A Level and T Level Results Day 2026 Uni Accommodation Guide: What Students Should Check Before Applying

Owen Dixon, Founder of student accommodation marketplace Best Student Halls, explains what students should look for when comparing accommodation, and why the cheapest or most attractive-looking option is not always the best fit when spaces are limited.

1. Look Beyond The Photos

“Accommodation is one of the biggest decisions a student will make before starting university, but it is very easy to be swayed by photos, social spaces and headline rent,” says Owen.

“A room can look great online, but students also need to think about how they will actually live there day to day. Is it easy to get to campus? Are bills included? Is there enough storage? Does the area feel safe at night? Will the contract fit the academic year?”

Owen advises students to treat accommodation viewings and searches as more than a quick comparison of bedrooms.

“This is not just about finding somewhere that looks nice. It is about choosing a place where a student can study, rest, socialise, budget properly, and feel supported. The right accommodation can make the transition into university feel much smoother, while the wrong one can create stress very quickly.”

2. Check Overall Cost, Not Just The Weekly Rent

“One of the biggest mistakes students make is comparing properties by weekly rent alone,” he says.

“That headline figure might not include everything. Bills, Wi-Fi, laundry, contents insurance, deposits, guarantor requirements, admin processes, travel costs and contract length can all change how affordable a property really is.”

Owen advises students to calculate the full cost across the year, not just the monthly or weekly figure.

“A slightly cheaper room further from campus may cost more once you add transport. A property with a longer contract may mean paying for weeks when the student is not there. A room that excludes bills can become much harder to budget for, especially when energy use changes through the year.”

He adds, “Students should ask very direct questions before signing. What is included? What is not included? How long is the contract? Is there a deposit? Are there extra charges for laundry, gym access, parcel handling or communal facilities? Clear answers at the start can prevent nasty surprises later.”

3. Think About Location, Safety And The Daily Routine

“If possible, location should be decided with the distance from campus in mind,” says Owen.

“Students need to think about their daily routine. How long will it take to get to lectures? Is the route walkable? Is public transport reliable? Are there supermarkets, pharmacies, GP services, libraries or part-time work opportunities nearby?”

Owen says safety should also be checked carefully, especially by students moving to a new city for the first time.

“Students should look at the building security, entry systems, lighting, reception or on-site support, and how comfortable the area feels in the evening. If a student would not feel confident coming home after a late lecture, society event or shift, that matters.”

He continues: “A property can be beautiful, but if it makes daily life complicated or leaves a student feeling isolated, it may not be the right choice. The best accommodation is not always the closest or the most stylish. It is the one that works with the student’s real routine.”

4. International Students Should Use Virtual Tours

“For international students, viewing accommodation in person is not always possible,” says Owen.

“Many student accommodation providers now offer virtual tours and video walkthroughs, which can help students get a better understanding of room layouts, facilities and communal spaces before booking.”

Owen advises international students to make full use of these resources and ask questions where possible.

“Students booking from overseas should take advantage of virtual tours and speak directly with accommodation teams if they need more information. Asking about facilities, security, transport links and contract terms beforehand can help students make a more informed decision and avoid surprises when they arrive.”

5. Understand The Contract Before Signing

“Students should never sign an accommodation contract they do not understand,” says Owen.

“That may sound obvious, but many students are under pressure to secure a room quickly, especially in popular university cities and during clearing. They may skim the agreement, assume it is standard, or rely on what friends are doing.”

Owen says students should check the key terms before committing.

“Key terms typically include contract dates, payment schedule, cancellation policy, guarantor requirements, what happens if the student wants to leave early, and who is responsible for damage or shared areas. In shared housing, it is also important to understand whether the tenancy is joint or individual.”

He adds, “A joint tenancy can mean students are collectively responsible for rent or damage, even if one person does not pay or causes an issue. That is something many first-time renters do not realise until there is a problem.”

Owen recommends always getting clarity in writing where possible.

“If something has been promised, whether that is a specific room type, included bills, repairs, facilities or move-in dates, students should make sure it is confirmed in writing. Verbal reassurance is not enough when money and housing are involved.”

6. Choose Somewhere That Fits The Student, Not Just The Budget

“Every student is different, and accommodation should reflect that,” says Owen.

“Some students want a lively building with social spaces, events and lots of opportunities to meet people. Others need a quieter environment, strong study facilities or easy access to a particular campus. Some may need accessible rooms, private bathrooms, flexible contracts or accommodation that supports specific wellbeing needs.”

Owen says students should be honest about what kind of environment will help the student thrive.

“It can be tempting to choose the most popular option, or the one friends are booking, but that is not always the best fit. Students should think about how they work, sleep, socialise and manage stress. A noisy building might be exciting for one person and overwhelming for another.”

He concludes: “The best accommodation choice is the one that supports the student’s whole university experience, not just their first impression. Before booking, students should slow down, compare the real costs, read the contract, check the location and think honestly about what they need from their living environment. A little extra care before signing can save a lot of stress later.”