Manchester University Student Accommodation: How To Apply

If you're thinking of applying for student accommodation at the University of Manchester, there are a few things you should know. The University of Manchester offers a range of accommodation options, including halls of residence and private housing, with costs varying depending on location and quality. The application process involves registering for an account, selecting your preferred halls, and indicating any health needs that may impact your accommodation requirements. It's recommended that you apply as early as possible, as Manchester student halls are usually oversubscribed. International students should also be aware of specific academic and language requirements. The University also provides dedicated support services, including academic advising and mental health counselling.

Register for accommodation

To register for accommodation at the University of Manchester, you must first have received an offer to study at the university. You can then register for an account using your University ID number (found on your offer letter) and a valid email address.

Once you have registered, you will be able to select your preferred halls, choosing five in total. You will also be able to indicate on the initial application form if you have any physical or mental health needs that will impact your accommodation requirements. If you would like to discuss your options, you can contact the university via email.

It is important to note that you are not guaranteed your preferred accommodation options; you are only guaranteed an offer of a room within a hall of residence if you meet the conditions of the accommodation guarantee. The university suggests applying early to secure your preferred housing.

For international students, the university guarantees accommodation in their first year of study, provided that they apply by the specified deadline.

Accommodation options

The University of Manchester offers on-campus accommodation in halls of residence. To apply, you must first register for an account using your University ID number and a valid email address. You will then be able to select your preferred halls (up to five in total). It is recommended that you submit your application as early as possible, as Manchester student halls are usually oversubscribed. The accommodation guarantee deadline is 31 July for visiting and exchange students and 31 August for other students.

If you have any physical or mental health needs that may impact your accommodation requirements, you can indicate this on the initial application form. The university will then send you a separate form to provide more details about the support you need.

There are also several options for off-campus University of Manchester accommodation. Popular student areas in Manchester include Fallowfield, Withington, and Rusholme, which offer affordable options, vibrant social scenes, and good connections to the university campus.

The cost of private student accommodation in Manchester varies depending on the location and quality of the residence. Purpose-built city-centre accommodation with great facilities and spacious rooms will be more expensive. On average, students can expect to spend around £9,000 to £12,000 per year on living costs, including accommodation, food, transportation, and social activities.

Some private accommodation options in Manchester include Bridgewater Heights, Artisan Heights, and Piccadilly Point.

Eligibility and requirements

To be eligible for student accommodation at the University of Manchester, you must have received an offer to study at the university. The university guarantees accommodation for international students in their first year, provided they apply by the deadline.

The application process involves registering for an account using your University ID number and a valid email address. You will then be required to select your preferred halls and enter five accommodation preferences on the application form. It is important to note that you are not guaranteed your preferred choices but will receive an offer of a room within a hall of residence if you meet the conditions of the accommodation guarantee.

For students with physical or mental health needs that may impact their accommodation requirements, this can be indicated on the initial application form. The university will then provide a separate form to gather more information about the support needed.

The University of Manchester has an accommodation guarantee deadline, which is typically in July or August. If your application is submitted after this deadline, an offer of accommodation is no longer guaranteed.

In addition to the accommodation application process, international students applying to the University of Manchester must meet specific academic qualifications equivalent to UK standards, demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL, provide a personal statement, and may be required to attend an interview.

Application deadlines

The University of Manchester offers a wide range of accommodation options for first-year students across its three campuses: Fallowfield, Victoria Park, and City. Students can choose from catered or self-catered options and select their preferred bathroom type, such as en-suite or standard rooms with shared facilities.

To apply for student accommodation at the University of Manchester, you must first receive an offer to study at the university. Once you have an offer, you can start the accommodation application process. The application deadlines vary depending on your student status. For visiting and exchange students, the accommodation guarantee deadline is typically around the end of July (e.g., 31 July 2025 for the 2025/26 academic year). For other students, the deadline is usually at the end of August (e.g., 31 August 2025 for the 2025/26 academic year).

It is important to note that you must accept the offer of accommodation before the expiry date, or it will be withdrawn, resulting in a loss of your accommodation guarantee. Additionally, you will have a limited time to accept the offer, typically around four days, but this may vary depending on the time of year.

If you are applying to Manchester Metropolitan University, there are specific dates to keep in mind. For instance, 3 March is when bookings open for firm offer holders, and 18 June is the last date to be eligible for the Accommodation Guarantee and to cancel without penalty.

For students with physical or mental health needs that impact their accommodation requirements, there is an option to indicate this on the initial application form. The university will then provide a link to a separate form to gather more information about the necessary support.

Accommodation costs

The cost of student accommodation in Manchester varies depending on the room type and location. On average, rent can range from £100 to £250 per week. Many accommodations offer rent packages with bills included, covering utilities like water, electricity, and Wi-Fi. However, it is important to check with the accommodation provider, as some may offer rent without bills included.

Purpose-built student accommodations often include utility bills in the rent, simplifying budgeting and preventing unexpected costs. Additionally, choosing accommodation outside the city centre or university hubs can be more cost-effective, as suburban areas tend to have lower rent prices.

To save costs, consider sharing accommodation with roommates to split the cost of rent and utilities. Starting your research early and looking for student discounts, deals, and incentives can also help reduce expenses.

The mode of transportation can also impact your overall cost of living. While buses and trams are among the most economical options, with discounted rates available for students, Ubers are relatively cheaper for shorter journeys.

For comfortable living in Manchester, it is advisable to budget between £1,456 and £1,644 per month. This includes considerations for expenses such as rent, transportation, utilities, and food.

Frequently asked questions