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There are so many things to think about when moving abroad to study in London, but one of the main concerns for new students is usually accommodation. It can be difficult to work out the type that will work best for you, especially when there are so many options available. In order to help you with your decision, read on for our basic guide to student housing. London is not as scary as it may seem! Self-Catered Halls If you enjoy being independent and following your own schedule, self-catered halls are a great option. It’s a fantastic way to form quick bonds with your flatmates, as you will be sharing a communal kitchen - so you’ll probably end up cooking meals together. Although a shared kitchen can be a pleasant, friendly space to enjoy each other’s company, they can also become quite unpleasant if anyone in the flat has untidy tendencies - so beware! Halls of Residence Halls of residence vary quite significantly depending on the particular university or college, but they are generally split into flats. You can opt to share a room with another student, but most halls also offer single rooms with en-suites. Flats without en-suites share communal bathrooms. Your room is likely to be quite basic, and until you make it your own with personal touches, the furnishings will probably consist of just a bed, a desk and a chair. Don’t worry though; it’s amazing what a few fairy lights, family photos or posters can do. The canteen is usually equally basic, and is likely to serve popular local dishes. Although this can be a struggle for international students at first, many find that trying new foods is a brilliant way to embrace the culture and step out of their comfort zone. As well as the canteen, there may be other communal areas for students - such as a bar or games room. Flats and Houses When it comes to independent student housing, London has plenty of options available. Most international students spend their first year in halls, before moving on to an independent flat or house for their second or third year of study. These are not part of the university or college and will require you to enter into an agreement, so be sure you understand the full contract and seek help if you’re unsure. International student advisors will be happy to assist. Houses and flats give you a little more flexibility and freedom than halls, as you are free to live with whom you want and where you like. This can be very appealing to students who have established a close network of friends in their first year. Hopefully this has provided some useful information for you regarding student housing – London may be big, but you needn’t worry when it comes to finding somewhere to live. If you’re still unsure about how to begin your transition to a new life in the big city, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for further guidance. It’s important your study abroad experience gets off to the best possible start. Author Plate Sophie Smith works as an independent consultant, specialising in offering advice on London student housing. London offers an unbeatable experience for international students, and Sophie has many suggestions to make sure that their time in the city is positive, safe and enjoyable.
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