# Study in Newcastle — universities, cost of living and student life

> Newcastle is an affordable, famously friendly student city in North East England with two strong universities.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a compact, affordable city in North East England with a reputation as one of the UK's friendliest student cities. It is home to Newcastle University (Russell Group) and Northumbria University, both with large international communities. Living costs are well below London, and the city has a lively social scene and easy access to coast and countryside. Confirm visa and cost figures on GOV.UK and university pages.

## Quick facts
- **Universities:** Newcastle University, Northumbria University
- **Cost level:** Affordable — well below London
- **London by train:** ≈ 3 hours

## Key takeaways
- Home to Newcastle University (Russell Group) and Northumbria University.
- Living costs are well below London — strong value in North East England.
- Consistently rated one of the UK's friendliest and most sociable student cities.
- Compact and walkable, with coast and countryside close by.

## Why study in Newcastle
Newcastle pairs academic strength with a famously warm welcome. Newcastle University is a research-intensive Russell Group member, and Northumbria University is strong in business, design and professional subjects — together they give the city a large, diverse student population. The city itself is compact and walkable, with a celebrated social scene, striking bridges over the River Tyne, and quick access to beaches and the Northumberland countryside. International students consistently rate it among the most welcoming places to study in the UK.

## What it costs
Newcastle is one of the more affordable major student cities, with accommodation and living costs well below London. Your total cost of study is therefore typically lower than a comparable course in the capital, while the quality of student life is high. Study UK Now builds a realistic Newcastle budget with you so there are no surprises on arrival.

## Frequently asked questions
### Is Newcastle a good city for international students?
Yes — Newcastle is repeatedly rated one of the UK's friendliest student cities, with two strong universities, low living costs and a lively, compact city centre. Its welcoming culture and good value make it an excellent choice for international students who want a sociable, affordable experience.

### Which universities are in Newcastle?
Newcastle is home to Newcastle University (a Russell Group member) and Northumbria University, both with large international student communities and a wide range of subjects. Each has its own strengths and entry requirements — Study UK Now helps you choose the right one for your subject, budget and goals.

## Sources
- [Newcastle University — international](https://www.ncl.ac.uk/international/) — Newcastle University

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Verified: 2026-06-16