Student accommodation in the UK
Most international students start in university halls of residence for their first year, then move into private house shares. Securing housing early matters, since the best options in popular cities go quickly.
Your main options
- University halls of residence. The simplest first-year choice: bills usually included, contracts aligned to the academic year, and a built-in community. Apply as soon as you accept your offer.
- Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). Private providers (Unite, iQ, and others) offer modern studios and en-suite rooms, often with all bills included.
- Private house shares. Renting a room in a shared house with other students. Usually the cheapest option from second year onward, but you'll handle bills, deposits, and contracts yourself.
- Homestay. Living with a host family, common for younger students and language-course students.
What to budget for
- A deposit (protected in a government-backed scheme for private rentals).
- Advance rent, and sometimes a UK-based guarantor or several months paid upfront for international tenants.
- Bills if not included: energy, water, broadband, and the TV licence.
Tips for international students
- Never pay a deposit before viewing or verifying a property. Rental scams target overseas students.
- Use your university's accommodation office; many vet private landlords.
- Factor commuting cost into cheaper-but-further options, and see cost of living.