Montfort University Student Accommodation: A Comprehensive Guide

De Montfort University (DMU) is a public university in Leicester, England, with a rich history of providing excellent education. The university offers various student accommodation options, including on-campus and off-campus housing. On-campus accommodation is typically within a 20-minute walk of the university, with popular areas including the city centre, West End, Saffron, and Westcotes. Off-campus accommodation options are also available in nearby areas such as Clarendon Park, Highfield, and Stoneygate. The cost of living in Leicester is relatively affordable, with student accommodation prices ranging from £79 to £220, and the total monthly cost of living ranging from £700 to £1000.

Student accommodation options near De Montfort University

De Montfort University (DMU) is a public university in the heart of Leicester, England. The university has a rich history of providing excellent education and has produced exceptional alumni. With over 27,000 students from across the globe, DMU offers a diverse range of student accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.

On-Campus Accommodation

For first-year undergraduate students, DMU offers on-campus accommodation in the form of undergraduate halls. These halls provide essential services and amenities to students, such as laundry facilities, social events, and entertainment areas. The university's accommodation portal provides details on the various options available, including en-suite rooms, shared flats, and studio apartments.

Off-Campus Accommodation

Students can also choose from a variety of off-campus accommodation options near DMU. These include private student housing providers such as Student Digs, Amber, and University Living, which offer a range of accommodations, including house shares, student flats, and studio apartments. These options often include utility bills and provide easy access to the university and the city centre.

Private Student Accommodation

Private student accommodation providers like Homes for Students offer private accommodations in Leicester, with properties such as Dover Street Apartments. These accommodations are designed to provide a comfortable and premium living experience, often including modern amenities such as gyms and games rooms.

Student Life in Leicester

Leicester offers a vibrant and diverse environment for students, with a range of cultural and entertainment options. The city is known for its inclusivity and affordability, making it an attractive choice for students. The Clarendon Park, Highfield, City Centre, and Stoneygate areas are popular among students due to their proximity to the university and the availability of green spaces and local amenities.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Leicester is relatively affordable compared to other UK cities, with monthly expenses ranging from £700 to £1000. This includes rent, groceries, transportation, and other personal expenses. Students can expect to pay between £79 and £220 per week for accommodation, depending on the location and inclusions.

On-campus vs off-campus accommodation

De Montfort University (DMU) offers a range of accommodation options for its students, including both on-campus and off-campus choices. So, what are the advantages of each?

On-Campus Accommodation

On-campus accommodation at DMU is convenient and often located within a short walking distance to the university's buildings and facilities. For instance, Newarke Point is integrated with the university's classrooms, so you won't have to travel far to attend lectures. On-campus accommodation is also typically within easy reach of the city centre, with its bars and restaurants, allowing students to enjoy the vibrant, diverse atmosphere of Leicester.

The university's accommodation options include shared flats, en-suite rooms, and studio apartments, with prices ranging from £79 without utilities to £220 with utilities included. These options cater to various budgets and preferences, and some even include premium features like fast Wi-Fi and modern amenities such as gyms and games rooms.

Living on-campus offers a great opportunity to meet new people and form connections, with common areas, social rooms, and recreational facilities. Additionally, on-campus accommodation provides a sense of security with features like 24/7 security, CCTV surveillance, and controlled access gates.

Off-Campus Accommodation

Off-campus accommodation in Leicester provides students with a variety of choices, including private student housing, PBSAs (purpose-built student accommodation), and shared houses or flats. These options are designed to suit different budgets and preferences, with prices starting from £85 per week for a room with a shared bathroom.

Off-campus accommodation offers students more independence and privacy. PBSAs, for example, offer complete privacy and personal space, along with modern amenities. Additionally, off-campus options like student flats or houses can foster a sense of community among students, with shared living and dining spaces.

When considering off-campus accommodation, it's important to factor in additional costs such as utilities, transport, and groceries. Leicester is known for being a relatively affordable city, with living costs estimated at around £700 to £1000 per month.

Both on-campus and off-campus accommodation options at De Montfort University present advantages in terms of convenience, amenities, and cost. On-campus living provides easy access to university facilities and a vibrant social life, while off-campus options offer more independence and a wider range of accommodation types to suit individual needs and preferences. Ultimately, the choice depends on the student's budget, desired level of privacy, and proximity to the university and city amenities.

Cost of living in Leicester

The cost of living in Leicester, United Kingdom, depends on several factors, including family size, accommodation type, and lifestyle choices. Here is a breakdown of the estimated monthly costs for a family and a single person in Leicester.

Family of Four:

According to estimates, a family of four can expect to spend around £2,580-£2,836 per month, excluding rent. This amount covers basic necessities and some discretionary spending.

Single Person:

For a single person, the estimated monthly costs without rent are approximately £754-£1,395. This range takes into account different lifestyles and spending habits.

