The UK is home to most students in their first year. Most choose to live in university halls or private student accommodation. However, many students prefer to move into private housing for their second and/or third years.
Many similarities exist between private student accommodation and university student residences. The only difference is that private student accommodation in private companies is not owned by universities. Private student accommodation is available in many UK cities by companies like Unite, Scape, and Student Living.
Private student accommodation can often offer modern facilities and enviable luxury, so it tends to be slightly less expensive than traditional university halls which are more basic.
While both types of accommodation offer great opportunities to meet new people and are great for making friends, there are differences in their location, cost, and length of tenancy.
This article will help you to make an informed decision.
For students who are enrolled at a university, non-private student apartments can be arranged directly. These halls are usually located near university buildings. This can make it easy to get up early for your 9am lecture.
Private student accommodation is most often located in cities that have multiple universities like London, Leeds, and Manchester. They are located often in the center of the city, which attracts students from many universities. It is a great way for them to meet people from other universities. You might need to travel some distance to reach your lectures.
It all comes down to personal preference. Private Leicester Student Studio is a good option for those who prefer to live in the center of the city. Living in university halls is a better option if you are looking for a close location to campus buildings and campuses.
Costs
Private halls can be run for profit, and are usually more expensive than university student halls. But, for the extra cost, you can get modern facilities, luxuries, such as private kitchens, en-suite bathrooms, and great central location.
University halls are typically slightly less expensive but can cost a lot more depending on the type of halls and facilities you need.
These types of university accommodation can help you avoid hidden expenses such as utility bills and contents insurance.
It’s important to note that both university halls as well as private accommodation can be expensive depending on where they are located.
Social life
Because you will usually live with between 4 and 12 people, student accommodation can be a great place to meet new people. Both accommodation options allow you to choose the people you will live with.
In university halls, you may request to live with mature students or in quieter halls. You might be able request to live in a quieter or near-by hall in private halls. It is important to note that there is no guarantee that you will get the accommodation of your choice in either type.
Unless you choose an en-suite, student halls will have a common kitchen and lounge area.
Private accommodation usually includes communal areas. This may include dining areas, cinema spaces and lounges to socialise. Private student accommodation may offer studio apartments, which can be more private, but they will likely be more expensive.
Regular events may be hosted by accommodation providers to allow students to get to know each others and socialize.
Facilities
Private student accommodation can offer many unexpected perks. These include a grand piano for students in Nottingham and a service to rent a surfboard in Bournemouth. Private student accommodation often comes in newly renovated or brand-new buildings. They can offer higher quality facilities than standard student residences.
Some university halls have premium options that include double beds and superfast Wi-Fi. You can also choose between uncatered and catered, which gives you a certain amount of money to spend at campus food.
A majority of student accommodation includes Wi-Fi and a shared area. Private accommodation is often more luxurious and offers double beds, on site gyms and superfast WiFi.
You get what you pay, and private and non-private halls will generally offer better facilities.
How long can you stay?
You might be able to stay 40 weeks (September through June) or 52 (September through September) in standard university accommodation. Private accommodation may require you to pay for 52 weeks.
Before making a decision, make sure you read the terms and conditions of the tenancy agreement.
