The Ultimate Guide to Student Accommodation in the UK for International Students (2026)

For international students preparing to study in the UK in 2026, finding the right accommodation is one of the biggest early moves in your university journey. Where you live will shape your daily routine, social calendar, and how quickly you settle into a new country.

This guide is designed for international students who want clear, reliable information about the UK student housing market and will give you the confidence to make informed choices before starting university.

An Overview of the UK Student Accommodation Market

The UK currently hosts over 650,000 international students each year, and demand continues to rise. Student accommodation typically falls into three main categories: university-managed halls of residence, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) managed by companies such as Homes for Students, and private housing provided by landlords or agencies.

The PBSA industry has experienced rapid growth over the past decade, often appealing to students who seek a balance between independence and supported living. However, in many university cities such as London, Edinburgh, and Manchester, demand exceeds supply. This makes planning in advance essential to securing your room in the best student housing in the UK.

Why Planning is Essential

Many student accommodation providers will start to fill their properties months before term starts, and are open to students across all years. International students also need time to organise documents such as visa confirmations, deposits, and guarantor forms. Getting in early means more choice, less stress, and the freedom to focus on your studies once you arrive in the country.

This guide will help you explore your options, understand costs, discover your new city, and find a student home that shapes your best years.

Understanding UK Student Accommodation Types

The student housing market in the UK offers a range of options to suit different budgets, lifestyles, and levels of independence. Understanding your choices is the first step in finding the right fit for your studies.

Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) Explained

PBSA buildings are privately owned properties designed specifically to house students. They have expanded significantly across the UK in recent years, particularly in major university towns and cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

These complexes often include helpful amenities such as study zones, gyms, social lounges, laundry facilities, and 24-hour security. Rent is usually all-inclusive, simplifying budgeting. Room types range from private studios to large-scale cluster apartments, meaning every kind of student can find somewhere that suits their needs.

University Halls

Most universities in the UK provide in-house accommodation on or around campus, traditionally aimed at first-year students. These halls usually include furnished bedrooms, shared kitchens and dining facilities, as well as access to communal areas. Similar to PBSA, rent tends to be all-inclusive and can sometimes include meals depending on where you’re staying.

The main advantage of university halls is convenience, as halls that are close to campus, available directly through your university, can help students settle in quickly. They can, however, offer limited space and privacy.

Private Rentals

Choosing private accommodation typically involves renting a room or an entire house from a landlord or letting agent. These options offer maximum independence and flexibility, often shared with friends from previous years.

Costs vary widely depending on your city. Rentals in London, for example, are significantly higher than in northern cities. Students should also budget for bills (gas, electricity, water, and internet as many do not include these costs in the rental price.

Homestays and Short-Term Options

Some international students choose homestays, which involve living with a local family for a more immersive cultural experience. Rent usually includes meals and utilities, and hosts are regularly vetted by agencies or universities.

Short-term options appeal to students staying in the UK for less than a full academic year. Some PBSA providers, including Homes for Students, offer short-term student lets across the UK, while hostels and serviced apartments can bridge the gap if you’re still searching for long-term housing.

By understanding the UK student accommodation types early, international students can explore options that match their aspirations and help make them feel like they belong from day one.

The UK Student Visa & Accommodation Connection

CAS Letter Requirements Detailed

Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is an electronic record issued by your university and visible to UKVI. It contains your unique CAS number as well as the UKVI checks (your course, start/end dates, tuition fee details, any fee or accommodation payments received, and your sponsor).

A CAS can be used once and is usually valid for 6 months after issue; you must apply for your student visa within that window.

Do You Need Proof of Accommodation for a Student Visa?

For student visas, the UK does not require you to pre-book or upload an accommodation contract at the time of writing. Mandatory documents include your passport, travel documents, a valid CAS, plus financial evidence.

It is advised not to pay for your accommodation before your student visa is granted.

51 vs 44 Week Contracts: What’s the Difference?

Most student accommodation contracts in PBSA or halls run for either 51 or 44 weeks.

• 51 Week: Maximises continuity and ensures you don’t need to move out during summer. It can be helpful for students balancing their studies with part-time work. Payment is required even if you travel home during the holidays.
• 44 Week: Cheaper total cost, but you usually have to leave for the summer.

