Things to Consider when Choosing your Student Accommodation

In this article, we have put together our tips to make sure you find the perfect place to live. Whether you are looking for student accommodation in Manchester, Glasgow or anywhere in between. These tips will help you.

Once you have accepted a place at university, the next big question you need to ask yourself is ‘where am I going to live?’ Finding the right student accommodation can be a tricky task, especially if you have chosen to study abroad. This is somewhere that you will be living, eating, and socialising so it is important that you choose the perfect place to suit you and your university experience. Whether you are looking for student accommodation in Manchester or student accommodation in Glasgow, and everywhere in between, we have put together our top tips to make sure you find the perfect place to live.

Location

Where your accommodation is located can have a big impact on your student experience. You might find the perfect student accommodation in Glasgow, only to find that you need to catch 3 buses to get to the university campus. Remember, you will be visiting the campus very frequently for studies and socialising, so you need to make sure that you are living close by (or somewhere that has extremely good transport links!) Imagine having an hour commute before a 9am lecture? Don’t jeopardise your studies for the sake of a cheaper room that is far away – make sure that you do your research properly to find the perfect location for your accommodation.

Type of Accommodation

You need to make sure that the space you choose works for you, and with so many options available it can be a daunting task! Do you want private student accommodation in Birmingham City Centre where you live alone, or do you want to be right in the thick of things and living on campus? Where you choose will have a great effect on your student experience, so make sure you choose wisely? Typical accommodations include:

1. Halls of residence – located on campus and usually include a private bedroom with communal bathroom and living area. Can be catered or self-catered.
2. Private sector halls of residence – very similar to halls of residence but you may be located off campus (still close by!) These are small flats where you have a private bedroom and share with a small number of other students.
3. Private accommodation – this is where you rent from a landlord and can either be studios (bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom all to yourself) or private bedrooms with shared living space.
4. House share – this is where you can rent a room with other students or professionals. You usually share the communal living spaces and bathrooms and have your own bathroom.

Stay connected

One of the most important things that you will need as a student is a good internet connection – especially when you are studying at home. You need to make sure that you choose somewhere with a strong internet connection that will allow you to watch TV, do research and stay connected with your friends and family. At Ocxee, we have 24/7 support so if something goes wrong, we are here to help.

Work life balance

Being a student in the UK is all about working hard and playing hard. Whilst studying is a priority, it is also important to have down time to let your brain and body recharge and refuel. You need to make sure that you do your research properly to find out the best spots in your university city to make sure that you are close to campus, student bars, restaurants, shops and cultural sights. For example, if you choose student accommodation in Birmingham City Centre you will be right in the heart of all the action, but if you choose somewhere on the outskirts, you might miss out on a lot of the student experience.

Learn about the UK Transport System to make sure you have a supple communication medium to resort to during the time of need.

Who will you be living with?

When you initially start university, you probably won’t know anyone, so it is important that you do your research before you make the big move. If you are choosing to live in halls of residence for your first year, you can specify if you would prefer to be in quiet halls or same gendered flat before they allocate spaces. If you choose to go straight into a shared house, you won’t have any control over who you live with. Halls of residence are aimed at first year students so they can make friends before committing to a year long lease with people that you don’t know. In your second year, you can choose who you live with once you have made friends with people who have the same priorities as you.

Budget

A large portion of your budget will go on accommodation, so you need to make sure you understand what is included with your rent. Halls of residence normally have all utility bills and insurance included so you don’t have to worry. They also offer a catered option, so you don’t even have to worry about budgeting for food. Once you move onto private accommodation, you need to make sure that you budget wisely for all living costs associated with renting. It would be no good to find the perfect student accommodation in Manchester that suits your budget, only to find that you have to pay enormous utility bills on top! Here at Ocxee, we offer a lot of options that include all your bills, so all you have to worry about is what to eat.

Security and Support

When you move to a foreign country, you want to make sure that you feel as safe and secure as possible. Firstly, you need to make sure that your accommodation is located in a safe area, and secondly check what security is included before you sign any contracts. We offer a wide range of accommodation that is fully staffed with security guards to make sure that you and your belongings stay safe. We also offer 24/7 support so that you feel safe and supported. Whether you are wanting to report something suspicious or a leaky tap, or you just need someone to talk to, we are on hand to make sure that your student experience is as smooth and positive as possible.

