With world-renowned universities, a rich cultural history, and a vibrant student lifestyle, the UK is one of the most popular destinations for a semester overseas.
Whether you're heading to bustling London, academic Cambridge, artsy Glasgow or coastal Brighton, you’ll find no shortage of opportunities to learn, grow and explore.
But between the excitement of booking flights and planning weekend trips to Edinburgh or Paris, one key thing often gets overlooked: where you’re going to live. And when you’re moving to a new country, even temporarily, securing housing that’s safe, comfortable and convenient makes a big difference to your experience.
If you’re preparing for a semester in the UK, here are some essential housing and settling-in tips to help make the transition as smooth as possible.
Why the UK Is a Great Study Abroad Destination
There’s a reason why thousands of international students choose the UK each year. Its universities consistently rank among the best in the world, offering a wide range of academic programs in English.
Beyond the classroom, students enjoy a multicultural society, access to global travel, and unique experiences, including exploring centuries-old castles, attending music festivals, or participating in pub quizzes.
The UK's compact size also means weekend getaways are totally doable. With efficient public transport, you can hop from class on Friday to a city break in Bath or a hike in the Lake District by Saturday morning.
What You Should Know About Student Housing in the UK
When it comes to housing, students have a few different options:
- University Halls: These are often the first choice for students coming from abroad. Halls are usually located close to campus, come furnished, and include bills. You’ll also be living alongside other students, which can make it easier to make friends.
- Private Student Accommodation: Purpose-built student buildings, often managed by companies, offer a more modern alternative to traditional halls. These might have extra perks like gyms, study areas, and social events, but tend to be pricier.
- Shared Flats or Houses (HMOs): Renting a room in a shared flat or house is common in the UK. You’ll typically have your own bedroom and share common spaces like the kitchen and bathroom. This is often a more budget-friendly option and a good way to live like a local.
- Short-Term Lets: If you’re only staying for a semester, you’ll need a flexible lease. Not all landlords offer short-term contracts, so it’s worth looking specifically for student-friendly platforms or listings that cater to shorter stays.
Most student housing in the UK comes furnished, so you usually won’t need to bring much more than your bedding and personal items. However, it’s important to carefully check the listing details, as some places may not include essentials like kitchenware, cookware, or towels. You might need to buy a few basics after you arrive.
Tips for Finding the Right Place
- Start Early
Good housing goes fast, especially in major student cities like London, Manchester or Edinburgh. Start your search a few months in advance if possible. - Set a Budget (and Stick to It)
Rent varies widely depending on location. In cities like London, expect to pay more. Don’t forget to include the cost of utilities, Wi-Fi, and public transport. - Choose the Right Location
Proximity to your university is important, but so is access to shops, bus or train lines, and social spots. Use online maps to explore the area and get a sense of what’s nearby. - Avoid Scams
Unfortunately, student renters can be easy targets. Always use reliable platforms, never pay money upfront without seeing a verified listing or contract, and watch out for deals that seem too good to be true. - Look for Flexible Search Tools
Some housing websites now combine listings from multiple sources and send alerts when new properties become available. These can be a huge time-saver and help you find a place before it’s snapped up.
Final Thoughts
Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but it also comes with its fair share of logistics. Finding the right place to live will not only help you feel more at home, but it will also set the tone for the months ahead.
With a little planning, smart searching, and some local insight, you’ll be ready to make the most of your semester in the UK from lectures to late-night takeaways with flatmates.
Whether you end up in a cosy room in a student hall or a shared flat above a bakery, the right housing will help you feel grounded, connected, and ready to explore everything the UK has to offer.
