University Clearing 2025: Why Portsmouth is a top-value choice for Buckinghamshire students
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Looking for a university for 2025? Try seaside living in a modern, vibrant city, at one of the best value for money student experiences in the UK.
According to the Natwest Student Living Index, Portsmouth is the least expensive university in the South East for students*
It’s close to London, offers an enviable coastal lifestyle, great transport links, and it’s incredibly affordable.
In fact, it ranks as the seventh most affordable in the whole of the UK in the NatWest Index, whilst it is the third least expensive for rent nationally too.
And with millions recently invested into its facilities, choosing this university for further study could prove to be the best choice yet - for your finances and your career.
This is why you should be considering the University of Portsmouth for Clearing this August, or as your University of choice for 2026.
With low average monthly living costs and high student earnings - Portsmouth significantly undercuts other major student destinations, according to the survey.
What’s it like?
Student DeAvyon Brown, who graduates this year with a Degree in Applied Languages, says: “Rent is quite cheap in Portsmouth, especially in comparison to other cities." She paid just under £6,000 annually for private student accommodation in her third year, and first year en-suite rooms start at £131 per week.
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“I don’t think anything about Portsmouth is expensive as a student.”
Portsmouth's value extends beyond rent. Students enjoy some of the UK's lowest transport costs, with bus journeys at just £2.50 via Stagecoach's Unilink service and monthly travel costs of £40-£60. The University operates two bus services to campus as well, and most of the University’s buildings are less than a 15 minute walk away.
Portsmouth's affordability equation benefits from strong part-time employment opportunities. Students in the city average £1,887 in monthly income, ranking 11th nationally for earning potential while studying.
DeAvyon progressed from care work to becoming a student ambassador, then secured a role as Sponsorship and Partnership assistant at the university - all while completing her degree and year abroad in Spain and China.
For students like her, Portsmouth's affordability created opportunities that extended far beyond saving money. It enabled her to focus on her studies, pursue internships, and take advantage of international opportunities without the financial pressure that constrains many students.
The University of Portsmouth is investing £250 million in campus development over the next decade, to give students an even better experience.
The ambitious Estate Masterplan includes a new Student Hub for enhanced wellbeing services, a cutting-edge Technology building, modern teaching laboratories, and sustainable facilities like the award-winning Ravelin Sports Centre, recognised as one of the UK's most energy-efficient sports facilities.
There’s no wonder it’s ranked in the top 10 for learning resources for students, according to this year’s National Student Survey.
Choose Portsmouth
For students considering their university options, Portsmouth has courses available through Clearing. The Clearing line is 023 9284 8073, or visit www.port.ac.uk/Clearing
*2024 index