When it comes to selecting the best Leicester uni accommodation, it may be overwhelming, particularly when it is your first time in a different location.
There are a variety of factors to consider like the location, budget, as well as the amount of people you would like to share your home with.
Our guide to student housing within the UK will provide you with the advantages and disadvantages of a few of the most sought-after choices.
Four different types of student housing
Halls of residence
Private student halls
Private rentals
Homestay
1. Halls of residence
This is the kind of housing that the majority of first-year students choose to take.
The halls of residence are usually run by the university. They will provide you with a room however, you’ll share other areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Most often, they are located on campus or within the same city or town as the school They can be an ideal option to commute to.
You’ll be sharing a room with a lot of first-year students but not necessarily who are on the same track as you, which is an excellent opportunity to make new acquaintances.
It’s also a great start to move in a different location as you gain independence, but you won’t have to worry about your landlord or the cost of utilities.
The best parts:
It’s an easy method to begin your college life
Halls are an excellent place to live in regards to the social aspects of college life
Since halls are usually controlled by the university and you’ll receive additional support in case you require it.
The bad parts:
You’ll be unable to choose the people you live with
They can be extremely noisy.
There aren’t all schools that will offer halls available for all students in the first year.
2. Private student halls
Private student halls are comparable to residence halls, however, they are run by organizations.
It is possible that they can accommodate students from a variety of institutions – ideal for expanding your social circle further.
Private halls are where you’ll get your own space and have shared spaces with other people However, you may also find studio apartments available for an extra cost. Private halls can also have interesting features such as saunas and cinema rooms.
Things to consider before deciding whether this kind of rental is suitable for you is whether you will have to pay any initial charges and if utility bills are included in the rent.
The best parts:
The halls have been constructed and designed to accommodate students.
You’ll meet lots of people from all walks of life.
The halls are usually modern and well-equipped.
The bad parts:
Like halls of residence, they are extremely noisy areas to live in.
Extra costs might apply
You’ll be unable to choose the people you live with
3. Private rentals
Private rentals are when you lease a home or apartment from a landlord or agent.
Usually, you share your space with a group of people or students, you can also decide to live on your own in the event that you require an individual space.
Since not all universities have enough room in their halls of residence, you may consider this as one option to consider for your first year.
If you are in this position the university you attend will usually be able to assist you locate a suitable location, and they may also have a list of properties they have approved to frequently use.
The majority of students choose this option during their third and second years because it’s easier to choose a location to live in once you’ve got to know the region a little better.
While living in a private apartment can be more costly (you’ll be paying rent and bills to pay) it also gives you the option of choosing who you reside with and the location you reside in.
The best parts:
You live with your friends
You are able to choose where you reside – near the university, or in close proximity to the city or town centre
There are a variety of options for the kind of property you decide to lease
The bad parts:
You’ll need to budget for additional expenses like rent, deposits, and bills.
You’ll have to work with your landlord and deal with any issues that arise
Being close to your friends isn’t always as simple as you think.
4. Homestay
A room rented by an existing family is an ideal option for students looking to have the comforts of home while they study.
Host families are checked and accepted by the university, to ensure that you are going into a secure environment. The university can also consider any personal preferences regarding the host family you choose to stay with prior to giving you a room.
The meals are usually catered and meals are shared with the entire family. This makes it an ideal option for international students looking to improve their English abilities and experience everyday British life.
The best parts:
The warm and welcoming atmosphere of a family is a great option if this is your first time leaving your home
Food is usually served
You’ll gain a unique glimpse into the cultural background of the country.
The bad parts:
You’ll need to follow the rules of your host family
You may be far away from the campus
It is sometimes difficult to establish friendships with other students
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