Though many people describe university accommodation as Halls of residence, commonly known as `Halls', this does not accurately describe the range of accommodation a university may be able to offer.

The type and location of accommodation provided can vary from 'ivory towered' rooms in a beautiful college setting to functional if uninspiring accommodation blocks. Usually places available within Halls are limited and as a result many universities give priority to first year students, students with disabilities and international students. Some universities can guarantee a place in their accommodation for the first year if required.

The cost varies from university to university. The most recent figures available from the National Union of Students (NUS) rental survey a couple of years ago showed average university accommodation rents of £56.85 per week, with the figure for London being £69.64. With inflation it'll be slightly higher than that now.

Most universities provide heating and light within the cost, but some don't so you need to check that carefully. You'll be expected to provide a deposit to cover damages for example. The average deposit is around £120.00. You should expect to get this deposit back when leaving.

The availability of flats and houses for rent varies from town to town. In some towns availability for students is very limited due to competition from other people. This is particularly the case where local house prices are high.

The most common form of accommodation is a shared house. Houses are usually divided into individual bedrooms with common areas such as kitchen, bathroom and a sitting room. Quite often a group of friends will get together and share the cost of the rental between them.

Other forms of accommodation include renting a room in someone's home, often referred to as 'lodgings'. With this type of accommodation you may get a room, access to a bathroom and sometimes meals provided.

The places to look to find rental accommodation are university notice boards, or the accommodation office. The university may have agreements with local landlords to advertise their properties through the university itself. The local press will also carry adverts and you can also find accommodation details advertised in newsagent's windows, for example.

An NUS survey showed that average weekly costs a couple of years ago were £51.57 in the private sector, with the figure for London being £66.37. These costs usually exclude heating and light. You'll also be expected to provide a deposit.

For some students access to other types of accommodation is available.

Housing Association Property Housing associations are charities that offer low rental housing within a local community. Many manage what were previously council owned houses and flats. As a student you will not feature highly on their priority list, unless you are a student on low income and/or with child care responsibilities for example. Waiting lists for accommodation can be long, in some cases many years.

Local Authority Property This is often referred to as council housing. As with housing associations students are not a priority group. However, some local authorities will offer students accommodation in hard to let houses and flats. These are often in run down areas of towns and cities, but if you're unconcerned about that they can be a good option.

Your Own Home For the vast majority of students owning their own home whilst studying is a pipe dream. There is however some evidence that parents who can afford it are helping their children on to the housing ladder earlier by buying property for their children to live in whilst studying.

NUS
National Housing Federation
Scottish Federation of Housing Associations

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