There’s no right or wrong method to decide where to reside. There are a myriad of factors such as your budget and where your accommodation is situated and the quality of it – therefore think about what’s significant to you. Utilize your UCAS accommodation search to find out the halls available at the university you’re looking at – and check out the information your university has on local accommodation options for private residences too.
Below are some questions that will help you in your search for student accommodation at Leicester university, and if you’re curious about what other students have decided about where to stay, don’t hesitate to chat with students already in university.
1. Are you required to live in halls during the first year of university?
It varies, and some universities are more hall-like than other. It is possible to spend a long time in halls, or perhaps not even spend any time. Most often, rooms in halls are more popular than private accommodations however, there’s usually a plenty of housing available at universities , so consider what you would prefer.
Find out more about the universities you’re interested in by looking at the information they provide on their site about accommodation.
2. Who would you like to share your life with?
The halls in which you live are assigned by your university. However, you might be able to indicate preferences on your application if you meet specific requirements or would like to share a room with someone you already have a relationship with.
Private – you might have the option of choosing your housemates from private accommodations, e.g. when a number of your classmates go to the same university. Many students move to private housing in their second year, and they have the option of living with the people they’ve come acquainted with during the first semester. If you find yourself seeking accommodation after the application process – and consequently there aren’t any rooms in halls available in your first year, you might be able to be part of a group of students who have already moved into private housing.
3. Where do you wish to live?
Halls are usually located within the campus, or close to and have the ability to transport students directly to your campus (with students-friendly rates). The halls you choose to stay in could be close to the town’s centre than your campus – or perhaps they are tucked in a quieter area, with its own facilities (like shops, a refectory and bar for the Students’ Union or perhaps an exercise room and sports court).
Private student homes or flats can be found anyplace in the city, from safe neighbourhoods for families to lively areas that have nightlife or entertainment places close by.
4. How long do you wish to stay there?
Halls typically have lengths of tenancy that correspond to the academic calendar. It could be September through June, for instance, and you could then return to your home during the summer, before returning to the university. The university you attend may offer various durations of tenancy, but contact them to learn more.
Private – Tenancy lengths differ for student housing that is private. It is possible to stay for the entire calendar year, if you want to stay in your college town or city during the summer. You may also be able to stay in the same location for a number of years when you’re satisfied with your home and the people living there.
5. What spaces in shared space do you want to share?
Halls – either shared bathrooms or a private shower room. There’s probably no outside space that is exclusive to you and your roommates. However, you may have green spaces or a courtyard in the outside, which are shared with other halls for students – or, in some cases, your halls are located on campus.
Private – You’ll likely have a shared bathroom as well as an enclosed garden or courtyard that could be ideal for those who love gardening and barbecues, or just having a picnic outside.
Okay, now what do I do now?
Take a look! Imagine living in various types of accommodations. Make sure to go on a tour of the accommodation options to help you imagine the kind of experience you’ll have.
