My parents wants me to stay at home when I go to Uni but I want to move out because I want to learn to be independent and not rely on my parents so much and most of all I know I will miss out on a lot if I stay at home. Also I don't want to be wasting time travelling each day, which could spent on studying.

The reason why they don't want me to live in halls is because of the money. My brother with be starting uni next year and so that will be another problem to worry about especially the top up fee.

I'm quite keen on going Royal Holloway but my parents would like me to stay at home and go to City. Which of the two is better to do a maths and finance/management course at? Or is the overall reputation of the uni more important? Will I miss out on a lot if I stay at home?

Probably the most important thing is that you're happy where you're going - your going to be spending the next 3 years of your life at uni, and your time will be a lot more enjoyable if you actually like the place where you're studying.

I don't know which of the unis has a better reputation for maths or in general - your best off looking at the leauge tables published by the papers for that.

It will be expensive living away from home in London though and will cost a lot more than living away elsewhere - maybe your parents would be happier if you went to a uni outside of london where accommodation and living costs are cheaper.

Living at home isn't all that bad, I know lots of people who do it and get on just fine - yeah you will be less independant - but your saving a lot of money as well - you need to weigh up the pros and cons of both situations.

Have you visited the two unis yet? the best thing to do is get a feel for them and decided which one you think you will enjoy more.