So, picture this-you’ve just stepped off the train at Exeter St Davids station after a long (and I mean loooong) journey across the UK. You’re half-dozing, still pulling your suitcase like it betrayed you, and all you can think about is finding Wi-Fi and maybe something that resembles food. The breeze is fresh, the streets are quieter than you expected, and it suddenly hits you-you’re here to study in Exeter, and this charming little city is about to be your whole world for the next few years.
Then it hits you: this place is gorgeous. Like, proper postcard gorgeous.
The air’s cooler than you expected, fresh but not freezing. You look around and see little brick houses lining the hills, uni students everywhere (some in gym gear, some carrying Tesco bags), and cafés that smell like roasted dreams and almond milk lattes. And suddenly it clicks-you’re not just visiting. You’re about to study in Exeter.
And honestly, it’s gonna be a ride.
Why You Should Study in Exeter in 2025
Look, I won’t sugar-coat it. Exeter isn’t one of those glossy, chaotic mega-cities with neon lights and 3-hour commutes. But that’s also why it works.
Here’s the real talk on why people (me included) choose to study in Exeter:
- Home to one of the top research-intensive universities in the UK: the University of Exeter, a Russell Group member.
- Compact, super green, and incredibly student-friendly.
- Close to beaches, moors, countryside, and all the chilled natural beauty you’ll wish you had during exam week.
- University of Exeter ranked in the top 15 UK universities (Guardian & Times rankings) with strong global rankings too.
- Specialities include Law, Business, Environmental Science, Engineering, and Psychology-and the sports science department is high-key elite.
- Tons of international students, solid academic rep, and city size that doesn’t overwhelm you on day one.
In 2025, with hybrid learning sticking around, improving international support, and the demand for quality education that actually gets you hired, Exeter’s definitely worth a spot on your list.
Top Universities to Study in Exeter and Popular Courses
There’s really one star here, and trust me-it’s a good one.
1. University of Exeter
- Main Streatham Campus is basically a botanical garden.
- Top Courses: Law, Environmental Science, Politics, Psychology, Sports Science, Astrophysics, Data Science
- Tuition (2025): £18,000–£24,000 per year (depends on course)
- Vibe: Smart, global, a little outdoorsy. You’ll meet folks who code, surf, do theatre, start start-ups-and sometimes all four.
- International student population: Over 6,000 students from 140+ countries
Campuses are split between Streatham (main academic site), St Luke’s (home to Medical School, Sport Sciences, and Education), and Penryn Campus in Cornwall (if you’re going for marine or environmental related fields).
Cost of Living and Budget Tips for Students in Exeter
Okay, Exeter isn’t dirt cheap, but it’s nothing like London. You can get by fine if you plan right.
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost (GBP) |
| Rent (shared flat) | £450–£650 |
| Groceries + essentials | £120–£160 |
| Mobile/Data | £20 |
| Public Transport | £30 (or walk-seriously, it’s that compact) |
| Going out + fun | £60–£100 |
| Misc. study/life stuff | £30–£50 |
| Total | £710–£1,010/month |
Budget Tips:
- Shop at Aldi or Lidl instead of Sainsbury’s… unless you like spending £4 on cheese.
- Cook in bulk-leftover curry is the real MVP on deadline nights.
- Download UNiDAYS and Too Good To Go-student discounts + cheap leftover food from local cafes? Yes, please.
- Exeter is walkable. No Tube. No Ubers. Just your legs and an umbrella.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Students Studying in Exeter
Don’t sleep on this part. Nobody talks about scholarships enough, but they’re a lifesaver if you get one.
University of Exeter Global Scholarships (2025):
- Undergraduate International Excellence Scholarship – Up to £10,000 (competitive)
- Postgraduate Global Excellence Scholarship – Up to £10K–£20K depending on department
- Country-specific scholarships also available in some departments
UK-wide options:
- Chevening (Postgrad only)
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- GREAT Scholarships (Check for your country each year)
Top tip: Start looking into scholarships as soon as you’ve shortlisted your course. They often close before the main application deadlines.
How to Apply to Study in Exeter: 5 Steps for International Students
Let’s simplify it, step-by-step:
1: Pick Your Course + Campus
Use Oct–Dec 2024 to deep-dive your options (trust me, not all “Business” courses are built the same).
2: Gather the key docs:
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement that shows why this course matters to you
- English proficiency proof (IELTS/Duolingo/TOEFL)
- At least one reference letter
- Passport scan
3: Apply
- Undergrad: UCAS (deadline in January usually-but check specifics)
- Postgrad: Direct through Exeter’s website
4: Get Your Offer + Pay Deposit
Once you accept the offer, you’ll pay a deposit to confirm (usually around £2,000–£3,000) and get your CAS letter for your visa.
5: Apply for Your Student Visa
Aim for June–July 2025 if your course starts in September. Don’t leave it late-even if people say the UK visa is “easy.” Things can delay fast.
Visa and Work Regulations for Students Studying in Exeter
Good news-2025 rules are still in students’ favour!
- You can work up to 20 hours/week during term, and full-time in holidays.
