UK

Student Accommodation Options In The UK

 

The United Kingdom - Introduction

The United Kingdom is a country in North Europe. England, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland, together form the United Kingdom. The widely spoken language in the Nation is British-English. The most important cities of the region include London, Manchester, Liverpool, and Birmingham. 

The United Kingdom is synonymous with development and innovation. It is a hotspot for trade and other business activities. The service sector dominates the economy, which accounts for 79 % of its total GDP. It also has a flourishing tourism sector. Some of the famous places include Buckingham Palace, Natural History Museum, Edinburgh Castle, Stonehenge, and Canterbury Cathedral. The UK boasts of a futuristic education system that employs innovative teaching methods to facilitate advanced learning. It has always been a favourite study abroad destination for many. The famous academic institutions include the University of Oxford, London School of Economics and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, King's College London, and the University of Manchester. 

 

Types of Student Accommodation Options In the UK

The types of student accommodation in the United Kingdom are broadly categorized into two - On-Campus and Off-Campus accommodation. 

 

1. On-campus Accommodation

The on-campus accommodation includes Residential Halls or dormitory rooms for students. This refers to shared housing places for students. These halls are often located on the university campus and managed by the university staff. First-year students generally prefer this type of accommodation. 

On-campus accommodation has several advantages. It helps you socialize with your peers and build strong relationships. Since the university manages the halls, the staff can provide any additional help that may be required. Students save on a lot of travel costs. 

 

2. Off-Campus Accommodation 

Most graduate students prefer off-campus accommodation. Even second-year students opt for off-campus housing. 

 

A. Shared Apartments 

Once acquainted with the locality, second-year students and graduate students prefer to stay in shared apartments with their friends. Shared apartments allow more privacy than the halls at the universities. It also allows you to lead a comfortable lifestyle on an affordable budget. 

 

B. Private Apartments 

As an international student, it is preferred that you choose a furnished apartment. You can take help from your university office to select suitable accommodation for yourself. If your budget permits, you can also rent a private apartment. You can also visit websites that help students finalize housing facilities. 

 

C. Houseguest

Several international students choose to stay as house guests. This means you will stay with a local family, and they will take care of your needs. This is an excellent option for students who miss the comfort of their homes and family. 

 

Here's what you should do to find the perfect accommodation. 

 

1. Set a Budget and Follow it

Rent and accommodation can be costly. You must explore several options before finalizing the one that matches your aspirations and budget. While finalizing the budget, you must confirm whether the monthly rent includes utility bills or not. 

 

2. Thorough Research 

It would help if you undertook thorough research about the location and the room/apartment you will be staying in. Make sure you see all the photographs and reviews of that particular dorm room/apartment. 

 

3. Location

If you opt for off-campus accommodation, it is essential to ensure that it is within walking distance or a short ride away from your university. You must also make sure that your apartment is centrally located with enough restaurants and other facilities within walking distance. The area and the locality must be safe and have a low crime rate. 

 

4. Follow all the rules and regulations 

Once you have finalized your dormitory or apartment, make sure you read all the applicable rules and regulations. 

 

If you wish to study abroad, please connect with Whizstorm for the best international career plans.