Navigating the financial aspects of student life can be daunting, especially in a new city like Bournemouth. As students gear up for their academic journey, understanding the cost of living in Bournemouth is crucial for effective budgeting and financial planning.
Cost of Education in Bournemouth
Tuition Fees
Bournemouth boasts renowned educational institutions like Bournemouth University and Arts University Bournemouth. Using Bournemouth University as an example, students can gain insight into the cost of education in Bournemouth. For UK students, undergraduate tuition fees at Bournemouth University amount to £9,250, while taught Master’s programs range from £8,000 to £13,750 for full-time study. Conversely, international students encounter higher fees, with undergraduate costs between £17,800 and £18,800, and taught Master’s programs priced from £16,000 to £18,250 for full-time study.
Bournemouth University Tuition Fees
| Undergraduate | Postgraduate | |
| UK Students | £9,250 | £8,000 – £13,750 |
| International Students | £17,800 – £18,800 | £16,000 – £18,250 |
Other Course Expenses
In addition to tuition fees, students may encounter additional costs associated with certain programs at Bournemouth University. While programs like Artificial Intelligence for Media and Digital Health advertise no extra costs, it’s essential to note that some postgraduate programs may require supplementary fees. According to Bournemouth University, students may need to budget around £1,850 annually for select postgraduate programs. It’s advisable for prospective students to thoroughly research and consider these potential additional expenses when planning their academic journey at Bournemouth University.
Cost of Accommodation in Bournemouth
The rental prices for student accommodation in Bournemouth typically range from £200 to £300 per week. En-suite student rooms are available for just above £200 per week, offering students a comfortable and convenient living space. However, studios often come with a higher price tag compared to standard en-suite rooms. Discover excellent student housing options in Bournemouth at locations such as Oxford Point, Mercury House, Skyline, St Peter’s Hall, or 17a Christchurch Road.
Cost of Food and Groceries in Bournemouth
When planning your stay in Bournemouth, it’s essential to budget for daily food expenses based on your accommodation and dining preferences. For half-board or breakfast-inclusive stays, allocate approximately £10 per day for additional food, snacks, and drinks. Conversely, if you opt for self-catering accommodations, a budget of £15-£20 per day for groceries is recommended.
For on-campus dining at Bournemouth University, expect to spend around £5.00 for hot food, £2.25 for a fruit bowl, and £1.00 – £2.20 for hot drinks. In local cafes, prices vary, with hot drinks ranging from £1.50 to £4.00, and soft drinks costing £1.20 to £5.00. Sandwiches typically range from £3.00 to £8.00, while soups, pizzas, and salads can cost between £3.50 and £18.00.
When grocery shopping, Tesco Express on Braidley Road offers a convenient selection at reasonable prices. However, Yaawin Global Spicy Supermarket on Christchurch Road specializes in international foods and spices, albeit at higher costs. Morrisons, while convenient, may be pricier and best suited for urgent purchases.
Common supermarket items vary in price in Bournemouth, with options available for different budgets. For instance, sandwiches range from £1.00 to £4.00, with some supermarkets offering set menus including chips and drinks for £3-£5. Canned drinks like Coke typically cost between £0.60 and £1.50, while fruits range from £0.20 to £2.80. Other essentials like chips, salads, toiletries, and personal care items also have varying prices, providing options suitable for different spending preferences.
Cost of Transportation in Bournemouth
Bus
Bournemouth offers a convenient bus system with various ticket options catering to different travel needs. For single journeys, the fare is typically £1.80, while a day ticket costs £5, providing unlimited travel for the day. Weekly and monthly bus passes are also available, priced at £18.50 and £62, respectively, offering cost-effective solutions for frequent travelers. For longer trips, such as daily returns to London, prices range from £12.00 to £28.00, while single tickets to Gatwick Airport vary from £8 to £122, and to Heathrow from £15 to £31, depending on factors like distance and time of booking.
Train
Traveling by train from Bournemouth offers convenient options for various destinations, albeit with different pricing structures. For day trips to London, off-peak Travelcards are available at £22, while peak fares range from £45 to £65, depending on the time of travel. Single tickets to and from Gatwick Airport range from £9 to £16, whereas trips to Heathrow, involving two transfers, vary from £30 to £55. To save on regular travel expenses, students can opt for a Young Persons Railcard, priced at £30, providing a 1/3 discount on off-peak rail fares for those aged 16-25, with eligibility for some students over 25 as well.
Cost of Entertainment and Recreation in Bournemouth
In Bournemouth, students have a multitude of leisure activities to explore, both within and outside of school. Whether it’s hitting the gym for a swim or a workout, enjoying a game of bowling with friends, catching the latest blockbuster at the cinema, or experiencing the vibrant nightlife scene with club and bar hopping, there’s something for everyone.
Swimming and fitness facilities offer a range of options, with prices typically ranging from £3.50 to £15.00 depending on the venue and services provided. Similarly, bowling alleys welcome students with special rates, often around £6.50 per game with a student ID, or slightly higher without one.
Cinema trips are a popular pastime, with ticket prices varying from £6 to £14.50. Students can often benefit from discounts, particularly when presenting their student ID cards. Additionally, bars and clubs offer entertainment options ranging from £5 to £20 for entry, with midweek discounts available at select venues for students seeking a budget-friendly night out.
Conclusion
By familiarizing themselves with the various living expenses in Bournemouth involved in accommodation, transportation, groceries, entertainment, and more, students can better manage their finances and make the most of their time in Bournemouth while staying within their budget.
Cost of Living in Bournemouth for Students FAQ
Yes, students can save money in Bournemouth by cooking meals at home, using public transportation or cycling instead of owning a car, taking advantage of student discounts, and shopping at budget-friendly supermarkets. Additionally, sharing expenses with roommates and prioritizing needs over wants can help students manage their finances effectively.
Living expenses in Bournemouth are generally lower compared to larger cities like London or Manchester. While accommodation and transportation costs may vary, Bournemouth offers a relatively affordable cost of living for students, making it an attractive destination for higher education.
Bournemouth can be considered moderately expensive for international students, depending on their lifestyle and accommodation choices. While certain aspects of living, such as accommodation and transportation, may incur higher costs, there are also opportunities to find affordable options, especially with regards to dining and entertainment. Overall, with careful budgeting and resourcefulness, international students can manage their expenses effectively and enjoy their experience in Bournemouth without breaking the bank.
Yes, Bournemouth provides numerous student discounts across transportation, entertainment, dining, and shopping sectors. These exclusive deals, available with a valid student ID card, help students save money on various expenses, making the city more affordable for international students.
