How to Find Short-Term Student Housing in the UK

Finding short-term student accommodation in the UK can be a challenging task, especially for international students relocating for a semester or a short academic program. Whether you're arriving for a summer school, an exchange semester, or an internship, navigating the rental market in a new country can be overwhelming.

This in-depth guide walks you through how to find affordable short-term student housing in the UK, including trusted platforms, budgeting tips, and advice tailored to popular student cities.

Why Students Need Short-Term Accommodation in the UK

There are various reasons students might need temporary housing in the UK, including:

• Exchange programs that last one term or semester

• Summer or winter school attendance

• Internships and research projects

• Last-minute relocation or academic transfers

• Waiting period before moving into long-term university housing

For any of these situations, knowing where to find flexible student accommodation in the UK is crucial to avoid unnecessary stress and expenses.

1. Start with University Resources

Most UK universities provide support for international students looking for short-term lets. Always begin your search by:

• Visiting the university accommodation office website

• Checking bulletin boards for short-term student room rentals

• Asking if there are available rooms in halls of residence on a short-term basis

University-managed housing is often safe, close to campus, and priced fairly, making it one of the best options for students.

2. Use Reputable Student Accommodation Platforms

If university housing is unavailable, use trusted platforms that specialize in short-term student accommodation in the UK. Popular websites include:

• AmberStudent - Offers flexible short stays across cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

• Unilodgers - Features short and long-term options near major universities.

• Student.com - Filters listings by duration and city.

• SpareRoom.co.uk - Ideal for finding rooms in shared houses on a short lease.

• Rightmove and Zoopla - Though geared toward longer leases, some landlords offer monthly terms.

Be sure to filter results using keywords like "short-term student room in London" or "3-month student rental in Edinburgh" for accurate results.

3. Consider Private Landlords and House Shares

For more flexibility and often lower prices, consider renting from private landlords. Look on:

• Facebook groups like “London Student Accommodation” or “Manchester Student Rentals”

• Gumtree UK - Search using specific terms like “short-term student flat Leeds”

• OpenRent.co.uk - A reliable platform with landlord-verified listings

Be cautious of scams—always ask for a video tour, verify the landlord's identity, and avoid paying large deposits upfront before viewing.

4. Look into Homestay Options for International Students

If you're looking for cultural immersion and a family environment, short-term homestays in the UK for international students can be a fantastic alternative.

Platforms to explore:

• Homestay.com - Hosts offer furnished rooms, sometimes with meals included.

• Hosts International - Focuses on students, especially those attending language schools.

• Local agencies partnered with UK universities

Homestays are generally more affordable and ideal for students staying less than 3 months.

5. Explore City-Specific Options

The UK rental market varies significantly depending on location. Here are a few tips by city:

• London: Focus on Zones 2-4 for cheaper rent. Use apps like Movebubble or Spotahome to find short-term lets.

• Manchester: Look near Fallowfield or Rusholme—popular student hubs with flexible housing.

• Edinburgh: University of Edinburgh often lists short lets in Marchmont and Newington.

• Glasgow: Try West End neighborhoods like Hillhead or Partick for affordable temporary housing.

• Bristol: Shared student housing in Clifton or Redland offers short-term rooms.

Always use location-specific search terms like “short-term student accommodation near University of Glasgow” for better results.

6. Understand the Rental Terms and Legalities

When renting short-term housing in the UK, understand your rights:

• Tenancy Agreement: Even for short lets, a contract is crucial. Read terms carefully—check for cancellation policies and notice periods.

• Deposit Protection: If you're staying more than a few weeks, the landlord may require a deposit. It must be registered with a UK-approved scheme.

• Bills and Utilities: Confirm whether rent includes internet, electricity, and water.

Many international students make the mistake of rushing into an agreement without checking these details.

7. Budgeting Tips for Temporary Student Housing in the UK

Short-term stays can be more expensive on a per-week basis than longer leases. Here's how to manage your budget:

• Book early—especially during summer and winter terms when demand spikes.

• Negotiate if staying more than 6 weeks. Landlords may reduce rent slightly.

• Consider off-campus options for lower rent.

• Ask about discounts for students or international interns.

Typical prices (as of 2025) for short-term student rooms:

• London: £180 - £300 per week

• Manchester: £100 - £180 per week

• Edinburgh: £120 - £200 per week

8. Red Flags and What to Avoid

Beware of the following:

• Listings without proper photos or contact details

• Landlords refusing to sign a short-term agreement

• Requests for payment via cryptocurrency or wire transfers

• Excessively low rent prices (usually scams)

Always use reputable sites and don't be pressured into quick decisions.

To find affordable short-term student housing in the UK, start early, use verified platforms, and don't hesitate to reach out to your university for help. Whether you need a place for one month or one term, planning ahead ensures a smoother transition.