Student Accom

Hello, I am applying to go to uni next year and would like to know what the student accom experience is typically like, to help me decide if I want to move out or stay at home. Do we receive our own rooms, and then have to share everything else? Even the bathroom? Also, would there ever be a scenario where my flatmates would be the opposite gender, because that would be a big issue for me. Also, what's the noise level like? Like would I be able to get a decent nights sleep? Thanks.

Original post by georgezra34

Hello, I am applying to go to uni next year and would like to know what the student accom experience is typically like, to help me decide if I want to move out or stay at home. Do we receive our own rooms, and then have to share everything else? Even the bathroom? Also, would there ever be a scenario where my flatmates would be the opposite gender, because that would be a big issue for me. Also, what's the noise level like? Like would I be able to get a decent nights sleep? Thanks.

Hi @georgezra34

I lived in student accomodation my first year and really enjoyed the experience.

You will almost always have your own room. A lot of student accomodations have ensuite bathrooms however some do have shared bathrooms. You would usually have to share the kitchen and living space with your flatmates. However an alternative option would be to live in a studio where you would have a private bathroom and kitchen area, although this can be more expensive.

There are usually some mixed gender flats however there are also single gender flats. When you are choosing your accomodation I would recommend asking to see whether you can request a single gender flat.

In terms of noise, I never found it to be an issue however this can depend on your flatmates.

Hope that helps!

Sophie.
BCU Student Rep.

Original post by georgezra34

Hello, I am applying to go to uni next year and would like to know what the student accom experience is typically like, to help me decide if I want to move out or stay at home. Do we receive our own rooms, and then have to share everything else? Even the bathroom? Also, would there ever be a scenario where my flatmates would be the opposite gender, because that would be a big issue for me. Also, what's the noise level like? Like would I be able to get a decent nights sleep? Thanks.

Hi there!

The accommodation situation depends on the university you apply to. Typically in your first year, you'll go into "halls of residence" (or just halls). In halls, you will have your own room, which will have a bed, some storage, and a desk. You may have other furniture too, those are just the bare minimum. There's a few different type of room, with varying prices.

1.

Shared bathroom. In shared bathroom flats, you'll have your own bedroom, sometimes with a sink in, and then you'll share a bathroom, and living space (living room / kitchen) with others. The amount you share with depends on the university and the accommodation, but normally ranges from 3-8 people. Shared bathrooms are normally the cheapest type of university accommodation. Large flats may have a shower room separate to the toilet, or multiple bathrooms.

2.

Ensuite. Ensuite rooms have their own private bathroom that you won't share with anyone else. These normally cost a little more than the shared bathroom flats. Again, the amount you share with depends on the university, and the accommodation itself, but usually there's less people in an ensuite flat (as the bathrooms use up room space).

3.

Studios. Studios are the most expensive option, and aren't always offered. Studios are miniature flats that you'd live in alone (sometimes dual occupancy is available), but as that cost isn't being split it can be pricey!

I personally lived in a studio with my partner as it was the cheapest option for us, so haven't had the typical halls experience. But it is a really great way to meet new people. Different universities may offer different types of accommodation, and there's also the option for private accommodation. The above list isn't exhaustive, but should give you an idea of the "typical" room types. At some places, you may be able to opt for single-sex accommodation, mature student accommodation (if this applies), accessible accommodation, quiet accommodation, and more. The noise level will vary, depending on where you are. Worst case scenario you can just get some earplugs, but I've never had an issue.

Hope this helps!
-Kiera (Student Ambassador)

Student Accom

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