Accommodation is often the largest single cost of university life and one of the most stressful decisions in the application process. Most universities guarantee halls of residence for first-year students who accept their place by a deadline - typically in late summer.
Understanding your halls options
Universities generally offer catered, part-catered, and self-catered halls. The weekly cost varies substantially:
- Catered halls in London or Russell Group cities: £200 to £350 per week including meals.
- Self-catered en-suite rooms: £140 to £220 per week.
- Self-catered shared bathroom rooms: £95 to £160 per week.
Read the contract carefully before accepting. Check whether the 40 to 52 week tenancy covers holiday periods you will not be present, and whether the weekly rate includes bills or adds them separately.
Comparing halls across universities
When comparing universities on your UCAS list, factor in accommodation costs. A university with lower tuition fees in a cheaper city can produce a meaningfully lower total cost of study. CourseMap's city pages include typical accommodation cost ranges as context for the salary data.
Tip: Check whether the accommodation is on-campus or a walk from campus. On-campus halls often cost more but reduce transport costs and time. Off-campus university halls are sometimes managed by third-party providers - read recent reviews before accepting.
Moving to private renting in second year
The private rental market for students is highly seasonal. In many university cities, second and third year students begin searching for shared houses in October and November of their first year for the following September. This feels very early, but waiting until spring significantly reduces your options in popular cities.
Key things to check in any private rental:
- Is the landlord licensed under the local authority's HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) scheme?
- Who holds the deposit, and is it registered with a government-backed deposit protection scheme?
- What is included in the rent - are bills capped or unlimited?
The Renters' Rights Act
The Renters' Rights Act came into force in 2025, abolishing no-fault Section 21 evictions and strengthening tenants' rights to keep pets and make reasonable adjustments. As a student renter, you are covered by these protections. Your Students' Union housing office can advise if you have a problem with a landlord.