Student life in Glasgow. The honest numbers.
£1,171/mo
Non-London loan max
£100/wk
Cheapest halls
+£738/mo
After cheapest halls
None
Work to break even
95
Affordability scoreThe monthly breakdown
Maintenance loan+£1,171
Halls (cheapest, £100/wk)−£433
After halls+£738
Groceries−£200
Monthly balance+£538
✓ Budget works on max loan — no part-time work required for basics
🚌 Under 22 in Scotland? Bus travel is free. That's £0 back in your pocket every month.
Universities in Glasgow — affordability compared
GlasgowRussell Group
Cheapest halls: £100/wk (£433/mo) · Median: £140/wk
Strathclyde
Cheapest halls: £100/wk (£433/mo) · Median: £140/wk
GCU
Cheapest halls: £100/wk (£433/mo) · Median: £140/wk
RCS
Cheapest halls: £100/wk (£433/mo) · Median: £140/wk
Halls vs private in Glasgow
🏠 University halls
Cost£100/week (£433/mo)
Bills includedYes ✓
Contract40–51 weeks
IncludesWiFi, contents insurance
Monthly surplus£738per month
🏢 Private rental
Cost£750/month
Bills+£113 estimated
Contract12 months (summer risk)
IncludesNothing
Monthly surplus£308per month
For first-year students, Glasgow halls are better value — you save £429/month and avoid a 12-month contract.
Sending this to your parents?
There's a version written for them. Real numbers. No jargon. What it costs your family.
Open parent guide for Glasgow →