How to Choose Accommodation for Uni | Unite Students

University choices can be overwhelming – from deciding what to study and at which uni, to working out where to find the best student accommodation. Finding the right place to live is important, as it affects how you live, study and socialise when you’re not in class.

This guide to finding the best uni accommodation in the UK will help you set your priorities, work within your budget, and find a home from home that’s right for your needs.

The best student accommodation is not a one-size-fits-all solution. What’s best for you will depend on a few things, like your preferences, circumstances and budget. Some things to think about include:

• Budget and affordability – living beyond your means can soon get stressful, so make a realistic budget before you book.

• Privacy vs. social life – halls can be great if you’re a social butterfly, but a private room may be better for those who prefer their own space.

• Convenience and location – accommodation that’s close to uni and to local amenities will make life simpler.

• Facilities and comforts – think about whether you need furnished rooms, what amenities you would like, on-site security services, and how good the internet connection is.

• Flexibility – check the type of contract and length of your lease so you’re covered if anything unexpected comes up.

• Support and community – facilities such as wellbeing support, on-site staff, and organised social events can all make your stay at uni better.

What are the different types of accommodation?

There are essentially four key types of student housing, and the best uni accommodation for you will depend a lot on who you are and what your priorities are. What’s right for one person may not be right for another, so take some time to figure out what’s most important to you before you book.

Private or purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA)

Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), such as that offered by Unite Students, is housing designed specifically for student living. It’s usually off-campus, but always close to the university, and often allows you to choose either shared accommodation or private studio apartments.

• Within easy walking distance of campus

• Facilities may include amenities such as on-site gyms, communal social areas, outdoor areas cinema rooms and more

• Higher security and safety measures than other types of accommodation

• Bills are usually included in your rent, so you know where you stand financially

• Purpose-built designs often offer a higher standard of living

University-owned accommodation (halls)

Halls is the common term for accommodation owned by the university, which is usually located on campus. This type of accommodation is typically only available to first years, who will be allocated a room with another group of students.

• Usually one of the most affordable options

• Bills are typically included, so you can keep track of finances easily

• Most halls have shared communal spaces, including kitchens and bathrooms, so privacy can be lacking

• Rooms in halls always come fully furnished. However, the aesthetics may be basic, so you might want to bring things from home to personalise your space

• Bedrooms are usually private, although some halls may pair students off into dorm-style rooms, so check before you book if you need your own space

Private house shares (HMOs)

Houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs) can be a popular choice for many students in their second and third years who want to live with a specific group of friends. These are privately owned and rented accommodation options that may sleep anywhere from around four to ten students.

• Often the cheapest option if sharing with enough people

• Bills are rarely included at HMOs, so you’ll have to budget for things like water, electricity and internet on top of your rent

• Most HMOs are located further away from campus and the city centre, although they are often in areas that are renowned for their student lifestyle

• As these accommodations are privately owned, quality can vary

• Safety and security can be a concern, especially when there are a lot of people living in the house who have guests coming and going

Built-to-rent apartments (BTRs)

Built-to-rent, or privately rented, apartments are one of the most expensive types of accommodation, and are aimed more at business professionals than students. However, some students prefer the extra cost to have somewhere private and well-maintained.

• Bills are not often included, so budgeting for utilities as well as rent is essential

• Most BTRs are more centrally located than HMOs

• Usually maintained to a higher standard than HMOs as they’re operated by management companies

• BTRs are not specifically designed for student living, so you may miss out on a lot of the social aspects of uni if you choose this type of accommodation

• Rented apartments will always be quieter than accommodation that has a lot of students – great for studying, but not so good for your social life

Learn more about the different types of student accommodation in our guide here!

5 key things to consider when choosing your accommodation

Your own needs and priorities will determine what type of uni accommodation is best for you. To find the best student accommodation for your needs, there are five key things you should consider:

1. Your budget

Your budget is the first thing you need to think about when choosing the best student accommodation, as living outside your means can quickly become stressful. Compare prices across a range of accommodation types and set a realistic budget that you know you can stick to. With Unite Students, all bills are included in your rent, so you don’t have to worry about finding extra for utilities. This makes it easier for you to budget and means there won’t be any unexpected costs throughout the year.

