One of the most concerning issues is of where the child will live when he arrives at University. Most Indian parents are troubled about the safety of their children in foreign lands. Choosing the right accommodation is an essential thing to do before one leaves home.
There are various options to choose from. Below are the different types of accommodations, which will help you, decide better.
1.University Halls
These are managed and owned by Universities. Most 1st year students are guaranteed a place at these halls. Living in university accommodation certainly has its advantages. Note, some university-managed halls might not be on campus, but located in the local city or town instead.
In terms of making friends, living with other students is a great way to get to know people you may end up becoming good friends with and even living with next year.
You’re also conveniently located, so you don’t have to worry about commuting in daily for lectures, group work or to use the library (as well as for the more fun stuff like societies, clubs and activities put on by your student union).
Pros:
- Social scene: a good chance to meet lots of students in one place
- It’s the ‘halfway’ house option: easing you gently in to living away from home
- You’re not alone: extra support will be available from your university if you need it.
Cons:
- Being thrown in at the deep end: you don’t get to choose who you live with
- No guarantees: you might not get a place in your preferred accommodation
- Living near to lots of students: get used to putting up with noise and mess!
- Private Student Halls
A popular option nowadays, the set-up is similar to halls managed by universities – you have your own room and you share communal areas like a kitchen or TV room – but a private company owns it. Studio apartments may be available too (though these are usually pricier). These are quite common and popular in big cities like London, Manchester, Melbourne, Singapore, Paris to name a few.
If you’re considering this option, make sure you do some research into what you’ll be getting for your money i.e. bills that are included (including any upfront costs you’ll need to account for) and facilities on site.
Private halls can be a great way to expand your social circles, as you may find students from other universities in the same building. When browsing providers, check what communal spaces are available plus any regular activities or events for residents to meet and socialise.
Pros:
- Built for students: so the same advantages as students in university halls apply
- Mod cons: handy perks such as Wi-Fi can be part of the package
- Location, location: you’ll be close to all the student action (not necessarily limited to just your university).
Cons:
- Extra costs: factor in any up-front or additional costs, while studio rentals will be pricier
- Unnecessary perks: some private halls have plush extras (e.g. saunas, cinema rooms), which look cool but you may never actually use
- Same student pitfalls apply: noise, not choosing whom you live with, mess and so on.
- Private Accommodation
Some students prefer not to live in halls but choose apartments or flats through letting agents. It is a good choice if you are a matured student and need your space.
Living in a privately rented property can be appealing as it enables you to decide exactly where you live and who with. While it can be tricky to find those in a similar position and organise viewings if you haven’t moved to university yet, your housing office can assist you with this e.g. matching you up with others, recommending approved lists of landlords or student-friendly letting agents etc.
Pros:
- Independence: you’re in charge of where and with whom you’re living
- Local area: whereas your university’s halls might all be on campus, private housing options actually in town can make you feel part of the local community more
- Flexibility: the private rental market is packed with different living options to suit you.
Cons:
- Further out: you may find yourself outside the main campus
- Managing bills: you’ll need to budget, especially if you’ve never lived away from home before
- Dealing with admin: you’ll be dealing direct with a landlord or letting agent .