Figuring out uni accommodation can feel like a lot, especially if you’re an eager first-generation student, but it’s easier once you know what to expect and what you’re looking for.
You'll need to be sure of what exactly you want from your student home, including the type of student accommodation, accommodation amenities, your ideal cost, payment schedules, safety, and what support is available to ensure you are fully satisfied with your choice of student accommodation.
Having this insight will also help you to feel prepared for your new and exciting educational chapter. So, if you’re preparing for university as a local, national or international student and asking yourself, “How does uni accommodation work in the UK?”, we have the answers!
Let’s start by understanding some of the student accommodation options available. For first-year students, popular options include University Halls of Residence and Private Accommodation, and here’s why!
For most first-year students, university halls of residence are a very popular choice. Uni halls are owned by the university and offer on-campus accommodation, putting students at the heart of a buzzing student community with a short commute to lectures and seminars.
University halls are super social, which typically makes it easy to meet new people and form friendships - a great way to find future housemates for your second year!
Uni halls offer inclusive bills and often come with a variety of options like en-suite rooms or shared bathrooms. If you’re looking to meet other uni students in their first year of studies, uni halls are an excellent choice.
Private accommodation is another popular option for both first-year and returning students. Unlike student halls, which are typically located near university campuses, private accommodation offers more flexibility in terms of location.
These properties are not owned by the university but by private accommodation providers, such as Stockton Students. You can choose between options with bills included or bills excluded, and the number of rooms in a flatshare varies.
If you value personal space, you might prefer to share with just one or two people. Alternatively, some students enjoy larger flatshares with a bigger group of friends.
Student accommodation provides housing for local, national, and international students. Two popular options are university halls and private accommodation, both usually fully furnished and featuring shared kitchen and bathroom facilities.
University accommodation typically consists of apartments with 2–6+ rooms depending on your choice. It’s often a very social environment, especially in university halls, making it a great way to meet new people.
However, when choosing your accommodation, it’s important to consider your personal needs, like whether you prefer a quieter or more lively living space, to ensure it’s the right fit for you.
Rent for student accommodation in halls of residence and some private accommodation falls in line with student loan instalments at the start of each semester.
Students can choose from a few methods to pay for their student accommodation. This includes maintenance loans (the most popular method), bursaries, scholarships, savings, and part-time work.
For more in-depth information, read our blog on the different ways that students can pay for accommodation.
Whether bills are included in students acommodation depends on the type of student accommodation that you choose. Typically, student halls will include all bills, such as electricity, gas and water, but it varies for private student accommodation.
Here at Stockton Students, we offer private accommodation with bills included to take some stress off your shoulders and help you budget better.
Most accommodation providers will require you to provide a guarantor. This is a trusted individual who agrees to take financial responsibility if you’re unable to pay for your student accommodation.
While you likely won’t need their support, having a guarantor gives providers peace of mind and ensures their costs are covered if you are unable to pay your accommodation fees.
Now that you’re familiar with the different types of accommodation and payment options for student housing, it’s time to think about other important factors to consider when making your choice.
Here are a few factors you should consider before making your decision:
Since our establishment in 2013, our supportive team at Stockton Students has been helping new and returning students like yourself have a seamless transition into their new student homes.
With over a decade of experience, we completely understand the challenges that can come your way as a student. As a result, we have created student accommodation in Liverpool and Ormskirk that aims to help you thrive.
By choosing us as your private student accommodation provider, here are some of the things that you can expect:
Browse through your student housing options or reach out to our knowledgeable team today by emailing info@stocktonstudents.co.uk or calling 03301 359065. We can’t wait to hear from you!
