Introduction
As the UK has become a popular destination among international students for higher studies, a significant demand for student accommodation has been noticed, leading to diverse and improved student housing options. With so many student housing options available in the UK, choosing the right and budget-friendly one becomes challenging. In this blog, we will tackle these challenges head-on, considering all the essential factors crucial in determining the ideal student accommodation for you!
Tips for Finding Good Student Accommodation in the UK
Kickstarting your academic career in the UK requires meticulous financial planning, including finding comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation on or close to your university campus for exciting and seamless university experiences. Understanding UK living expenses for international students is crucial before finalizing your accommodation choice. The right accommodation offers a safe, comfortable, and culturally enriching space that helps ease the transition into a new country and academic life.
Here are some quick tips and tricks that will save you time and energy in finding good student accommodation in the UK:
- Budget assessment: First and foremost, it is important to fix a budget estimate for your student accommodation in the UK after analysing the rent prices in your preferred locations and other costs like utilities, groceries, rent, travel expenses to campus, etc., associated with it. This would avoid any financial interruptions and maintain a smooth flow of funds throughout your study-abroad journey. Based on your budget and preference, you can make a wise selection.
- Start your search early: Owing to a surge in the inflow of international students in the UK, you must begin your search for suitable student accommodation as early as possible. There is always a high demand for university accommodation and affordable private accommodation, especially in popular university towns like Edinburgh, Manchester, London, and Birmingham, and such facilities get occupied quickly. So, if you’re going for the former, then the advisable time to book is immediately after receiving the offer letter and for the private accommodation, the ideal time to begin searching is 3-6 months before your course commences. Just a heads up—June to September is the busiest time for booking student accommodation as September is a major intake at most UK universities. Secure your spot early!
- Know your options: As the UK has a diverse and magnificent international student population, you’ll find multiple student housing options within or near the university campuses at varied price ranges. From university and private halls to shared spaces and homestays, there is always an option available for international students to make a preferable choice. Moreover, most universities in the UK offer accommodation services to students to help them find suitable accommodation.
- Use trusted sources: Whether you’re looking for a university student accommodation or a private one, you should always search on reliable platforms. For university accommodation, you should always visit your university’s website and for private housing options, these are some of the verified service providers – Unilodgers, Casita, Amber, Glide, and Unitestudents, renowned for their good services.
- Location: Opting for university-managed accommodation typically places you within the secure and supportive environment of your academic institution. However, if you choose to explore private housing options, it’s essential to conduct comprehensive research on the area where you’ll be residing. Prioritise the safety of the neighbourhood, assess its proximity to campus, evaluate the availability of reliable public transport, and consider the presence of nearby social hubs such as cafés, shops, and recreational spaces.
- Check what’s included: When comparing student accommodation options, it’s important to look beyond the monthly rent and check what’s included in the package. Many university and private student accommodations offer all-inclusive deals that cover utilities like electricity, water, gas, and internet, saving you the hassle of managing multiple bills. Some even include extra services such as contents insurance, gym access, on-site laundry facilities or cleaning services. If you’re considering private accommodation, clarify with the landlord or letting agent what’s covered to avoid unexpected expenses later on.
- Read the contract thoroughly: Before signing the rent contract, it is mandatory to read the terms and conditions carefully. Ensure you check the amount of the security deposit, whether it is a fixed-term or a rolling contract, and the duration of the notice period. We know that the country is new to you, and this entire process would be very exhausting, but many universities also offer free housing advice services that you can avail yourself of.
- Inspect the property: Choosing a university-managed accommodation is always a reliable option, as you can proceed with its booking in advance by applying to the university without giving it a second thought. However, if you have decided to go for a private student accommodation, you must investigate the property in person and clarify all your doubts with the landlord or the letting agent.
Types of Student Accommodation in the UK
From vibrant university halls that foster friendships and social events to modern private studios designed for comfort and independence, there’s something to suit every lifestyle and budget in the UK. With world-class universities spread across dynamic cities like London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Birmingham, students have access to diverse housing options, whether they choose to share a cosy house with friends or stay in a sleek apartment close to campus. Finding the right student accommodation in London requires special consideration due to the city’s size and diversity.
