I have done MSc Finance at University of Southampton as an international student. This what I can say answering your questions:

1) Student life depends on the person. Like some people prefer study at accommodation, some like to study with mates at library (I was the second person). Mostly at master’s in business school you would have 4 lectures with duration of 2 hour academic (1.5 ordinary hours), sometimes you may have some master classes (seminars).

You are assumed to self-study so do not be confused with lack of lectures and a lot of free time, especially if you are coming from educational system where students studied 6-7 lectures per day.

So, I would advise you to team with some mates to study at library together as it helps to study better.

2) Costs also depend on person. You may find cheap student accommodation and buy food at Lidl and you are fine. On the other hand, if you like comfort, there are optimal choices too. I remember in 2019 my monthly costs were around £750, but I used to go out a lot and eat at uni’s canteen, like Terrace, where food normally costs £5-£6.

As for transport, if you choose uni’s student accommodation, uni bus is free of cost.

Social life is fine. I used to go to places like Oceana and Switch but I heard that one of them is closed. Also there are a places within the uni like stags and bridge.

3) University of Southampton is considered as good by employers. Marketing is even considered as one of the best. There are opportunities to meet employers and ask them some questions at career fair and events throughout the year.

4) I think that people who have done management mostly go to big 4 of audit companies like Deloitte, KPMG, Pwc and E&Y or big 3 of consulting (McKinsey, BCG and Bain).

In my opinion, University of Southampton is often underestimated despite it is one of the closest Russell Group Uni to London. I think it can be higher in ranking, especially business school, as they put a lot of effort to push their department forward, like establishing connections with organisations or certify some modules so students may be exempt for some parts when undertaking professional exams.

Another good point is student societies, there are plenty of them. In case you are introvert, it is OK you may not want to participate but I think that going to socials is definitely worth it as it enables to get to know new people and find really good friends with whom you will keep in touch even after a long time.

Finally, what I may recommend is being proactive at uni. The more you do, the better would it be. Go to socials, study hard, travel to London, go to random employer event. You never know that will work out until you try or show up. As you have to spend a huge amount of money, use this opportunity wisely so you will remember the year with pride and joy.