Accommodation Costs:

Accommodation costs in Leicester vary depending on the location and type of housing. On-campus student accommodations near De Montfort University typically range from £79-£200 per week without utilities and £99-£220 with utilities included. The most popular areas for students include the city centre, West End, Saffron, and Westcotes, offering a mix of premium and traditional student living options.

Utilities and Bills:

Utility costs, including gas, electricity, and internet, can range from £25 to £50 per week for a single person. Some student accommodations include utility bills in the rent, which can help students budget more effectively.

Food and Dining Out:

Groceries for a single person can cost anywhere between £30 and £70 per week, depending on dietary preferences and shopping habits. Dining out is more expensive, with a basic lunchtime meal in the business district costing upwards of £70-£150 per week. Fast-food options are more affordable, with a combo meal costing around £5-£10.

Transportation:

Public transportation is a convenient option in Leicester, with bus fares averaging £3 per day. Students can also opt for cycling, which is a reasonable and environmentally friendly way to get around.

Leisure and Entertainment:

Leicester offers a vibrant student life with various leisure and entertainment options. A monthly gym membership can cost around £15-£30, while a cinema ticket is approximately £10-£15. Students can also explore attractions such as the National Space Centre and Twinlakes Family Theme Park.

In summary, the cost of living in Leicester varies depending on individual circumstances and lifestyle choices. Students can expect to spend between £700 and £1,000 per month on living expenses, including rent, utilities, food, transportation, and leisure activities. Budgeting and choosing accommodations that match their preferences and financial situation are essential for students.

Student life at De Montfort University

De Montfort University (DMU) is a public university in Leicester, England, with a rich history dating back to 1870. The university offers a vibrant student life, with various amenities and social opportunities available on and off-campus.

Campus Amenities

DMU provides a range of on-campus facilities to enhance the student experience. The campus library offers a wealth of resources for research and academic pursuits, including journals, books, newspapers, and articles. Additionally, the university features modern sports and recreation facilities, including a fitness centre, an eight-court sports arena, a 25-metre swimming pool, and a dance studio.

Student Union

The De Montfort Students Union plays a vital role in student life, fostering a sense of community and connection. The union welcomes and supports students from diverse backgrounds, helping them get involved in extracurricular activities, societies, and events.

Dining Options

Students can explore various dining options near the university, such as The Bowling Green and The Rutland & Derby, offering tasty cuisines to suit different preferences and budgets.

Nightlife and Entertainment

For those seeking nightlife and entertainment, venues like the Boxed Bar & Music Venue offer live music and a vibrant atmosphere. The university's proximity to the city centre also provides easy access to bars and restaurants for social gatherings with friends.

Sports and Societies

With over 150 social and sports clubs, DMU offers a diverse range of opportunities for students to stay active, pursue their interests, and connect with others. Students can choose from various sports activities or explore different societies to find their niche.

Cultural Offerings

DMU is committed to promoting inclusivity and civil rights, fostering a culturally rich environment. The university houses a student radio station and a student-run newspaper, encouraging student expression and engagement.

Accommodation

Student accommodation near DMU varies from premium to traditional options, including house shares, student flats, and studio apartments. The university and private providers offer both on-campus and off-campus housing, ensuring convenient access to academic facilities and the city's attractions.

How to rent student accommodation

Step 1: Start Your Search Early

It's important to begin your search for student accommodation near De Montfort University early, as the best places tend to get snapped up quickly. Ideally, you should start looking about 3-4 months before the academic year commences in September. This will give you enough time to explore your options and find a place that suits your preferences and budget.

Step 2: Explore Your Options

De Montfort University offers various accommodation options, including on-campus and off-campus housing. On-campus accommodation is typically in high demand, especially for first-year students, as it is more convenient and often includes access to shared common areas and facilities. Off-campus options are also available, such as private student accommodation specifically designed for students, offering shared rooms, en-suite rooms, and studio rooms.

You can find accommodation options through the university's accommodation portal or by contacting local real estate agents. Websites like Amber, Student Digs, University Living, and Student Crowd also provide listings for student accommodation near De Montfort University.

Step 3: Understand Your Lease Terms and Budget Accordingly

When renting student accommodation, it's crucial to understand the lease terms, including the length of the tenancy and what utilities and amenities are included in the rent. Most student accommodation options include utilities such as water, electricity, heating, and internet in the rent, but it's important to check the specific details for each property. Be sure to also factor in any additional costs, such as deposits, parking fees, and laundry expenses.

Step 4: Visit the Properties

Once you've narrowed down your options, it's a good idea to visit the properties in person to get a feel for the place and the surrounding area. This will help you make a more informed decision and ensure that the accommodation meets your needs and expectations.

Step 5: Book Your Accommodation

Once you've found your ideal student accommodation, it's time to book it! This process will vary depending on whether you're booking through the university or a private provider. In most cases, you'll need to pay a security deposit to secure your booking.

By following these steps, you can navigate the process of renting student accommodation near De Montfort University and find a place that suits your needs and budget. Starting early, understanding your options and lease terms, and conducting thorough research will help ensure a smooth and successful experience.

Frequently asked questions