Majorly, student accommodation in the UK is categorised into university accommodation and private accommodation, which further gets subdivided into various housing options. Some of the common student accommodation options in the UK include:
- University Accommodation: Promising a vibrant student life, university accommodation is a convenient and well-maintained student housing option for international students that saves you time from personally searching for a place to live during your stay in the UK. This facility is managed by the university and is usually located on or near the campus. The average per week cost of this accommodation is £848 at London-based universities and £664 at universities based outside London.
Some of the key features of this facility include:
- It is the best option for first-year students for friendly engagements.
- All bedrooms are equipped with a single bed, wardrobe, chair, and desk, as well as storage space and bookshelves.
- All rooms have an internet connection.
- Basic facilities include a communal kitchen area for 6-8 students, which is equipped with an oven and hob, refrigerator, toaster, kettle, iron, iron board, and vacuum cleaner.
- There are card-operated launderettes within the accommodation facility.
Types of university accommodation:
| Catered Halls | Self-Catered Halls | Shared Rooms | En-Suite Rooms | Standard/Single Rooms | Studio Rooms |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meals are provided (usually breakfast and lunch/dinner) | No meals provided; students cook for themselves. | Less common, usually cheaper | Private bedroom and private bathroom. | Private bedroom, but shared bathroom and kitchen. | Fully self-contained: bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. |
| Common dining areas. | Equipped shared kitchens. | Shared kitchen and common spaces. | More budget-friendly. | Less social but ideal for quiet, independent living. | |
| Good option for students who don’t want to cook daily. | More flexibility with food choices. | More privacy and comfort. |
Pros and challenges of university accommodation
| Pros of university accommodation | Challenges of university accommodation |
|---|---|
| Usually, it is easy to arrange and is included in your university offer package. | Limited choices are available, especially when you apply late. |
| It is a good option for first-year students for enhanced social interaction. | It involves short-term contracts that last for a term or an academic year. |
| Often has 24/7 security or campus patrols. | Strict rules and regulations are imposed by the university. |
| Located within or close to the campus. | |
| Utilities and Wi-Fi are usually covered. |
- Private Accommodation: This type of housing option is not owned or managed by the university but by private landlords or companies. It is an ideal option for second/third-year students, postgrads, or anyone wanting more independence and choice. Even some universities offer consultation services regarding private accommodation options to international students. The average cost of private accommodation in London is £750 per week, and outside London is £554 per week.
The key features of this accommodation option include:
- Private shared accommodations have students from several different universities, which is perfect for experiencing cultural diversity.
- Such housing facilities
- The kitchen area could be shared by 6 to 8 students and equipped with a refrigerator, hob, oven and other essentials.
- Other basic facilities include a bed, desk, chair, wardrobe, ample storage space and more.
- Some of the renowned private accommodation providers in the UK are Unilodgers, Casita, Amber, Glide, and Unitestudents.
Types of private accommodation:
| Catered Halls | Self-Catered Halls | Shared Houses / Flats | Studios or Private Flats | En-suite rooms | Homestays |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Includes breakfast and one additional meal, which could be lunch or dinner. | Students will have to prepare their meals by themselves. | Each occupant has their own bedroom. | Fully self-owned units with your kitchen and bathroom | Private bedroom and private bathroom. | Private room in a family home, meals often included. |
| Equipped shared kitchens. | Shared kitchen, bathroom, and living areas. | Can be rented through letting agencies or websites. | Shared kitchen and common spaces. | Arranged by the university or agencies. |
Pros and challenges of private accommodation
| Pros of private accommodation | Challenges of private accommodation |
|---|---|
| More Independence where you can set your routine without university rules. | It comes with more responsibility, such as sorting out bills, cleaning, and self-maintenance. |
| Different locations, sizes, and prices to suit your needs, with more flexibility in terms of amenities, layout, and contracts. | There may be hidden costs involved, as not all places include bills (gas, electricity, water, internet). |
| Often comes with a 12-month contract, which makes it a great option for postgrads, interns, or students with part-time jobs. | Several upfront costs are involved, such as a deposit (usually 4–6 weeks’ rent) and a guarantor (especially for international students). |
| Some modern private housing facilities include gyms, study areas, social spaces, en-suite bathrooms and high-speed Wi-Fi connection. | |
| Studios and private flats offer total privacy. | |
| Some private rentals are farther from the university compared to university halls, and you need to commute daily. | |
| Less social integration, especially in private flats or studios. |
Documents Required for Student Accommodation in the UK
The documentation required for finalising your student accommodation depends on the type of housing you have selected for your stay in the UK.
