Whether you’re an international student arriving in the UK or leaving home for the first time, student accommodation can feel like a daunting decision, and that’s perfectly normal.
After all, university is a major milestone, especially when you’re moving far from home. Your student home isn’t just a place to sleep, but it’s also where you’ll study, relax, and make memories with friends, so finding a comfortable space is essential.
With so many factors to consider, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you understand your options, be aware of the pros and cons, and find the right student accommodation to help you thrive academically and personally.
You’re not the first person and you definitely won’t be the last to ask this common question. To put it simply, student accommodation is housing dedicated specifically to students. There are four different types of student accommodation to be aware of, including
:
These different types of student accommodation options are designed to appeal to different budgets, student demands, ideal social connections, location preferences, and levels of independence.
Read on to the learn more about uni halls, HMOs, BTRs and PSBAs and their pros and cons.
In this section, you'll learn what each accommodation type is, along with the different advantages and disadvantages between them. When deciding between the different accommodation options, be sure to thoroughly compare your options to ensure you're choosing the best fit for your individual needs.
University-owned accommodation (uni halls) are a popular choice for first-year students. These accommodations, managed by the university, are typically located on or near campus and are designed to house large groups of students. They provide convenience, a sense of community, and easy access to university facilities, making them an ideal option for newcomers. Some of pros and cons of uni halls include:
Pros of University Halls
Cons of University Halls
House-shares, or Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are private homes rented to groups of students, which are popular among students for offering a more independent living experience.
HMOs are also great for flexibility, as they provide shared spaces like kitchens and living areas, which allow students to split costs while enjoying a communal yet self-sufficient lifestyle. Here are some of the benefits and disadvantages of private share houses:
Pros of HMOs
Cons of HMOs
Built-to-rent (BTR) apartments are modern, purpose-built homes that are designed specifically for renters (of any kind). These apartments tend to feature new amenities and can be rented individually or shared with friends.
Rented apartments are popular amongst both students and young professionals due to their flexibe leases, making them great for long or short stays in ideal prime locations. Some of the pros and cons of rented apartments include:
Pros of BTRs
Cons of BTRs
PBSAs are privately owned developments designed specifically for students. These modern buildings typically feature a mix of private studios and shared flats that are all equipped with fresh amenities such as high-speed internet, communal areas, and security.
PBSAs are often an ideal location, typically close to universities or popular student areas, and offer a fun, social and comfortable living environment. The benefits and drawbacks of purpose-built student accommodation include:
Pros of PBSAs
Cons of PBSAs
Since 2013, Stockton Students have been providing high-value and budget-friendly student accommodation options to help students feel comfortable as they step into their new chapter of life at university.
But why do we stand out? Not only do we deeply care about the available student accommodation options in and around Liverpool and Ormskirk, but we also offer a wellbeing service and regular student events to ensure students have the options to meet new people and thrive.
Our aim is to help you feel safe and secure as a student without breaking the bank. If you’re heading to university this year, or you’ve been thinking about it, browse through our selection of accommodation options in Liverpool and Ormskirk or contact us with any questions.
Be sure to connect with us on Instagram and TikTok channels too for must-know student tips and insider views on our student properties.
Student properties are often more practical, with features like multiple bedrooms and proximity to campus. However, residential properties may offer better quality but could come with fewer bedrooms and longer commutes. We highly recommend that you make choices based on your priorities.
Living with flatmates is the most popular choice, as it’s an easy way to make friends and share costs. However, if you prefer living alone, you’ll still have plenty of opportunities to socialise through your courses, societies, and events on campus.
You do not need to be a student to live in student accommodation provided by a private landlord. However, you must be a student if you’re looking to live in purpose-built student accommodation or uni halls. Find out more here.
