It might be your first move away from home, and your first taste independence. It can be exciting to choose where you will live at uni.
However, it can be hard to make a decision about where to live. You can choose to live in student accommodation, private accommodation, or your home.
This guide will assist you in your next steps to starting your university career. Discover all your options, and what the pros and con of living in student housing, private renting, or at home.
Student halls
Halls are available at most unis for first-year students. They can be found on-campus or nearby. These flats are usually separated with 6-8 student rooms per flat. This means that you will be able to meet other students and make new friends as soon you move in.
Students halls are the best choice for living in the centre of unilife. Because they are close to university, it will be easy to make it to your morning lectures on-time.
Students halls will be the most convenient accommodation for those who are preparing to start their first year of university.
What’s included
Student halls typically include bills and internet, so it’s easy to calculate your rent. You can also move in straight away because they are fully furnished with a desk, bed, and storage. You can also bring your own video games, posters or TV.
Halls are managed and maintained by the university.
Sharing spaces
If you are choosing self-catered student apartments, you’ll have to share a kitchen or have access the canteen. Many student hall rooms have an ensuite bathroom. However, there are some that have shared bathrooms. Make sure to check this out when you’re looking for housing options.
Private renting
Private Leicester uni accommodation is available for rent that is not managed by the university. This allows you to share a house with friends or be alone. Private renting allows you to choose where and with whom you live. However, you will also be more responsible.
What’s included
Private accommodation means you have to pay your landlord your rent and bills. Some landlords don’t include internet and bills with their rent. This is why it’s important to be vigilant when looking for a place.
Lage
It is important to consider how far you will travel to get to uni and what public transport options are available. Students halls are often located near campus, while private accommodation is typically further away.
Living with friends
Many students rent privately during their second and/or third years at uni so they can live with friends from their first year. If you have already made friends at your university, this option is also available.
Living in a Shared House
Private shared houses are available for students who don’t want to live with their friends, but can’t afford student housing. Some rooms will be located in student homes – this allows you to meet students from all years of your studies.
Lodging
Private rooms are also available in the homes of those who live in the area. You will be known as a lodger. You will live with your landlord, and occasionally their family. While you will likely be the sole student in the home, landlords might have multiple rooms that they rent out.
You can rent a spare bedroom in someone’s house to make friends and get to know them better.
Living at Home
You could choose to stay at home if your university decides not to send you away. Although you won’t be sharing your apartment with other students while at uni, you will still have the opportunity to participate in the university experience.
You can save money on rent, food and other bills by living at home. You might feel less independent than if you lived away from home, and may not have as many opportunities to grow your independence.