How to apply for student accommodation

When should I apply for uni accommodation?

It’s a good idea to check how to apply for accommodation at the university or universities you’re interested in. Once your UCAS application for a course is accepted, you’d then apply to the university for a place in their student accommodation.

It’s probably too early to apply for accommodation right now, but universities will have information about what kinds of rooms, flats or houses you could be living in – as well as the costs of rent and a rough idea of when to apply.

Here are a few things you can start thinking about.

1. Search for accommodation

Start by getting an idea of what’s available. Even if you haven’t settled on any particular universities yet, feel free to use the UCAS accommodation search to have a first look.

You can filter your search by:

• room type – e.g. with/without private bathroom or a private studio/flat
• accessibility – e.g. elevators, wheelchair access
• bedroom features – e.g. wifi, desk, double bed
• bills – e.g. are bills and content insurance included in your rent
• property features – e.g. security, car parking, laundry, outdoor area, communal study area

2. Think about the kind of place you’d like to live in

The type of student accommodation you choose to live in could make all the difference when it comes to your uni experience. Everyone has their own preference. Some students jump at the chance to share an apartment in a city centre, whereas some might prefer a shared house on campus.

It could be useful starting to think about the kind of property you live in right now, and if you want something similar or different when you move to uni. You might be feeling a complete change of scenery, so maybe you’d like to go for university halls. Or you might want to live somewhere that’s a bit more in line with your current home.

3. Have a look!

Visiting uni campuses and accommodation is by far the best way to see where you could live – to really get a feel for what it’s like.

• Go to an open day and get a tour of the university and their accommodation options
• Arrange your own visit and tour on a quieter or more convenient day
• Look at virtual tours to explore uni facilities and accommodation online

4. Think about what your budget might be

Student accommodation varies in shapes and sizes – and of course, cost.

Rent varies depending on where it is and what amenities are nearby or on site. Some accommodation includes more bills than others too, so it’s worth thinking about what your budget might be and what you can afford.

• How are you paying for your tuition fees and living costs – what’s your budget?
• Are you getting a student loan – if so, how much can you spend on rent?
• Can you get any bursaries or funding to increase your budget?
• Do your ideal universities have accommodation in your price range?
• Could you rent privately in student house shares for less money?
• Would you be able to get part-time work to top up your budget?

5. Is university accommodation first come first served?

Yes most universities seem to offer accommodation this way, so it’s such a good idea to apply early. Once your chosen uni has received most of their UCAS applications, you’ll probably be able to apply to them directly for your accommodation. Check their website for details of when you can apply, and when the deadline is.

They might ask you to list a few different accommodation options in the order you’d prefer – if you apply before the deadline anyway. This is so more students get at least one of the options they’d ideally like, rather than ending up with something they’re not as keen on.

If you’re not quite sure, there’s still plenty of time to have a look around and think about it. You could always chat to students already at uni to see what accommodation they chose – plus they might have some ideas to help you choose what’s right for you.