SECOND-YEAR ACCOMMODATION

We’ll handle housing, so you can focus on finding your feet in year two. Once you’re over the excitement (or relief) that your first year of university is coming to a close, it’s time to start thinking about your second-year student accommodation. Contrary to what you may have heard, you can stay in halls for your second year – and enjoy the same convenience, perks and social aspects you’re used to.

This page will give you the lowdown on all your options as a second year student, including:

• Private halls

• Studio apartments

• Shared flats and houses

• University accommodation

Studio apartments are ideal for students looking for their own space.

A studio apartment has everything you need to be self-sufficient in a compact but cosy set-up.

You’ll have:

• Independence and privacy

• Your own bathroom, kitchen and living area, so you don’t need to share with others

• Responsibility for your space. You have full control over your living, study and storage areas.

• The opportunity to decorate your home however you like – it’s your own personal oasis.

University halls are a popular choice for first-years as they’re a great way to meet fellow students and become immersed in university life from the get-go. But they can also be a great option for second years, too.

University halls come with:

• Convenient locations, close to universities

• Student support perks from security to pastoral care

• Added convenience of having bills included

• A community feel of living and sharing communal spaces with other students

• Less pressure on finding housemates yourself.

Need more help deciding? Refresh yourself on different types of accommodation.

While in first year you may have placed a little more focus on making friends and exploring your new city, in second year, the work starts ramping up. So study space or proximity to uni may be a little higher on your accommodation priorities list now.

Here are some things to consider when looking for second-year uni accommodation:

• Privacy. Are you happy sharing spaces with flatmates? Depending on the level of alone time you prefer, you can choose between a house share or non-ensuite room in halls for maximum social time or ensuite and studio options for quieter set-ups.

• Location. It’s time to think about convenience. Do you want to be right in the action and as close to campus as possible, or are you comfortable being a short walk or commute away?

• Budget. The price of second-year accommodation can vary depending on whether you decide to live in a shared house or in halls. While the costs may be a little steeper for halls, Unite Students comes with additional perks like 24/7 on-site security, social spaces and the peace of mind that bills are included.

• Flatmates. Do you know who you want to live with? Choosing who to share your space with can be a big decision. If you work best in clean, uncluttered areas, your notoriously messy friend may not be the most compatible flatmate for you.

• Workload. It may be helpful to buddy up with students studying a similar course to you, so you’ll be on a similar wavelength when it comes to workloads and deadlines.