When to start looking

You need to make sure that you start looking for student accommodation well in advance as there are a lot of people that will need somewhere to live! We advise that you start looking as soon as you accept your place at university – you don’t want to miss out on your dream accommodation simply because you applied too late. You also need to start looking early for your second year as many of the popular private accommodations get taken early. Make sure that you are looking at the beginning of the year ready to move in over summer, as the gap closes very quickly!

Be Wary

You need to make sure that you understand fully what is included in the terms and conditions of your rental agreement before you sign. You don’t want to find out that you can’t have friends or family over to visit! Make sure you familiarise yourself with the length of contract and any cooling off periods if you decide that this accommodation is not for you. If you are in a shared house, you need to make sure you know what the penalties are for shared utility bills if someone doesn’t pay as you don’t want this responsibility to fall onto you.

Wherever you choose, the most important things are that you feel safe and comfortable. Browse our one stop shop now for some amazing student accommodation, and don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or queries.

 

Reasons to stay in Student Accommodation

 

There are many Student Accommodation providers in Leicester but before taking any of this, you have to know the reason why to choose student accommodation which is provided by Ocxee.

So, you’ve accepted your place on a university course – Congratulations! If you’re wondering what route to take for your accommodation, then you have come to the right place. Here at Ocxee, we know the importance of staying in student accommodation, especially if you are an international student. Your first year studying abroad can be daunting and confusing, but if you find the right place to live then it can really add to your student experience. Whether you are looking at University of Leicester student accommodation or University of Glasgow student accommodation, or anywhere in between, read on to find out why this is the perfect choice.

You will be able to meet a lot of new people

One of the main benefits of choosing student accommodation near the University of Leicester, or wherever you have chosen to study, is that you will be surrounded by people in the same position as you from day one. With people who have moved from another country or moved within Britain, you will all be able to make friends, explore and figure out the best route to the university together! Moving to another country is never an easy decision but knowing that you won’t be the only one where you are living will make the transition easier.

The best way to immerse yourself in the student lifestyle

By studying and living with students, you will be able to make the most of your student experience. As everyone is in the same boat, you will be able to learn and experience the same journey together. Whether it is an all-night study session in the library, or an all-night party at the students union, living in student accommodation is the best way to immerse yourself in the student lifestyle.

You will have the freedom to do what you want and when

This is probably the first time that you have lived away from your parents, but by choosing studio accommodation in Leicester or anywhere in the UK, you know that you will be safe and secure as well as free. With 24-hour access to most student accommodations, as well as excellent security features, you will be able to stand on your own two feet without having to worry too much. And don’t forget, if you choose Ocxee we are always on the other end of the phone for any queries or questions.

Want to explore Leicester? Read our Guide to make your trip more exciting and memorable

You will be able to learn a lot about other cultures

As you are living with other students from all over Britain and the world, one of the most exciting things about studying abroad is learning about other cultures. And, because you will be living with other people, you will get first-hand experience! You will also be able to learn a lot about yourself, as well as getting to teach others about your own culture. You will be able to adapt to your new living settings quicker than you think, and you will be able to come away with lifelong friends and amazing stories.

You will have student stability and wellbeing

If you choose private accommodation in Leicester rather than student accommodation, you could end up living on your own. Whilst this is very appealing to some people, you may miss out on the stability and wellbeing that comes with student accommodation. If you live with other students, you know that there is always someone there who understands what you are going through, and it can be a good way of dealing with any home sickness that you might experience when you first move away.

There is always something going on

Student halls and accommodation are a great place to live in your first year as there is always something going on. From study sessions to events and ice breaker parties, you won’t be short on things to do. There is plenty to get involved with, and these events are made even better when you go with your roommates! You need to make sure that you make the most of your time abroad and going out and having fun is a key part of the student lifestyle.

