While most of the first-year students go directly into the university halls, many look into different options available. To choose the right kind of accommodation, you need to learn about different types of accommodation.
Different student accommodation types
University halls
Most of the first-year students are provided with a place in university-managed student accommodation or halls, that have their own benefits. When it comes to socializing, living with your classmates is one of the best ways to make friends in an unknown city. In addition to it, you will be conveniently situated so you will not have to worry about commuting every day to reach lectures on time or participate in the society’s activity. If you are going to live away from home for the very first time, the halls can be a good preparation for living in the private rented sector. You are also likely to be well-supported by the housing office or the university itself. You are also likely to be well-supported by the housing office or the university if anything goes wrong.
Pros:
- Social scene: You can meet a wide range of students in one place.
- Ease of living: You can ease gently into living away from home.
- You will not be alone: You will be always provided with support from the university whenever needed.
Cons:
- Not choosing the roommate: You will not get a chance to choose who you will be living with.
- No guarantee: You might not get a place in your preferred place.
- Always in the middle of the noise: You will not get a space to concentrate or focus.
Private student halls
A second option in different areas is to go for a room in a PBSA. The set-up is similar to halls which are managed by the universities. You have your own room as well as shared common areas such as a kitchen or a TV room. Studio apartments may be available, though these are generally pricier.
Private hall providers are quite common in big cities such as London or Manchester. Lots of students look to stay in the private hall. These halls are one of the best ways to expand your social circle. When you browse providers, you can check what common spaces are available or what other regular activities happen for the residents to meet and socialize. The majority of the private halls are located right on the city campus, near the shopping center and all the best nightlife.
Pros:
- Built-keeping students in mind: These are made keeping in mind the student’s benefits.
- Handy perks: You can find different perks like Wi-Fi be part of the package.
- Location: You can choose the location as per your preference.
Cons:
- Extra costs: The cost of the PBSAs might be higher. However, it depends on one location to another.
- Unnecessary perks: Some of the PBSAs comprise different perks like saunas or cinema rooms which are not of much use.
Private accommodation
Some prefer to live in private accommodation. In this kind of student apartment, the students move straight into the privately rented sector where they can rent a house or flat with a group from the landlord or letting agent. Sometimes it can be your choice if you are a mature student who wants to own their living space outside the realms of university. Other times, it might not be not all the universities are able to guarantee a place in the halls of residence.
Living in a privately rented property can be appealing as it enables you to decide exactly where you can live. While it can be tricky to find those in a similar position one can organize viewings if you have not moved to university yet. You can try student-focused letting agents in the area as well as dedicated sites to find a house. The rooms generally are large, spacious, and had everything they needed. The landlord sometimes requires a bit of chasing up to fix anything but otherwise, you will love it.
Pros:
- Independence: You are in charge of who you want to live.
- Local area: You can be a part of the local community.
- Flexibility: There are many options to suit your preferences.
Cons:
- Distance: The location can be far from the university.
- Managing bills: You will have to manage all your bills on your own.
- Doing all the chores: Most of the private accommodations don’t have any help. So, you have to manage all your chores.
