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- Published: 26 August 2025
- Updated: 2 April 2024
As one of the world’s top student cities, London offers a rich academic environment, an exciting culture, and countless opportunities. But before you dive into university life, one of the first things you’ll need to find out is where to live.
With so many options—each offering different prices, locations, and living experiences—choosing the right student housing can feel overwhelming. If you’re heading to the UK from anywhere across the United Arab Emirates, this guide will help you find your ideal student home in London.
Types of Student Accommodation
There are plenty of comfortable and flexible options available to suit your lifestyle and preferences, such as:
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA): Modern, fully furnished spaces designed just for students, often with great amenities and a friendly community feel.
University Halls of Residence: Convenient, university-managed housing—an easy way to settle in and meet fellow students, especially in your first year.
Private Rented Flats or Shared Apartments: A great choice if you’re looking for more independence or planning to live with friends.
Studio Apartments & Ensuite Rooms: Ideal if you prefer privacy and having your own space.
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Costs & Budget Planning
Managing your budget in London might seem overwhelming at first, but with a little planning, it becomes much easier. Here's what to expect:
Typical Rent: Weekly rent usually ranges from £150 to £400, depending on the area and the type of accommodation you choose.
Bills Included: Many student accommodations (especially PBSAs) cover utilities like electricity, water, Wi-Fi, and sometimes even access to a gym!
Smart Ways to Save: Consider living with flatmates, exploring areas a bit further from the city centre (like Zone 3 and beyond), and always checking for student discounts.
What to Prepare: You might need to set aside a deposit, have a guarantor, and plan a basic budget for groceries, transport, and social activities.
Costs & Budget Planning
Finding the right area to live in can really shape your experience—and London has something for every kind of student!
Central & Full of Life: Camden & Shoreditch
Camden is a favourite among creative students, with its lively markets, canalside cafés, music venues, and easy access to top universities like University College London (UCL), King’s College London, and London School of Economics and Political Science.
Shoreditch, on the other hand, buzzes with street art, quirky cafés, and vibrant nightlife—perfect if you’re looking for that dynamic city vibe.
More Budget-Friendly: Brent Cross & Colindale
If you're keeping an eye on costs, Brent Cross and Colindale in North-west London offer great value. These neighbourhoods are well connected by public transport and give you more space for your money—ideal for students who want a quieter, affordable place with good links to campus.
How to Choose & Book Your Accommodation
We’ve made it simple with easy-to-follow steps, so you’ll know exactly what to expect along the way.
Step-by-Step Booking Process:
Explore Your Options:
Browse verified accommodations based on location, budget, and lifestyle (Central? Quiet? Party vibes? You choose!)
Shortlist Your Favourites:
Compare features like rent inclusions, distance to university, and facilities.
Book a Virtual Viewing:
Can’t visit in person? No problem; most providers offer live virtual tours or video walkthroughs.
Apply Online:
Submit your documents, choose your room, and wait for confirmation.
Pay Your Deposit:
Once your spot is secured, you’re one step closer to your London adventure!
Understand Contract Terms & Viewings
Carefully review the contract to ensure key details—such as rent amount, deposit, refund rules, notice period and any hidden fees—are clearly stated and understood. H3) What to Check Before Signing
Is the rent all-inclusive (Wi-Fi, utilities, cleaning)?
Is there 24/7 support in case something goes wrong?
Are you allowed to decorate or personalise your space?
When in doubt, ask! Every question matters when it comes to finding your home away from home.
Safety, Reviews & Facilities
When choosing student housing in London, comfort and safety should be at the top of your checklist. Here’s what to look for:
Security Features: Most PBSAs come with 24/7 security, secure entry systems, and CCTV cameras.
Facilities: Common features include study areas, shared kitchens, laundry rooms, gyms, and chill-out lounges.
Student Reviews: Real student feedback gives you insight into what living there is actually like; don't skip this step!
On-site Support: Some buildings offer reception staff or student support teams to assist with daily needs.
The Last Piece of the Puzzle
From shortlisting options to reviewing contracts, we’re ready to help you feel at home even before you arrive. Let IDP UAE help you start your UK student life the right way.
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