Why Should Students Choose to Study in Manchester?
Why should you study in Manchester? Because Manchester offers what London and Cambridge lack? Quality education at affordable cost. Yes, Manchester is one of the top 5 student destinations in the United Kingdom. Its historical importance as the cradle of the Industrial Revolution, a dynamic cosmopolitan city, and a student hub make it one of the best places in the world to study and thrive. Let's explore all these reasons which make Manchester the best place to study.
Why Study in Manchester?
Manchester's rich history as the cradle of the Industrial Revolution, combined with its dynamic cosmopolitan atmosphere and status as a student hub, makes it one of the best places in the world to study and thrive.
Manchester is home to one of the greatest higher education institutions: the University of Manchester. It’s a member of the prestigious Russell Group and is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and innovative research.
The city offers a welcoming, accessible, and multicultural environment, providing the ideal base for your time studying in the UK.
With a vibrant social scene, diverse cultural experiences, and a strong sense of community, Manchester ensures a fulfilling and enriching student life.
Its soccer clubs, Manchester United and Manchester City, offer a plethora of sporting opportunities for college students.
Here’s a list of all the universities in Manchester with their 2025 QS rankings.
| University | QS Ranking 2025 |
| University of Manchester | #34 |
| Manchester Metropolitan University | #601 |
| University of Salford | #901 |
| University of Bolton | NA |
Multicultural City
Manchester is a multicultural city home to some 44,000 international students from 170+ countries. Manchester is a diverse and modern city and is the best place to call home if you are far from home.
Its character is defined by its rich history and achievements.
It is one of the most multicultural cities in Europe, with 200+ languages spoken.
Manchester is also ranked as the 27th Best student city by QS Top Universities.
It is home to the largest Jewish community outside of London, and its Chinatown is centered around the impressive Imperial Arch.
Rusholme and its renowned ‘Curry Mile’ is located between the University's campus and Fallowfield campus. This neon-lit street is home to numerous restaurants alongside shops catering to the local South Asian and Middle Eastern communities.
With diverse cultures coexisting, Manchester has earned a strong reputation for its vibrant food and drink scene. The city offers cuisine from nearly every culture, accommodating various tastes and budgets.
Local shops and markets near the campus provide easy access to a wide range of ingredients, making it convenient for international residents to find familiar foods.
Affordable Cost of Living
Manchester is popular for its affordable cost of living and low tuition fees. The estimated cost of living in Manchester is £885 per month, excluding rent and tuition fees. Student accommodation in Manchester, both on-campus and off-campus, is quite affordable compared to those in London and Edinburgh.
The tuition fees at the University of Manchester for domestic students start at £9,250 per academic year. For international students, undergraduate tuition fees start at £21,900 per academic year. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the cost of living in Manchester.
| Particulars | Estimated Cost (monthly) |
| Student accommodation | £700 - £1200 |
| Food and Groceries | £300 - £425 |
| Utilities Bills | £250 - £350 |
| Internet and Mobile | £80 - £110 |
| Transportation | £100 (29 days Bee Bus Ticket - £80 for adults) |
| Clothing, Entertainment, Leisure | £150 - £250 |
Top Career and Employment Opportunities
In Manchester, investment banking roles stand out as some of the highest-paying positions for fresh graduates, with annual salaries often exceeding £50,000. These roles demand strong analytical skills and offer substantial financial rewards. The city's diverse economy provides a range of lucrative career opportunities for graduates.
Here are the top 10 highest-paid careers for graduate students in Manchester:
Investment Banking Analyst: High salaries due to the demanding nature of the role.
Management Consultant: Competitive pay for strategic business advisory roles.
Software Engineer: Attractive compensation in the tech industry.
Financial Analyst: Well-compensated positions in finance.
Data Scientist: Data analysis expertise is in high demand.
Corporate Lawyer: Lucrative legal careers in corporate law.
Pharmaceutical Researcher: Competitive salaries in medical research.
Civil Engineer: Well-paid roles in infrastructure projects.
Chartered Accountant: High earning potential in accounting.
Marketing Manager: Attractive salaries in marketing leadership.
Conclusion
Manchester offers students a world-class education, a thriving job market, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it an ideal study destination. With top-ranked universities, affordable living costs, and strong career prospects in industries like finance, technology, and healthcare, it provides an enriching academic and social experience. Its diverse, student-friendly environment ensures both personal and professional growth.