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 — 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 — see cost of living.