Things to consider while moving to Reading

Getting into college is quite exciting but choosing a student accommodation can become nerve- wracking. However, does not matter how difficult the process gets, it is important to choose the best property as you are going to stay here for at least a year. Whether you have picked one university option or many, it is never too early to start looking for accommodation. There are three kinds of accommodation in university cities comprising of private student accommodation (PBSAs), private renting with landlords, and university halls. Let’s have a look:

Private student accommodation: Also known as PBSAs (purpose-built student accommodations) is the best option for international students. These properties are built specifically with the students in mind. They often boast amazing amenities such as games rooms, in-house gyms, as well as dedicated study spaces. They are generally located close to the university and public transport. The rooms can be selected for booking and you can also book in groups if you are moving to the same university with your friends and want to share a flat. The range of accommodation varies from shared rooms to private rooms, from en-suite to fully self-contained studio apartments. You can choose a room type at your convenience. Additional facilities on-site include study spaces, a gym, a cinema room, laundry room as well as round-the-clock staff. The monthly rent generally includes Wi-Fi and other bills. You can use student finance as well. The tenancy agreements are often flexible and can range from a couple of months to a year. You need to choose according to your taste and preferences.

Private renting with landlords: Generally based in the same city but often further out depending on the area, these housing options are great for those students who want to stay at a home. If you are going to a new place for the 1st time, you miss your family. In such times, you can stay with another family and enjoy a homely environment. You need to handle all your bills and you have a set tenancy agreement length, generally one year. You can come across a wide range of student accommodation Reading as per your taste.

University Halls: Generally, the University Halls are based on campus or close to the university. Rooms are allocated by the university and in general, you cannot pick which building you get, but you can make your preferences. These are usually allocated after results day when the universities have confirmed their conditional offers. You can pay as per term and with the help of your student finance. Here generally the set tenancy agreement length is usually one year.

Make your choices

Heading to the university means making a new local community and a network of friends, course mates, or potentially some work friends. It is very essential to consider what style of living you enjoy. If you are sociable, it is important that you stay in a place with is busy or near the city canter. If you prefer to enjoy parks or the countryside, it is worth checking accommodations that match your interests.

When it comes to accommodation, similarly the way you like to live and spend your spare time can make a lot of difference. Some private student accommodation properties have different buildings with a larger group of living area, whereas some are smaller with only a handful. Also, you can come across a wide range of facilities depending on each property, so it is worth checking out a few pointers:

1. Proximity to the university2.Communal space for you to use3. Support available on-site4.Security measures for peace of mind- CCTV and door entry pads

Points to keep in mind before moving into the new city

1. Student finance applications: There is a timeframe for the application to be processed and set payment dates. So, it is important getting everything organized sooner rather than later.2. Bank accounts: Take a look at the bank accounts and mobile operators and make sure you have everything sorted before heading to university.3. Storage: Organize the belongings which you want to take. If you want to donate a few things, then start early. Consider what can be sold as every penny counts at the university.4. Shopping List: It is easy to get drawn into buying so many items for a university that can more often than not double or triple up if you are living with flatmates as everyone will bring a set of pans. However, it is worth keeping the basics such as duvet and pillows, mattress protector and topper, photo frames, teddies, mugs, fairy lights, etc. whatever seems to be your favourite shouldbe kept with you.

Wrapping UpSo, there it is, the guide to heading to university next year. It is really exciting to achieve your dream and work on it. But stick to the plan and study hard as these years are not coming back sooner or later. If you have any questions, then it is important to connect with the experts and find a solution to your problems. You can go through all the research and find a solution to all your problems. Research the place and go through the different accommodations available before you make a decision.

Myself Tessa Young working as a Digital Marketing Manager in Universityliving. Universityliving is best student accommodation provider globally