Moving to London for Grad School: Pros and Cons
Moving to London for grad school was one of the biggest (and best) decisions I’ve made. After spending years living abroad in Spain and Australia, I knew I wanted to keep my international life going—and getting my master’s at the London School of Economics was the perfect next step. But moving to London for grad school isn’t all romanticized pub nights and scenic walks along the Thames. There’s a lot to navigate, from visas and housing to the sheer cost of living in this city.
If you’re considering grad school in London, here’s what you need to know—the good, the bad, and everything in between.
And if you want a step-by-step system to make your move easier, my Grad School in Europe Notion Hub is designed to help you with applications, visas, budgeting, and more.
The Pros of Moving to London for Grad School
1. World-Class Universities & Career Opportunities
London is home to some of the best universities in the world—LSE, UCL, King’s College London, and more. Studying here means access to top-tier professors, networking events, and potential career opportunities in one of the world’s biggest job markets. The city is also a hub for sustainability, business, finance, and tech, so if you’re looking to break into any of those industries, this is the place to be.
2. An International, Exciting City
London is ridiculously diverse. You’ll meet people from all over the world, which makes it an ideal place for expats. Plus, there’s always something happening—concerts, exhibitions, food festivals, markets—you name it.
3. Quick Master’s Programs
Unlike in the U.S., where master’s programs typically take two years, most master’s in the UK are just one year. It’s intense, but it also means you’re back in the workforce (or on to your next adventure) much faster.
4. Travel Opportunities
One of the best perks of living in London? Europe is at your doorstep. Cheap flights to Italy for the weekend? Yes, please. A quick train ride to Paris? Why not. If you love to travel, you’ll have endless opportunities to explore.
The Challenges of Moving to London for Grad School
1. The Cost of Living
London is expensive. Rent is high, groceries cost more than you think, and even student discounts don’t always help. Having a solid budget is key. (Need help budgeting for your move? My Notion Hub has a full breakdown of costs to expect.)
2. Housing is Competitive
Finding a flat in London is not for the faint of heart. Flats go fast, and some landlords require you to pay several months’ rent upfront if you don’t have a UK guarantor. It helps to start looking early and be flexible on location.
3. The Weather is… Grey
Coming from Australia, the lack of sunlight in winter hit hard. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is real, and having a strategy to handle the darker months is important. I even started Londoners Against SAD, a community for fun, social weeknight activities to help people get through the gloom.
4. The Visa Process Can Be a Headache
If you’re coming from outside the UK, you’ll need a student visa, and the application process can be stressful. Make sure you plan ahead, gather your documents early, and give yourself plenty of time to apply. (My Notion Hub includes a full visa checklist to make this easier!)
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. Moving to London for grad school is challenging, but it’s also one of the most exciting and rewarding things you can do. You’ll grow in ways you never expected, meet incredible people, and open doors for your future. If you’re even thinking about making the move, I say go for it.
And if you want a structured way to stay on top of your applications, visas, and moving logistics, check out my Grad School in Europe Notion Hub—it has everything I wish I had when I was applying!
Have questions about moving to London for grad school? DM me on Instagram!
