Brighton University (Student Life)

Accommodation: Finding accommodation is an art form. Average rent in Brighton is £60-ish for below-average place, £70 for something reasonably nice (slightly less in Eastbourne). Look early as they disappear fast. Student services run a head-leasing scheme. University halls of residence for 1500+ (dotted around Falmer, Eastbourne, Phoenix, Moulsecoomb and in town) both catering and self-catering. Be warned - these rooms are small, but the community atmosphere can often make up for it. New luxury rooms at Falmer.

Eating: Cockcroft Cafe at Moulsecoomb (cheap but cool).

Drinking: Countless pubs and cool bars.

Nightlife: SU hosts major events. Various student nights and discounts at bars and clubs in town.

Sports: New leisure centre at Falmer, sport complex in Eastbourne, gym at Moulsecoomb. Generally poor facilities but good clubs.

Travel: All sites can be reached by train or bus (saver tickets and YP railcards are advised, especially the unison train tickets). Parking a nightmare in town and at university.

Annual living costs: The minimum amount students say you need to live on each year (covering all living expenses but excluding tuition fees) is £6000.

Financial help: Uni operated access fund.

Jobs: Not easy in Brighton. 43% have regular part-time jobs; 96% work in some vacations (can be beneficial if linked to the course). Some hotel/bar work but not brilliant pay; summer jobs available locally if you're quick off the mark; university careers workshop helps.

Best features: Living by the sea!

Worst features: Quite expensive rent.