A Guide to Student Accommodation in the UK

A Guide to Student Accommodation in the UK

Finding student accommodation might be one of the most challenging aspects of relocating abroad. If you want to get the best combination of location, price, and fantastic flatmates, you should start looking as soon as possible.

However, with all of the steps involved in applying to universities and purchasing plane tickets, finding a place to stay can sometimes go to the bottom of your priority list.

The United Kingdom is universally renowned for its exceptional education. But apart from this, students studying in the UK can also have a great time in their illustrious history and culture.

While you might have a lot of questions about housing in the UK, we’ve got you all covered.

Halls of residence (student halls on-campus or off-campus) and private accommodation are the two main options students in the UK use as their home away from home.

1. Residence Halls

Student accommodation in the UK provided by universities is referred to as halls of residence in the United Kingdom. There are two sorts of halls:

The residence halls and the private halls are located on the university campus.

The benefit of living in a hall of residence is that you are surrounded by students, which means you are more likely to make new acquaintances. Most university halls of residence application options are automatically supplied to your email once you have been accepted to study at the university. As a result, you should apply as soon as possible to book a room on campus, as space is limited.

2. Private Halls or Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

In some regions, a room in a purpose-built student living complex is also a possibility. It’s controlled by a private corporation rather than your institution. Private accommodation providers are widespread in large cities with numerous significant institutions and provide student housing in Edinburgh, Nottingham, Manchester, London, etc.

You may discover a more excellent selection of accommodation options, such as studio apartments, than in university-managed halls, albeit these usually are much more expensive. If you’re thinking of renting a private hall, make sure you study what you’ll get for your money, such as included bills (along with any upfront charges you’ll need to account for) and on-site amenities.

Since you might meet students from various colleges in the same building, private halls can be a terrific way to broaden your social circles. They are particularly popular among international students, ideal if you enjoy meeting individuals from other countries and backgrounds.

Check to see if the rental you’re interested in is legitimate, considering the location, size, price, and anything else that’s relevant to you.

Don’t forget to bring stuff with you that makes you feel like you’re home, even if it’s a teddy bear!

Catered and self-catered housing:

Many student accommodations like student housing Nottingham, London, Manchester, etc. provide catering facilities to students since cooking and meal preparation might be a hassle for some students. If you opt for catered meals, you’ll have one less thing to worry about when transitioning to student life – especially if you’re a little rusty in the kitchen. For some who like the freedom to eat when and where they want, the idea of having to sit down to a meal at set times each day can be a bit restrictive.

3. Private Apartments

Most students move into a house or flat with friends after their first year, which they rent through a private landlord or leasing agent.  in a private apartment, you have to take the headache of keeping a track of all your bills and payments like electricity bill, maintenance, water bill, wifi, etc.

Whereas, in purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), all such amenities like TV, laundry, study rooms, gym etc. are inclusive. This is a growing trend in students due to its facilities.

In some instances, you may have no choice but to move into a private apartment right away. Because not all universities can guarantee a place in halls of residence for all first-year students (it’s an intelligent question to ask on an open day), you may be one of those who miss out, especially if you came through clearing or applied late.

4. Homestays

When we’re cruising away from home, homesickness is a natural reaction for all of us. Your family’s love is a one-of-a-kind experience that all of us cherish. Living with another family is the only way to experience that emotion in a foreign location. And homestays provide you with a strange start.

You may relax and forget about meals, laundry, and other expenses because your rent will cover them all.

Living with a local family will allow you better to understand their culture, language, and customs. You may also make some valuable community contacts as a result of them. It might be a challenge at first, but with time, it will be an unforgettable experience! 

5. Moving in: To-Do Checklist

While moving in can be hectic, here’s a little checklist that we have created for you, so you don’t miss out on anything.

• Sort out your utilities: sort your bills/ payments and broadband connections.
• Safety check: Ensure you lock all the doors and windows and be aware of the fire alarms.
• Do your inventory: Go around the house and make a list of damaged furniture that needs repairing. A tip is to take a picture so that the landlord can’t hold you responsible for any damage.
• Stock up: Make sure you have fruits and vegetables to keep you full, especially during the initial days. 

Need help in picking the right Accommodation For You?

AmberStudent serves millions of students worldwide by providing the best options and rewarding experiences because we apprehend its value. They are upgraded with the latest COVID-19 protocols and would be more than happy to assist you in booking your ideal home.