You might also find it useful to check the complete breakdown of living costs that we have prepared.

Rents in London are expensive compared to other parts of the country. Below is an indication of the average costs of a room (exclusive of bills) in the following types of accommodation;

Short-term:
Hostel/Hall of Residence: £25 - £40 (single room) per night
Guesthouse/Hotel – at least £60 per night.

Long-term:
Room in a shared house: £80 - £110 per week (can be more in central London)
Room in a family house: £80 - £100 per week (bills are often included in this price)
Single bedsit: £80 - £100 per week
Studio flat: £120 - £180 per week
1 bedroom flat : £200 per week or more.
2 bedroom flat: £275 per week or more.

These figures are a rough guide.  Prices will vary depending on location and quality.

London is divided into 6 zones. The Royal College of Art is in zone 1, in the centre of London. To see the underground map and zones and information regarding all methods of transport in London check the Transport for London website.

Weekly Travelcard Fares with student discount (ie. combined tube/bus ticket);

Zone 1–2: £18.00
Zones 1–3: £21.10
Zones 1–4: £25.70
Zones 1–6: £33.30

(These fares include 30% student discount. Please contact the Student Union Office at the Royal College of Art for details of how to apply for a Student Oyster photocard.)

It is possible to reduce travel costs.  A weekly bus pass for students costs £9.60. Many of our students cycle to College.

• If you live in private rented accommodation, you will normally be expected to pay the gas and electricity bills, and sometimes the water bills.
• If you live in shared accommodation, you should expect your share to cost about £10 per week. If you live on your own it will cost more.

Visit our Council Tax section for more information.

If you have a TV, you need a licence for it. One licence will cover all the sets in a single household if you have proof of a joint tenancy. The current fee for a colour set is £142.50. Payment can be spread by direct debit on a monthly, quarterly or yearly basis.

The owner must insure the building you are renting, but this does not cover the contents. We strongly recommend you take insurance for your belongings, especially computers and bicycles.

Endsleigh Insurance is a company supported by the NUS and they offer a competitive 'student possessions' insurance scheme.