Neither length is a rule when it comes to being granted a visa. Student immigration permissions normally include additional time after the course ends (2 months for 6-12 month courses; 4 months for 12+ month courses). A longer contract can therefore be helpful if you plan to stay in the UK during this period.

Timing Your Booking: Visa Timelines

Once you’ve received your CAS, you can apply for a student visa up to 6 months before your course begins (from outside the UK). It normally takes around 3 weeks for your decision to come through. To reduce risk:

• Apply for your visa first, or choose accommodation with clear cancellation/deferral terms if your visa is delayed.
• Use the CAS window wisely and only apply within 6 months of the CAS issue.
• Travel planning: For courses longer than 6 months, you can arrive up to 1 month before your course starts. For those shorter than 6 months, this changes to 7 days.

BRP Collection

From 2025, the UK is moving to digital eVisas, meaning BRPs will no longer be issued. You can now access your immigration status via your UKVI account and share it using a digital share code.

What UKVI Actually Checks

• Validity of your CAS and sponsor details.
• Financial requirements such as living costs. Usually calculated for up to 9 months unless you’re exempt.
• Genuine student criteria (can include an interview).
• ATAS (if your course requires it), TB tests for nationals from the listed countries, and your immigration history.

Booking From Abroad: The Complete Process

A Month-by-Month Timeline

• October – December: Receive your university offer, establish your budget, research accommodation types and UK guarantor requirements.
• January: Begin shortlisting properties and reviewing specific contract lengths and terms.
• February – March: This is the most crucial time to virtually tour, compare prices, and secure your preferred room before the best options are taken.
• April – May: Finalise the booking by paying the deposit and carefully reviewing your contract, ensuring the “No Place, No Pay” clause is included for added security.
• June – July: Use your university acceptance letter and CAS to confirm your room. Then, check for any required early documentation or induction forms.
• August: With your visa granted, confirm your chosen payment plan and book your move-in slot with your accommodation provider.
• September: Arrive in the UK, check into your accommodation and complete the inventory.

If you are booking PBSA, January to March is the sweet spot for securing your room. This is because it is when the new academic year’s bookings officially launch. This early timing grants students access to a maximum number of options, securing a preferred room type or location before demand surges in late spring.

Here at Homes for Students, we offer a range of ‘early bird’ pricing and discounts during this time, ensuring the best value and helping international students make their budget go further. Booking early also removes the immense pressure of a last-minute scramble, giving ample time to manage complex visa documentation and ensure the contract includes the essential “No Place, No Pay” cancellation clause.

Virtual Viewing Options Explained

Virtual viewing options for PBSA include online tours for self-paced exploration and live video-guided tours for real-time interactions with staff. Additionally, video walkthroughs show facilities, while interactive floor plans confirm room sizes and layouts.

You can explore our fantastic selection of properties across the UK via the virtual tour options on our property pages.

Required Documents

To secure your room from overseas, you primarily need documents to confirm your identity, student status, and ability to pay.

• Proof of identity: Valid passport.
• Proof of Student Status: University Offer Letter (conditional is usually acceptable initially) and eventually your CAS letter.
• Proof of Payment: Bank statement showing sufficient funds, especially if you intend to pay your annual rent upfront.
• Guarantor Documents: If paying in instalments, you’ll need to provide your guarantor’s ID, proof of income, and a completed application form.

The Digital Signing Process

If you’re concerned about the digital signing process, don’t worry! It’s a secure, fast, and legally binding agreement.

The accommodation provider will email you a unique link to your tenancy agreement following your purchase of a room. The process is often sequential, with you needing signatures from your guarantor and yourself. The platform used instantly generates an audit trail and emails a final PDF copy of the signed documents to all parties, confirming your booking as quickly and securely as possible.

Payment Methods for International Students

Making payments from abroad is most commonly handled by specialist money transfer platforms to ensure security and favourable exchange rates.

