Which is better ?

I am an international student, and I am looking into college between essex Southend and Birkbeck. Taking into consideration of all the things like place, college reputation, ranking, activists and studies, it's hard to choose between Birkbeck and Essex Southend. As Birkbeck is in the center of London and Essex is a bit far, will picking up Birkbeck leads to high cost of living? Or if I pick Essex will I be able to get job that can help me for my cost of living?

Reply 1

EssexOfficialRep

Official Rep

Original post by Vicky.25

Hi Vicky.25!

It's great to hear you are thinking of applying to to the University of Essex Southend Campus for your studies.

What degree are you looking at studying with us?

The University of Essex is currently ranked in the Top 25 of UK Universities according to the Guardian University Guide 2025 and 86% of our graduates are in employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes 2024)🥳

In terms of the Cost Of Living when studying and living at our Southend Campus, our accommodation costs at Essex include your energy bills and internet access so regardless of what happens to supplier costs, you can rest assured this is covered within your rent.🏠️

With all the amenities of the city on your doorstep, and all the perks of University accommodation, you get the best of both worlds at our University Square accommodation at our Southend campus. Just off the High Street and minutes from the Gateway Building and The Forum, our bright and modern accommodation at University Square is unmissable (literally). There are over 560 student rooms arranged in flats, within seven houses situated around a central enclosed courtyard. Accommodation costs range from £165.48- £225.75 per week with more information found here- https://www.essex.ac.uk/life/accommodation/southend/university-square

In terms of part-time jobs at Essex, when you register as a student you will have access to our Essex Career Hub, a free vacancy board advertising a range of opportunities, including part-time jobs, internships, placements, and graduate roles. There are many part-time jobs on offer including applying to work for the Students Union, applying to be a Student Ambassador and working in one of the numerous shops, bars, restaurant's and cafes in Southend City Centre. You can learn more about part-time work at Essex here.💻️

To find out more information about the work we are doing to support our students with the cost of living visit here- Cost of living | University of Essex

I hope this is helpful!

Please do let me know if there is anything else I can help with👍️

Essex Official Rep- Niamh😎