Comparing Halls, Private Housing, and Homestays in the UK And USA?
You can choose from university halls of residence, private accommodation, shared accommodation, and homestays. Amber, uhomes, and UniAccoare websites can help you find the perfect stay for international students in the UK and the US.
Accommodation type
| UK | USA |
University Halls of residence | £6000 to £6600 for 40 to 44 weeks | $9,800 to $11,100 per academic year |
Shared accommodation | £450 to £750 per month | $400 to $700 per month |
Private bedroom | £713 to £1,195 per month | $600 to $900 per month |
Homestays | £600 to £800 per month | $300 to $500 per month |
Residence halls | £540 per month | 600 to $800 per month |
Additionally, the rent in major cities may lean towards the higher end of the averages. For instance, if you plan to study in the UK, the cost of living will largely depend on whether you stay inside London or outside London. Similarly, if you plan to study in the US, the cost of accommodation is subject to change as per the city you choose to reside in.
For students studying abroad, accommodation plays a crucial role, as your surroundings impact your personality, mindset, and apparently academics as well. International students have various accommodation options, which include private or shared rooms, university halls of residence, homestays, etc. This article will help you understand how you can choose the right stay abroad:
University Halls vs Private Student Housing vs Homestays
Each accommodation has its own benefits for students. Before finalising a stay, you need to know about various types of accommodation along with their benefits.
1. University Halls
University halls or accommodation are provided by the institutions and are generally close to the campus. This stay is generally suggested for new students to help them understand the culture, tenant policy, and fit well into it.
Benefits:
- Walking distance from university
- Fully furnished rooms
- Access to university facilities
- Safe environment
- Utilities included
- Opportunity to interact with different cultures
Limitations:
- Requires early application
- Less privacy
- Limited availability of seats
- Have to follow university rules and regulations.
- Fixed stay options
2. PBSA or Private Student Housing
PBSA stands for purpose-built student accommodation; it is a private property built especially for students. PBSA is a great student housing option in the USA and the UK and offers a perfect balance between independence, comfort, and cultural exposure. These are modern residences and offer:
- Fully furnished rooms
- Dedicated study area
- Laundry facilities
- High-speed internet
- Better security
- Gym or workout space
- Shared lounges
- All utility bills
Limitations:
- Has fixed contracts
- Can be on the higher end of the budget
- Offers limited flexibility
3. Homestays
Homestays are basically homes away from home. In the UK and the USA, in a homestay, you stay with a local family. It often helps students feel supported and comfortable in the new city, and they get the opportunity to understand different cultures. Homestay offers the following facilities:
- Furnished rooms
- Internet connection
- Cultural exposure
- Meals
Limitations:
- Fixed rules and routines
- Limited privacy
- Lesser independence
When to Start Applying?
The search for accommodation in the UK and the USA should begin immediately after the admission confirmation from the university. As most universities start to allocate stay based on their accommodation request submission, your delay in submitting the request may refrain from getting accommodation of your choice. Many experts suggest booking accommodation months before your academic session begins to avoid last-minute hassle.
Students planning to study abroad often start looking for accommodation after all the process, which may refrain them from getting the best possible accommodation in the UK and the US. These two countries are in high demand when it comes to studying abroad and thus have accommodations occupied before the start of the session. We suggest you follow these tips:
- Search for the types of accommodations available in the USA and the UK. Choose one type.
- Start searching for options immediately after receiving the offer letter.
- Shortlist properties after visa filing.
- Finalise your stay two to three months before your departure.
- Ensure you have sufficient balance, as most accommodations require a deposit to finalise your booking.
Many first-time international students in the USA and the UK forget about security deposits, furniture, setup costs, and utilities expenses. Ignoring these expenses may come as a surprise that you may not be ready for. Ensure to keep an extra budget for such surprise expenses and also ensure you follow the timeline to get a comfortable stay of your choice.
Tips for First-Time Renters to Avoid Scammers
- Whenever an agent reaches out to you regarding accommodation services, ask for their name and company name.
- Search for the company on Google.
- If you don’t find their website or find them hesitating to share their company website, do not book or pay any amount.
- Don’t pay until you have verified documentation.
Red Flags to Spot
First-time international students are more likely to fall for rental scams due to a lack of information. You can simply notice the agent and, if they reflect the following red flags, pull out of that conversation:
- Agent asking for full payment before showing you the place.
- Agent trying to rush you, such as: this is a one-time offer, pay right now, or it’s gone, etc.
- Too low rent for a good property.
- No reliable address or contact details.
Final Thoughts
Finding accommodation in the UK and the USA is easier when you use verified platforms and websites such as University Living, Amber, and uHomes. If you are a first-time renter, keep these documents handy: visa, passport, proof of funds, local ID (after arrival), and university offer letter.
Having these documents ready will help you secure accommodation with less hassle. If you are unsure, you can always reach out to Silver Fern Education Consultant, as we have a team of professionals who can assist you with your international study program.
FAQs
Yes, most of the universities in the UK and the USA offers accommodation to the students.
University halls are a safer option for first-year students, as they are close to the campus and offer enough exposure to understand the tenant responsibilities.
Yes, Silver Fern Education Consultant offers assistance in finding the right accommodation for students planning to study abroad in the USA and UK. Amber, UniAcco, uHomes, and other such company agents can help you book accommodation in the UK or the USA online. They will also share pictures with you and provide all the information about the property, along with the rent per week or per month for the stay.
As soon as you get the admission confirmation, you should start looking for accommodation options and book one as soon as your visa is approved.