Documents required for university accommodation: You usually apply for this type of accommodation after accepting your offer, and many universities manage everything through their online accommodation portal, which guides you through the process. Before applying, make sure you’ve completed your UK student visa application as this is often required. To initiate the accommodation process, the following documents are required:
- Proof of student status, like an offer letter, UCAS confirmation, etc.
- Valid identity proof such as a passport.
- Student visa
- CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) letter (optional)
- Copy of the confirmation mail from the university’s accommodation portal
- Proof of payment for a deposit or advance rent
- Passport-sized photo (for ID cards or security passes)
- Emergency contact details
Documents required for private accommodation: You usually begin applying for this category of student accommodation in the UK months before you arrive in the country. However, the documentation and final procedures commence only after you have arrived in the UK and you have thoroughly investigated the selected property. The documentation checklist often includes:
- A valid ID proof, like your passport, to verify your identity and right to rent in the UK.
- The university’s offer letter and Student ID or confirmation of enrolment confirming your student status.
- Proof of funds, such as recent bank statements (usually last 3 months), scholarship letter (if applicable) and student loan letter (if availed).
- Guarantor details, like his/her ID proof, proof of income or employment, and proof of address (e.g. utility bill or bank statement).
- Proof of your deposit payment (usually 4–6 weeks’ rent) to secure your booking.
- UK Student Visa for international students
Student Accommodation in London
Finding student accommodation in London can be daunting due to the city’s size and high demand. Still, you can find various student housing options available depending on your budget, preferences, and location. Student accommodation in London is known for being quite expensive compared to other UK cities, with prices varying depending on the type of accommodation and its proximity to central areas.
| Average cost of university-managed student accommodation in London | £215 per week |
| Average cost of private student accommodation in London | £243 per week |
| Average cost of university-managed student accommodation in other UK cities | £100 to £200 per week |
| Average cost of private student accommodation in other UK cities | £150 to £350 per week |
While London offers the advantage of being a hub for universities and employment, students must budget carefully, considering rent and additional living expenses like transportation, which can be higher in the capital.
Conclusion
Finding a good and budget-friendly place to stay in the UK while you achieve your academic ambitions is no less than hitting a jackpot! Student accommodation is more than just a roof over your head — it’s your first true home away from home, where you build connections, find support, and create a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar environment. With such diverse accommodation options available to international students in the UK that suit everyone’s budget and preferences, your academic journey here will undoubtedly be an unforgettable roller coaster ride!
FAQs on Finding Student Accommodation in UK
The 5 factors that influence the choice of accommodation are:
- Budget and cost
- Type of accommodation preference
- Location (Distance from the university)
- Facilities and amenities
- Safety and security
If the student has opted for a university hall of residence, then he/she should apply through the university website. Otherwise, in the case of private accommodation, international students can reach out to the university’s international student support service for details regarding this housing option. Moreover, there are student accommodation agencies or service providers that provide exclusive assistance to international students from choosing the right accommodation type to helping with contracts and legal requirements.
The average cost of student accommodation in the UK is as follows:
- University accommodation - £848 per week in London and £664 per week outside London
- Private accommodation - £750 per week in London and £554 per week outside London
