London is home to over 480,000 university students, of which nearly 120,000 are international students. With world-renowned universities like University College London (UCL), Imperial College London, King’s College London, and London School of Economics (LSE), the city attracts learners from all over the globe.
While London offers unmatched academic and cultural opportunities, housing is one of the first challenges international students face. The city is big, fast-paced, and expensive, so securing the right accommodation can make your transition smoother and your student life stress-free.
This guide covers everything from types of student accommodation near University College London and more to budgeting, locations, paperwork, and settling in, helping you feel at home from day one.
1. Understanding Student Accommodation in London
Before choosing where to live, it’s important to understand your options. London student accommodation is diverse and caters to a range of budgets, locations, and preferences.
a) University Halls of Residence
- Provided by your university.
- Usually include utilities, Wi-Fi, and sometimes meals.
- Great for first-year international students who want a smooth transition.
- Example: UCL’s halls in Bloomsbury or King’s College London residences near Waterloo.
b) Private Student Accommodation in London
- Managed by purpose-built providers.
- Comes with modern amenities such as gyms, communal lounges, cinema rooms, and 24/7 security.
- Convenient but slightly pricier depending on the area.
c) Shared Flats and Houses (Private Renting)
- Popular among second- or third-year students.
- Renting with flatmates reduces costs.
- Offers independence and flexibility.
- Popular student areas: Camden, Stratford, and Clapham.
d) Homestays
- Living with a host family for a cultural experience.
- Meals may be included.
- Ideal for younger students or those who want a family-like environment.
Pro Tip: If it’s your first year in London, start with university halls or private student accommodation in London. Once you’re comfortable with the city, you can explore private renting in your second year.
2. How Much Does London Student Accommodation Cost?
London is known for high living costs, but careful planning helps. Here’s a rough monthly breakdown for international students:
| Expense | Cost Range (per month) | Notes |
| Rent | £700–£1,200 | Depending on area & type |
| Utilities (if not included) | £50–£100 | Covers gas, electricity, water |
| Internet | £20–£40 | Often included in student housing |
| Transport | £120–£160 | With Student Oyster Card (30% discount) |
| Groceries | £150–£250 | Cheaper with Aldi, Lidl, Asda |
| Leisure & social | £100–£200 | Eating out, movies, nightlife |
Tip for saving money: Choose all-inclusive student accommodation in London where bills, Wi-Fi, and utilities are covered in rent.
3. Best Student Areas for London Student Accommodation
Location makes a big difference to your student life. Some of the most popular student-friendly neighbourhoods in London include:
- Bloomsbury – Academic hub, close to UCL and SOAS.
- Shoreditch & Hoxton – Trendy, creative, close to City University & London Metropolitan. Great nightlife.
- Stratford – Affordable, well-connected, home to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Westfield Mall.
- Camden Town – Vibrant music and arts culture, lots of shared flats.
- Clapham – Popular with international students, buzzing nightlife, green spaces.
- Kensington & Chelsea – Close to Imperial College London.
- Greenwich – Scenic, affordable, and student-friendly.
Pro Tip: Always check commute times before booking your student accommodation, as living in London’s Zone 3–4 may save rent but increase travel time.
4. When to Start Looking for Student Accommodation in London
- September intake: Start looking 3–4 months in advance (May–June).
- January intake: Begin your search by October–November.
Housing demand peaks in summer, so booking early gives you better prices and options.
5. Documents You’ll Need as an International Student
Landlords or housing providers usually ask for:
- Valid passport & student visa
- University admission/acceptance letter
- Proof of funds (bank statement)
- UK-based guarantor (sometimes required)
- Previous landlord reference (if applicable)
Pro Tip: Many providers of private student accommodation in London offer “no guarantor needed” options for international students.
6. Tips for Avoiding Rental Scams
Unfortunately, scams do exist in London’s rental market. To stay safe:
- Never transfer money before signing a contract.
- Use verified London student accommodation platforms.
- Ask for a video/virtual tour if you can’t view the property in person.
- Make sure your deposit is registered with a government-backed scheme (TDS, DPS, or MyDeposits).
7. Settling Into Your New London Student Accommodation
After moving in, take these steps to ease your transition:
- Set up utilities & Wi-Fi if not included.
- Register with a GP (doctor) near your area.
- Open a UK bank account (HSBC, Lloyds, Monzo are student-friendly).
- Explore local stores – Tesco, Lidl, Sainsbury’s for groceries; IKEA, Argos, and Wilko for essentials.
- Join student societies & Facebook groups to make friends and share tips.
8. Safety and Wellbeing
London is a safe student city, but being smart is important:
- Pick student accommodation with CCTV and secure entry.
- Avoid isolated areas late at night.
- Use apps like Citymapper for safe travel routes.
- Save emergency contacts – 999 (emergency), 111 (non-urgent medical).
- Most universities offer free counselling and wellbeing services.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right student accommodation in London is one of the most important steps in your study abroad journey. With early planning, careful budgeting, and smart choices, you can secure a safe, comfortable, and well-located home that enhances your student experience.
Once your student accommodation is sorted, you’ll be free to focus on making new friends, enjoying your academic journey, and exploring one of the world’s greatest student cities.
How can amber help you?
amber helps you secure ideal student accommodation on your study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), amber is your one-stop shop for all your accommodation needs. Download the amber app from the Google Play Store or App Store to book an affordable home for your adventure.
About author
Bhavna.S is a storyteller at heart who loves weaving words into engaging narratives. When not writing, she can be found sipping chai while lost in a book, taking long walks to clear her mind, or planning her next travel adventure – only to end up binge-watching a documentary instead.
