Study in East Sussex, The United Kingdom

About East Sussex

East Sussex is a county on the south coast of England, between Kent and West Sussex. Its main towns lie along the English Channel: according to the 2021 census, Eastbourne had around 101,700 inhabitants and Hastings around 91,000, while the city of Brighton and Hove, which has its own council but is part of the ceremonial county, had around 277,100. Inland, the county is largely rural, with the South Downs hills and the county town of Lewes.

For international students, East Sussex offers seaside towns that are quieter than London for an English course, with easy access to London and Gatwick Airport.

Studying in East Sussex

SpainExchange currently lists one organisation under East Sussex, a provider of language courses. Schools in Brighton are listed separately on the Brighton page. Teaching is in English, and many international students come for an English course of a few weeks or months.

When you compare English schools, check whether the school is accredited, how many hours of lessons a week the course includes, the maximum class size, and whether it arranges host-family accommodation.

Visas and costs

The visa you need depends on the length of the course. As a Standard Visitor you can study at an accredited institution, including on an English language course, as long as the course lasts no more than six months. For English courses of up to 11 months there is the Short-term study visa.

Longer courses need a Student visa, which requires a place from a licensed student sponsor and costs £558 when you apply from outside the UK, plus the immigration healthcare surcharge. Outside London you must also show £1,171 per month (for up to nine months) for living costs, held for at least 28 days in a row. This official figure is a useful starting point for a monthly budget.

Getting around and daily life

The coastal towns are linked by rail and bus, and Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings have direct trains to London. Gatwick Airport, just over the county border in West Sussex, is the nearest large airport. The climate is mild by British standards, with cool, wet winters and pleasant summers on the coast.

Frequently asked questions

Can I learn English in East Sussex on a visitor visa?

Yes, if the course is at an accredited institution and lasts no more than six months. For English courses of up to 11 months you can apply for a Short-term study visa.

How much money do I need for a Student visa?

For courses outside London you must show £1,171 per month for up to nine months, plus the course fee for one year. The visa itself costs £558 from outside the UK.

Which are the main towns in East Sussex?

Eastbourne and Hastings are the largest towns on the coast, and Lewes is the county town. Brighton and Hove is part of the ceremonial county but has its own council.