You don’t have to worry about budgeting for bills

One of the big benefits to choosing student accommodation or halls of residence is that many come with utility bills and insurance included. This means that you only make one payment a month, and you don’t have to worry about budgeting for different bills coming out at different times! Some student accommodation even offers catered options, meaning that your first steps to independent living are even easier.

How to make sure that you get the right student accommodation for Leicester DMU, or anywhere in the UK?

There are several things that you need to do to make sure that you get the right accommodation for you and your needs, and we’ve put together a handy little list to ensure that you don’t miss out. Whether you are looking for studio student accommodation in Leicester or Halls of residence in Manchester, you need to make sure that you follow these carefully so that you find the perfect place.

1. Start looking early – it is no secret that all the best student accommodation fills up early, so you need to make sure that you know exactly what you want. If you are looking for halls of residence, then you need to make sure you know which one will suit you. Or, if you are looking for private student accommodation in Leicester, you want to make sure that you know the area and what is going on around you. Whatever you choose, make sure that you have done your research!
2. Make sure that you have backups – just in case you don’t get your first-choice accommodation, make sure that you have a couple of backups just in case. What might have been second on your list might turn out to make your student experience even better! What you don’t want to do is choose a place randomly and, in a panic, if you don’t get your first choice.
3. Apply early – Once you have done all your research and you have a couple of options, make sure that you get your applications in early. Student accommodation near Leicester DMU or any university fills up fast, so you want to make sure that you are ahead of the game.
4. Make sure you have everything ready – in order to make sure that your place is secured, you will need to make sure that you have the deposit ready and that you understand the tenant agreement. Once this has been signed and paid, the place is all yours for the year!

Whatever accommodation you decide is right for you, Ocxee are here to help you create your home away from home. With 24 hours round the clock support from the moment you accept your university course to the moment you graduate; you can be sure that we will be here every step of the way. We aim to make your move abroad smooth, easy and hassle free. If you want more information, or you want any advice or help choosing the perfect accommodation, get in touch today to find out more about our one stop student shop.

How the Support Solutions Offered by Student Accommodation Centres Can Help You ?

Do you want to work on your career goals so that you can find better job opportunities in a field that you are interested in? If so, you should consider studying in one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the UK. The United Kingdom has long been one of the eminent centres for growth and progress for a long time. Students from all parts of the globe come to the UK to study in the universities based here. Whether you want to study astrophysics, commerce, medicine, philosophy, or literature, you can get yourself enrolled in one of the best UK universities to have the educational experience of a lifetime. 

  

After you have successfully enrolled with one of the prestigious academic centres in the UK, you need to manage your student accommodation needs to find a place to stay when you are in the UK. It is something that you need to sort out even before your journey to the UK. It will help you move to your accommodation straight from the airport upon your arrival. Nice and well-equipped Glasgow University student accommodation can provide you with the comfort and convenience you are looking for. Moreover, it can also enable you to settle down into the local way of life with ease.  

Whether you are looking for 6-bed student accommodation in Bristol or a place that you can stay solo, you must establish contact with a student accommodation services provider who can attend to your specific needs. The reason is such accommodation service providers can introduce you to many good properties in the best locations that can be of interest to you. It enables you to avoid all the worries and have a positive student life experience in the UK.    

 

Find Student Accommodation Close To Leeds University by Consulting With An International Student Accommodation Service Provider

 Leeds University is one of the most prestigious academic institutions in all of the UK. It has a highly developed infrastructure that can accommodate the needs of international students from around the world. Whether you are looking to cultivate a deep sense of knowledge in music, aerospace engineering, architecture, business studies, or literature, you can be sure that your career is in safe hands when you start interacting with the teaching faculty at Leeds University. It is a reason why hundreds and thousands of students from other parts of the world come down to Leeds University every year to work on their career goals.    

As you decide to study at Leeds University, you need to make sure that you have a nice place to stay during the entire tenure of your academic life in the UK. By consulting with a company that provides private student accommodation in Leeds, you can be in a position to find accommodation suitable for you. The good thing about the professional student accommodation solution providers in the UK is that they can help you narrow down your search for the best property close to Leeds University so that you can commute easily between your home and your place of study. 

