s top universities, including the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University. The city offers a thriving cultural scene, with a range of festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year. Students from Asia will appreciate the city’s welcoming atmosphere and excellent quality of life. 

  • Manchester 

Manchester is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city that is home to two of the UK’s top universities, the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. The city has a strong music and arts scene and offers a range of entertainment options, from live music venues to museums and galleries. Students from Asia will appreciate the city’s friendly atmosphere and diverse community of international students. 

  • Birmingham 

Birmingham is a vibrant and multicultural city that offers a range of attractions, from shopping and entertainment to cultural landmarks and museums. The city is home to the University of Birmingham, which is ranked among the top universities in the UK. Students from Asia will appreciate the city’s excellent transport links and affordable cost of living. 

  • Glasgow 

Glasgow is a lively and dynamic city that is home to some of the UK’s top universities, including the University of Glasgow and Glasgow Caledonian University. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with a range of museums, galleries, and theaters, and is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Students from Asia will appreciate the city’s excellent transport links and affordable cost of living. 

  • Leeds 

Leeds is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city located in the north of England. It is home to two world-renowned universities, the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University. The city has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a range of museums, galleries, and theaters. It is also known for its lively nightlife and wide range of dining options. Students from Asia will appreciate the city’s affordable cost of living and excellent transport links, which make it easy to explore the rest of the UK. 

  • Bristol 

Bristol is a dynamic and multicultural city located in the south-west of England. It is home to two prestigious universities, the University of Bristol and the University of the West of England. The city has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a range of festivals, live music venues, and theaters. It is also known for its vibrant street art scene, with works by world-renowned artists such as Banksy. Students from Asia will appreciate the city’s friendly atmosphere and excellent quality of life, with easy access to the stunning countryside and coastline of the south-west of England. 

Remember not all universities are based in the main cites. The choice between studying at an urban university or a campus-based university is a personal one, and depends on the individual needs and preferences of each student. Urban universities offer a rich cultural experience and easy access to internships and work experience opportunities, while campus-based universities provide a strong sense of community and a more focused academic environment. 


An urban university is typically located in a large city or metropolitan area, and the campus is integrated into the city itself. Some examples of urban universities in the UK include University College London, Imperial College London, and Manchester Metropolitan University. 

Benefits of studying at an urban university: 

  1. Access to a range of cultural attractions

Urban universities offer easy access to museums, art galleries, theaters, and other cultural attractions, which can provide a rich and diverse experience for students. 

  1. Opportunity for internships and work experience

Being located in a large city can provide students with access to a range of businesses and organizations, making it easier to secure internships and work experience opportunities. 

  1. Diverse student body

Urban universities often have a more diverse student body, with students from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures, which can provide a more enriching educational experience.


A campus-based university is typically located outside of a major city and has a self-contained campus with all the necessary facilities, such as accommodation, dining halls, and recreational areas. Some examples of campus-based universities in the UK include the University of Warwick, the University of Bath, and the University of East Anglia

Benefits of studying at a campus-based university: 

  1. Sense of community

Campus-based universities offer a strong sense of community, with students living and studying in the same area. This can create a supportive and welcoming environment, especially for students who may be new to the country. 

  1. Access to facilities

All the necessary facilities, such as accommodation, dining halls, libraries, and recreational areas, are located on campus, which can make it more convenient for students to access them. 

  1. Greater focus on academic study

Campus-based universities often have a greater focus on academic study, with fewer distractions from the surrounding area. This can provide an environment that is conducive to learning and academic achievement. 

In conclusion, the UK offers a wealth of opportunities for students from Asia looking to gain a world-class education and experience a new culture. By considering factors such as university rankings, cultural attractions, and quality of life, students can make an informed decision about which city is best suited to their needs and goals.  


Interested in studying in the UK, get more information and free counselling on your study options with our UK education expert. We are an official representative of UK universities, including the Russell Group universities.
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