How to Find Accommodation in UK for Indian Students?

How to Find Accommodation in UK for Indian Students?

Reading Time 15 minutes/Updated on 19-12-2024

International students looking to study in the UK, will look forward to the experience and be aware of the tasks on hand. One of the important tasks is finding accommodation in the UK for Indian students. It may seem difficult, but this blog helps students find suitable accommodation. This way, Indian students can be prepared for the task as soon as they arrive or sooner.

This blog will discuss the types of accommodations, where to find them, the costs, and the pros and cons of various UK accommodations for international students. After reading it, Indian students will be better prepared to find their accommodation while studying in the UK.

Types of Accommodation in UK for Indian Students

There are a variety of accommodation options in the UK for international students. Each one varies in terms of cost and convenience. When speaking about accommodation in UK for Indian students, there are four types of accommodation.

  • University Halls
  • Private Student Halls
  • Homestays
  • Private Flats

University Halls

Living in university halls is a safe choice for freshmen students as they are located near campus. This helps students save time and reduce transportation expenses. Moreover given the support services offered by universities it allows students to concentrate on their academics without any safety concerns.

University Halls

Living in university halls offers a range of conveniences to make everyday life easier for students. Basic services are typically covered in the accommodation costs to save time and manage finances easily. Moreover, students benefit from support services and diverse social events.

Private Student Halls

Private student halls provide a secluded and personalised living arrangement in contrast to staying in university halls. Run by private firms,​ these living spaces allow students to select their housemates while utilising shared areas and amenities​​. Students have access to conveniences, like study areas, gyms​ and additional facilities​.

Private Student Halls

These places are safe to stay. Moreover, staff is readily available for assistance whenever needed. They have rental agreements and are conveniently located close to universities – perfect, for students seeking a mix of cosiness and freedom.

Homestays

Homestays offer students a one-of-a-kind experience where they live with a family who assists them in adjusting to a new city. This choice is not only budget-friendly but also culturally rewarding as it lets students fully embrace everyday life and customs. Hosts assist by helping students explore the city and create a comforting atmosphere at home with delicious homemade meals.

Homestays

Staying in homestays is usually cheaper than renting an apartment and offers an environment that makes it more welcoming for guests. The connection established with the host family can extend beyond the stay. It also contributes to a memorable experience for guests.

Private Flats

Private flats are an option for individuals seeking a customised living environment. Students residing in apartments experience a great deal of freedom and autonomy They have the opportunity to select a location that matches their preferences and customise their living environment to meet their requirements.

Private Flats

Students can choose between living alone or sharing with friends to save money and reduce financial stressors together. Flats typically come with amenities such as kitchens, private bathrooms, and Wi-Fi. Some buildings even offer extra facilities like gyms or study areas.

When looking at accommodation in UK for Indian students,​ it’s important to assess each choice considering factors, like cost​ convenience and desired level of independence​ Each accommodation type offers distinct advantages​ allowing students to discover the suitable match for their lifestyle and academic requirements​. 

While researching UK accommodation for international students, look at the Cost of Studying in the UK In 2024

 

How to Find Accommodation in UK for Indian Students?

International students, including Indian students, can find accommodation in the UK using multiple effective methods.

  • University Resources

The university would be a good place to start an accommodation search. Universities usually provide some help in searching for accommodation. University staff would also be able to provide real-life experience in searching for and managing accommodation.  

  • Housing Agencies 

Students can approach agencies that specialise in finding Indian student accommodation in London and all over the UK. Also, students are most likely to find accommodation in their budget rapidly with a housing agency. Another advantage of choosing an agency is that they can act as an intermediate between students and landlords.    

  • Word of Mouth

Another option available to find accommodation in the UK for international students is word of mouth. It may sound unconventional, but it is an option if you have several local UK friends. The information spreads, and students can benefit from the large network of friends and fellow students. 

  • Internet – Social Media & House Rental Platforms  

With new technologies being available today, even the internet is a great place for accommodation search. There are specialised websites to help find Indian student accommodation in London or elsewhere. Students can use filters to narrow down their search to particular costs or localities.

Also, social media can play an important role in finding anything, accommodation included. Students can keep their eyes open for any rental advertisements on popular social media platforms.

How to Choose the Best Accommodation in UK for Indian Students?

Moving to a new country and finding the best accommodation may not be the simplest of tasks. Indian students studying in the UK can choose on-campus or off-campus accommodation. While choosing their off-campus accommodation, these are a few pointers to the right accommodation.

Location

The number one factor to consider for Indian student accommodation in London or elsewhere is location. Students who don’t plan to visit the city often may find it better to live on campus if they find it affordable.

However, students with part-time jobs in the city and travel there regularly won’t find on-campus accommodation fit. For them, their accommodation should be close to both the university and the city centre. This particular location would reduce transport costs and save time.

Cost

The next big factor to consider is affordability. Accommodation can greatly affect the living expenses of international students. This makes accommodation choices even more important for students.

  • Accommodation in the UK for Indian students becomes more affordable when students choose to live slightly out of the popular areas. 
  • Also, choosing to live with a few housemates does divide the rent bill and increase affordability.
  • Smaller homes are more affordable.
  • Conducting a broad search is important to find the best accommodation that ticks all the boxes.
  • The cheapest accommodation isn’t always the best!
  • Look at the long-term picture, and choose accommodation that you will be able to afford for a longer period. There is no point in renting a place that will not be affordable after a few months.

