In the UK, most first-year students decide to live either in university halls or in private student accommodation, with many students opting to move into private housing in third and second year.
Private student accommodation and halls for university students have several similarities. The main distinction is that private student accommodation is owned by a private business instead of a university. Companies like Unite, Scape and Student Living offer private student living areas in cities across the UK.
Private student accommodation typically has impressive facilities and luxurious amenities that is why it is generally more expensive than the traditional halls of universities that have less basic facilities.
Both kinds of accommodations provide a wonderful opportunity to meet new people, however they are different in their location costs, social activities and length of tenancy.
Here are the the advantages and disadvantages of these two options for students at universities.
Location
Student halls that are not private are provided directly by universities to students who are enrolled at that institution. This is why they’re often closer to university buildings. This is extremely convenient to wake up five minutes early for your 9am class.
Private student accommodations tend to be based in cities where there are multiple universities, such as London, Leeds and Manchester. Often located in the city centre and attract students from universities all over the city, making it an excellent opportunity to connect with students from different universities. The downside is that it could be necessary to travel further for your lecture.
It’s all about your personal preferences. If you prefer living in the heart of the city with all its excitement and energy private apartments might be for you. If you’d prefer to be close to university buildings and campus, you may be better off staying in university residences.
Costs
Private halls run for profit and often change a higher price than university student residences. However, in exchange for this cost, you can enjoy high-end facilities, such as bathrooms with en suites, private kitchens, and an excellent area in the heart of the city.
Halls for universities are typically cheaper but can vary greatly in cost, based on the types of halls you’re looking to rent and the facilities you require.
The two types of accommodation for university students will allow you to stay clear of expenses that are not obvious, such as utility bills, contents insurance and communal cleaning are included in the cost.
It’s worth noting that the price of private accommodation and university halls vary based on their area of operation.
Social life
Student housing is a fantastic way to get to know new faces because you’ll be living with four to 12 people. In both options of accommodation you can’t decide who you’ll live with.
However, in university halls you can often request to live in more friendly halls, quiet halls or with fellow students of a similar age and universities will work hard to fulfill your request. In private halls, you may also be able to request to be near your the same people or in quieter halls. In any type of accommodation there’s no guarantee you’ll get your first choice.
In university student halls typically, you’ll share an area for cooking and a lounge with a bathroom unless you’ve opted for an ensuite.
Private accommodation may also have spaces for socialising, which can include cinemas, restaurants and lounges where you can gather in. If you’re looking for privacy, studio apartments could be available as student housing, but these are more expensive.
Leicester uni accommodation providers might also host regular activities for residents in order to allow students to meet each other and socialise.
Facilities
From the grand piano of Nottingham to a surfboard renting service in Bournemouth accommodations for private students is often a great option with unexpected benefits. Because private student accommodation is usually found in newly constructed or renovated buildings, they could offer better amenities that are not found in standard student accommodation.
Many university halls provide premium accommodations, which includes double beds superfast internet access and bathroom en suites. You’ll also be able to pick between uncatered and catered with catered, which provides you with an amount to use for food on campus.
In general, student accommodation comes with Wi-Fi and a social space. But, the facilities for private student accommodation will be higher-end – with two beds, gyms on site and superfast Wi-Fi.
You pay what you get for, and the more expensive halls which are private and not are usually equipped with better facilities.
How long do you have to stay?
While standard university accommodation might allow you to choose between staying for 40 weeks (September to June) or 52 weeks (September to September) Private accommodations may offer longer terms, which means you have to pay for the full 52 weeks.
Learn the terms of the rental before making a decision.
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