Guidance on housing and finances during the Clearing/Adjustment period
For students embarking on their university journey in London, the city offers a diverse range of accommodation options to cater to different preferences and budgets.
**University Halls (University Residences)** are typically designed for first-year undergraduates, providing an excellent opportunity to acclimate to living away from home and make new friends. Located near campuses, these halls offer a higher level of amenities than other options, making them a convenient choice for students.
**Private Halls of Residence**, run by private entities, offer more facilities than university halls but at a higher cost. These halls attract a diverse mix of students and are also situated close to universities.
**Shared Student Houses or Flats** are a popular choice among groups of friends, offering an affordable option and found in student-friendly neighbourhoods. These properties require sharing common areas like kitchens and bathrooms among housemates.
**Studios and Self-Contained Flats/Apartments** are suitable for students seeking privacy. These accommodations combine bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom in a single space, or may have one or more bedrooms, making them more expensive but offering independence with all amenities in one place.
**En-suite Rooms** provide a middle ground between shared and fully private accommodation, offering a private bathroom within the room. These can be found in both private halls and university accommodations.
**Bedsits or Lodgings** are budget-friendly options where a room is rented in a property where the landlord may reside, offering less social interaction with other students.
**Short-Term and Summer Accommodation** is available for students needing accommodation for shorter periods, such as Felda House and Grand Felda House in Wembley, offering private studios or shared flats with communal facilities.
Popular areas for student accommodation in London include Hammersmith, Islington, Kings Cross, and Shadwell, among others. Prices vary, with some options including all bills and amenities like gym membership and communal spaces, aimed at enhancing the student living experience.
When it comes to financing your accommodation, students can apply for maintenance loans to help cover living costs, which are paid directly to the student. Tuition fee loans cover the entire cost of college tuition and are paid directly to the university.
Necessary documents for applying for student finance include bank account details, a UK passport number, National Insurance number, university or college details, and evidence of household income. If a parent or guardian is supporting the student's application, their National Insurance number is also required.
Safety around the building and area is a crucial consideration when selecting a place to live. Students with special circumstances, such as a disability issue, may be eligible for additional funding.
It is important to note that applying for student finance during Clearing is crucial, even if a final decision about a specific course has not been made. Students can change university details online if and when they have made a final decision.
The London College of Creative Media provides an Accommodation Facebook Group to help students find houseshares and potential housemates. The college also offers access to several residence halls like Chapter House and Drapery Place.
This range of options ensures students can find accommodation that fits their lifestyle, budget, and university location preferences, making the transition to university life in London a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Inquiring students might consider applying for maintenance loans to cover living costs and tuition fee loans for their university tuition, ensuring a wide range of accommodation options are financially feasible. With the variety of student houses, flats, halls, and studios catering to diverse preferences – from the affordable shared student houses to self-contained flats and Private Halls of Residence with added amenities – students can select accommodation that aligns with their education-and-self-development goals and lifestyle.