- You’re eligible for the Graduate Route Visa = 2 years to stay, work, or look for jobs in the UK post-graduation.
- Bring proof you can fund your studies: Tuition + Living Costs (~£9,207 for 9 months in bank)
- Be ready for the IHS (Healthcare surcharge): ~£470/year. But this gets you access to the NHS.
Student Housing Options for Those Who Study in Exeter
Your house vibe = part of your survival during rainy terms. Choose wisely.
1. University Halls
- Ensuite rooms or shared bathrooms
- Bills included
- Close to campus-no chance you’ll be late to 9AM lectures (unless you snooze too many times)
- £130–£190/week
2. Private Student Housing
- Companies like Unite or iQ-slightly pricier but extra facilities
- Better for second – or third-years who prefer living a bit more independently
3. Shared Houses (a.k.a. Student Lettings)
- Often cheapest option (£400–£600/month)
- Can pick your housemates
- Kitchen disasters might happen, but you’ll bond over them
Best Student Areas:
- Mount Pleasant = 10 mins from Streatham, mostly students
- Pennsylvania = green, quiet, close to campus
- City Centre = lively, closer to nightlife/groceries but a longer walk to class
Daily Life, Food, and Student Culture While Studying in Exeter
Listen, Exeter isn’t wild-but it’s full of little joys.
- Morning ideas? Grab a pastry at Pink Moon Café
- Study spot? Law Library or Forum Library (open 24/7 during exam season)
- Best “I can’t be bothered to cook” deal: Meal deals from Co-op or Pret
- Nights out? No pressure, but Timepiece and Unit 1 are the go-to if you catch the party bug
- Got a free weekend? Dartmoor and Exmouth Beach are closer than you think
There’s a strong café culture here, a decent music scene, and lots of chill society meetups. It’s very much “create your own vibe.”
Internship and Career Opportunities After Studying in Exeter
The uni doesn’t stop at graduation. Their Career Zone is solid.
- CV building, 1-on-1 coaching, and mock interviews
- Internships + year-in-industry options built into degrees
- Big employers like Deloitte, KPMG, BBC, and startups in Exeter Science Park recruit here
- Graduate Route Visa = stay + work 2 extra years (no sponsor needed)
If you’re smart (and start early), you’ll graduate with more than just a scroll and a handshake.
Short-Term Study Programs in Exeter
Not ready for a 3-year degree yet? There are stepping stones:
- Pre-Sessional English Courses – 6 to 40 weeks depending on needs
- International Foundation Programme – For bridging into undergrad
- Summer Schools – 2–4 weeks (perfect way to test the waters)
Applying Timeline for Students Planning to Study in Exeter in 2025
| Month | What to Do |
| Oct–Dec 2024 | Research courses and shortlist your options |
| Jan–Mar 2025 | Apply via UCAS (undergrad) / direct to uni (postgrad) |
| Apr–May | Accept offer, prep for visa |
| June–July | Apply for visa, secure housing, book flights |
| August | Pack, plan, final prep, panic (optional) |
| September | Fly in, attend welcome week, start big new chapter |
FAQs About Studying in Exeter for International Students
Yes, Exeter is considered one of the safer university cities in the UK. It’s small, friendly, and very student-focused. As with anywhere, basic safety practices apply-stick to well-lit routes at night and keep your belongings secure when out and about.
Definitely. If you’re on a Student visa, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Many international students find part-time work in cafés, campus jobs, or retail. It’s a great way to support your income while you study in Exeter.
Compared to big UK cities like London or Edinburgh, Exeter is fairly affordable. You’ll likely spend around £700–£1,000 per month, including rent, food, and transport. Rent is the biggest chunk, but you can save by choosing shared accommodation or living slightly outside the city centre.
Absolutely. The University of Exeter is home to over 6,000 international students from more than 140 countries. There are international societies, cultural student groups, and loads of networking events where you can connect with people who are also studying in Exeter from around the world.
It’s the UK-so expect a mix of sun, showers, and everything in between. Exeter’s climate is mild, but it can be rainy. Pack a good waterproof jacket, layers, and an umbrella. The good news? On a sunny day, there’s nothing better than a study break on the Streatham campus lawn or a walk along the River Exe.
First-Year Survival Checklist for Students in Exeter
- Buy a laundry bag, not just stuff clothes in a Tesco tote bag.
- Keep docs printed and scanned.
- Learn quick recipes. You’ll get tired of noodles by week 3.
- Set a weekly budget-things add up without you noticing.
- Bring meds from home. UK pharmacy prices are shocking.
- Join one random society-trust me, that’s how you make friends.
- Get a railcard. Cheap travel = freedom weekends.
- Walk everywhere. It’s free therapy.
- Call home. Even if just to rant that your kettle won’t work.
Final Thoughts
If you’re dreaming about the UK but not sure if you want the big city chaos, I’ll say this-study in Exeter and you’ll find something unexpected: balance.
You’ll have space to breathe, time to grow, and access to some seriously good education. It’s a place that feels personal, that remembers your name, and that still gives you the chance to take your dreams global.
And hey, when you land-hit me up. I’ll show you the best café for late-night cramming that also does student discount cookies. Deal?