2. Location and convenience

Time spent commuting is time that could be better spent studying, socialising, or catching up on sleep! Choosing accommodation either on campus or within easy walking distance gives you more hours in the day to focus on the important things. Uni halls and PBSA are more likely to be close to campus than HMOs or BTRs. You might also want to look at what public transport links are available nearby, for day trips or visits back home, as well as how close you’ll be to the town centre and the heart of the action.

3. Amenities

Many of the best student accommodations have on-site amenities to make your uni experience even better. Unite Students properties offer a range of amenities, which can vary across cities and properties, so take a look to see what you could benefit from when choosing your accommodation. Facilities can range from common rooms, study rooms, and outdoor spaces to cinema rooms, on-site gyms, pool tables, games and more. It’s also a good idea to look at what’s available in the surrounding area. Are there shops close by, and where are the nearest student bars?

4. Room type

The type of room you choose will depend on various factors, including your budget, but also your personal preferences. Some people want to be in the thick of things from day one, while others need a private sanctuary they can retreat to at the end of a long day. Most student lets will have some shared communal areas, which may include kitchens and bathrooms, so think about how willing you are to share those spaces.

Unite Students offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all preferences, from rooms in shared properties with private ensuite bathrooms, to completely private studio apartments. We also offer accessible rooms and more affordable non-ensuite rooms.

5. Safety and support

For most students, uni is their first experience of living away from home, which can be scary. Knowing your student accommodation is safe and secure can help make that transition easier. On-site support can also make those first few weeks – and your entire uni experience – easier to handle.

All Unite Students properties prioritise your safety and security, with 24/7 support there whenever you need it, day or night. Access is via secure fobs, so only the people you and your housemates invite will be able to get in, and there are cameras and other security measures to ensure your safety.

Life at Unite Students

Unite Students accommodation is designed to help you make the most of your time at university, with facilities that promote both study and socialising, and that help you feel safe and secure.

• All bills included – this makes it easy for you to plan your budget, with no unexpected costs cropping up during your stay

• 24/7 support – being away from home for the first time can be scary, but with 24/7 support onsite at every property, you can get the help you need to make your uni experience enjoyable

• On-site security & key fob access – your home should be your safe space, and, with Unite Students, you can rest assured that your safety and security are a top priority

• Social and study spaces – whatever property type you choose, you’ll have access to shared spaces for studying and for socialising, helping you make the most of your time

• Close to campus – don’t waste hours commuting that could be better spent learning and having fun. Our accommodation is always close to campus for your convenience

• Amenities – with facilities like cinema rooms, games rooms, gyms and more, your downtime is just as well covered as your study time

• Regular events – build friendships with regular social events organised by us, helping you meet new people and find your uni tribe

• City life on your doorstep – locations are chosen not only for their distance from campus, but also for their proximity to some of the best student areas in each city

How to book with us

Booking with Unite Students is quick and easy – and can be done entirely online. It’s simple to choose your room type, reserve your spot, and even explore the city before you get there.

• Head to the property search page and choose your study year and chosen city

• Browse the available properties and different room types

• Choose from the options on the next page – bed size, room size and floor height

• Take a 360-degree virtual tour of your chosen room, or click the link to book an in-person viewing

• Choose how long you want to book for – typically one academic year or one full year

• Click on the Book Now link and fill in your personal details

• Once booked, the rent price is locked in for the full year.

How to choose your accommodation FAQs

What should I look for in student accommodation?

Things to look for in student accommodation include costs that suit your budget, a room type that suits your personal preferences for privacy or socialisation, and safety and security measures so you can feel at home.

What is the best uni accommodation?

The best uni accommodation for you will depend on your circumstances. Think about how social you want to be, how close to campus, what your budget is and what amenities would make your stay at uni more memorable.

What is the cheapest type of accommodation?

The cheapest type of accommodation will depend on where you’re headed. Typically, the cheapest options are university halls or shared housing, especially if you’re prepared to share with a larger group.

What do I do if I can’t find accommodation?

If you can’t find student accommodation, you should contact the accommodation department of your chosen uni. They will be able to talk you through the various options and help you expand your search. There might be last-minute spots in halls, or they may be able to put you in touch with private landlords or purpose-built student accommodation providers like Unite Students.