First-Year University Accommodation: What Matters and What to Avoid!

So, you’ve got your university offer, you’re excited for the future and now comes the next big decision: where the heck are you going to live? Choosing your first-year accommodation can feel like a high-stakes game of real-life Monopoly. Do you go en-suite? Shared flat? Private halls? Mum’s basement? (Just kidding… probably.)

Whether you’re hoping for flatmates who become lifelong mates or simply a kitchen that doesn’t look like a war zone, here’s a guide on how to find what you’re looking for.

What actually matters in first-year accommodation?

1. Having your campus nearby
   Living on-site or close to your university campus saves time, energy and a small fortune on taxis when you “accidentally” sleep through your alarm. If you’re someone who struggles to study at home, having the library nearby is a massive plus. Bonus points if you’re near food spots, supermarkets, or decent takeaway options.
2. The Vibe (aka your flatmates)
   Living with people you like can be the difference between a fun year and a total horror story. You can’t always pick who you live with, but try to get a feel for the social vibe of the accommodation you’re choosing. Some buildings are party central, while others are a lot quieter, so explore your options until you find what works for you. If you’re unsure, it’s useful to speak to someone who attended university or is currently studying there to gain some insight.
3. Kitchen space & storage
   You’d be surprised how quickly six people sharing one kitchen turns into fridge Tetris. If you’re able to do a viewing of the university’s accommodation, check if there’s enough useful equipment (like a kettle and microwave), suitable cupboard space, working hobs, and a clean(ish) oven.
4. Safety and security
   It’s not very exciting, but it’s important. What security and safety measures are in place? This could be keycard or code entry, security cameras and on-site security staff. Don’t be the one who finds out the hard way that their door doesn’t lock properly. (Yes, this happens.)

What to avoid

Now that you know what’s important, let’s discuss what to stay away from at all costs.

1. Shiny but shady private halls
   Private halls might look chef’s kiss online, but make sure you check reviews. Sometimes the WiFi is worse than you might think, the walls are paper-thin, and the management isn’t great. Always do a little online sleuthing before signing anything.
2. Overpaying for fancy extras
   Gym, cinema room, rooftop garden sounds lush, but are you going to use them? If it’s hiking your rent by £50 a week, think twice. You’ll thank yourself later when you’ve got enough left for more important things!
3. Noisy nightlife next door (unless that’s your thing)
   Living above a nightclub may sound fun… until you’re trying to revise for exams while the bass is literally shaking your bed. If sleep matters to you, steer clear of high-traffic nightlife zones (or at least pack earplugs).

Top tips from students who’ve been there

• Decide on a budget: When you get to university and see your student loan in your bank account, it’s easy to spend it all at once. Setting budgets before starting university allows you to keep your spending habits under control.
• Tour the area if you can: Virtual tours are helpful, but in-person visits give you a clearer idea of the area and what’s around. Additionally, do some research about your commutes, such as the best bus to take to get to campus and the fastest way to walk to the supermarket.
• Connect before you move in: Many universities have Facebook or WhatsApp groups, which are ideal for getting to know people ahead of time.

Bills, bills, bills (organising the adult stuff)

First-year halls usually have bills included in the rent (yay), but if you’re in private housing, get ready to enter the world of adulting. That means setting up and splitting utility bills like WiFi, electricity, gas, and water. Don’t forget your own personal subscriptions like phone contracts, Netflix, and Spotify, because these can pile up quickly. Budget for them monthly, so you’re not surprised when your bank account is empty halfway through the term.

Top Tip: Set up direct debits where you can so you never miss payments (and avoid late fees). Most digital banking apps allow you to categorise your spending, so you can see where your money is going and budget more effectively.

Remember, you’re not stuck forever

Don’t stress if your first choice doesn’t end up being what you had in mind. University accommodation is temporary, and every flatmate, broken shower, or mouldy fridge becomes part of the story.