International students generally have the following options:

• Flywire/Convera: These platforms often partner with universities and PBSA providers. They allow you to pay the exact GBP amount from your home bank account in your local currency, securing strong exchange rates and real-time tracking of your payment.
• Bank Transfer (SWIFT): You can initiate a direct international wire transfer through your home bank to your accommodation provider’s UK bank account. This is reliable but often slower, and the cost of currency conversion and intermediary bank fees can be high.
• TransferWise (Wise): An independent transfer service that offers competitive exchange rates and low transfer fees. It is generally quicker and cheaper than a traditional bank transfer, although your provider may not officially endorse it.
• Credit/Debit Card: Most providers accept direct card payments, though international transaction fees and daily limits may apply. This makes it less suitable for large international payments.

Holding Deposits Explained

A holding deposit is a small, one-off fee that is paid after completing your booking to formally reserve the room while the accommodation provider or landlord finalises documentation and other checks. This fee is usually non-refundable if the student cancels their booking, but it is typically returned or deducted from your first rental payment once the tenancy agreement is fully signed.

Tenancy Agreement as Visa Proof

Your tenancy agreement is not typically a required document for your UK Student Visa application. UKVI requires proof of identity, CAS, and Maintenance Funds. The signed tenancy agreement is primarily used after your visa is granted as proof of your UK address for settling in and for the accommodation provider’s legal ‘Right to Rent’ checks.

The UK Guarantor Challenge

A guarantor is a third party who legally agrees to cover your rent and any property damages if you fail to pay. For PBSA providers, this is a financial safety net. Crucially, most providers require your guarantor to be a UK resident, meaning they live and work in the UK and have an established UK credit history and bank account. This makes it easier to legally pursue payment in case of default.

This unfortunately disqualifies the majority of international students’ parents or guardians who live overseas.

The Alternatives

If you cannot provide a qualifying UK guarantor, your provider will likely offer the following alternatives:

• Paying Rent Upfront: This option requires you to pay 6-12 months of the total annual rent before you move in. This demands a large payment that can impact your finances before arriving.
• Using a Co-Signer: While some providers accept an overseas co-signer, they may require extensive financial checks and certified translations, which can complicate the process and can still lead to a requirement for partial rent upfront.

The Solution: Third-Party Services

• How it works: Companies such as Housing Hand or RentGuarantor act as the tenant’s guarantor for a fee, usually paid for by the tenant. They sign a legal agreement with the landlord to cover rent arrears and damages if the tenant defaults.
• Benefit: This removes financial risk from your family or friends and provides a UK-based guarantor for those without one.
• Cost: Tenants must pay an annual fee, which can often be the equivalent of around 1 month’s rent.

Average Student Rental Cost Per Month in Major UK Cities

City	Estimated Average Monthly Student Rent	Notes
London	£1,793 – £2,712+	Widely, the most expensive. High variance between university halls and the private sector.
Oxford	£1,555 – £2,093	Consistently one of the most expensive outside of London.
Bristol	£1,353 – £1,660	High demand and limited supply drive up prices.
Cambridge	£1,507 – £1,971	Similar to Oxford, prices are high due to competition.
Edinburgh	£1,263 – £1,594	Most expensive city in Scotland for student housing.
Manchester	£1,364	A large student city with a mid-to-high average cost.
Glasgow	£1,331	One of the most affordable major Scottish cities for students, but prices are rising fast.
Leeds	£1,213	Considered a mid-range city for affordability.
Birmingham	£1,259	Generally seen as more affordable than London and the South East.
Nottingham	£1,175	Offers relatively lower accommodation costs.
Sheffield	£1,146	Among the more affordable major cities for student rent.
Cardiff	£1,295	Ranks mid-to-high for accommodation costs compared to other cities.
Newcastle	£1,131	One of the more budget-friendly cities in the North East.
Belfast	£1,122	Often cited as the most affordable city in the UK for overall student living costs.

What is All-Inclusive Rent?

An all-inclusive student accommodation in the UK is a type of housing contract where the total rent paid by the tenant covers both the cost of occupying the property and the essential utility bills (gas, electricity, and water). 

This means that instead of managing multiple separate accounts and payments for utilities, the student (or group of students) makes one single, fixed payment to the landlord, accommodation provider, or letting agent, which covers everything and prevents additional stress. 

