How To Find Accommodation in the UK for Indian Students?

Finding the right accommodation is really important for international students as it impacts the overall life of students in UK. For indian students, the types of accommodation and costs of living in the UK may be unfamiliar. So finding suitable accommodation in UK for Indian students might be difficult.

In this blog, we can look at various types of student accommodation in UK, their costs, pros and cons etc. We shall also look at how we can find a place to stay on campus and off campus. If you are a student going to study in UK this blog will help you.

Table of Contents

• Types of Student Accommodation In UK
• Ways To Search for Accommodation In UK
• Things Students Should Consider When Choosing House For Rent In UK
• Cost Of Student Accommodation In UK
• Pros & Cons Of Accommodation in UK For International Students
• Frequently Asked Questions

Types of Student Accommodation In UK

Students have the options for accommodation during their studies. They can choose from the following types of accommodation.

• University Halls
• Private Student Halls
• Homestays
• Private Flats

University Halls

University halls are a convenient and safe option for first-year students. As they are near the campus, they save time and transportation costs. With student support services from the university, students can focus on their studies without worrying about safety. The community in halls helps create study groups and provides support.

University halls provide multiple facilities, which make life simpler. These utilities save time and make budgeting easier. Students can get guidance and participate in social activities. Freshmen can concentrate on their studies and also build connections.

Private Student Halls

This is a private and more customizable living option compared to university halls. These are managed by private companies and students can choose their roommates. They have to share their living spaces and facilities. Students can get modern amenities, like study areas, fitness centers, etc. 

They are safe and can receive on-site staff support. They are a good option for students as they can make flexible contracts and are situated in convenient locations near universities.

Homestays

Homestays offer a different living experience. Students stay with a local family, where they help you adjust to the new city. You can save money on accommodation and also enjoy daily life and culture. The host offers support and helps you navigate through the city. Students get safe, home-cooked meals, and a welcoming atmosphere which makes homestays very comfortable.

They are cost-effective compared to apartments and flats. The connection with the host can be long-lasting beyond your stay which is valuable.

Private Flats

Students living in private flats enjoy flexibility and independence. They can choose their location, and create a living space that matches their needs. Flats provide privacy, and you can focus on studying.

Students can either live alone or share the room with their friends. The cost can be shared to reduce the financial burden. Flats get amenities like kitchens, attached bathrooms, and Wifi. Some properties even offer facilities like gyms or study areas. Private flats can be tailored to meet individual preferences.

Ways To Search for Accommodation In UK

There are several ways to look for vacant places to stay in UK. Check these options to find accommodation.

• Websites
• University Email
• Agencies
• Word Of Mouth

Websites

Websites are the easiest and most convenient ways to find accommodation. These are some of the top property search websites in the UK.

• Rightmove
• Zoopla
• Rentify
• Prime Location
• Smart New Homes

University Email

If you are planning to stay on campus, the university will contact you by mail. You can let them know that you want to stay in the hall of residence. Many universities give accommodation on a first come first serve basis.

Agencies

Agencies take a fee as a service charge but they reduce the effort required for searching an accommodation. Some of the agencies are:

• Garrington Property Finders
• Property Finder UK
• Buying Agent
• Stacks property search

Word Of Mouth

When you join your college you will make a lot of friends. You can ask them where they stay and if they can share their rooms with you. The seniors in college can also help you with budget-friendly places to stay.

Things Students Should Consider When Choosing House For Rent In UK

Here are some important points to consider while choosing the best place to study in UK. 

• Good Location
• Affordability
• Caters Your Needs
• Deposit Security
• Enquire

Good Location

Consider thinking of the following things before choosing the accommodation:

• Is the location safe for students?
• Do crimes happen often in the place?
• Is it far from the college?
• Are there essential amenities near the place?

Affordability

Check how affordable the place is for you.

• Does the rent fit your budget?
• Are there any additional costs involved?
• What is the rent for other properties near you?
• Is it okay to pay a little extra for safety?

Caters Your Needs

When you look for a place to stay during your studies you should check if the following points are satisfied.

• Spacious rooms
• Cost of living
• Furnished rooms (if you require)
• No hidden charges
• Good property owner and neighbours
• Hassle-free check-in
• Good transportation connectivity

Security Deposit

A security deposit has to be paid for any kind of accommodation. In case you cause any damages the money will be deducted from this deposit. The house owners are obliged to keep the security deposit in a safe place.

Enquire

The best way to know about your property is to enquire to others.

• You can ask the neighbours.
• You can ask the local students.
• You can check the place online.
• You can ask the senior students.

Cost Of Student Accommodation In UK

On-campus accommodation is maintained by the university and is convenient and safe for international students. Off-campus accommodation is much more flexible and gives better privacy.

On-Campus Accommodation Costs

University	Average Cost of Accommodation per month
Oxford University	GBP 1,290
University of Cambridge	GBP 700
King’s College London	GBP 800
London School of Economics	GBP 790
University College London	GBP 680

Off-Campus Accommodation Costs

Location	Average Cost of Accommodation per month
Durham	£550 (INR 56,000)
Belfast	£450 (INR 46,000)
Leicester	£525 (INR 54,000)
Stirling	£475 (INR 48,000)
Cardiff	£525 (INR 54,000)

Pros & Cons Of Accommodation in UK For International Students

As you now know the different types of accommodation available in UK, you should read about their pros and cons before finalising your place of stay. Check them out for on-campus and off-campus accommodation.

On-Campus Living

Pros	Cons
It is convenient and close to your college.	Limited availability.
Easy to join communities and have a social life.	Lack of privacy.
Support services are provided by the university.	Lots of distractions.
The accommodation fee is inclusive of all charges.	Can be congested.
Rent is cheaper compared to staying outside.	Average standard of living.

Off-Campus Living

Pros	Cons
Independent and flexible	Difficult to find the right place.
More options	You may incur additional costs.
Can save money by sharing with more people.	Distance to college is more.
More interaction with local people.	No access to university resources.
Complete privacy	Students may feel homesick if alone.

Related Resources:

1. IELTS score for UK
2. UK student visa interview questions and answers
3. SOP for UK
4. UK Scholarships for Indian Students
5. Intakes in UK
6. MBA in UK for Indian Students

Conclusion

London the capital of the UK has high education and living standards. As the UK is an expensive place to live it is important to find cheaper accommodation to lower your cost of living. You can share your room with your friends to share the rent. There will be affordable student housing in or nearby your university.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How to find accommodation in UK for Indian students?

You have to do your research well in advance through online portals or a study abroad consultancy to book your accommodation to stay. You can contact your university to stay on campus. The location and your budget are very important.

2. What is the cost of living in UK for Indian students?

For students, the average cost of living in the UK is between GBP 850 to GBP 1600. The actual cost of living depends on your lifestyle and personal needs.

3. How much do students pay for accommodation in UK?

Students pay nearly 500 GBP (INR 51,260) monthly as housing expenses. This is the average amount and your expenses of accommodation may vary depending on many factors.

4. Which place in the UK is best for Indian students?

London is ranked the best student city in the world by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds). Edinburgh is also ranked in the top 10 student cities in the world.