Student Housing Guide: Early Bird’s Guide to September 2025

Heading to university is such an exciting time but it requires a lot of planning, particularly when it comes to finding your accommodation. The rental market in London is notoriously competitive, particularly in areas surrounding major universities where demand consistently outstrips supply. So, it pays to get ahead and start your search early, so you’re not left stranded by the time your course starts.

This guide aims to equip new students with knowledge and practical strategies to navigate London’s rental market successfully, ensuring you’re well-positioned to secure housing that balances location, amenities and affordability before the academic year begins.

Timeline for Securing Student Housing

• March-April: Begin researching areas near to your university and familiarise yourself with the housing options. You may want to start contacting university housing offices to understand which option suits you best. This is also the prime time to submit applications for university-managed accommodation, which typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s worth noting that estate agents won’t have many student accommodations available at this time due to changing availability and price changes between now and August.
• May-June: Make decisions and secure your deposit. University accommodation results usually arrive during this period. If you’re pursuing private London rentals, this is the time to finalise your choice and secure the property with a holding deposit.
• July-August: Finalise contracts and prepare for moving in before the new term starts, including completing all paperwork, arrange payment methods, and organise moving logistics. Make sure you conduct inventory checks and photograph any existing damage before settling in.

Popular Areas for Students in Central London

Central London offers diverse neighbourhoods that cater to student life, each with its own character and advantages. Bloomsbury stands as the academic heart of London, housing University College London, SOAS and Birkbeck within its literary squares and garden-filled streets. The area provides excellent library access and a scholarly atmosphere, though accommodation prices reflect its prime location.

Fitzrovia and Covent Garden are situated within easy reach of UCL, King’s College London and London School of Economics and Political Science, while South Kensington and Chelsea are popular choice with Imperial College students. For those looking to study at the University of Arts, University of Westminster and University College London, Mayfair is a great choice – a prestigious neighbourhood with stunning properties and excellent amenities.

Types of Student Accommodation

London offers various accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. University halls of residence provide the traditional first-year experience with built-in opportunities to socialise, maintenance support, and inclusive billing. These halls vary widely in quality and facilities, from historic buildings with shared bathrooms to modern complexes with ensuite rooms and studio options.

Private student accommodations have sprung up across London, from purpose-built facilities with professionally managed services, all-inclusive bills and even communal social spaces, to privately rented flats and HMOs (House in Multiple Occupation). House or flat sharing is the most economical option, allowing students to experience authentic London living while splitting costs but finding compatible flatmates is crucial, as is understanding your collective responsibilities regarding bills, cleaning, and maintenance. For those who value their independence, studio apartments provide privacy but at significantly higher costs than a room in a shared house.

When considering contract length, evaluate whether you’ll remain in London during summer months, as shorter nine-month contracts might be preferable, especially for international students, while 12-month agreements often provide better value for those staying year-round. Do bear in mind though, most landlords will look for 12 month tenancies as a minimum.

Budgeting for London Student Life

Financial planning is essential when it comes to preparing for student life, especially in a city like London where living costs exceed those of other UK cities. Rental expectations vary dramatically by location and accommodation type—expect to budget £220-£350 weekly for university halls or private student accommodation in central locations, while shared houses might range from £180-£280 weekly in an areas such as zone 3, or starting at £350 a week for Zones 1 and 2.

Beyond the advertised rent, you’ll also need to factor in additional costs like utilities (approximately £50-£80 monthly for shared properties), internet (£20-£30 monthly), and contents insurance (around £80 annually). While full-time students are exempt from council tax, you’ll need to apply for this exemption. Transportation costs should also feature prominently in your budget calculations—living in Zone 1-2 might mean higher rent but could save £30-£50 weekly in travel costs compared to outer zones.

Food expenses might average between £50-£80 a week, though this can be reduced through meal planning and shopping at affordable supermarkets like Lidl and Aldi. Entertainment remains an essential part of student life, with London offering countless free museums and events alongside student discounts at theatres, cinemas, and restaurants through schemes like TOTUM and UNiDAYS.

Application Tips and Requirements

For international students, requirements typically include proof of student status (your university acceptance letter), identification documents (passport and visa), proof of financial stability (bank statements or scholarship letters), and sometimes academic references. Landlords and estate agencies might also require a UK-based guarantor who agrees to cover rent payments if you default, regardless of whether you’re a UK-based student or international—your guarantor typically needs to be someone earning at least three times the annual rent.

 

Securing the right student accommodation in central London requires proactive planning – it’s a competitive market and you don’t want to lose out on the perfect home while you’re studying. The effort invested in finding accommodation early on will be worthwhile. You’ll establish a solid foundation for a successful and enriching academic experience in one of the world’s most dynamic and rewarding cities.

For assistance in finding modern apartments to rent in London, contact Hudsons Property today.