So , you’re going to university. But hang on a minute isn’t there a tiny question of where to stay? While many universities offer accommodation within their campus for the initial year, there are lots of options to choose among – and you might have to locate your own.
It’s not an easy undertaking for anyone, particularly if you’re experienced in the area you’re considering but your college is likely to be able to give lots of assistance throughout the process.
We spoke with The Student Housing Company, who was able to help us create this comprehensive guide on how to find an appropriate place – to live.
Look around the different accommodation on offer
Each university has at least a few kinds of accommodation on offer for students in the first year like:
Halls with catering.
Self-catered halls.
Self-catered flats/houses.
There’s no better way to assist you decide than by actually exploring the accommodations and looking at the rooms. It’s quite common that this is part of an open day, but if you’ve never been able to attend or can’t remember the options consider asking your university again.
The details and images of each residence should be easy to find on the university’s website or in the prospectus in the event you are unable to remember.
What if I found the chance to clear a space?
The search for student housing could be a little bit harder when you have secured your spot at university through clearing. Some universities reserve several spaces for students who are clearing however if this is not the case there are other options available in addition to university-owned properties.
Your school will be able to give recommendations for private accommodation providers that offer private student halls or student house-shares. Make sure you book appointments to view these properties whenever you can, so that you will have more of an idea the suitability of these properties for you. You should also make sure you ask any concerns to the landlord or provider if you aren’t clear of the specifics of the rooms.
Be aware of what you are looking for and do not want
It’s a good idea to think about what you’d like from your student accommodation, and most importantly what you’re not looking for. Each student residence should be completely furnished with everything you need, so you don’t have to think about how to arrange furniture. There are some key items you should be aware of:
Catered/self-catered.
En-suite bathroom.
Rooms that are shared or one room.
Communal space.
Storage/parking facilities.
If you’re unsure about cooking for yourself catering services could be the ideal option however if you have specific dietary requirements it may be more beneficial to have the option of cooking at home in self-catering accommodation.
Leicester uni accommodation vary dramatically and range from those with private bathrooms, to those with shared wash facilities, as well as boxes rooms to large rooms. The extra space or having your own bathroom may bring costs up quite a bit, so it’s important to consider whether the amenities are affordable.
Some universities offer shared rooms in addition to the more standard possibility of having your own space. If you really don’t wish to share a space with another person, make sure you mention this in your application.
Most accommodation options have communal spaces. In halls, you might share many individuals, however in house-share situations you may only share a home with up to six others. It’s a bit daunting to move into a new place with strangers and sharing a dining area or living room will make it much easier to make friends with your housemates and begin to know them.
If you’re thinking of using a car for your trip to university, then you will need to make sure there is parking near your residence or close to. Also, if you’re taking a bicycle with you be sure that there are secure storage facilities. Many universities are now adding bike shelters across campuses.
Factor in cost and location
With a few basic factors with which to start You can begin thinking about the price and the location of each type of accommodation that you feel is appropriate. The cost is the most important factor to consider and you should try to stay within your budget as well as your student loan allowance, and avoid unnecessary costs if you’re struggling with costs.
Always check whether the cost is weekly or monthly and if it is inclusive of bills, and the amount of time it will last. Private or catered halls might appear more expensive, but this may be due to the fact that they cover all of your bills as part of the price.
In addition, certain accommodations owned by the university might have you move out in the Christmas and Easter holidays, so it is important to check how long you’re paying for. Do not sign a 12 month agreement – you’ll only be in the university for nine months of the year.
If you don’t know the town of your university it is crucial to double-check where exactly the accommodation is. In some larger cities, there’s no campus and that lecture buildings along with accommodation facilities are scattered all about the city. Explore the routes that connect your accommodation to your lectures before you book anything – it will ease the anxiety about getting to your classes on time when the term begins.
Make contact with your university or your accommodation service
After you’ve considered the advantages and disadvantages of each accommodation and you’re now able to pick the most appropriate one for you. If you are picking somewhere which is managed by your university There may be some specific forms you have complete to reserve your space. It’s a good idea to contact the university first to check this if you’re unsure.
If you have opted for private student accommodation, make contact with the provider or landlord to organise your contract and reserve your room.
Before you sign the contract, ensure that you’ve read the entire contract and are aware of what the fees cover. Then , it’s time for you to look forward to moving-in day! If you’re really prepared, why not make a list of all things you’ll need to carry and any other items you’ll require to purchase prior to the moving day.
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