Choosing the right place to live is just as important as picking the right university course. And what do both of these have in common? Good timing and smart decisions.
There are over 2.9 million students in the UK, which means the best student housing can quickly sell out, and when you book can make a big difference.
That said, recent research from StuRents shows lots of students are waiting it out and hoping for last-minute deals. But is that a good idea?
In this blog, we’ll answer the common question: When can you apply for student accommodation? Plus, we’ll give you the key information you need to make the right choice and secure your preferred student accommodation.
You can usually apply for student accommodation once you’ve accepted a university offer. If your offer is conditional, it means you still need to meet certain requirements, like exam results. If your offer is unconditional, your place at university is confirmed, though some details might still need sorting.
If the university is your firm choice (your first choice), you’ll usually get priority when applying for accommodation. If it’s your insurance choice (backup), you might need to wait until firm-choice students have been allocated rooms.
You don’t have to accept university offers until you’ve heard from all your choices, and you can track your applications using the UCAS Hub. If you haven’t applied to university yet, the deadline for 2025 undergraduate courses is 6pm (UK time) on 29 January 2025.
When it comes to student living, requirements are based on the individual, meaning that it's not a one-size-fits-all situation. Luckily, there are a few options available, including university halls of residence, private halls of residence, shared houses or flats and living with family.
Let’s take a deeper look at what each of these is and their pros and cons:
University halls are student accommodations run by the university, often located on or near the campus. These accommodations typically offer basic rooms, shared kitchens, and common areas.
They are a convenient and easy option, especially for first-year students who want to stay close to their university and immerse themselves in busy campus life.
Private Halls of Residence are managed by private companies and often offer more luxurious facilities than university-run halls, such as en-suite bathrooms, gyms, and social spaces.
They provide more privacy and modern amenities. Students who want a higher standard of living or prefer more independence from university rules may choose this option.
A shared house or flat is a student property that is shared with other students. These accommodations can range from traditional houses to modern flats, and students typically sign a joint tenancy agreement.
Shared houses offer more independence and flexibility. It’s a great choice for students who want to live with friends or enjoy more autonomy in managing their living situation.
Living at home with family is another option for students and it's a particularly popular choice for those who live a commutable distance from their university campus.
It’s the most cost-effective option, offering students a way to save money or have family support. It’s also ideal for those who prefer the comfort and security of home and want to live with their pets.
Choosing where to live isn’t just about finding the biggest room or the halls with the best Freshers’ Week parties.
People have different accommodation budgets, requirements and other individual preferences. Here are some areas and questions to think about:
The exact process when applying for student accommodation can vary, but here’s a rough guide of what you might be expected to do:
Important Tip: Don’t use your school email address to apply for student accommodation, as it might stop working once you’ve left!
%20(Graph).png)
At Stockton Students, we know how important it is to have a home that’s comfortable, affordable, and hassle-free. That’s why all our accommodation comes with bills included, so you can focus on your studies and enjoy uni life without worrying about extra costs.
To be guaranteed accommodation for your academic year, we recommend looking early and being prepared. Our range of luxury student accommodation in and around Liverpool and Ormskirk is modern, popular, and quick to sell out!
Ready to secure your student home? Get in touch today by calling 03301 359065 or emailing info@stocktonstudents.co.uk. You can also fill out our quick and easy contact form. We’re looking forward to helping you find the perfect place to call home.
➡️ Learn how to decorate your uni room on a budget
➡️ Find out more about student-friendly areas in Liverpool
➡️ Understand how much student life costs
Most students secure their university choice and start booking their student accommodation between January and March. You can usually still book after this time, but there may be reduced options available.
Absolutely! If you receive a conditional offer based on your exam results, you can still apply for student accommodation without having to wait for your final results.
Student accommodation applications have varying deadlines. This said, you should apply as early as possible to be guaranteed your preferred option, as in-demand accommodation options tend to book up quickly.
