How to pick the right student accommodation

Most first-year students will go straight to university halls. However, there are many housing options that you can choose from.
These are the pros and cons of some of the most popular housing options for students. We also have tips on how to choose the best one.

Types of student accommodation Leicester

Halls of Residence at Universities

First-year students usually get a place in halls or accommodation managed by universities. This certainly has its benefits.

Living with fellow students is a great way for socialising. You may even end up living with them next year.

It’s also possible to be easily located so that you don’t have to commute in every day for lectures, group work, or the library. However, it is worth noting some university-managed halls may not be located on campus but in a nearby city or town.

Halls are a good way to prepare for moving away from your home. You will have all the advantages of independence but not need to worry about landlords or utility bills. If anything does go wrong, you’ll likely be supported by the university or housing office.

Pros:

Social Scene: A great way to meet many students at once.
This is the halfway house option. It eases you into living away from your home.
If you have any questions, your university will provide additional support.

Cons:

You are thrown in at all costs: you can’t choose with whom you live.
There are no guarantees that you will get a spot in the accommodation of your choice.
Living close to many students means that you have to put up with the noise and chaos!

Private student halls

Another option is to rent a room in a student housing complex. This option is becoming increasingly popular.

This setup is very similar to university halls. You have your own room, and you share common areas such as a kitchen or TV. However, it’s privately owned. Studio apartments are also possible, but these are typically more expensive.

In large cities such as London and Manchester, private hall providers are very common. There are many universities there, so lots of students looking to find a place.

This option is worth considering. Make sure to research the costs and benefits of your purchase, including any bills (including any upfront expenses) and the facilities available.

Private halls are a great way for you to meet people from other universities. Check out the amenities available and any events or activities that residents can enjoy together when looking at providers.

Your university will likely have an approved list for private accommodation providers. They may also have a formal partnership with one – especially if there aren’t enough rooms in their halls.

Although most university halls are far from the centre, I stayed in one of the private halls located right on campus. It is close to the shopping centre and the best nightlife. Nottingham Trent University

Pros:

Built for students: The same benefits as university students apply.
Mod cons: Wi-Fi and other handy perks can be included in the package.
You’ll be in the heart of student life, not just at your university.

Cons:

Additional costs: Add any additional or up-front costs to your studio rental costs and you will pay more.
Some private halls offer extras that you might not use, such as saunas or cinema rooms.
The same student pitfalls exist: noise, not choosing your partner, mess, and so forth.

Private accommodation

Others might prefer to not live in halls and instead move into the private rented sector. Here you can rent a flat or house with a group of landlords or letting agents.

Sometimes, it will be your decision – for example, if you are a mature student looking to have their own space away from university.

Sometimes it may not be possible – not all universities can guarantee a place for first-year students in residence halls.

Privately rented properties can be attractive because you have control over where and with whom you live. It can be difficult to find people in similar situations and arrange viewings if your student hasn’t yet moved. Your housing office can help you by matching you up with other students and recommending approved landlords.

Pros:

Independence: You are in control of where you live and with whom.
Local area: While your university may have halls on campus, there are private housing options in the surrounding community that can help you feel more connected to the local community.
Flexibility: There are many options on the private rental market that will suit your needs.

Cons:

You may also find yourself on the campus’s fringes.
Budgeting is essential if you don’t live away from your home.
You will deal directly with the landlord or letting agent when dealing with admin.