Hacks to Find Accommodation in UK for International Students – Starting your journey as an international student in the UK is undoubtedly an exhilarating experience, but the quest for the perfect accommodation can be daunting. I understand the energy-draining frustration and occasional loss of Hope that comes with the seemingly endless search for a place to call home. So, Fear not; I have curated five genius Hacks for finding accommodation in UK as an International student.

Start Early, Stay Ahead!

Accommodation in UK for international students requires strategic planning. Starting your search early provides numerous advantages:

Significance of Early Planning

• Increased options: As the academic year approaches, securing suitable on-campus housing becomes more challenging. Starting early ensures a wider range of choices.
• Financial Planning: Early planning allows you to budget effectively, considering accommodation costs in your overall financial plan for studying abroad.
• Reduced stress: Do you know that students from many countries face higher accommodation costs in the UK? There is no short-span accommodation, and students are forced to sign contracts or lose their accommodations. So why is it very important to avoid last-minute rushes and reduce the stress associated with finding suitable accommodation in a new country?

Tips for Securing On-campus Housing

On-campus housing can be a convenient and supportive option for international students.

• Research University policies: Understand the policies and procedures related to on-campus housing at your chosen University. Different institutions may have unique application processes.
• Application Deadlines: Be aware of application deadlines for on-campus housing. Missing these deadlines can limit your options.
• Explore Accommodation options: Some universities offer various on-campus housing options, such as shared rooms, single rooms, or apartments-style living.
• Communicate with housing services: Establish communication with the University’s housing services. They can provide valuable information, answer queries, and guide you through the application process.
• Consider Cost and Amenities: Evaluate the cost of on-campus housing in relation to your budget. Additionally, consider the amenities offered, such as meal plans and communal spaces.

Budgeting for Accommodation

Recently, the National Student Accommodation survey published showed that “ 63% of students struggle to find the money to pay accommodation costs, and two in  five have considered dropping out due to rent or bills.”

So here are some steps to help you manage your budget for accommodation in UK effectively:

Define your Budget

Income Assessment: Begin by assessing your Financial resources, including any scholarships, part-time work, or financial support from family. Understanding your income is crucial for setting a realistic Budget.

Fixed Vs. Variable Expenses: Differentiate between fixed expenses (tuition, insurance) and variable expenses (accommodation, food). Allocate a specific portion of your budget to accommodation costs.

Factor in Hidden costs

Utilities and Internet: In addition to rent, consider the costs of utilities (electricity, water, heating) and internet services. Some accommodations may include these expenses, while others may require separate arrangements.

Council Tax: Verify your eligibility for council tax exemptions, as students are often exempt. Understanding and planning for such potential hidden costs is essential for accurate budgeting.

Seek Financial Assistance

Scholarships and Grants: Research and apply for housing-specific scholarships or grants. Some universities or external organisations offer financial assistance specifically for accommodation costs.

Part-Time Employment: Explore part-time job opportunities to supplement your income. Ensure that any work commitments align with your academic responsibilities.

Explore Online Platforms: To find Accommodation with Ease:

In this digital age, we have come across specialised websites dedicated to student housing, which is essential to speeding up your accommodation search.

Using specialised websites

Student.com is a leading platform specializing in student accommodation worldwide. It connects students with various housing options, from university halls to private rentals, offering a convenient and user-friendly interface.

Casita.com is a free student accommodation service offering a wider range of University student rooms across the UK. It has over 160,000 rooms across 60 UK cities, all searchable by price, facilities, and Distance to your university.

UCAS: Even if you haven’t joined the college yet, you can still use UCAS accommodation to get an idea of what’s available. You can filter your searches based on your convenience.

AmberStudent: Amber is a long-term accommodation booking platform for students. They help 80M students worldwide, find and book full-time accommodations near their universities, without the hassle of negotiation, non-standardized and cumbersome paperwork, and broken payment process.

Tips for Efficient searches for student’s Accommodation

• Create a detailed profile that allows you to outline your preferences, budget, and other essentials that enhance the accuracy of search results.
• Use filters such as location, budget range, and housing type to narrow your options. This helps you focus on the listing that aligns with your specific requirements.
• Take advantage of reviews and ratings from other students who have used the platform. This feedback can offer valuable insights into the quality and Reliability of the accommodation options.
• Some platforms incorporate map features, allowing you to visualise the location available for accommodation.
• Keep an eye out and check for deals and Promotions for more affordable accommodations.
• Sometimes, it’s essential to be cautious about the scams. Verify the Legitimacy of the listing, and never make payments without ensuring the authenticity of the accommodation.

Connect on Social Media Communities for Student Accommodation

Social media is a smart and dynamic approach to finding accommodation as an international student. Platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp can be invaluable in building communities, especially for student accommodation.

Join University  Specific Groups

Facebook Groups: Most universities have dedicated Facebook groups for incoming and current students. Join these groups to connect with others who may be looking for accommodation or have valuable insights into the local housing.

WhatsApp Communities: Explore WhatsApp Groups formed by students within your university. These groups often serve as hubs for various discussions, Including accommodation tips, available rentals, and roommate searches.

Tips for Effective Use of Social Media

Participate actively in discussions within these groups. Ask questions, seek advice and share your own experiences. Being engaged increases your visibility and the likelihood of finding relevant accommodation information.

Check if your university’s official social media accounts provide information on accommodation.

Connect with fellow students who may have already secured accommodation. They can offer insights into local housing. 

Overcoming Challenges in Finding Student Accommodation

It’s shocking to find out that, Nationally, the demand for student accommodation stands at a staggering 1,489,110 students. During the academic journey, 96.4% of students are seeking 74 different locations in the UK.

Even though we came across the Hacks to find your accommodation. It’s important to make our way through challenges, too:

Challenge: The overall process may be overwhelming, leading to feelings of isolation

Solution: Connect with support networks, including international student groups. Utilise university counselling services for emotional support.

Challenge: The UK may have Different rental procedures compared to your home country

Solution: Familiarize yourself with UK rental Practices. Seek advice from university housing services or experienced peers.

Challenge: Adapting to a new cultural environment in homestays can be challenging.

Solution: Communicate openly with host families. Attend local cultural events to enhance your experience.

Challenge: Budget constraints may limit accommodation options.

Solution: Explore affordable areas or accommodations. Consider part-time opportunities to supplement income.

Conclusion

Finding accommodation in UK as an international student is not just a challenge; it’s part of the experience you gain and how you grow. Can you even guess? What are all just transformations you went through? This process looks solitary at first, but as your reach-out network extends, you connect with locals, bond with fellow students, and establish ties with alumni. Isn’t that a great example of networking you build around yourself? Through the process of finding accommodation, you become a storyteller, making everyone aware that you are here, eager to learn, and open to making connections. It was not just about navigating a physical space. It was much about the new culture and community.

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FAQs

1. How much is the accommodation cost for Indian students in the UK?

Accommodation prices range from university housing to private rentals. On-campus accommodation costs between INR 50,818 and INR 71,146 per month, while private rental housing in the city centre may cost around INR 95,000 per month.

2. How much does accommodation cost in the UK for International students?

The cost of living is around £12,000/ year; on the other side, the average cost of student accommodation in UK is around £547/ month.

3. Is it better to stay on campus or off campus in the UK?

It depends on where you choose to live. Living off campus offers more privacy than living in halls. You can choose to live with students from different year groups or even different universities. On-campus accommodation is also not bad. They provide student meals. It’s a great way to connect with people and share things instead of cooking yourself.