Hidden Costs to Look Out For

Be aware of some unexpected costs that can trip up some students:

• Upfront Costs: Mandatory deposits (often 4 weeks’ rent) and holding deposits are usually required before moving in.
• End of Tenancy Charges: The biggest threat to your deposit is charges for professional cleaning or damage beyond fair wear and tear.
• Utility Caps: All-inclusive rent often has a Fair Usage Policy (FUP) limiting energy use; exceeding this means extra charges.
• Summer Rent: Most contracts are 50-52 weeks, meaning you pay “dead rent” over the summer holidays when you’re not there.
• Exclusions: Factor in the mandatory TV Licence and Contents Insurance if they aren’t included.

Council Tax Exemption for Students

Households where all residents are full-time students are fully exempt from paying UK Council Tax.

• Full-time student refers to anyone studying a course lasting at least one academic year, involving at least 21 hours of study per week.
• Those living in student accommodation are automatically exempt.
• If you live with non-students, your property is not exempt, but a discount may apply.
• You must apply to your local council and have the ability to confirm your student status to be eligible.

Currency Considerations and When to Exchange

International students should manage currency carefully to avoid high exchange fees and poor rates.

• Monitor Rates: Watch the mid-market rate; use transparent online services like Wise for better rates than supermarket kiosks.
• Avoid DCC: Always choose to pay in the local currency (£) at ATMs and card terminals.
• Big Transfers: Transfer large amounts overseas when the exchange rate is at its strongest.
• Use Multi-Currency Cards: Some banks offer these, automatically sorting exchange rates for you.

How Much Will I Spend Each Month?

Region	Average Monthly Cost Range (Excluding Tuition)	Key Cost Factor
London	£1,500 – £1,850+	Significantly higher rent and travel costs.
Major Cities: Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol, etc.	£1,200 – £1,500	High demand for accommodation drives prices up.
Smaller Cities: Bangor, Dundee, Derby, etc.	£950 – £1,200	Lower average rent and less reliance on expensive public transport.

Getting From the Airport to Your Accommodation

Below is a map of all the major International airports in the United Kingdom. From them, you can reach almost all of the UK’s main student cities.

London Airports: Which One for Which Destination?

There are a total of six airports in and around London, each one has its advantages and disadvantages depending on where in the capital you’re staying.

• London Heathrow: Best for students studying in West London.
• London Gatwick: Best for students studying in South London and Sussex.
• London Stansted: Best for students studying in North East London and Essex.
• Luton Airport: Best for students studying in North London and Luton.
• London City Airport: Best for students studying in East London, the closest airport to the city centre.
• Southend Airport: Best for students studying on the East Coast.

Regional Airports and Their Connections

Outside of London, the UK is home to a wide array of regional airports that may be better placed for you depending on where you’re studying. Some of the largest regional airports include Birmingham International, Manchester Airport, and Edinburgh Airport, to name just three.

Most airports in the UK are located near train and bus stations, making the journey into your city simple. Below is a comparison of the best modes of transport you can use when you arrive in the UK.

• Train: Often the simplest and most cost-effective way to reach the city. Fares vary widely depending on where you intend to travel, but local metro networks tend to be cheap.
• Bus: The slowest and least direct route into most cities. Some cities have direct shuttles that are significantly quicker, though.
• Taxi: Usually the most expensive option, but also the most direct. Use apps like Uber or Bolt to pre-book safe taxis.

Your Day 1 Arrival Checklist

Border Control & Travel

• Present documents: Have your passport, visa, and CAS letter ready for immigration.
• Customs: Declare any cash over £10,000.
• Transport: Try to pre-book transport into the city.
• Contact: Message your family to let them know you’ve arrived.

Accommodation & Communication

• Check-in: Settle into your room and complete an inventory.
• Get a SIM: Buy a UK SIM card for your phone.
• Local Research: Locate nearby travel connections and amenities.
• Adaptor: Buy a UK 3-pin power adaptor.

University & Legal Admin (First Week)

• University Enrolment: Complete registration and get your Student ID.
• Right to Study: Present your visa to the university.
• BRP Collection: If needed, collect your Biometric Residence Permit from the designated collection point.
• Police Registration: If required on your visa, register with local police within 7 days of your arrival.

