Choosing Accommodation for University: A Guide to Finding Your Home Away from Home

Hiya 🤗

Starting university is an exciting milestone 🎉, but choosing the right accommodation can feel overwhelming 😬

Leaving the comfort of home 🏡, navigating a new city 🌆, and living with new people 👥 can be daunting. But this is also the start of a fantastic chapter in your life, full of independence, growth, and unforgettable memories ✨

To make your journey smoother 🚀, I’ve combined my experience and knowledge to guide you through finding the accommodation that suits you best. Let’s explore the options together! Feel free to share your insights or ask any questions that torture your mind 😊

Types of Accommodation 🏡

1. Student Halls 🏢

Student halls are a popular choice, offering private rooms within shared flats or studio apartments.

Key Features:

Shared Flats: Private bedrooms with shared communal areas like the kitchen (ensuite options are common).

Studios: Fully self-contained units for maximum privacy.

Rent: Typically includes utility bills and requires minimal or no deposit. Prices vary based on location, amenities, and standard, ranging from £90 to £160 per week in Leicester.

Amenities: Many halls offer extras such as gyms 🏋️*♀️, study areas 📚, and cinema rooms 🎥. Laundry facilities are often shared 🧺, although some flats may have their own machines.

Location: Central and close to campus 🏫, making it convenient for classes and university events.

👍 Pros:

A vibrant, community-oriented environment 🌟 with opportunities to socialise and participate in organised activities 🎉

Security features like CCTV 📹 and 24-hour staff.

👎 Cons:

Less privacy in shared flats.

Higher cost for premium facilities 💰

2. House/Flat Shares 🏡

Renting a house or flat with fellow students is another common option.

Key Features:

Shared Spaces: You’ll have a private bedroom 🛌 but share the kitchen 🍳, living area 🛋️, and often the bathroom 🚿 (ensuite options are less common).

Rent: Prices start from £70-£80 per week. Utility bills may not be included, so factor these into your budget 💡

Deposit: Generally higher than for student halls.

Amenities: Washing machines are usually provided 🧼. Outdoor spaces like terraces 🌿 or gardens 🪴 may be available, but security features like CCTV are rare.

👍 Pros:

Lower base rent compared to student halls 💸

A more homely atmosphere 🏠, often with a living room.

👎 Cons:

Distance from campus can be greater 🚶

Responsibility for managing utility bills 🧾

3. Studio Flats 🛋️

Studio flats offer a fully self-contained living space, ideal for those who value privacy.

Key Features:

High levels of independence 🗝️

Typically more expensive than shared accommodations 💵

✨ Recommendation:

For first-year students, I suggest starting with shared accommodation to ease the transition and build connections 🤝 Living alone can feel isolating, especially when adjusting to university life.

4. Staying at Home and Commuting 🚗

Living at home is a valid choice for those near campus.

Key Features:

Familiar surroundings and significant cost savings 💰

Requires effort to stay socially connected to campus life 🌍

🌟 Recommendation:

Join societies, attend events 🎭, and participate in campus activities to make the most of your university experience

Factors to Consider

💡 Budget: Be realistic about what you can afford. Account for rent, bills, and other living expenses.

📍 Location: Proximity to campus saves travel time and costs. Leicester is compact, and most accommodations are within walking distance of universities.

🎯 Comfort Zone: Consider whether you’re comfortable sharing spaces like bathrooms or prefer the privacy of an ensuite or studio.

Tips for a Successful Accommodation Hunt

1️⃣ Start Early: Begin your search around December to secure the best options 📆

2️⃣ Visit in Person: Photos can be misleading. Visiting accommodations during open days can give you a better sense of the space 👀

3️⃣ Check for a Guarantor: Some options don’t require a guarantor or accept non-UK guarantors, which can save you hassle ✅

As final advice, I highly recommend living with others. Shared living helps you adjust to university life, build friendships 👫, and create a support network that can last a lifetime. In fact, the friends you make in your first-year accommodation may even become your housemates in future years!

I hope it was helpful 💪 Feel free to reach out if you have any questions 😉 You can also chat with me or other students directly through The Ambassador Platform.

Take care,

Julia
Psychology student
De Montfort University