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4 Different types of student accommodation in Leicester

When you are faced with choosing the ideal accommodation, it might feel overwhelming, especially in the case of the first time you’ve lived far from home.

There are numerous factors to consider like the location, budget, as well as the number of people you wish to live with.

Our guide to student accommodation in the UK will provide you with the pros and cons of several of the most well-known choices.

4 Different types of student accommodation

Halls of residence
Private student halls
Private rentals
Homestay

1. Halls of residence

This is the type of Leicester uni accommodation that most first-year students select.

Halls of Residence are generally administered by the school. They will provide you with a room, but will share other rooms, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Usually , they are on campus or at a minimum, in the same city or town as the school It is a convenient option for commuting to.

You’ll live with lots of other first-year students, not necessarily those who are on the same track as you, so it’s ideal to meet new friends.

It’s also a great starting point to start living without a home. You’ll be able to live your life without the have to worry about landlords and the cost of utilities.

The good bits:

It’s a simple way to start your university experience
Halls are a great place to live in regards to the social aspects of student life
Because halls are run by the university You’ll also receive extra assistance should you require it

The bad bits:

You’ll be unable to choose whom you live with.
They are very loud
Some universities may not have halls that are available to each first-year student

2. Private student halls

Private student halls have a similar structure to halls of residence, but they are managed by a different organization.

You may find that they will accommodate students from various universities , which is great for expanding your social circle further.

For private halls you’ll have your own room , and are part of the communal spaces, but you’ll sometimes find studio flats for rent at an additional cost. Some halls are even equipped with amazing facilities like cinema rooms and saunas.

Things to consider before you decide whether this kind of rental is right for you is if you will have to pay any initial fees and whether utility costs are included in the rent.

The best parts:

The halls have been made to accommodate students.
You’ll have the chance to meet lots of people
The halls are generally modern and well equipped

The bad parts:

Like halls of residence, they are very noisy environments to live in.
Extra costs might apply
You’ll never have a say in whom you live with.

3. Private rentals

Private rentals are when you lease a house or flat through a letting agent.

Typically, it is shared with a group of friends or other students, you may decide to live on your own when you feel that you’re in need of your own space.

Since not all universities have enough space in their halls residence, you may be able to find an option you must consider for your first year.

If you’re in this position the university you attend will usually be able to help you locate the right place and they may also have a list of properties they have approved to utilize regularly.

Most students will choose this option between their second and third years since it’s much simpler to select a home to live in once you’ve got to know the area better.

Although living in a private property can be more expensive (you’ll be paying rent and bills to deal with) it also gives you the choice of who you share your space with and where you’ll be living.

The good things:

You can live with your best friends
You can pick where you live – close to the university, or within easy reach of the city or town centre
There are a variety of options for the type of property you choose to rent

The bad parts:

It is important to budget for more costs like the cost of rent, deposits, bills and deposits
You will have to deal with your landlord, and resolve any problems that arise yourself
Living with close friends isn’t always as easy as you may think.

4. Homestay

Renting a room with families from the local area can be an ideal option for students who would like to experience some of the home comforts during their time of study.

Host families are checked and accepted by the university, which means you can be sure that you are going to a secure area. The university may also take any personal preferences regarding who you live with prior to giving you a room.

In most homestays, meals are provided including meals with the entire family. This is an excellent option for foreign students who want to practice their English skills and experience real day-to-day British life.

The best bits:

The family-friendly atmosphere could be a good thing if it’s your first trip away from your home
Meals are generally provided
You’ll be able to gain an insight into the culture of the country.

The bad bits:

You’ll need to follow the host family’s rules
You might be living a long way from the campus
It can be difficult to make friends with other students