On-Campus Accommodation

Accommodation provided by your institution might be the most suitable type if you are coming to the UK for the first time. It will provide you with opportunities to get to know other students and become involved in the social life of the institution. In addition, many international students prefer o­n-campus accommodation because of the proximity to classes and student services and the secure environment.

Halls of residence

In this type of accommodation, students live in study bedrooms, either alone or sharing with another student. Bathrooms and other facilities are usually shared, but some rooms have their own facilities attached to them (this is called "en suite"). Telephones are normally provided o­n each floor, but some institutions may provide o­ne in each room. Recently-built halls may also offer internet connection in the rooms. Halls of residence usually provide meals in a dining area, but some are self-catering.

Flats and houses

Many institutions own flats (apartments) and houses in the local area and rent these to their students.  You will have a private bedroom but share the kitchen, bathroom and living area with the other students. As in self-catering halls, you buy and prepare your own food.

Boarding houses (secondary education)

Many private secondary schools (also called boarding schools) provide accommodation o­n the school campus. You will usually share a room with another student, and bathrooms, dining and recreational areas are also shared. This type of accommodation includes meals and laundry services. Students are supervised at all times.

Off-campus accommodation

Hostels

Hostels are often a temporary solution for students who are looking for permanent accommodation or are an option for students o­n short-term courses.

Students share kitchen and bathroom facilities and often share bedrooms although private rooms are sometimes available. Hostels are usually operated by organizations such as the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA). If you wish to apply for a place in a student hostel, you should do this in advance because many hostels have long waiting lists. You will have to pay a deposit to secure your booking.

Home-stay

Students who prefer family support can choose home-stay accommodation, in which local families offer their homes to international students who pay a rental fee. This can be a “room o­nly” arrangement or “full board” where the host family provides meals. Home-stays are a popular choice for younger students and those studying short-term English courses. For many parents of international students, home-stay means security as their children are living at home with responsible adults. In this type of accommodation you will have a private room but will probably share the bathroom and kitchen.

Bed-sits (single room)

A bed-sit is a single room in an apartment building, in which you live and sleep. The building will be divided into several bed-sits, which will be rented by other people who may not be students. Cooking facilities may be in the bed-sit or elsewhere in the building and are shared. You will also have to share a bathroom, clean your own room, do your own laundry and provide your own bed-linen and towels. Heating can be quite expensive.

Flats and houses

After you have been in the UK for some time and have found a small group of friends, you may wish to share a furnished flat or house together. You will share the rent, heating and lighting bills, the food bills and the cleaning. This sort of accommodation can be cheaper than the other types but large houses can be difficult to find. You will have to provide your own bed-linen and towels and do your own cleaning.

Note: In the case of bed-sits, flats and houses, do not sign any contract you do not fully understand. If you are unsure, take a copy of the agreement to your college accommodation office or welfare officer for advice.