It is important to settle in at university. Make an informed decision about which accommodation option will best suit your lifestyle and budget.
A glance at student accommodation
You have the option to live in a hall, private accommodation, or at your home.
Ask for advice from your family and friends when deciding where to live. Also, try to visit accommodation open days.
Before making a decision, make sure you thoroughly research the benefits and costs of each option.
Once you have accepted a place on the course, start your Leicester uni accommodation application.
It’s important to research where you might be living and what type of accommodation might be best for your needs in order to make the move as easy as possible.
Explore your options
Heidi Cooper-Hind is the head of academic services and student services at Arts University Bournemouth. She says that choosing where to live at university is one of most important and exciting decisions.
After you have accepted a course offer, you can typically start your application for accommodation. However, make sure to check with your university for more information.
Claire Henshaw, University of Northampton accommodation coordinator, advises that it is always wise to do some research. This should be done as soon as possible.
“We announce the dates when applications are open and provide ‘how-to’ guides.” Claire says that the university website is a great place to find information and ensure you are informed.
You can also contact your university’s accommodation department.
There are generally four options. There are four main options for living:
In university-managed accommodation (typically halls or residences)
Privately owned residence halls
With other students in a private rented flat or house
At home
Halls of Residence
Halls are large blocks that house hundreds of students. They have individual furnished bedrooms and are organized around corridors. Bathrooms are sometimes shared but en-suite bathrooms are becoming more common.
These halls of residence are often managed by universities or in partnership with private companies. They have to adhere to national codes and generally meet high quality standards. Private halls of residence can offer all the same benefits as halls but they are not connected to the university. You book a room directly with specific halls and many have an easy online booking system.
Most universities offer halls of residence for international students or full-time first-years. However, you must apply by the deadline. This will vary from one institution to the next. For example, Clearing may make you ineligible.
Heidi says that halls are very popular with new students who will be living far from their home. “Bills are often included so that you can budget for exactly what you need. It’s also easy to arrange accommodation by applying to the university directly – usually online.
Living in halls places you right in the heart of student life, as they are usually located near campus. This is a great way for students to meet new people and get involved in social activities. Although your bedroom might be small, you will have all the amenities (such as a laundrette) on-site. The university accommodation team can also help with maintenance.
Many universities offer catered accommodation. It is worth looking into if you aren’t able or willing to cook, even though it may increase the rent.
In return for the convenience halls offer, you might end up paying more than in a private home or flat. You can’t choose your partner – which can be problematic if you don’t get along with other people in your flat. Halls also have a lot to offer – so halls may not be the best place for you if peace and quiet are important to you.
Keep in mind that your TV license will need to be purchased. Heidi says, “Remember that you will be jointly responsible for the communal areas of your halls. This could mean you might have to contribute towards repairs.”
You can find out the cost of rent at your university by visiting their website. Prices vary depending on where you live and what facilities you have.
Privately rented accommodation
Privately rented Leicester student studio may be a better option for you. It will usually be in a building that houses four to five people. This is the preferred path for most students, although some may choose to live in a privately rented house.
Another advantage is the freedom to choose your partner (second-year students usually move in with their first year friends), which can lead to a more enjoyable experience.
You’ll also have more options when it comes to where you live. Although you’ll be farther from campus, the most popular areas in university cities have good transport links and plenty of food, shops, and bars.
The university accommodation office can assist you in finding houses. Heidi warns that it is a good idea for you to inspect the properties before you sign up to make sure everything is in order.
Here are some other important points. Heidi says that although rents are usually cheaper than halls, you will still have to pay your bills. You will be responsible for paying utilities, Wi-Fi, contents insurance, and TV license. Remember that you don’t need to pay council tax if everyone living in your home is a student full-time.
You’ll also need to manage your budget well. It is important to feel comfortable speaking with your landlord or agent about any repairs or issues. Make sure you read and understand the contract, and know your rights as a tenant.
Heidi, for instance, explains that landlords must have a tenancy deposit insurance scheme and that the local council can demand repairs if the landlord fails to meet reasonable standards.
Living at home
Many people find that leaving their home and feeling free is the main attraction of university.
If you choose to study in a local area, staying at your home could be an excellent alternative. You’ll save money on rent and other bills, it’s convenient, and you won’t have to move out to live with strangers.
You’ll also be farther removed from student life and may find it more difficult to make new friends outside of the student house or halls. Participate in sports clubs and societies to make it work.