Think local for university Clearing: Why Portsmouth offers the best value in the South for students

And with continued investment into facilities, choosing your hometown university for further study could prove to be the best choice yet - for your finances and your career.

When it comes to Clearing in 2025, or applying for next year, it’s easy to overlook what’s on your doorstep. But with Clearing fast approaching on Thursday 14 August, we took a look at what’s on offer in the city, and why the University here would prove a hit with both students and those who have to help foot the bills!

According to the Natwest Student Living Index, Portsmouth is the least expensive university in the South East for students*

There’s no need for us to tell you what a great place Portsmouth can be for socialising and convenience - you can walk to any of the university buildings in under 15 minutes.

Not only does this cut down on transport costs but it’s cheaper to have a night out here than in many other parts of the country - and your living costs will be lower too.

Studying in Portsmouth offers students all the advantages of staying in the South East - proximity to London, coastal lifestyle - with northern affordability levels.

In fact Portsmouth is ranked the 7th most affordable university in the UK, the most affordable in the South East and the third cheapest for rent nationally; so even if you decide to move away from home to live your best student life, you’ll still pay a lot less than going elsewhere.

Investment in student facilities

The University of Portsmouth has committed to a £250 million campus transformation 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.

Here’s what one of them said about life at Portsmouth Uni:

For DeAvyon Brown, who studied Applied Languages, the choice to attend the University of Portsmouth came down to the course offered but she was pleasantly surprised by its affordability too.

“When you're a student you have enough to worry about as it is with deadlines and grades,” says the final-year student, who graduates this year. “If I had to start missing class to work to pay for rent or living costs, my university experience would have been very difficult. If I lived in a less affordable city I wouldn't be sitting here smiling.”

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.

Her success story - graduating as nominated student speaker with a job lined up at another university - illustrates how removing financial barriers can unlock potential.

Choose Portsmouth

For students considering their university options, Portsmouth has courses available through Clearing. The Clearing line is 023 9284 8073, or visit the website here.

*2024 index