If you try to find the accommodation wholly on your own, it is not only going to take you more time and effort to do that, but you may also end up in a place that you may not like. Hence, it only makes sense to consult with an experienced service provider that offers international student accommodation in Leeds. In that way, you can save a lot of time and effort in finding a place to stay in the UK that is both comfortable and convenient. 

Tips For Finding The Best Student Accommodation While You Study At The Leeds University

When you are looking to study in the UK, you must find a university that can provide you with the best academic life that you can think of. One of the finest institutions in all of the UK is Leeds University. Whether you are keen on studying arts and design, business management, media and communication studies, or human resource management, you can benefit from the years of experience and in-depth knowledge of the teaching faculty here at Leeds University. It is, therefore, no wonder that Leeds University is one of the best academic learning centers in all of the UK. Leeds University has an excellent record of producing successful professionals who have contributed to the fields that they have studied in.   

If you want to become a part of Leeds University, and thus focus on having a flourishing academic life in this part of the world, then search for a Leeds University student accommodation right from the onset. Whether you realize this or not, a large part of the success of your academic life in Leeds depends on whether you have a convenient place to call your home. Your accommodation should be sufficiently comfortable that you do not make you yearn to get back to your original home as soon as possible. Moreover, it should also provide you with a place where you can feel safe and comfortable at all times.  

By getting in touch with a student accommodation solutions provider in the UK, you can find the student accommodation in Leeds that you are ideally looking for. These companies are adept at guiding international students in the best possible way when finding a home away from home. The student accommodation companies are always ready to provide you with customized solutions. 

Expectation vs. Reality: International Students in the UK

Choosing the right University and course is one of the most important decisions that you will make initially, and what you do during your time might affect what you go on to do in the future.

The UK has always attracted a lot of international students thanks to its high university ratings and good chances of employment once you have your degree. Choosing the right University and course is one of the most important decisions that you will make initially, and what you do during your time might affect what you go on to do in the future. Everyone has a different idea of what it is like to study abroad, and we’re here to help give you a better picture of what it might be like if you come to study in the UK.

Paperwork

The paperwork needed to study in the UK can be overwhelming at first – with everything from your university course, financial aid, and student accommodation in Manchester (or elsewhere in the UK) all needing to be organised before you even board the plane. However, there are a lot of people out there who are ready to help you and guide you to make sure that you get everything done and sorted in time. Experienced counsellors are now available to assist you with all of your paperwork, and their wealth of knowledge and understanding of UK systems will make applying and getting organised a breeze.

Finding accommodation – Ocxee is here to help!

This one may be one of the most difficult boxes to tick before you leave to study in the UK. You need to make sure that you get the right accommodation to suit you and how you want to live as a student, without being able to visit beforehand! Whether you are looking for private accommodation in Bristol, or student accommodation in Birmingham City Centre, here at Ocxee have a whole range of trusted and reputable accommodation options for you to choose from. We are here to make the process as easy as possible, and we are here to help you from start to finish. First year students normally use the university halls of residence or rent from a private landlord. With options such as self-catering and catered, halls or private housing there is so much choice to ensure that you feel comfortable and welcome when you arrive. Our process is hassle free and offers accommodation packages, so you don’t have to worry about paying multiple bills etc. – you are free to focus on your studying and social life!               

Passing Classes

Studying in a foreign country can feel a little daunting, and you want to make sure that you make the most of the opportunity. University was not meant to be easy, and you need to understand the grading system and study methods.

The grading systems briefly comprise of:

1. First class degree – a grade of 70 per cent or higher means this is the top grade you can get.
2. 2:1 (upper second class) – this is a grade of 60-69 per cent
3. 2:2 (lower second class) – a grade of 50-59 per cent.
4. Third class degree – a grade of 45-49 per cent.
5. Ordinary degree – a grade of 40-44 per cent is the absolute minimum you need to pass.
6. Fail – you did not pass the assignment or course and will need to complete it again.

If you put in the hard work consistently, then you will find it a lot easier once you understand the system. Plus, you won’t be the only foreign student there! Find out where the other foreign students are and make sure you get yourself a good support system.

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