Accommodation
Apart from what you will study, it is also important to consider where you will live while you are in the UK. There are a few common kinds of accommodation to choose from.
University halls
Halls are owned and maintained by universities, and you can usually choose between catered or self-catered arrangements. In self-catered halls, students usually share a communal kitchen with about four others. In most cases, halls are located on campus or very near the university. Normally, rent in university-maintained accommodation covers bills for water, gas and electricity. Halls are secure and reliable, and any problems can be handled by the university, so you don’t need to deal with a landlord.
Private accommodation
Private student accommodation is quite widely available in the UK – especially close to universities. A company will manage and maintain accommodation in a similar way to university halls, but may try to offer competitive prices or facilities. Most universities will offer advice on trusted accommodation providers.
Homestay
In homestay accommodation, you live with a host family and share their home. You can experience the real lifestyle of the country and of your local area, and practise your English by talking with your hosts. Homestay accommodation is usually provided for shorter programmes, and especially by English language schools.
House share
It is common in the UK for a group of friends to rent a house and live in it together while at university. You can do this with friends who are students or professionals, or you can find a shared house and join individually as a housemate. Arrangements for rent and bills are normally handled between housemates, so you need be comfortable sharing the responsibility with others. Most universities will offer advice on trusted letting agents and landlords for you to deal with.
Boarding
Boarding is living at a school. It is usually for primary and secondary schoolchildren. Boarding school accommodation includes all meals, and is very simple, safe, and convenient. Accommodation arrangements are straightforward because you deal directly with the school when you apply to study.
