Accommodation Options
University Halls of Residence
Most UK universities offer on-campus accommodation, particularly popular with first-year students:
- Catered halls with meal plans or self-catered options with shared kitchens
- Single rooms with shared bathrooms or en-suite facilities
- Support from Residential Assistants (RAs) or Wardens
- Convenient location on or near campus
- All bills usually included (utilities, internet, basic insurance)
Average cost: £4,000-£9,000 per academic year, with London and other major cities at the higher end.
Private Student Accommodation
Purpose-built student housing managed by private companies:
- Modern facilities with studios or shared flats
- All-inclusive billing and professional management
- Common areas, study spaces, and social facilities
- Security and maintenance services
- Often located near universities or in city centers
Average cost: £5,000-£15,000 per academic year, depending on location and facilities.
Private Rentals
Many second and third-year students share houses or flats:
- House or flat shares in university neighborhoods
- Typically requiring 12-month tenancy agreements
- Additional costs for bills and council tax (students are exempt, but must apply)
- More independence but more responsibility
- Average rent: £80-£150 per week outside London, £150-£250 in London
Budget for: security deposit (usually 5 weeks' rent), tenant fees, bills, and contents insurance.
Accommodation Tips for International Students
- Apply for university accommodation as early as possible
- Check if your university guarantees housing for international students
- Be aware of the academic calendar and contract periods
- Join university accommodation Facebook groups to find housemates
- Understand your rights as a tenant (UK Tenant Rights Act 2019)
- For private rentals, use university-approved letting agencies
- Check if a rental property requires a UK-based guarantor
