The Common Room

A blog covering all aspects of student life - from relationships and wellbeing to budgeting and goal planning.

Circular Student Living: Tips to Save Money with Second-Hand Fashion

Save money and reduce waste with practical student tips for buying second-hand fashion, furniture and tech, borrowing, repairing, reselling and using Unite Students Pre-Loved.

ByCynthia G.
1 October 2026
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Students in the Common Room playing pool

All posts

A student in their room eating
Student living
Saving Energy in Your Student Accommodation: A guideSimple energy-saving tips for students, including advice on heating, cooking, laundry, ventilation and reducing water waste.
ByLewys
30 September 2026
Students in Reception
Student living
How to register with a GP as a UK student Read our guide to learn how to register with a GP as a student, why it’s important, what documents you’ll need and how to access healthcare at university.
BySharna Y.
30 June 2026
Students in shared kitchen
Student living
How to Use an Induction Hob: A Student’s Guide Discover how to use an induction hob with Unite Students. Get ready to cook up a storm and wow your friends in your student digs – even on a budget.
ByJade P.
25 June 2026
Students in the Reception
Student living
Moving Into Student Accommodation: A Step-by-Step Guide for Neurodiverse StudentsMoving into student accommodation can feel overwhelming. This clear, step-by-step guide helps neurodiverse students know what to expect, reduce anxiety, and settle in with confidence.
ByAmelia. A
22 June 2026
Games area at Stapleton House
Student living
UK student visa requirements: What you need and how to apply Learn everything you need to know about UK student visa requirements, including documents, costs, and how to make your application via GOV.UK.
ByAkua B.
4 June 2026
Common area in Stapleton House
Study & careers
What is university clearing?Find out all you need to know about clearing, how the process works, and top university clearing tips when booking accommodation with Unite Students.
ByAlice S.
15 May 2026
Students in the cinema room
Parents & guardians
The Parents’ guide to university clearingNot sure what university clearing is all about? Find out what parents need to know about clearing and how to support your child throughout the process.
ByEllie M.
13 May 2026
Students in study area at Angel Lane
Student living
The International Student Packing List Ensure you have everything you need while studying abroad with our international student packing tips & checklist. Settle into the UK with Unite Students.
ByLewys
29 April 2026

Get the lowdown on all things student living. From choosing a uni course to deciding on your student accommodation, there’s a lot to think about. The Unite Students’ Common Room is your go-to for tips and advice on uni life.

The uni experience goes far beyond where you study and sleep. The friends you meet along the way are a big part of it – but don’t worry if you haven’t found your people yet. There’s plenty of time. Get an insight into how to make the most of freshers week, meet new people, manage relationships at university and more in our articles.

Heading to uni halls may be the first time you’re living away from home, so we’ve also covered things like managing homesickness, budgeting, food shops and even sharing a kitchen in university accommodation.

Ready to make the leap into higher education? Find your answers to university living in the Unite Students’ Common Room.