Safety

When in an international country as a student, safety is always important. That said, UK accommodation for international students should be chosen with safety in mind. Extremely remote locations on the city outskirts are not ideal, and students will be safer in mildly populous areas.

Personal Requirements

Other particular requirements may influence the choice of accommodation for students. Examples of these personal requirements are:

  • Furnished rooms
  • Neighbours and landlord 
  • Transport connectivity 
  • Rent agreement

Based on these requirements, students can find accommodation that suits them well.

Cost of Accommodation in UK for Indian Students

There are a variety of factors affecting accommodation in the UK. Based on these factors, student accommodation costs will vary greatly. If looking for the cost of accommodation in the UK for international students, the city can indicate average costs.

Accommodation costs vary from city to city. Here are the average off-campus accommodation prices in UK cities.

City Monthly Average Cost (in GBP)
Brighton800 – 1300
Birmingham700 – 1200
Edinburgh700 – 1000
Glasgow800 – 1000 
London1100 – 1300 
Manchester850 – 1100 
Oxford1100 – 1700
Portsmouth 400 – 800

More popular cities are more expensive and would naturally attract higher monthly rentals. This is why Indian student accommodation in London is higher than most other cities in the UK. Less popular and populated cities will have lower living expenses, including rent for accommodation.

There is also a great difference between the monthly rental amount of a one-bedroom flat and a three-bedroom flat. A one-bedroom flat costs an average of 600 – 800 GBP per month. A three-bedroom flat costs an average of 900 – 1300 GBP per month.

Looking to save money while studying in the UK? Find out if you can study in the UK on a scholarship.

Opting for a three-bedroom flat isn’t a bad idea. This is true if you have a friend or two who won’t mind sharing accommodation.

Off-Campus vs On-Campus: Accommodation in UK for Indian Students

There is often a debate about which form of accommodation is better for Indian students studying in the UK. The truth is that both have advantages and disadvantages. Each student can choose their preferred accommodation based on particular requirements.

Off-Campus Living

ProsCons
Provides flexibilityTake a lot of searching to find the best accommodation
Opportunity to share expenses with housematesPossibility of attracting unexpected costs
Ability to experience local culture and lifeTravel expenses can increase
Greater part-time work opportunitiesMissing out on-campus experiences

Did you know that Indian students can study and work part-time in the UK?

On-Campus Living

  • ProsCons
    Close to the university, offering convenienceNo opportunity to experience UK city life 
    Ability to socialise with other international studentsLimited privacy and personal space
    No additional accommodation feesFewer part-time opportunities 
    Lower living expensesLimited availability due to high demand and limited accommodation

    Still looking for a university? Here are a  few of the best universities to study in the UK for Indians

Why Choose The WorldGrad To Study in UK

The WorldGrad is an expert in overseas education. We provide opportunities for Indian students to pursue their education abroad through partnerships with multiple universities in the UK.

Students can pick from multiple options to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies in globally ranked universities.

Advantages of Choosing The WorldGrad Your Education Provider

The WorldGrad provides an excellent way to pursue education dreams in the UK. Our Smart Programs – Global Year 1 is the best way to start your journey in the UK.

  • Through our programs, students can save large amounts of money on tuition fees and even living expenses. This helps to provide the best accommodation in the UK for international students. 
  • Students who choose our Smart Programs can make a seamless transition from India to the UK over some time. This allows students to get a feel of studies in the UK before actually relocating there. 
  • Another advantage our students have is a higher visa success rate due to their education commitment.

Summary

Accommodation in the UK for Indian students is available in the form of on-campus and off-campus accommodation. Students can choose their preferences according to their budget, requirements, location, and more. Prior research and early booking are key to finding the best accommodation in UK. A variety of sources can be utilised to find accommodation.

Accommodation in UK for Indian Students FAQs

Q.1 What is the cost of accommodation in the UK for Indian students?

A.1 Indian students can expect to pay anywhere between 700 and 1200 GBP per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the UK.

Q.2 What is the most reliable way to find UK accommodation for international students?

A.2 There are many ways to find UK accommodation for International students such as websites, word of mouth, university staff, and housing agencies.

Q.3 Does it work out cheaper to share accommodation in the UK?

A.3 Yes, it is cheaper to share accommodation in the UK. Various expenses, such as rent and utilities, can be equally shared. This will greatly bring down the cost of living for all of the students.

Q.4 Is it easy to find accommodation in UK cities in 2024?

A.4 Indian students can use multiple sources to find off-campus accommodation in the UK. Alternatively, there is also the option of choosing on-campus accommodation.

Q.5 Which is the cheapest city in the UK for an Indian student?

A.5 Accommodation in London is the most expensive while Brighton, Portsmouth, and other less popular cities are the cheapest.

Stanley Lazarus Chelli

Author: Stanley Lazarus Chelli

Stanley is our seasoned writer known for his deep knowledge of the ed-tech industry. He delivers insightful and impactful content that resonates with readers. Beyond his exceptional writing abilities, he is a die-hard petrolhead with a profound love for the automotive industry. Additionally, Stanley is a soon-to-be professional keyboardist.