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How do I choose my university accommodation?

There are various options for students looking to find a place to live when they're at university.

You can explore accommodations via the university's website; you'll find all information needed. They'll provide all the relevant information you may need to decide. However, there are some things that you need to factor in when applying or considering university accommodation. 

Halls of residence (owned by a university)

Your university owns most Halls of residence, mostly reserved for first-year and international students. They're usually closer to campus (sometimes on campus) and can be cheaper than other types of accommodation offered in the private sector.

You'll need to apply for a place in the student accommodation through the university accommodation team. You can usually do this online once you're holding an offer with the university. Most students will select various options from their options and be allocated a room at a pre-determined point of the year.

Suppose this is your first time away from home. In that case, Halls of residence are great as usually everything is included in your rent, and there are generally more student support services available for students too.

Private halls of residence (privately owned  accommodation)

Private halls are like normal student accommodation but are not owned by the university. They are usually owned by a chain such as IQ or Unite Students, which manage student accommodation across the country. This might mean you could be living with students who might not be studying at your university. They often have more options for students and can be more expensive for specific options, especially if you're looking for a studio flat option or higher spec design. 

Things to consider

You're probably renting for the first time, and student accommodation providers can be strict. It's essential to ensure you read the small print of any accommodation offer and understand what is and is not included in your rent. You should work out what you can afford, including any additional costs (even more critical when it's not all-inclusive rent and you have bills on top).

You should also ensure that the accommodation offers what you need to make your student experience unforgettable. For example, you should ensure you're happy with an en-suite versus a shared bathroom or whether you have catered or self-catering. Finally, you must ensure your accommodation is close to your study area. It would be best to map your journey to class to ensure this is achievable on foot or by affordable public transport.