Dundee and Exeter are among the two most affordable student cities in the UK. In Dundee, housing expenses are approximately 16.2% lower than the UK average, making it more affordable for residents. Exeter, on the other hand, is known for its affordable public transport and food options. To compare the cost of living in Dundee and Exeter, students must consider all the factors, including accommodation costs, transportation, utilities, and other bills.
Accommodation Cost: Dundee VS Exeter
When comparing student accommodation costs between Dundee and Exeter, notable differences emerge. In Dundee, weekly rates for student housing start at approximately £123, with options like Lyon Street Terrace offering such affordability. Other residences, such as Meadowside Court and Marketgait Apartments, have starting prices of £153 and £188 per week, respectively.
In contrast, rent for student accommodation in Exeter tends to be pricier. For instance, Northernhay House offers rooms starting at £150 per week, while Vita Student Portland House begins at £278 per week. Other options like Picturehouse Apartments and Library Lofts have starting rates of £176 and £175 per week, respectively.
These figures indicate that student accommodation in Dundee is more affordable than in Exeter. However, prices can vary based on factors such as location, amenities, and room types. Students should assess their budget and housing preferences carefully when choosing between these cities.
Transportation Cost: Dundee VS Exeter
When comparing transportation costs between Dundee and Exeter, particularly the price of monthly bus passes, there are notable differences:
Dundee
Dundee’s public transport is primarily managed by operators such as Xplore Dundee, Stagecoach, and Moffat & Williamson. The city provides a detailed bus network map, ensuring residents can navigate efficiently.
- Xplore Dundee: Offers a WeekSaver ticket priced at £16.00, which provides unlimited travel for seven days.
- Stagecoach MegaRider: Provides 7 and 28-day MegaRider tickets, with 7-day tickets starting from £15.30.
Exeter
Exeter is a significant hub on the UK’s rail network. Great Western Railway operates services connecting Exeter to London Paddington, while South Western Railway provides routes to London Waterloo. CrossCountry trains link Exeter to cities such as Manchester, Birmingham, and further north to Scotland, including Dundee.
- Stagecoach MegaRider: Offers 7 and 28-day MegaRider tickets, with 7-day tickets available for £14.50.
Both cities offer comparable weekly bus pass prices, with Dundee’s WeekSaver at £16.00 and Exeter’s MegaRider at £14.50. For longer durations, Stagecoach provides 28-day passes in both cities, though specific pricing may vary. It’s advisable to check the latest rates and consider your travel frequency to determine the most cost-effective option.
Tuition Fees: Dundee VS Exeter
Tuition fees at the universities and colleges in Dundee and Exeter varies according to the academic level, field of study, and course duration.
University of Dundee Tuition Fees
The University of Dundee’s tuition fees vary based on factors such as the student’s residency status, chosen program, and level of study. For Scottish students, undergraduate tuition is typically covered by the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS), provided eligibility criteria are met.
Students from other parts of the UK, including England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland, are charged £9,250 per year for undergraduate programs. International students’ fees differ by course; for instance, the Medicine MBChB program has a tuition fee of £43,370, plus a £10,000 ACT Levy to cover teaching costs in NHS Scotland. Postgraduate fees also vary; the MSc in Finance is priced at £23,000 per year for international students. PhD program fees depend on the discipline, with international fees ranging from £21,940 to £36,335 annually. ]
University of Exeter Tuition FeesÂ
The University of Exeter’s tuition fees vary based on the student’s residency status, chosen program, and level of study. For UK undergraduate students, the standard tuition fee is £9,250 per year. However, starting from the 2025/26 academic year, this fee is set to increase to £9,535 per year, reflecting adjustments for inflation.
For international undergraduate students, tuition fees differ depending on the course of study. For instance, programs in the Business School may have different fee structures compared to those in the Humanities or Sciences. Specific fee details for each course can be found on the respective undergraduate course pages.
For postgraduate research programs, such as MbyRes, MPhil, and PhD, the fees for the 2024/25 academic year are as follows:
- UK Students: £4,786 per year
- International Students: Fees range from £22,600 to £27,500 per year, depending on the specific research topic.
Conclusion
When comparing living costs between Dundee and Exeter, Dundee emerges as the more affordable option, with lower accommodation, transportation, and general expenses. The cost of rent in Dundee is significantly cheaper than in Exeter, making it a budget-friendly choice for students. Public transport and daily necessities also tend to be more affordable, allowing students to manage their expenses more efficiently. On the other hand, Exeter, while offering better intercity connections and a well-developed transport system, tends to be pricier in terms of rent, food, and entertainment. Ultimately, students should consider their budget, lifestyle, and study preferences before choosing between these two vibrant UK cities.
