If you’re planning to study in the UK, you’ll typically have two main options for accommodation: university halls or private rentals (like a flat or house). Once you’ve picked one, there are a few other things to think about when choosing where to live.
Here are five tips to help you find the right place in the UK.
1. Figure out what kind of accommodation you want
First, decide what type of place suits you best. In the UK, you’ll generally have three choices: university housing, private student halls, or renting a flat/house.
University accommodation can vary a lot—from a basic single room with a shared bathroom to an en suite room in a small student flat. Your uni will usually send you details about the different room types so you can pick and apply for what works best for you. You might also get to choose between catered (meals included) or self-catered options.
Keep in mind that university housing is mostly offered to first-year undergrads and postgrad students. If you’re in your second or third year, you might not be eligible.
In bigger cities, you could also rent a place in privately owned or purpose-built student halls. These are often a bit pricier than uni housing but might come with newer facilities and more room options. The good news is that students at any level can usually apply.
Another option is renting privately through an estate agent. The best way to find a place is by working with a trusted local agent. You can ask your university’s student union for recommendations or to connect you with other international students who’ve rented before.
Since you might not be able to visit properties in person before arriving, don’t hesitate to ask for plenty of photos or even a video tour from the landlord or agent. If possible, having a friend or family member check the place out for you would be ideal—but that’s not always an option.
2. Set your accommodation budget
Before choosing a place, think realistically about how much you can afford to spend while studying abroad.
If you go with university accommodation, you might have payment plan options (like paying per term) or the choice to pay everything upfront. Most uni housing includes bills like internet and water in the price.
But if you’re renting privately—whether in halls or a house—you’ll need to find something within your budget, including monthly bills. Some rentals include utilities in the rent, while others charge them separately. Make sure you check this and adjust your budget before signing anything.
If you’re sharing with friends, agree on who pays what before moving in to avoid surprises later.
Also, with private rentals, you might need to pay a deposit (often a few months’ rent upfront). Factor this into your moving costs, and ask if the landlord uses a deposit protection scheme to make sure you get your money back when you leave.
3. Pick the right location
Where you live matters, so take your time deciding.
Research the city or town you’re moving to and shortlist areas you’d like to live in. You might want to be right on campus or a bit further away—whatever suits your lifestyle.
Check that the area is safe and has good transport links. Whatever you choose, make sure it fits all your needs.
4. Look into bills and licences
If you’re in university or private student halls, you probably won’t have to worry about setting up bills or internet. But double-check before you move in, just to be sure.
For private rentals, you’ll need to research electricity and internet providers so you know who to sign up with when you arrive. You can’t usually set these up until you’re there, but it helps to compare prices and requirements beforehand.
If you plan to watch live TV (even on a laptop), you’ll need a TV licence, which can be paid all at once or in monthly instalments.
You should also get contents insurance to cover your belongings in your new home.
5. Check what’s included and what to bring
Most university halls come furnished, but you’ll usually need to bring bedding and kitchen stuff (if you’re self-catered). Many international students buy these after arriving to avoid carrying them overseas.
For private rentals, check whether the place is furnished or not. Most students prefer furnished flats so they don’t have to buy furniture.
If a place you love is missing something, ask the landlord if they can provide it—sometimes for an extra fee (or even for free if you’re lucky!).