Halls of residence - arranged by the university. Often be nearer the campus. May be easier to meet people and socialise. Utility bills (such as internet, heating, electricity and water) may be included.
Privately rented house/flat - you pay rent to a landlord. This could offer a more independent lifestyle. Make sure you understand the extra costs you will pay as well as rent.
Rent depends on where you are in the UK, and where you are located in a town. London is more expensive, but the cost of halls range from £80 to £100 per week. In regions like the North West or West Midlands, the average rent is around £72. Accommodation in the centre of towns can often cost more. If it is in an area further away from university, calculate your weekly travel costs to and from university.
In some accommodation rent will include internet access, insurance and other benefits like gym membership. However, not everywhere will! Always research what's included in your rent to see how much you need to budget for.
If you are sharing a house, you will need to budget for gas, electricity, water, phone and internet. Click onto the utilities pages of the UNIAID Student Calculator for more information.
The amount of rent you pay per year depends on how many weeks you can have your accommodation for. On average, UK universities charge rent for halls for 39.3 weeks a year but some may charge for 42-45 weeks. For private accommodation some landlords may ask you to sign a contract for 52 weeks. When you sign a contract, make sure you know how many weeks you are paying for so you can budget. And know when you have to move out.
It is normal for landlords to ask you to pay a deposit before you move in. This can vary but is often a month's rent or more. Some (but not all) university halls will ask you to pay a deposit: the average cost in the UK is £182. Always ask in advance so that you have enough money to pay your deposit. You will get it back when you leave the accommodation if there is no damage.
18% of university halls charge a booking-fee. On average this is £115, and is for the administration they do to book your room. Always ask in advance if there is a booking fee so you have enough money to pay it.
What facilities do you want to share? Do you want to cook your own meals? In halls of residence, there is a range of rooms to choose from and this affects your rent. In self-catering accommodation, you'll be cooking meals for yourself and sharing kitchen facilities with others. Full Board means your halls provide at least 2 meals a day for 5-7 days per week. This is more expensive.
En-suite rooms will be more expensive than single or shared rooms, as you will have your own washing and toilet facilities. Studio flats are the most expensive as a student has their own bathroom, kitchen and bedroom, so most students choose single or en-suite rooms. In Flats, a group of 4-8 students share a living room and all facilities, but have their own bedrooms.
Research the costs and facilities so you pick the accommodation that is right for you!
Average costs for university halls :
If you are going to rent private accommodation through an estate agent, ask about any extra administration charges as these can be expensive. Check these before you sign any contracts.
For more information on housing, tenancy rights, go to the National Union of Students website: www.nusonline.co.uk