Student Accommodations: Learn About The Types

Have you chosen your course? Institution? Yes, Great. It is time for the next step. You need to choose your accommodation. Different types of accommodation are available just for you. All you need is to choose the most preferred accommodation. If you are a first-timer, making this decision can be confusing.

Types of Student Accommodations

Most institutions will provide information on the available accommodation options. This can help you make a better decision. To make your decision even easier, we have therefore, provided a list of different choices of student accommodations. We have also shared some pros and cons of every accommodation. In addition, we have gone a step further to provide some tips on factors to consider when choosing your accommodation. Here are the types of student accommodations:

Halls of residence

These accommodations are owned or affiliated with an institution. They are also located on campus. Sometimes, they are located near the campus. The accommodations are located in a convenient place. Commuting to the institution is thus easy. You will find single bedrooms. Then, some facilities will however be shared such as kitchens and bathrooms. Utilities such as water, gas, and electricity are included in the fees. You will find other services such as daily meals and access to the internet.

Pros

Firstly, there will be plenty of opportunities for socializing and meeting new people.
Secondly, you will enjoy various services such as swimming pools, and gyms.
Thirdly, you will have access to various co-curricular activities such as sports.

Cons

In some institutions, this accommodation is however expensive. Consider bursaries and scholarships to take care of these costs.
Your freedom will mostly be limited in terms of noise levels and the number of overnight guests.
Privacy can be an issue.

Private halls

These accommodations are similar to halls of residence. But, they are owned and managed by private companies. They are purposely built for student living.

Pros

You will have your room.
You will have opportunities to expand social circles by meeting students from other institutions.

Cons

They are more expensive.
They can have more distractions.

Hostels

Hostels give access to a furnished bedroom. Facilities such as kitchen, bathroom, recreation, and laundry are shared. In some, meals are provided.

Pros

Opportunities to socialize with many people.
You will find a convenient location.

Cons

Privacy is a challenge.
You will share most facilities with many people.

Private accommodation

This involves renting a room in the private sector. You will live in a flat in your room or a shared house. The cost depends on your location.

Pros

Firstly, you will be more independent.
Secondly, it enables you to choose where you want to live
Thirdly, you enjoy privacy and freedom.

Cons

It can be pricey.
You may have issues with the landlord or house agents.

Living at home

Another option is living at home. This can be one of the cheapest accommodations.

Pros

Firstly, you will save some money depending on your situation.
Secondly, you will continue living with your family.
Thirdly, there are limited distractions.

Cons

Firstly, you may not be as independent as you would in other accommodations.
Secondly, you may miss co-curricular activities that happen after classes.
Thirdly, commuting to and from classes can be hectic.
Fourthly, chances of missing lectures are high.

Homestays

Homestays involves living in vacant rooms available in local families. They are good for international students. They are usually short and may not exceed 1 year.

Pros

Firstly, you get time to know your new areas.
Secondly, they are affordable.

Cons

You will have to live with strangers.
Freedom is limited

Factors To Consider When Choosing Your Accommodation

Our list shows there are various options to choose from for your accommodation. Some options will be good for one student and not fit for others. So, you have to make your decision about the accommodation. Below, we have provided four tips which you may consider before making your decision.

Where do you want to live?

To start with, the first thing to think about is location. Where would you want to live? In the suburbs? In the city? Somewhere you can drive to campus or walk? Or do you prefer public transport? Do you have the answer? Let us move on to the next factor.

Which accommodation fits your lifestyle?

What is your lifestyle? Do you prefer hanging around with friends? Are you a quiet person? Choose your accommodation based on your answer. For example, you may consider rentals instead of students’ halls for more privacy.

Do you want to commit to your accommodation?

Before deciding on the type of accommodation you want, think if you want to commit or not. For example, do you want to continue living with the people you chose to live with? Would you like to reconsider them later?

Can you afford the accommodation?

This is an important factor. It is important to choose an option within your budget. This option should also be feasible over time. If you choose expensive accommodation, you can make your life difficult.