Quick Answer: Leicester has two main universities for international students: University of Leicester (ranked 34th in UK, tuition £20,000-£28,000) and De Montfort University (modern focus, tuition £15,500-£19,500). Leicester offers affordable living costs (£800-£1,200/month), excellent transport links, and a multicultural environment with over 40% international students.

Leicester stands out as one of England's most welcoming cities for international students, offering world-class education at two distinctive universities alongside affordable living costs and rich cultural diversity. With its central location, excellent transport connections, and vibrant student community, Leicester provides an ideal environment for international students seeking quality higher education in the UK.

This comprehensive guide explores everything international students need to know about studying in Leicester, from university options and admission requirements to living costs and student life opportunities.

Top Universities in Leicester for International Students

University of Leicester

The University of Leicester, established in 1921, ranks among the UK's top research universities and consistently appears in global university rankings. Known for its strong research output and academic excellence, the university attracts over 17,000 students from more than 100 countries.

Key Features:

• Russell Group member university
• Ranked 34th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026)
• Strong research reputation with REF 2021 rating
• Over 40% international student population
• Campus located close to Leicester city centre

Popular Courses for International Students:

• Medicine and Life Sciences
• Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Business and Economics
• Law and Social Sciences
• Computer Science and Mathematics

Admission Requirements:

• IELTS: 6.0-7.0 (depending on course)
• Academic requirements vary by program
• Foundation programs available for students not meeting direct entry requirements

De Montfort University (DMU)

De Montfort University, founded in 1992, focuses on employability and industry connections, making it particularly attractive to international students seeking practical, career-oriented education. The university has invested heavily in modern facilities and technology.

Key Features:

• Modern, industry-focused curriculum
• Strong emphasis on employability
• State-of-the-art facilities including new £136 million Vijay Patel Building
• Diverse international community
• Central Leicester campus location

Popular Courses for International Students:

• Business and Management
• Creative Arts and Design
• Computing and Technology
• Health and Life Sciences
• Engineering and Built Environment

Admission Requirements:

• IELTS: 6.0-6.5 (depending on course)
• Foundation and pre-sessional English programs available
• Flexible entry requirements with pathway programs

Cost of Living in Leicester for International Students

Leicester offers one of the most affordable student living experiences in the UK, with costs significantly lower than London, Manchester, or Edinburgh.

Accommodation Costs

• University Halls: £120-£180 per week
• Private Student Accommodation: £140-£200 per week
• Shared House/Flat: £80-£120 per week
• Studio Apartment: £150-£250 per week

Monthly Living Expenses

• Food and Groceries: £150-£250
• Transportation: £45-£60 (student bus pass)
• Utilities (if not included): £30-£50
• Entertainment and Social: £80-£150
• Books and Study Materials: £30-£50
• Personal Expenses: £50-£100

Total Monthly Budget: £800-£1,200 (excluding tuition)

Student Life and Cultural Experience

Multicultural Environment

Leicester is renowned as one of the UK's most diverse cities, with no single ethnic group forming a majority. This multicultural environment creates a welcoming atmosphere for international students, with:

• Celebrations of festivals from around the world
• Diverse food scene with authentic cuisine from Asia, Africa, and Europe
• Multi-faith facilities and cultural centres
• International student societies and support groups

Entertainment and Activities

Cultural Attractions:

• King Richard III Visitor Centre
• New Walk Museum and Art Gallery
• Leicester Cathedral
• National Space Centre
• Curve Theatre for performing arts

Student Activities:

• Over 200 student societies and clubs
• Active Students' Union with regular events
• Sports facilities and teams
• Part-time work opportunities
• Volunteer programs in the local community

Shopping and Dining

• Highcross Shopping Centre: Major retail destination
• Leicester Market: One of Europe's largest covered markets
• Golden Mile: Famous for South Asian restaurants and shops
• City Centre: Variety of international restaurants and cafes

Transportation and Connectivity

Local Transportation

Bus Services:

• Comprehensive city bus network
• Student discounts available
• Regular services to both university campuses
• Night bus services for student areas

Cycling:

• Bike-friendly city with dedicated cycle lanes
• University bike rental schemes
• Secure bike storage facilities

National and International Connections

Rail Links:

• Leicester Railway Station: Direct trains to London (1 hour 15 minutes)
• Connections to Birmingham, Manchester, and other major cities
• Student railcard discounts available

Airport Access:

• Birmingham Airport: 45 minutes by train
• East Midlands Airport: 30 minutes by bus
• London airports accessible via direct train connections

Support Services for International Students

Both universities provide comprehensive support services designed specifically for international students:

Academic Support

• Pre-sessional English language courses
• Academic skills workshops
• Personal academic tutors
• Study skills support
• Library and research assistance

Practical Support

• Airport pickup services
• Orientation programs
• Visa and immigration advice
• Banking and registration assistance
• Healthcare guidance and NHS registration

Social Integration

• International student societies
• Buddy programs with UK students
• Cultural events and celebrations
• Language exchange programs
• Career guidance and employability support

Application Process and Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Academic Qualifications:

• A-levels or equivalent international qualifications
• Bachelor's degree for postgraduate programs
• Specific grade requirements vary by course

English Language Requirements:

• IELTS Academic: Generally 6.0-7.0
• TOEFL iBT: 79-100 depending on course
• PTE Academic: 51-67
• Alternative qualifications accepted

Application Deadlines:

• Undergraduate: January 25, 2027 (UCAS deadline)
• Postgraduate: Rolling admissions, but early application recommended
• International students advised to apply by March for September entry

Documentation Required

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• English language test results
• Personal statement
• References
• Passport copy
• Financial evidence (£1,023 per month for living costs)

Career Prospects and Graduate Outcomes

Leicester's universities maintain strong connections with employers, providing excellent career prospects for international students:

Employment Statistics

• University of Leicester: 94% graduate employability rate
• De Montfort University: 92% of graduates in work or further study within 15 months
• Strong alumni networks in various industries
• Active careers services with job placement assistance

Post-Study Work Opportunities

• Graduate Route visa allows 2-3 years work in UK after graduation
• Strong local job market in finance, healthcare, technology, and manufacturing
• Proximity to London provides additional career opportunities
• University career fairs and networking events

If you're considering Leicester as your study destination, take time to explore UK study options to compare universities and find the perfect program for your academic goals and career aspirations.

Conclusion

Leicester offers international students an exceptional combination of academic excellence, affordability, and cultural diversity. With two distinct universities catering to different academic preferences and career goals, comprehensive support services, and a welcoming multicultural environment, Leicester stands as an ideal choice for international students seeking quality UK higher education. The city's central location, excellent transport links, and reasonable living costs make it an attractive alternative to more expensive UK study destinations while maintaining high academic standards and graduate employment prospects.

Key Statistics

📊 Leicester universities host over 42,000 students with 40% international representation from 100+ countries

💰 International students can live comfortably on £800-£1,200 monthly budget, 30% lower than London costs

🎓 94% graduate employability rate at University of Leicester and 92% at De Montfort University within 15 months

🚂 Leicester offers 1 hour 15 minutes direct train access to London and 30-45 minutes to major airports

🌍 Leicester is one of UK's most diverse cities with no single ethnic group forming a majority

📈 Both universities offer Graduate Route visa support allowing 2-3 years post-study work in the UK

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply to universities in Leicester as an international student?

Apply through UCAS for undergraduate programs by January 25, 2027, or directly to universities for postgraduate courses. You'll need academic transcripts, English language test results (IELTS 6.0-7.0), personal statement, references, and financial evidence. International students should apply by March for September entry to allow time for visa processing. Both universities offer foundation programs if you don't meet direct entry requirements.

What is the cost of studying and living in Leicester for international students?

Tuition fees range from £15,500-£19,500 at De Montfort University to £20,000-£28,000 at University of Leicester. Living costs are £800-£1,200 monthly, including accommodation (£120-£200/week), food (£150-£250/month), and transport (£45-£60/month). Leicester is approximately 30% cheaper than London, making it an affordable UK study destination.

How much does accommodation cost for international students in Leicester?

University halls cost £120-£180 per week, while private student accommodation ranges £140-£200 weekly. Shared housing is more affordable at £80-£120 per week, and studio apartments cost £150-£250 weekly. Most university accommodation includes utilities and internet, with options for catered or self-catered facilities across different budget ranges.

What are the main differences between University of Leicester and De Montfort University?

University of Leicester is a Russell Group research university established in 1921, ranking 34th nationally with strong focus on medicine, sciences, and research. De Montfort University, founded in 1992, emphasizes industry connections and employability with modern facilities and courses in business, creative arts, and technology. Leicester charges £20,000-£28,000 tuition while DMU costs £15,500-£19,500 annually.

How good are the transport connections from Leicester to other UK cities?

Leicester offers excellent transport connectivity with direct trains to London in 1 hour 15 minutes, Birmingham in 1 hour, and Manchester in 2 hours. The city provides easy access to Birmingham Airport (45 minutes) and East Midlands Airport (30 minutes). Local transport includes comprehensive bus networks with student discounts and bike-friendly infrastructure for campus commuting.

What support services are available for international students in Leicester?

Both universities provide comprehensive international student support including airport pickup, orientation programs, visa advice, and academic skills workshops. Services include pre-sessional English courses, personal tutors, healthcare guidance, banking assistance, and cultural integration programs. International student societies, buddy programs, and career services help with social integration and employment preparation.

Key Takeaways

✅ Leicester offers two distinct university options: research-focused University of Leicester and industry-oriented De Montfort University

✅ Living costs are 30% lower than London at £800-£1,200 monthly, making Leicester highly affordable for international students

✅ Both universities maintain high graduate employability rates (92-94%) with strong industry connections and career support

✅ Leicester's multicultural environment and central UK location provide excellent cultural experience and transport connectivity

✅ Comprehensive international student support services include visa guidance, academic assistance, and social integration programs

✅ Graduate Route visa eligibility allows 2-3 years post-study work opportunities in the UK after graduation