Student housing in the United Kingdom is difficult to come by. Most students aspire to be able to study in the United Kingdom. Many high-school students and their parents are drawn to the quality of education and the exposure gained through experience.
However, finding adequate, affordable, and sustainable housing in the UK is one of the most pressing concerns for international students applying for further studies. There’s no need to worry, though, because we’ve put together a quick guide for potential students looking for places to live in the UK.
Accommodation in the United Kingdom for International Students:
Studying in the United Kingdom is excellent because it is home to world-class universities. With all the procedures and plane ticket purchases, lodging may be high on your priority list, and most houses become available in June.
Indeed, finding suitable student accommodation in the UK for a new student is extremely difficult. It is difficult for an international student to choose a location, a reasonable price, and a suitable house. After you’ve narrowed it down to a course and a university, the next step is to find housing in the United Kingdom. For example you have decided you are going to a college in Bristol then the next best thing to do is finalise a student accommodation in Bristol for yourself.
Most UK universities provide student housing. They will also provide information on the various housing options and their costs. Universities also offer access to student housing databases and help you plan your move. An important platform to keep in mind where you can find thousands of accommodation options on the amber platform.
Things to remember before starting your search for student accommodation in the United Kingdom:
Make a budget: Before you start living in the UK, you should list your living expenses, including your house rent. Make an estimate of how much money you can afford to spend each month.
Choose an area: Always be aware that not all places in the United Kingdom are the same. Rents in cities and towns are higher than in rural areas. If you live as close to the university as possible, you will save money on transportation.
Choose a roommate: If you want to cut your living expenses, you can share a flat with another person. It is a good idea to pick your housemates carefully.
Types of accommodation in the United Kingdom:
In the United Kingdom, numerous types of student housing are popular among students. The amenities they provide, whether they are shared or private, and how much they cost to rent vary. Here are some of the most favorite choices for international students to live in the UK:
- Student dorms/halls: Due to the availability of all necessary facilities in the building, as well as the opportunity to meet all kinds of new people and get to know your classmates better, student halls are usually the first option students choose when looking for places to live in the UK. There are two kinds of student halls: university-provided dormitories and privately owned and managed student halls. Generally, university dorms are less expensive than privately owned student halls. However, when it comes to university dorms, you must enroll early or risk not getting a room! You will not have to travel long distances from your room to class if it is on campus. Privately owned dorms are more expensive, but they are well-kept and provide the quality that the price demands. Those who dislike sharing their space with others will not find a dorm suitable.
- Halls of residence: The British term for student housing is halls of residence. There are two types of halls: those provided by the university and those located outside the campus. They typically have 5-10 rooms on one floor that share a kitchen, living room, or another common area. Most of these rooms have their own bathroom/toilet or share one with the room next door. Depending on your budget, there are numerous room types to choose from, including single rooms, double rooms, and deluxe rooms. The great thing about halls of residence is that you are surrounded by students, which increases your chances of making new friends. Another advantage is that they are usually located on campus (especially if they are university halls of residence), so you can avoid the daily commute and public transportation. You’ll be able to get out of bed 10 minutes before the lecture and still be on time. You can choose between catered and non-catered halls of residence in the United Kingdom. In catered halls, you get three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and have access to a shared kitchen if you get hungry between meals. The room price does not differ depending on whether it is held by the university or privately, but you will most likely pay more if you choose the catered option. Most university halls of residence application options are automatically sent to your email once you have been accepted to study at the university. This means you should apply as soon as possible if you want to reserve a room on campus because space is limited. If you are confirmed, you will almost certainly be required to pay your rent in advance. Depending on the accommodation, it can be six months or an entire academic year in advance.
- Private halls: All students are welcome to work for private companies. They have better facilities than other student residences. Though they are generally expensive, as an international student, if you are willing to put in the effort to find a better place to live, these private halls are ideal. The private hall owners provide the best security system for the students. Closed-circuit television (CCTV) and security guard services are provided. Most houses become available in June after the academic year, and all exams are completed. During the summer, students typically return home and leave their current accommodations. If you already have some friends who want to live with you, the job becomes a little easier because you already know your flatmates and can look for a house together. If you’re coming alone and want to live in a house, that’s fine too; plenty of other students are looking for both a place and flatmates. Even though arranging private housing can be difficult, especially if you’re moving from afar, it’s best not to pay anything in advance if you haven’t seen the property or met the landlord in person. Check that the place you want to rent is legitimate, considering the location, size, price, and anything else necessary. Don’t forget to bring something that will make you feel more at home, even if it’s just a teddy bear. Once you get settled in and get to know the people you’ll be sharing your living space with, you’ll begin to feel much more at ease and prepared for all of the university tasks ahead of you.
- Rented apartments and houses: A shared flat or house with a couple of friends or colleagues would be perfect for those who prefer a more intimate setting. You can find comfortable places to live in the UK within your budget. Renting out a flat or house may be the best option for those who prefer to live alone and can afford it. For international students, the studio housing is also a great option. You can look at IQ shoreditch or IQ Tufnell house which are popularly chosen by students to live in.
- Studio apartments are the most affordable type of accommodation in the UK. Studio apartments are small one-bedroom apartments with kitchens located outside the university building. For example you can rent student accommodation in Glasgow that is near your university making it easier for you to reach your college on time.
The United Kingdom has the most international students of any country worldwide. However, while this provides an excellent opportunity to build global networks for you, it also has some drawbacks. Finding a suitable place to live as a student in the UK near a university is a significant consideration. We’ve included all of the essential details in our student guide to finding the best off-campus accommodation for students visiting the UK. We also recommend establishing average monthly expenses to save a little money each month and treat yourself better each time. All that remains now is for you to pack your belongings, prepare your documents, and depart for your dream country!
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