Types of student accommodation

Finding the best accommodation for a student studying abroad is a tough task. Convenience, affordability is the main priority that a student looks while choosing accommodation. Every person possesses different tastes and preferences that might not match the other person if residing in student apartments. There are various types of accommodation available for the students that become a confusing task to choose from. Here is the list of accommodation that fits the student needs:

1. Halls of residences - Halls of residence is the first type of accommodation which is generally owned by the University for the First Year Students to make them feel comfortable at home with fellow beings. There are a variety of options available to a person like shared en-suite, catered or self-catered, etc.

2. Family stays or Homestays - Another option for students is to opt for family stays. It is a good option for the international students to live with a family where single as well as shared rooms are available and meals are, therefore, included in the rent. Therefore, they can maintain their budget and reduce the accommodation expenses that lead to significant savings.

3. Private rented rooms - Private rented rooms and houses are the common and popular choice among students. The landlords welcome the students to the house and students shared the rooms among the roommates. The rent is received by the landlords on monthly basis from each student. The students can thus save their expenses by sharing rooms with roommates. This type of accommodation is best suited for those people who are extroverted and do not have any problem in sharing their rooms with others.

4. Private Flat\house or studio - For most people, privacy is the main concern. They do not want anyone to cross their boundaries even when it comes to sharing rooms. Students enjoy living alone and enjoy their company. But this type of renting is more expensive than in spare rooms. You can enjoy every moment as there will be no one to distract you but expensive renting will affect your budget.

5. Off-campus hostel/Guest house - Hostel or Guesthouse is the first choice by the first-year students who are looking for pocket-friendly accommodation like dual occupancy studio. Students can prepare their meals by themselves. This type of accommodation provides a great scope for the students to interact with other international students.

6. Shared apartments- Students can also opt shared apartments with one or more fellow mates. It is a good choice to save on expenses. It is beneficial for those students who study at the same university and may know each other. They can mutually split the money and share an apartment. Therefore, shared apartments are the least expensive option and one can easily find rental accommodation online, in the newspaper, bulletin boards, etc. There are usually a wide range of options available when it comes to this kind of accommodation for students, as evidenced by providers such as ASN Capital Student Living, meaning that one option is not the be all and end all and you should look at what else is provided near your campus.

7. Residential colleges - This type of accommodation is the most expensive option among the various available options. College provides the residence for the student who wants to avail of well-equipped facilities like laundry, free meals, etc. Though it is a bit expensive it supports various services related to studying as well as performing activities. Living with a campus can thus save money on transportation, etc.

8. Apartments- Apartments are rented by the final year students generally to enjoy independence without any interference of fellow mates. An apartment is a good option for the student as the transportation cost to and from the college is minimal. Also, apartments consist of a small living area with a kitchen and bathroom that is sufficient for a single student. The only drawback that comes with this option is that a student has to pay extra for the food, internet connection, and phone services as such arrangements are not available in the apartments.

9. Private student halls- They are similar to halls of residence. The only difference is that it is managed by the organization. In private rooms, you can have your independency i.e. your room and share communal spaces with others. Private halls are designed in such a way to keep the student in mind and also include cinemas. Therefore, private halls are well-equipped and furnished and you get the chance to meet different people from different regions and cultures.

10. On-campus housing - Living within a campus is a good choice among the students. The accommodation staff helps the students whenever they need help. It is a wise decision because students can save money and time. It provides a great opportunity for the students to interact with the other fellow mates. With on-campus accommodation, you can become a part of several parties hosted within a campus. Various universities also provide outdoor terrace, gyms, swimming pools, and barbeques like luxurious comfort for the students. You can engage in extra-curricular activities along with study within a campus.

11. Boarding house - Boarding house is the other option for the students who concern to live in budget-friendly accommodation. It is also known as lodging houses. The rent under the boarding house cannot be increased without the consent of the boarder, the rent is comparatively low.

12. Private property - Such accommodation is taken by those students who want to live with their families. Some families come to set their children and once the degree is finished, they leave the property and rent out to other students. This is a great choice for the students as they can maintain decorum and independency with their families without anyone’s involvement.

Last words

Studying abroad is no problem since you have plenty of options for student accommodation to choose from. The university landscape in Leeds contributes significantly to the city's cultural diversity, attracting students from various backgrounds and nationalities. Every accommodation has its pros and cons that might satisfy the student’s needs. If a student wants something comfortable and within a budget then, privately rented rooms, shared rooms,family stays are a perfect choice. But on the other hand, if a student wants independence and does not want to engage with other fellow mates then private student halls and private halls of residence are better options. Lastly, you can decide as per your choice what suits you the best.