Although most students enter university halls straight away, you have a range of housing options.
Here are some quick pros & cons about the major housing options available to students. Also, tips for choosing the right one.
Different types of student accommodation
University halls
The majority of first-year students get a room in university-managed accommodation halls.
Socializing with students is a wonderful way to make friends and even live with them the next year.
You will also be conveniently located. This means that you won’t need to travel to campus for lectures, groupwork, or other activities. It is worth noting, however, that some university-managed residences are located in nearby cities or towns.
Halls can be a great way to learn how to live in a private rental house. The university and housing office will likely support you if something goes wrong.
Pros:
Social scene: This is a great place to meet many students.
It’s the halfway-house option. This allows you to transition gently away from your home.
Your university can provide extra support if you require it.
Cons:
Being thrown into the deep end means you have no choice but to live with someone you are not meant for.
You might not be able to get a room in your preferred accommodation.
Living near a lot of students can be stressful. You will have to learn to live with the noise and mess.
Private student halls
You can also choose to live in a purpose-built student accommodation Leicester, which is becoming more popular.
It’s similar to halls that universities manage – you have your room and share common areas like a TV or kitchen – but it is owned by a private company. Studio apartments might also be available, though they are generally more expensive.
Private halls are common in large cities like London or Manchester. They have many universities and therefore lots of students searching for a place.
Consider this option if you are interested. Do your research on the bills you will be paying, as well as any upfront costs, and the facilities you have access to.
Private halls can be an excellent way to increase your social circle as students from different universities may live in the same building. When looking for providers, make sure to check out what communal spaces are available as well as any activities or events that residents may enjoy.
Your university will have an approved list to provide private accommodation. This is especially important if they don’t have enough space in their halls.
Most university halls are outside the centre. I chose to stay in one of the private halls, which is located close to the city centre, the shopping center, and all the best nightlife. Third year psychology student at Nottingham Trent University
Pros:
Built for students. All the benefits of university halls are available.
Mod cons: You can get handy perks like wi-fi as part of your package.
It’s all about location, location. You’ll be near all student activity (not just at your university).
Cons:
Extra costs: If you add any upfront or additional costs, studio rentals will be more expensive.
Private halls may offer unneeded perks, such as cinema rooms or saunas. These extras look great but you may not actually use them.
Similar student pitfalls apply to noise, not picking who you live with and mess, etc.
Private accommodation
Others might not want to live in halls. They may choose to move directly into the private rental sector. This is where you rent a home or flat with a group through a landlord or agent.
Sometimes you can choose to live in your own apartment, especially if it is a mature student.
Sometimes, it might not. Not all universities offer a guarantee for a residence in halls of residence to first-year students.
It can be very appealing to live in privately rented homes. This allows you to choose where and who you share your home with. If you aren’t moving to university yet it can be hard to find others in the same situation and organize viewings. However, your housing office can assist by, for instance, matching you up to other people and recommending landlords.
Pros:
Independence: You decide where and with who you live.
Local area: Although your university halls may be located on campus, you might feel more at home in the nearby community if there are private housing options.
Flexibility: The private rental market offers many living options that suit your lifestyle.
Cons:
You might also be able to find yourself off the main campus.
Budgeting: If you have never lived far from your home before, it is important to manage your bills.
Dealing with admin: You’ll deal directly with a landlord/letting agent.