Student accommodation ranges from halls to privately rented flats and houses, but how do you find it, and what do you need to consider?
Many first years will find themselves living in halls of residence, the classic uni experience – and each uni will let you know whether that’s guaranteed, or just an option. From the second year, you’ll probably have gathered a group of mates and found a house together. Sometimes this works the other way around, but what is always the case is that what you need is personal to you. You should take time to really understand what’s available, the pros and cons of each option and how that fits with how you live.
Accommodation options are listed on individual university and college websites, where you can browse the options and locations to find the right one for you. They can also advise on local lettings agencies or even internal university services to help you find private accommodation if that's your preference.
Normally situated on/near campus, they’re run by the uni and designed to be convenient and sociable. Generally, the rooms can be smaller but the kitchens are big, and bathrooms are often shared. There’ll be lots of you living together, mostly first years, so parties are going to break out pretty often.
Expect to make friends easily, but while you’re washing up your cereal bowl that somebody else has used. Again.
Halls of residence are popular. Check when registration opens and get your name down early. Your chosen uni will be on top of this – so you’ll be asked to provide your top three choices, and you’ll be able to choose between different halls based on location, price, facilities etc.
There are also plenty of halls which aren’t necessarily run by your uni, but are still designed exclusively for students and offer a lot of variety. There are some big players, but also regionally based companies too – it’s definitely worth checking them out. They’re often in town, as they can be open to students from any university – so it’s a great way to make even more friends. You’ll get all the services you’d expect with uni halls, plus potentially more – as well as a great location.
Most private accommodation includes all heating, WiFi, and electricity in the price of your rent – so you know exactly where you stand.
If you’re looking for central, convenient living with a diverse group of students, then private halls could be the way.
If the idea of sharing a bathroom with 40 strangers, or being woken up by that same dubstep track for the third night in a row isn’t your thing, then a house might be better.
You can rent by yourself, but most people find other students to share with. Your uni can often help with this, or there are plenty of websites to connect you to house or flat-shares.
Like private halls, you could find yourself living with students from other universities, or those in their second or third years. Most students move into houses with their mates after the first year anyway, so consider yourself a trendsetter if you follow this route.
Don't feeling pressurised into taking expensive accommodation – contact student support or your Students’ Union for advice. They may have a list of cheaper accommodation and can help you look through contracts before you sign. Once you’ve signed, you're legally responsible for the full tenancy under the terms agreed, so make sure it's the right choice.
If you’re a disabled student or have different learning needs, and are thinking about your university accommodation options, there are a few things you’ll want to consider.
Many universities provide year-round accommodation for care-experienced students and students estranged from their parents. Some may even be able to bypass or adjust any deposit requirements, or act as a guarantor for private accommodation. Student services can offer more information about what's available at your university or college – it’s a good idea to contact them before you apply to find out more.
Bursaries and funding are often available from universities to help care-experienced and estranged students with their accommodation fees, such as the additional costs incurred during holiday periods, or for those taking work placements. There are also charitable organisations that can help, such as the Unite Foundation, which provides free accommodation and a scholarship fund for young people in difficult circumstances who wish to enter higher education.
You could be eligible for more funding than you think.
Explore scholarships, bursaries, and grants matched to your background, achievements, or chosen course, and get support for your study and living costs.
If you are homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless, contact student services at your university or college immediately. They may be able to assist with emergency accommodation while you find a longer-term solution. Likewise, if you are finding it hard to meet your rental payments, the sooner you ask for help, the better.
Contact one of the following organisations for advice and information: