International student life at Derby

University is much more than a place to learn; it will become your second home. You will make new friends from all over the world, experience a new culture and learn to live independently in a new country. It’s an exciting adventure. Are you ready?

At Derby, we offer a warm welcome, lots of support and interesting places to discover – from bright, busy cities to peaceful countryside.

Explore Life at Derby to find out if the University of Derby is the right choice for you.

If you're living in our halls, take a look at our Residence Life programme of activities and events.

Our international students who share their experiences of leaving their home country to study in the UK

Living in the UK

As a student in the UK, you will have a lot of fun and freedom. Our society is based on the values of democracy, fairness and mutual respect.

Student costs in the UK are also lower than in the USA and Australia, according to research by HSBC Bank.

Derby is one of the most affordable cities in the UK, and thanks to our compact size it's super easy to travel across our campus sites, accommodation, city centre and train station either on foot or via our Unibus.

There are also plenty of part-time jobs if you need to earn money.

Living costs

Where to shop

There are a number of affordable supermarkets and world food shops in Derby, all located close to or within the city centre, including:

Postgraduate student Sai, smiling, wearing a black and white breton top.

Managing money as an international student

Find out how Sai manages her money as a student, with tips on accommodation, travel, groceries and home essentials - as well as where to find student discounts, free food and giveaways in Derby.

Read Sai's blogRead Sai's blog
Three students enjoying a night out

Fitting in and making friends

When Simona first arrived at University she was afraid that as an international student she would feel alone and that it would be hard to make new friends. Fortunately for her, these feelings didn’t last long.

Read Simona's blogRead Simona's blog
Smiling student with arms crossed

Being an international student

Moving to the UK was a life-changing experience for Sam Chikowore, who was awarded the Vice-Chancellor’s scholarship. Hear about his time as an international student in Derby.

Read Sam's blog about starting university and feeling welcomeRead Sam's blog about starting university and feeling welcome
Greek student Ioannis

Why join a society? My story as an international student

No matter how far away you're coming from, joining a society can help you to meet people who share the same hobbies or interests as you. Ioannis from Greece, tells us about his experience.

Read Ioannis's blogRead Ioannis's blog
a student using a surveying instrument

Be inspired by our Virtual Tour

Get a taste of what it’s like to come to the University of Derby and explore what’s on offer - wherever you are.

Explore our Virtual TourExplore our Virtual Tour