Finding somewhere to live

There’s a wide variety of safe and modern accommodation on offer for students in the UK and universities and colleges have dedicated accommodation teams that will help you find the right type of living environment to suit your needs.

Many universities and colleges have halls of residence that are on-site or nearby. If you prefer to rent your own accommodation, your university and college accommodation office can usually help you.

Even in shared living accommodation, students usually have a bedroom to themselves, often with an en-suite bathroom.

To help you start planning, the main options are outlined below.

University owned accommodation

Most UK universities offer places for new students in their halls of residence. Halls can vary from single rooms with shared kitchen and living areas, to self-contained studios.

You can often choose from catered halls (with a dining room where you can buy cheap meals) or self-catered halls (with kitchens where you can cook your own food), depending on your preference.

Halls provide a safe and comfortable home-away-from-home that is good value for money, with services like wifi and contents insurance included in the cost of your rent.

Most halls welcome both female and male students, but there are usually single sex halls available too.

Private accommodation

Many students in the UK live in private, rented accommodation in the second year of their studies and onward, giving a taste of life beyond the campus.

Most private student accommodation is already furnished, but you may need to provide your own items such as kitchen utensils and bedding. You’ll also need to factor in the costs for utilities.

Rented accommodation is strictly regulated in the UK, so if you do have any issues you will always be able to get them dealt with.

Luxury student accommodation

Many UK cities now have private luxury developments built for students. Accommodation ranges from private self-contained studios to apartments. Fully furnished and equipped with designer fixtures and fittings, residents can expect cinema rooms, 24 hour security, on-site gyms and round-the-clock concierge services.

Homestay accommodation

A homestay – where you live with a UK family in their home – can be a great opportunity to experience UK culture first-hand. Your university may be able to help you arrange this, or you can contact one of the homestay agencies registered with the British Council.