Health & Finance (First Week)

• Bank Account: Open a UK bank account. Remember to bring proof of address, as you need to be living at a UK address to register.
• GP Registration: Register with a local GP for access to the NHS.

What if I Arrive at Night?

Contact your student accommodation once you know your travel plans. They might be able to stay open long enough to help you check in later in the day. If not, booking a place to stay for the night near the airport is a smart alternative.

Emergency Contacts and Support Numbers

• 999: UK Emergency Services
• 111: NHS Non-Emergency medical support
• 116 123: Samaritans, for immediate mental health support.
• 0800 111 999: To report a gas leak.
• 105: To report a power cut.

Your First Week in Student Accommodation

What to Expect on Move-in Day

Move-in day at UK student accommodation is typically a busy experience where you must adhere to a pre-booked time slot. You will collect your key and a welcome pack, which includes a vital inventory form to record any room damage immediately. Student helpers usually assist with unloading your luggage.

Once in your room, unpack essentials and try to keep your door open to meet your new flatmates. This is the best way to quickly coordinate shared kitchen items and start settling into your new social and living environment.

Completing an Inventory Report

As part of the move-in process, you’ll be required to complete an inventory report. This is a document that lists all the contents and conditions of a rented property, and protects both the tenant and landlord.

Setting Up Your Room on a Budget

Like many students, you’ll likely have to set up your room on a tight budget. Here are a few tips to make the most of your space:

• Use command strips/hooks instead of Blu-Tac.
• Buy second-hand if a TV is not provided.
• Bring décor that makes the room feel homely.
• Put up fairy lights to enhance lighting.

The choices are endless, but it’s all about making sure your room belongs to you during your time in student accommodation.

Meeting Your Flatmates

University is full of new experiences, and one of the most exciting and daunting can be meeting your new flatmates. To settle into student life quickly, follow these key tips:

• Respect personal space by always knocking before entering a flatmate’s room.
• Clean up after yourself quickly. This is a big source of tension among many students in shared housing.
• Understand indirect communication. If a flatmate says, “The kitchen is a bit messy, isn’t it?”, they likely mean, “Please clean the kitchen.

Understanding Your Tenancy Agreement

A tenancy agreement is a legally binding contract between a tenant and a landlord, letting agency, or accommodation provider. It defines the terms of your rental, including the rent costs, duration of the tenancy (usually six or twelve months), rules regarding the property, and the rights and responsibilities of both parties.

Who to Contact for Maintenance Issues

At Homes for Students, the Main Manager app serves as the central hub for all maintenance-related issues. You’ll receive further information upon checking intoThe  your property.

Helpful Resources & Next Steps

• UKVI Official Website
• UK University Accommodation Services
• International Student societies
• Student money advice services
• Contacts UKVI for visa and immigration help
• Mental health helplines. 

Ready To Book?

If you’re ready to enjoy the experience of a lifetime with Homes for Students, secure your place now by visiting our dedicated city pages and exploring the range of rooms currently available.

Our Cities

City	Property Count
Aberdeen	4
Aberystwyth	1
Bangor	3
Bath	1
Bedford	1
Belfast	1
Birmingham	7
Bournemouth	1
Bradford	1
Brighton	3
Bristol	6
Canterbury	1
Cardiff	1
Chester	1
Colchester	1
Coventry	6
Derby	2
Dundee	4
Durham	2
Edinburgh	5
Egham	2
Exeter	3
Glasgow	11
Guildford	3
Kingston-upon-Thames	2
Lancaster	4
Leeds	4
Leicester	6
Lincoln	2
Liverpool	6
London	16
Loughborough	2
Manchester	9
Newcastle-under-Lyme	4
Newcastle-upon-Tyne	5
Nottingham	10
Oxford	2
Plymouth	4
Preston	4
Reading	3
Salford	1
Sheffield	8
Southampton	6
St. Andrews	1
Stoke-on-Trent	3
Warwick	1
Wolverhampton	1
York	4

You can also book a virtual viewing by speaking to our friendly international student team.

We cannot wait to welcome you to the UK. Hopefully, we’ll get to see you soon in one of our properties, where you can discover your ideal home from home.

Good luck, and enjoy the ride.