Student Accommodation
How to Find Accommodation Near Your UK University: A Complete Guide for Students
5 mins read
Posted: 2025-05-27
Finding the right place to live is one of the most important decisions a student can make. Whether you're a first-year undergrad, an international postgraduate, or a returning student, securing accommodation near your UK university can significantly impact your academic performance, social life, and overall experience.
In this guide, we break down how to find student accommodation close to your university in the UK, using practical tips, expert advice, real-time platforms, and long-tail keyword strategies. Whether you're studying in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, or a smaller city, we've got you covered.
Living close to your university offers several benefits:
Reduced travel time and costs
Easier access to libraries, lectures, and study groups
Greater safety and convenience
Stronger connection to student communities
According to UCAS, around 60% of first-year students in the UK live in university-managed or nearby private student accommodation, indicating a strong preference for proximity to campus.
Experts suggest beginning your search at least 4-6 months before your move-in date, especially in competitive cities like London and Edinburgh. For September intake, that means starting as early as March or April.
Delaying your search could mean:
Higher rent prices
Limited availability
Settling for accommodation further from campus
Ideal for first-years
Located on or very close to campus
Prices range from £120 - £250 per week, depending on location and amenities
Managed by companies like Unite Students, Student Roost, and iQ
Fully furnished, often all-inclusive
Common in larger cities like London, Manchester, and Glasgow
Can cost £150 - £400 per week depending on city and facilities
Typically rented through agencies or landlords
More independence, often cheaper than PBSA
Popular with second- and third-year students
Great for language students or semester abroad
Offer cultural immersion
Short-term contracts available through platforms like AmberStudent or UniAcco
Several websites allow you to filter accommodation by proximity to a specific university:
Platform | Key Features |
---|---|
Student.com | Filter by university, all-inclusive rent, verified listings |
Unilodgers | Compare prices, free booking support |
AmberStudent | Short-term options, flexible contracts |
Rightmove Student | Best for shared houses near campus |
University Websites | Usually list approved private landlords or providers |
According to Save the Student 2024, the average weekly rent for student accommodation in the UK is £166/week, but costs vary by location:
City | Avg Weekly Rent | Notes |
---|---|---|
London | £220 - £400 | Highest demand and price |
Manchester | £150 - £220 | Strong PBSA market |
Birmingham | £130 - £200 | Good availability |
Edinburgh | £170 - £260 | High competition |
Sheffield | £110 - £180 | More budget-friendly |
Choose all-inclusive rent to avoid surprise bills and check if council tax applies (students are exempt but need to apply for exemption).
Whether you're renting from a university, private landlord, or co-living operator, always clarify:
Is the deposit protected by a UK-approved scheme?
What is the minimum contract length?
Is it a student-only property?
Are bills, Wi-Fi, and contents insurance included?
How far is it from the university by walking or public transport?
Use Google Maps to check walking and bus routes to campus.
Avoid choosing distance over security. Check:
Crime rates in the area (Police.uk)
Well-lit streets and access to transport
Presence of other students or university support nearby
Co-living is rising in popularity among UK students, offering:
Ready-to-move-in rooms
Social and study spaces
Flexible, all-inclusive contracts
Providers like The Collective, Gravity Co-Living, and Yugo operate in London, Manchester, and Birmingham.
Ideal for:
International students
Postgraduates
Students on short-term courses
"Start your search early and prioritize location and safety over price," says Sarah Edwards, a student housing advisor at University of Leeds.
The National Union of Students (NUS) also advises students to:
Use university housing offices for support
Avoid paying in cash
Always request a written agreement
Finding accommodation near your UK university is not just about convenience-it's about maximizing your study time, safety, and student life experience. With early planning, smart searching, and trusted platforms, you can secure the best student housing within walking distance of your UK university.
Don't wait until the last minute. Use this guide, apply long-tail keyword strategies, and take control of your student living experience from day one.
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