Sheffield, located in South Yorkshire, is the fourth largest and one of the greenest cities in the UK. It is the only UK city with a National Park within its boundaries and is known as the 'Outdoor City'. This is because it has more trees than people, making it an ideal place for nature enthusiasts.
Let's find out what makes Sheffield so attractive to students from around the world to study in the UK.
Life in Sheffield for an International Student
Affordable and Friendly
Sheffield stands out as an option for students deciding where to study in the UK. As the fourth largest city in the UK, it offers all the amenities of a bustling urban centre while still maintaining a student-friendly and affordable atmosphere.
Having been voted the third most affordable student city in the UK, Sheffield offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from shared houses and apartments to purpose-built student accommodation. Bramall Lane, Broomhill, Crookes, and Ranmoor are among the popular areas for student accommodation, with easy access to food courts, shopping centres, and major attractions in the city.
Sheffield is easy to navigate on foot and also has a fantastic public transport system that offers student discounts. The people in Sheffield are inventive, hardworking, and known for their warmth, hospitality, and friendliness towards newcomers, making it an attractive choice for students seeking a high quality of life at an affordable cost.
Top Rated Universities
Sheffield is home to two acclaimed universities: The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University.
- University of Sheffield
Founded in 1905, its origins can be traced back to the Sheffield Medical School, which was established in 1828. The university has since grown to become one of the top universities in the UK, known for its research excellence and innovative teaching. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across a range of disciplines.
The University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) is a leading centre for advanced manufacturing research and has worked with companies such as Boeing, Rolls-Royce, and McLaren.
- Popular courses: MBA, Architecture, Business
- Acceptance rate: 14%
- Sheffield Hallam University
Sheffield Hallam University, established in 1843 as the Sheffield School of Design, has transformed into a contemporary, research-oriented university that prioritises practical skills and employability. With two primary campuses situated in the heart of the city, Sheffield Hallam University boasts specialised facilities for subjects such as computing and sports science, including the Sheffield Institute of Arts, one of the UK's oldest art and design schools.
- Popular courses: Business, Computer Science, Sport
- Acceptance rate: 43%
Music and Games
Sheffield is a vibrant and lively city that offers a wide range of activities and events for students to enjoy during their free time and is a true gastronomic delight for foodies. Kelham Island and Ecclesall Road, commonly referred to as ‘Eccy Road’, are popular hotspots for independent shops, restaurants and quirky cafes.
Sheffield Moor Market, located in the heart of the city centre, is a market that offers a wide range of locally sourced products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and baked goods. Urban Choola, Lavang, and Napoli Centro are among the top choices for students and locals alike looking for a perfect night out in Sheffield.
The city has a long history of music dating back to the 1970s and 1980s and is also home to a number of music venues which attract both established and emerging artists. The Leadmill, popular since the 1980s, hosts many legendary musicians from all over the world. It is also a popular destination for comedy, cinema and club nights too. Sheffield's legacy with gaming continues as the city is home to the UK's National Videogame Museum and the British Gaming Institute.
The Outdoor City
With 60% of its spaces green, the city is the perfect mix of nature and culture. Sheffield is located within the picturesque Peak District National Park and is well-known for its outstanding opportunities for climbing, both indoors and outdoors. The city is also a hub for downhill mountain biking and has gained a reputation as a top destination for road cycling enthusiasts.
However, Sheffield is not just about high-energy activities. It is a city that encourages you to take your time and enjoy its natural beauty. The Sheffield Botanical Gardens opened in 1836, is a beautiful and historic garden home to over 5,000 species of plants, and hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
The Sheffield Food Festival draws in over 50,000 attendees each year, hailing from all over Yorkshire and Derbyshire. The festival showcases a variety of delectable cuisines, including authentic Punjabi foods such as samosa chaat and chicken tikka.
Home of Football
Sheffield has a rich sporting history that dates back to centuries. The Hallam Cricket Club, founded in 1804, is one of the oldest cricket clubs in the world and its grounds are still in use today. Additionally, Sheffield is known as the Home of Football, being the birthplace of Sheffield F.C., the oldest football club in history. Bramall Lane, the club's stadium, is also the oldest stadium in the world and still hosts professional football matches.
Beyond traditional sports, Sheffield's location within the Peak District National Park and its numerous parks make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities like running, walking, and other outdoor sports.
Career Prospects
Sheffield is rapidly emerging as a highly sought-after location for new businesses in the UK. Referred to as the "Steel City," Sheffield maintains its prominence in the manufacturing industry, attracting major global players such as Boeing, McLaren, Tata Steel, and Rolls-Royce.
Apart from manufacturing, the city's thriving digital and tech industry includes the gaming sector as a significant contributor. With the likes of ARM Holdings, Cap Gemini, ZOO Digital, and other notable companies setting up shop in Sheffield, the city's technology sector continues to flourish.
With a thriving tech and creative community, music in its veins and an affordable lifestyle, Sheffield is sure to offer a well-rounded university experience.
Study in Sheffield
Contact SI-UK to learn more about studying at one of the top universities in Sheffield or to begin your application for the upcoming intake.
Living and Studying in Sheffield FAQ
Sheffield is a city in the north of England known for its steel industry and abundant natural landscapes. Being a safe and friendly city, Sheffield is a popular place for international students to live, study, and work in the UK, as it has a strong sense of community as well.
Sheffield is a relatively affordable place to live compared to other major cities in the UK. The average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around £600 per month. The cost of living in Sheffield is also relatively low, with the average cost of living (food and groceries) around £90.
Sheffield is a great place to study for international students. The city has a number of world-renowned universities, including the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University. These universities offer a wide range of courses at all levels, and they are all highly regarded by employers. Sheffield is also a welcoming city for international students.
The cost of studying at the University of Sheffield varies depending on the course you choose and your nationality. For example, the cost of tuition for a full-time undergraduate course for students from outside the EU is between £21,000 and £26,950. However, there are a number of scholarships and bursaries available to help international students fund their studies.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end. 