The Iglu Guide | Blog
Which type of student accommodation is best for you?
Choosing where to live while at university can be confusing and overwhelming. And with all the different types of student accommodation available, how can you tell which one will suit you best? Here’s how to understand exactly what’s on offer, and what it means for you.
Student accommodation types
Student accommodation comes in all shapes and sizes, and it really does come down to personal preference as to which one will suit you best. From on-campus accommodation through to shared rentals and purpose-built student accommodation, we’re going to break down each option to help you understand how to get the best out of your student experience.
On-campus student accommodation
Some universities offer residential colleges or student accommodation that is housed within the university grounds or very close to campus. This can be a very convenient way to live, with minimal travel time and great access to all the student facilities. The rooms are usually furnished, and the halls often have their own libraries, fitness facilities and possibly on-site tutor support. For students that are keen to immerse themselves in university life and have the opportunity to make friends, this is a great solution. As these tend to be older buildings, the facilities are not always that modern, and they are more likely to have shared bathrooms. The food may be fully catered which is not a great option for those that like to cook independently or who may not like the food on offer. Not all universities offer this type of accommodation, it can be difficult to secure a place and the prices can vary quite significantly by university.
Is this student accommodation right for me?
If you’re happy to mix primarily with students from your own university and year group, and are not particularly fussed about what you eat or how it gets to your plate, this is potentially a good option. However, if you prefer more modern facilities, a more independent lifestyle and a broader network within your student community, you may find this type of student accommodation limiting.
Purpose-built student accommodation
Combining all the benefits of contemporary design, a prime location, and a wide range of facilities, purpose-built student accommodation is an incredibly popular student choice. Curated specifically to meet the needs of the modern student, this type of student accommodation is usually available fully furnished with both private and shared accommodation on offer, including en-suites and self-catering facilities. Purpose-built student accommodation also includes shared social and study places, communal BBQ areas, media rooms, 24/7 security and fitness equipment. There are supportive and qualified staff available onsite at all times as well as an immediate and diverse student community just outside your door. With just one all-inclusive bill to consider, there are no additional costs to worry about and students can focus on enjoying their university experience.
Is this student accommodation right for me?
Purpose-built student accommodation is perfect for students who want to live centrally and independently but have that added layer of safety and security for complete peace of mind. The built-in community means you never have to look very far for company, and the diversity of students offers the opportunity to network beyond your immediate social and academic sphere. This type of accommodation will suit students that enjoy a range of facilities, modern design and a central location for the ultimate in convenience living. It is not best suited to students that enjoy the opportunity to travel in and out of campus, or those who prefer to leave student life behind at the end of every day.
Shared student accommodation
Most cities have plenty of shared rental accommodation available for students. The cost can be quite varied depending on the proximity to the city centre or university campus, and the type of accommodation you choose. Shared student housing that falls within budget tends to be the older properties that are some distance from the city centre, and often in need of modernisation. With this type of student accommodation, you could potentially be sharing with a houseful of complete strangers that are not necessarily students and you’re fairly likely to have shared bathroom and cooking facilities. Instead of managing just the one bill, tenants will need to register for all utility supplies as well as phone lines and any other optional extras such as on demand TV channels. This type of shared student accommodation can be found through websites, newspapers or noticeboards.
Is this student accommodation right for me?
For those that are happy to share student accommodation with strangers, and potentially people that have completely different lifestyles and interests, this type of shared student rental is definitely a cheaper option. If you are happy to overlook the interior design and are prepared to travel some decent distances in and out of the city to study each day, it could be a great way to save some money. If you prefer to live in the heart of the action and are unhappy about taking responsibility for a lease – and potentially being liable for extra rent if someone moves out and you don’t have a replacement – this is probably not the best student accommodation type for you.
