For Students & Families

Accommodation

Where you live shapes the first year more than most families expect. Here is how the three main options compare, when to book, and what to check before you sign anything.

Ask a question All student services

The options

Halls, private housing, or homestay.

Each option trades cost against convenience and independence differently. Most first-years land in halls; the mix shifts from year two.

University halls

On or near campus, utilities and often meals included, strong first-year community, and university support on site. Usually the simplest option for year one — but capacity is limited and allocation is deadline-driven.

Private student housing

Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and private rentals: more independence and choice of location, but you manage the tenancy, deposits, guarantor requirements, and utilities yourself.

Homestays

Living with a vetted local family — meals and a domestic setting included. Common for younger students and short programs; less independence, more support in the settling-in phase.

Planning

Timelines, costs, and safety.

Indicative figures only — actual costs vary widely by city and change year to year. Verify current numbers with the university and providers.

Booking timelines

University halls: apply as soon as you accept your offer — many allocate first-come, first-served, and popular halls fill months before intake. Private housing: begin 3–6 months out; peak listings appear in spring for autumn intakes. Homestays: 2–3 months out through university-approved providers.

Indicative cost bands

US: roughly $800–$2,000+ per month depending on city and room type. UK: roughly £600–£1,600 per month, with London at the top of the range. Australia: roughly AU$800–AU$2,200 per month in the major cities. Meals, utilities, and contract lengths differ — compare total annual cost, not monthly rent.

Safety checklist

Verify the provider or landlord independently; never wire a deposit before a video walkthrough or verified listing; read the tenancy contract's break and deposit-return clauses; check commute routes after dark; confirm smoke alarms and secure entry; and know the university's accommodation office as your escalation point.

This page is informational. PortKeysAI is not an accommodation provider or letting agent; bookings and tenancy contracts are between you and the provider.

Want accommodation folded into your pre-departure plan?

Our counselors can point you to university-approved options for your specific city and intake.

Ask a question