Living in the UK as a student
The UK is a welcoming place to live – making it a great choice for international students. The country has a long and fascinating history, but also embraces the modern, and Kingston upon Thames is no exception.
Close to central London by train for when you want to experience the big city, but also nestled away in its own small town. In Kingston, you will find beautiful parks, traditional red phone boxes and the famous River Thames.
A multicultural place to live
The UK is a popular choice for students from all over the world. International students in the UK can find influences from their own countries, including international food, while exploring the rich history and culture of the UK's four countries. Kingston upon Thames is a popular choice thanks to its close transport links to London. Currently over 20% of the student population at Kingston University are international. As well as experiencing British culture and developing your English language abilities, by studying here you will also be able to meet people from other cultures - making you a true global citizen.
Links to industry
London is known as a global hub in business, with many graduates heading there to climb the corporate ladder. A large amount of worldwide businesses have offices in London, making it an exciting and diverse place to work.
Living close to London means you can explore the city to get an insider knowledge. With a degree from Kingston, not only will you be close to the city, but you will benefit from studying at a University known for its career preparation. Alongside your pathway programme, you can also benefit from the University's careers service to prepare you for success after graduation.
History
If you're interested in history, you will find plenty to explore in the UK. England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland all have different histories, and there are hundreds of castles and museums to visit across the UK. From the Royal Palaces to the Houses of Parliament, St Paul's Cathedral and Trafalgar Square, London has many of the world's most famous landmarks. Kingston itself has thousands of years of history, and is home to Hampton Court Palace, which was built by King Henry VIII in the 1500s.
Landscapes
The UK is known for its beautiful green countryside, but it also has a number of stunning mountain ranges and beaches. From Kingston, you could take a trip to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for a walk, or visit the Kent or Sussex coasts.
Weather
The weather in the UK varies according to the four seasons. In spring and summer, it is generally mild, with average temperatures of 10-20°C, but can be warmer. In autumn and winter, it is often wet and cold, with some snow. Average temperatures range from 1 - 10°C.