Hi there, I'm Luna.
I'm a bit like an AI, except instead of making pictures of people with 16 fingers, I can help you find the perfect course and uni.
Would you like some help in your search?
As soon as you’ve secured your place at uni, it’s time to start looking at where to live. It’s no secret that student accommodation prices are on the rise, but there are plenty of smart tips you can use to minimise unnecessary costs and save money.
Be flexible and willing to make compromises
When you’re searching for the best student accommodation it can be easy to fall into the trap of wanting everything. It may be more convenient to have an en-suite bathroom, a big bedroom or catered facilities, but these options can dramatically increase the price of your rent.
You need to be willing to make compromises if you’re looking to lower the costs. Ask yourself if it’s worth paying extra money for these luxuries. In some cities and at some universities, you might end up paying an extra £20 a week just for your own bathroom and some more space!
Likewise, if you’re willing to give cooking for yourself a go, you could cut down on the cost of catered accommodation, as long as you’re sensible when it comes to buying your own food. You could split food costs by cooking meals together with your housemates or sharing kitchen staples like milk and bread, (as long as everyone agrees and actually chips in!).
Bills or no bills
If you sign up to accommodation where utility bills are included in the cost of rent it can take some of the pressure away from budgeting.
However, it’s essential to check what is included, if anything, in the rent. Some university or privately-owned student halls will include all of your utilities in the cost and some won’t, or will only include certain costs.
Another cost that’s sometimes covered under your rent is insurance. You should check with the university or landlord first though, as this may not cover your personal possessions. Repair and replacement costs can be a lot more than what you’ll end up paying for the security of insurance. A number of insurance providers offer cheaper packages specifically aimed at students too.
If you are moving into a house or flat-share and your landlord has already set up the bills ready for you, it might be worth visiting a price comparison website to see if you can get a cheaper deal. Likewise, if you move into your accommodation and need to set up the bills from scratch, always do your research in order to get the best rate.
Check the timescale of your contract
Another key detail to watch out for in your contract is how many weeks it covers. There may be twelve months in the year but you’re only in university for nine (or less) of those months. Don’t fall into the trap of paying for those extra months when university will have finished for the summer.
Some university-owned halls require you to move out during the Christmas and Easter holidays, so it’s also worth checking if you’re required to pay for these weeks.
Cut out unnecessary costs
Moving away from home is an exciting time, and it can be incredibly tempting to start ordering expensive electronics like a new Xbox or sound system, or to sign up to TV or online services like Netflix.
These may seem like great ways to spend your money, but remember, you’ll be too busy with studies and having fun on socials with your new friends to have time to watch endless amount of TV or play video games.
If you really can’t live without these things, consider splitting the costs with your housemates (having a household Netflix account is handy when you have a spare evening).
Check out what appliances are included
Whether you choose to live in university halls, private halls or private shared accommodation, you need to be aware of what is included with the room and communal area.
Some accommodation will be fully fitted with all of your kitchen appliances, such as a kettle, microwave, toaster and iron, but others won’t.
If you’re not sure whether these things are included, it’s worth waiting until you arrive at the accommodation before you buy anything. That way you can share the costs with your new housemates if you do need to buy these things.
There are items that your accommodation is unlikely to provide though, like bedding, towels and general kitchen utensils such as cutlery, pans and plates. There’s an excuse to go on a shopping trip before you head off to university to buy these things.
The Student Housing Company provides private student halls in cities across the UK and in Dublin, giving you a vibrant, social and comfortable place to stay during your time at university.
