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Southampton Solent University logo

Cost of livingAdvice and support on saving money and managing your finances.

We're here to help

We know the rising costs of living can be a concern for many students, from housing and food to transportation or utilities. So whether you’re looking for help and support, advice on ways to manage your budget, or how to make meals on a budget, this is the place to start.

Three female students talking to each other in the Spark with the Pod in the background

We're here to help

We know the rising costs of living can be a concern for many students, from housing and food to transportation or utilities. So whether you’re looking for help and support, advice on ways to manage your budget, or how to make meals on a budget, this is the place to start.

Three female students talking to each other in the Spark with the Pod in the background

Cost of living in Southampton

Everyone’s situation is unique, but our short guide on the costs of living in Southampton can really help with budgeting and give you an idea on what it will cost to live here.

The city provides ample opportunities for cost-effective living, with its vibrant mix of local markets, student discounts at numerous places, and accessible public transport.

Southampton living costs
Westquay and Showcase cinema in Southampton
Two student housemates working out the food budget

Scholarships

If you receive a contextual offer from Solent, you might also be eligible to receive a one-off scholarship upon enrolment. We also have a range of available scholarships to help support you during your time here.

Find out more

Starting in 2024?

Starting uni is an exciting time – and we want you to enjoy it! To making your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible, we're offering a range of incentives to help reduce your financial worries: vouchers to make you feel at home in Solent student halls, free gym memberships to promote wellbeing, and support with additional course costs.

Find a course
  • £50 IKEA voucher for students starting in September and living in our halls of residence
  • Your first semester’s membership for our on-campus gym is completely free
  • Some first year additional course costs have been covered where possible. Please speak to your course tutor for more information

Earn while you learn

We invest in your employability from the start. Our careers service, Solent Careers are on hand to help you secure employment which works around your studies, placements to set your CV apart from the rest, and even professional mentoring, matching you with industry professionals to help you develop the right skills and confidence.

Find out more

  • Academic support

    If worries are getting in the way of your studies, our team is here to help – offering a range of academic support to help you.

    Get support

  • Financial support

    From hardship grants and emergency loans to essential advice, our funding teams can help you manage your finances.

    Find out more

  • Wellbeing support

    Money problems can have a big impact on your wellbeing. We offer mental health and other support.

    Discover more

Extra support

If you're looking for additional support to manage the cost of living as a student, the Solent Students’ Union may be able to help – check out their cost of living hub at https://www.solentsu.co.uk/costoflivinghub.

We’ve also put together a list of external resources you might find helpful – but please do reach out to us at Solent if you’re struggling, and we’ll offer help or advice any way we can.

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