Finding a suitable accommodation is crucial for international students coming to the UK to pursue their studies. However, some may not even know how to start their search in a foreign country. This article will guide students through what they need to know before renting a student accommodation, including the common accommodation options available in the UK and their respective advantages and disadvantages, to help them find the most suitable sanctuary away from home.
Common Options Renting a Student Accommodation
The first is Homestay, which is suitable for younger students. When they are new to a foreign country and not adjusted to the language and local habits, living with a host family can improve their language skills faster and enjoy two meals a day for free. However, the quality of a Homestay depends on luck. Friendly and hospitable families will invite you to participate in their daily life and entertainment activities, while some families will only provide basic accommodations. In addition, students need to maintain the same living habits as their host during the boarding period. Students are advised to communicate with their host in detail before signing the contract and find out if they have a similar lifestyle.
The university-run on-campus student housing is the most secure and reliable living option. This traditional housing is usually located on or near the campus, giving students quick access to buildings and other facilities. All rooms are equipped with individual locks, and an access control system at the entrance ensures everyone’s safety. Unfortunately, the university cannot provide accommodation for everyone, and only about 20% of students can live in an on-campus dormitory. Therefore, competition is intense before the start of the semester.
In order to solve the housing problem of the growing student population, the off-campus student home has become increasingly popular. These apartments are operated by private developers, and all university students can live in them. This type of accommodation has the advantage of a diverse range of apartment providers on the market and rooms available at various prices. Like on-campus dormitories, all apartments have professional CCTV and access control systems to ensure everyone’s safety. In addition, many apartments also provide abundant community facilities for students to use for free, including self-study rooms, cinemas and game rooms. For most students, it is the ideal “student home” option. However, some famous apartments are so popular that they must be booked in advance, and most do not allow pets.
Many international students tend to rent private properties with friends after their first year in the UK to be able to choose their own roommates and enjoy a more independent life. A wide variety of social properties in all parts of the city provide students with a wide range of choices. The biggest advantage of renting social properties is that you can have a home-like living experience, and most landlords are relatively relaxed about restrictions. However, students need to deal with living matters on their own. First, they must pay their bills, such as water and electricity, and sometimes communicate with the energy company. In addition, students living in social properties need to apply for tax exemption, or they will be subject to Council Tax. These are not considerations when living in student accommodation Manchester.
Common Student Room Types
Depending on the accommodation they choose, students may find a variety of room types. Student Accommodation offers the most rooms, including Basic Room, En-suite Room, Studio Room, Shared Room, 1b apartment and 2b apartment. Social property is usually a Studio or multiple-bedroom apartment.
01. Basic Room
Basic Room, also known as Single Standard or Non-En-suite, is one of the common room types in student apartments. It is the cheapest room type, providing only the basic living facilities, including a bed, desk, chair, bookshelf and wardrobe. Some apartments will install a separate sink for students to wash clothes. The biggest disadvantage of this room is that you need to share the kitchen, living room and bathroom with your roommates, but it is still popular because of its low price.
02. En-suite Room
En-suite room is the most popular choice in the UK, as they offer a good balance between privacy and social interaction. While sharing a kitchen and living room with non-en-suite rooms, each en-suite room has its own bathroom, which offers privacy and hygiene. However, due to this, en-suite rooms may have a smaller living area than non-en-suite rooms.
03. Studio Room
The studio roomis the best choice for singles. This room contains the functions of a bedroom, kitchen and study room, providing students with a completely independent living space which can meet all needs without leaving home.
04. 1B and 2B Apartments
1B apartment is the most luxurious option in student housing. It provides a separate bedroom, kitchen, living room and bathroom, making it the closest living option to home. The large size makes it possible for multiple people to live together. Some apartments allow students to live with another person for a fee or for free. Some apartments also offer 2B apartments, which are perfect for friends or couples.
In addition to the four common student rooms, a few apartments also have special rooms, such as duplex or loft apartments. Students can check out the apartments’ official websites for details.
Tips When Looking for a Student Home
Finding student accommodation Glasgow can be exciting and challenging. If you are encountering difficulties in locating the ideal room, we have compiled some essential factors to facilitate your search:
1. Start Early: It is best to start the search several months before the planned date of moving in to increase the chances of choosing and improve the possibility of finding a suitable residence.
2. Budget: When making a budget for accommodation, consider rent, utilities and other extras and make sure it is realistic.
3. Research the Neighborhood: Find a suitable location that matches your preferences and needs by researching community and district information. Factors such as distance to the university, amenities, entertainment options, security, and transportation may need to be considered.
4. Attend a Housing Fair: Remember to take full advantage of your university’s resources, as they often organize property fairs where local landlords and property management companies showcase their accommodations. These events allow you to meet with landlords in person and ask questions about property-related matters.
5. Check Out College Information: Many colleges have departments helping find suitable student accommodation London. Visit your college’s website or contact their student services or housing office for guidance and advice.
6. Read Reviews and Compare: Read reviews from previous tenants while browsing for a room to learn about the property, management, and any potential issues. Comparing multiple options will help you make an informed decision.
7. Visit the Property: If possible, arrange to visit the property you are interested in to get first-hand information about living conditions, amenities and the surrounding area.
8. Understand Terms and Contracts: Before signing any rental agreement, please carefully read and understand all terms, including rental terms, payment plans, deposit requirements, and any additional fees. Ask about any terms that you are unsure of.
Conclusion
Finding the right student accommodation can help you to navigate your study life smoothly. Although it can be difficult at first, there are a number of resources and organizations that can help you. Hopefully, this article has given you a basic understanding of renting a student accommodation in the UK and will help you when choosing a room in the future.
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