University Roommates In The Uk: The Norm?

University students in the UK typically have their own bedrooms, but share common spaces such as kitchens and bathrooms with flatmates. While it is rare for students to share a bedroom, some universities do offer this option, particularly in university halls for first-year students. Having a roommate can be a great way to make friends, save money on rent, and gain valuable life experience.

University students in the UK rarely share bedrooms, but often share flats or dorms

When applying for university accommodation, students can usually request to live with a certain person or group of people, such as an all-female group. Universities try to pair people based on their preferences, but sometimes students may be placed with flatmates they don't get along with. To avoid this, students can choose to live in private housing with friends or other people they already know.

Having flatmates offers several benefits, including widening your social network, splitting accommodation costs, and learning how to live with someone else. Flatmates can also provide support and motivation, especially when it comes to studying. However, sharing a living space also requires communication, compromise, and setting healthy boundaries.

While it is rare, there are a few universities in the UK that offer shared bedrooms as a more affordable option. In these cases, roommates usually have their own beds in the same room and share kitchen and bathroom facilities with other students on the same floor or in the same building.

Students can request to be placed in single-sex accommodation

When applying for accommodation, students can put in a request for a single-sex flat. This is usually done by ticking a box on the application form. At some universities, such as Queen Mary University of London, this box appears just before the price band selection. It is important to apply early, as single-sex accommodation may be limited.

At some universities, such as the University of Bath, single-sex accommodation may be limited to one type of room, such as shared bathrooms. However, this is not the case at all universities. For example, at the University of Glasgow, there are single-sex flats with shared facilities, as well as twin rooms where students share a room with someone of the same sex.

It is worth noting that mixed-sex accommodation is more common and considered 'normal' in the UK. Students who request single-sex accommodation may be perceived as 'odd' or 'fussy' by some. However, this should not deter students from requesting single-sex accommodation if it is their preference.

Students can choose to live in catered or non-catered accommodation

Non-catered accommodation gives students the freedom to cook whatever they like. It has a larger kitchen area, and students only pay for the food they eat. This option is cheaper than catered accommodation, as students are not paying a set amount for meals they may not be eating.

Students can also choose between having an en-suite bathroom or sharing a bathroom with multiple shower cubicles and toilet rooms with their flatmates. En-suite rooms are more expensive, so students must weigh up whether having a private bathroom is worth the extra cost.

Students can choose to live in university-owned accommodation, private halls, private housing, or at home

Students in the UK have a variety of accommodation options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a detailed overview of the four main choices: university-owned accommodation, private halls, private housing, and living at home.

University-Owned Accommodation

University halls are a popular choice for first-year students, offering convenience and a smooth transition to independent living. They are usually located close to the university, making it easier to get to lectures. Utilities are included in the contract price, and universities provide support for any maintenance or flatmate issues. Halls also provide opportunities to make friends and offer social activities such as sports teams and events. However, students don't get to choose their flatmates, and may end up with individuals who have different schedules and standards of cleanliness.

University accommodation includes options for catered and non-catered, as well as en-suite or shared bathrooms. Catered accommodation includes meals in the price, while non-catered gives students the freedom to cook their own meals. En-suite rooms are more expensive, and students need to decide if the privacy is worth the extra cost.

Private Halls

Private halls are an alternative for students who are unable to secure a place in university-owned halls. These tend to be more modern and spacious, offering larger rooms, en-suite bathrooms, double beds, and additional amenities like gyms and cinema rooms. However, they are more expensive and usually have a full 52-week contract, attracting international students. Private halls are common in large cities like London and Manchester due to high student numbers.

Private Housing

Private housing is an option for those seeking a quieter and potentially cheaper alternative to halls. It often provides larger rooms and a DOUBLE bed, as well as a 52-week contract. While it may be located a short walk or bus ride away from the university, it allows students to explore the city beyond the campus bubble. However, private housing typically requires a larger deposit, and it can be challenging to terminate the tenancy early. Students should carefully read the contract and understand their responsibilities regarding appliance maintenance and repairs.

Living at Home

For students who prefer to stay at home during their studies, this option offers the comfort and familiarity of their existing living arrangement. It may be a suitable choice for those who want to save on accommodation costs or have specific requirements that can be better met at home. However, living at home may impact the student's social life and opportunities for independent living experiences.

Students can choose to live with current flatmates, course mates, friends from societies and clubs, or current friends

First-year students often choose to live in university halls, which are a brilliant 'halfway house' between moving out of home and becoming independent. However, universities will usually decide who lives in each flat or dorm, and students may find themselves living with people they don't get along with.

If you already have flatmates and are getting along well, why not continue living with them? You already know how they work, how they act, their sleeping patterns, and their cleaning habits.

Course mates are another great option, as you've likely already formed a friendship with them, and you can be study buddies in your own house.

Friends from societies and clubs can also make great flatmates. If you've already formed a close bond with someone, it could be a great opportunity to get to know them better and continue your shared interest outside of your meet-ups.

Finally, if you know a friend is going to the same university as you, it could be a safe bet to ask them about their housing situation. It could be great to have a familiar face in a new setting.

However, it's important to remember that living with friends can also have its challenges. Be sure to set clear boundaries and communicate your preferences and expectations to avoid any potential conflicts.

Frequently asked questions