Don’t be intimidated by the dazzle of the Big Apple. This guide explains where to live, eat and study in New York as an international student
As a student, there are few more exciting (or daunting) places to move to than New York City. With its towering skyscrapers, iconic yellow taxis, and glitzy Broadway shows, New York is justifiably famous the world over.
But away from the bright lights, you’ll also find a city that is welcoming, exhilarating and appreciates hard work – in other words, an ideal study destination. If you’re an international student moving to New York, this guide contains everything you need to know to make the most of the city.
The best universities for international students
If you’re thinking about studying in New York, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is where to enrol in the city. There are a host of options available in this bustling metropolis, but we’ve listed three of the best for international students:
Columbia University
Columbia is centrally located in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, close to Central Park, Broadway, and many other iconic sites. In addition to its famous graduates – it counts Barack Obama among its alumni – Columbia boasts a diverse cohort of faculty and students.
New York University
New York University’s branch campuses, dotted all over the world from Berlin to Buenos Aires, provide good evidence of this institution’s international outlook. It also has several locations in New York City itself and welcomes an eclectic and creative student community.
Cornell University
Although Cornell’s main campus is located in Ithaca, a few miles from New York City, the university does have teaching outlets in the city. Its medical campus is located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, and there’s also the Cornell Tech engineering campus on Roosevelt Island. Students wanting to explore the heart of the city shouldn’t discount this Ivy League institution.
Accommodation
There’s no way around it, living in New York City is not cheap. First, you’ll have to pay the minimum cost of attendance set by the institution you’ve enrolled at. Then, there are living expenses to factor in – accommodation chief among them.
As an international student living in New York, there are several accommodation options to consider. There are university-managed rooms that represent a great low-price option, located within university grounds so travel costs are also kept to a minimum. If you don’t want to consider college dormitories, there are also private rentals or purpose-built student accommodation – the latter of which comes with useful extras like dedicated study areas. As always, sharing usually works out cheaper than living alone.
In terms of location, New York has something for everyone. There are luxury high-rises in Manhattan's downtown area, a more industrial vibe in Bushwick, Brooklyn, a melting pot of cultures in Astoria, Queens, and plenty of green space in Washington Heights. Your place of study is likely to have a major impact on your chosen location, but New York’s excellent 24/7 subway does provide plenty of flexibility.
Where to eat and drink
New York boasts excellent culinary options to suit all tastes. These include nearly 70 Michelin-starred restaurants as well as plenty of cheaper outlets. Some iconic eateries include Prince Street Pizza, which has played host to a number of famous faces over the years, Gray’s Papaya, where the “recession special” gets you two hotdogs and a beverage for less than $5 (£3.80), and Queens’ Doughnut Plant, which provides delicious sweet treats made with all-natural ingredients. And don’t forget to check out which of the city’s food destinations offer student discounts.
The City That Never Sleeps also has plenty of nightlife on offer, from sports bars to live music venues and affordable pubs aplenty. If you are an international student, however, remember that you must be over 21 to legally drink alcohol.
What to do
When you aren’t studying, New York City has plenty of attractions to keep you entertained – many of them free. Start by exploring all the wonderful green space in the city, including Central Park and High Line, an elevated 1.45-mile-long greenway that was completed in 2009. The city’s museums are also must-sees. These include The Metropolitan Museum, which has a “pay what you wish” policy, and the Museum of Modern Art – free to visit on Fridays after 4 pm.
Of course, some of the city’s attractions will require you to dip into your student budget, but they’re undoubtedly worth it. A trip up one of New York’s iconic skyscrapers, whether the Empire State Building or the One World Observatory, may be expensive but will reward you with breathtaking views. And don’t forget to take in a show. Admittedly, Broadway tickets are expensive but many smaller, off-Broadway theatres are much more affordable.
Living on a budget
Just because New York is expensive, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the city has to offer as a student. Remember to make a budget (and stick to it) in order to keep your finances in order. Then, explore some of the city’s free and cheaper options. Affordable doesn’t mean inferior.
Plus, if you need a little extra cash, you could always look into many of the student work opportunities in New York, with the city’s countless cafes, restaurants and bars always on the lookout for part-time staff. However, make sure your current student visa allows you to gain employment during your study period.
Study spots
Last but not least, attending a higher education institution in New York City is about studying. Fortunately, there are plenty of quiet, free, and inspiring spaces to choose from. Top of the list is the New York Public Library, which allows you to browse a host of incredible books while you tackle your latest academic project. There’s also no shortage of coffee shops dotted around the city so you can enjoy a hot drink or pastry to fuel your intellectual endeavours.
Consider what noise level you are willing to tolerate, the length of time you are going to be studying for, and if you want some food to accompany your stay. Whatever you decide, New York has a spot in the city to allow every international student to thrive.
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