Thinking of hitting the UK for some serious learning? Coming to the United Kingdom to study is a unique opportunity and one to which many people aspire. The broad scope of British educational institutions offering quality degree packages means more and more international students are heading this way.
Move quickly
Once you have been accepted on the course of your choice and been given the green light to start, there will be lots of practical things to organize. One of the most pressing arrangements will be that of accommodation. Student accommodation is always in high demand and quality places get snapped up first. Unless you have pre-existing arrangements, let the university or college know straight away that you will require accommodation – this won’t guarantee that you will get it, but international students frequently get priority.
The most important thing to do is enter the hunt for accommodation as early as possible to increase your chances of a satisfactory outcome. Demand always exceeds supply in student accommodation, regardless of location and budget – it’s just the way it is. Let this fact focus your mind and galvanise you into action as soon as you have confirmation of acceptance on your course.
Happy in halls
As an overseas student you will often be given priority in halls of residence, but as demand soars, this should not be relied upon. Many first year students choose to live in halls of residence in the first year as it is a good way of meeting new friends on arrival. Halls of residence are usually large buildings that can be modern or historic in architectural style. They can be set out in a variety of ways, sometimes the accommodation is self-contained but frequently students share apartments with communal kitchens and bathrooms. Halls can be single or same sex and if you have a strong preference for either make sure to notify the accommodations office at the earliest opportunity.The furnishings in halls of residence can be quite sparse and basic and students often feel it necessary to accessorise with items that introduce colour and interest to the space. Some university halls provide meals in a canteen as part of the accommodation package, although many overseas students elect for self-catering so they may cook for themselves.
Off campus
Student accommodation has advanced in recent years and the days of unhygienic, filthy lodgings and unscrupulous landlords are largely in the past. Many students like to club together with their friends and rent private houses in student areas of cities. Larger properties that have been specifically adapted for multiple occupation with several bathrooms, large communal areas, high speed internet and gardens are very popular and get snapped up early. When moving into private rented accommodation it is necessary to sign a legal document called a tenancy agreement which covers the terms of the rental contract between tenant and landlord. If you have any doubts about entering into such agreements, speak to your international student advisor for guidance and advice.
For many international students, arranging accommodation from a distance can be problematic and may put you at a disadvantage. Fortunately there are some really good options for overseas students to explore that mean you don’t have to miss out on the best rooms. Modern, comfortable and clean accommodation that is well equipped and secure can be found at wearehomesforstudents.com. Catering specifically to student accommodation needs, wearehomesforstudents.com are really pushing the boundaries of what is possible in this sector. With an all inclusive service that removes a lot of the stress and worry from sorting out living arrangements, this dynamic property company provides wonderful accommodation with all utilities, internet, bike storage, security and even gym membership included in the package. Stylishly furnished flats and studios with smart modern interiors, well equipped kitchens and en-suite bathrooms are the norm and if necessary, can be viewed and reserved online for maximum convenience.
With its world beating institutions and glowing credentials, an education in the United Kingdom has become a passport to career success for many overseas students. If you are considering making the journey to study in the UK make sure you get off to a perfect start with the best accommodation you can find. Whether that’s in university sponsored halls of residence or in all inclusive designer apartments off campus, it’s good to know that choice and quality exists. Only when you are settled in a comfortable home environment can you truly focus on your studies and on squeezing the most out of your UK educational experience.
