The Iglu Guide | Blog
How to choose the right student accommodation
With several factors to consider when choosing your student accommodation, it pays to look around and do some research. Location, budget and facilities are all important – but there is no one single answer because every student will have different needs and requirements. Once you have secured your university place, it’s time to start thinking about what’s important to you, and how you want to live.
Student accommodation types
Students have the luxury of choosing from a range of different accommodation options that include independent rentals, purpose-built student accommodation (like Iglu), or on-campus accommodation where available. There are pros and cons to each, and much of it will depend on what you are personally looking for in your student accommodation.
What to look for in student accommodation
• Room type
Are you looking forward to sharing with other students, or would you prefer complete privacy? Some students relish the opportunity to mix in with others or share with friends, while other students prefer the privacy of living alone. Iglu accommodation provides an option for both. Share apartments are perfect for those who want to socialise within their own living space, while studio apartments have all the benefits of private accommodation. And with great communal facilities on tap, there is always like-minded company on hand.
• Location
Private rentals are often located some distance away from campus and other student activities. This can present challenges with getting in and out of university, or travelling safely at night. If you have a busy timetable, it might be better to be located close to campus and student amenities. Similarly, if you enjoy socialising and don’t want to be traveling alone late at night, accommodation closer to the action would suit you better. All Iglu accommodation options are well located close to universities, with multiple travel options nearby.
• Student accommodation facilities
What facilities does your student accommodation offer? Private rentals are unlikely to offer extra facilities, but purpose-built accommodation like Iglu offers communal socialising areas as well as a gym and BBQ area. If you’re living in a share apartment, you might appreciate access to private study areas. Those in private apartments will enjoy the benefits and convenience of on-site social facilities , making it easy and convenient to mix in with other students, and broaden your social network beyond your discipline. And with an Iglu Resident Leader coordinating regular social activities every week, there’s always something for residents to enjoy.
• Safety and security
Whatever student accommodation you choose, you want to be assured of your safety at all times. Iglu combines independent living with safety and security, offering 24/7 security and trained staff on hand at all times. It also helps to know there is a supportive community available whenever needed.
• Community
When choosing your student accommodation, it’s reassuring to know that there’s a likeminded community around you that extends beyond your natural network. This is where you will be spending much of your time, so it’s important to get this part right. Do your research and find out any information you can such as whether the local area is student-friendly, what the residential facilities are like, or how the accommodation brings students together. Iglu organises regular activities that encourage a natural interaction, which in turn creates that important sense of community. And if you want a study buddy, or a shoulder to lean on, it also helps to know there are others going through the same experiences just outside your door.
• Extras
Don’t forget to consider any additional bills in your accommodation search, and check that everything stays within budget. At Iglu, we believe in keeping life simple. With just one weekly fee to think about, there’s no unwelcome surprises at the end. And with unlimited Wi-Fi and all utilities included, student living just got that bit easier.
