Hi there,
I recommend that you start applying for accommodation perhaps 2 to 4 months before your course start date and then move in at least a week or 2 weeks before the start date of your course or first lecture/workshop, or as early as possible.
In terms of the application, starting to applying at least 2 to 4 months prior to the start date of your course, it will give you more time to decide which accommodation is suitable for you and identify whether the accommodation is reliable by reading through all the reviews and getting various opinions from other current students.
Furthermore by moving at least 1 or 2 weeks before the start date of your course, it will give you time to familiarise yourself with the city, including all the shopping facilities and what the closest supermarket is to you, as well as the campus, particularly the facilities and buildings you will be using and attending your classes in.
I hope this helps.
Best wishes,
Narusha
Coventry University Student Ambassador