frequently asked questions
We have helped thousands of students settle in and we know what a big step it can be. Here's a selection of some of the most frequently asked questions.
What kind of accommodation is available?
Apart from Murray Hall, all our accommodation is designed as individual flats for students to share. Everyone has their own bedroom (some with private bathrooms), but share a kitchen/living/dining area with some other flatmates. For an Overview of accommodation options and charges for 2013/14, see Price List 2013-14 .
Am I guaranteed a place in University accommodation?
We aim to give first yera students an offer of accommodation. What we cannot guarantee, is that we will be able to offer you your first choice residence. if we run out of accommodation, we may have to give priorty to those students who live furthest away.
If I am allocated accommodation which is not my first choice, can I change later on?
Four weeks after everyone arrives, we open an Exchange Book in the Accommodation Office for students who would like to live somewhere else. They put all their details into the book and hope that someone will get in touch who wants to swap accommodation.
How do I pay my rent?
Payment can be made termly on-line at Paying your Rent or monthly/termly by direct debit from a UK bank account.
Students supported by Local Authorities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are eligible for a University bursary of £1000 towards their accommodation costs if they stay in the University residences. A proportion of the £1000 will be paid into their rent account each term.
Do I have to pay a deposit?
No, but we do ask for a rent prepayment of £400 to secure your place. This will be deducted from the first term rent installment.
Is my Occupancy Agreement legally binding?
Absolutely. Once signed, you cannot leave without our permission; if you do, you remain responsible for payment of rent until someone else takes your room and you will have to pay a £200 cancellation charge.
What will happen if I sign an Occupancy Agreement but don't turn up?
You will lose £200 from your rent prepayment.
Can I view the accommodation before I make up my mind?
Apart from the official University Open Days - unfortunately, no. We respect every student's right to privacy and the fact that the halls of residence are their homes so we cannot allow 'strangers' in and out. (This applies to all universities.)
Is smoking allowed?
There is a question about this in the Application Form, (please be honest!) and we try to put smokers together. Strictly speaking, the university has a No Smoking Policy but we do allow smoking in students' own bedrooms.
How do you pick flatmates who will share together?
Again, we ask some specific questions about you in the Application Form then we try to match up people who we think will get along together.
Do rooms have data points for PCs or laptops?
Yes and you'll get an information sheet about how to get connected in your Welcome Pack when you arrive. You can also watch Freeview TV channels on your computer. Wi-Fi is provided in the shared areas.
What are my options if I don't need the accommodation for a full academic year?
We only offer contracts for 39 weeks to undergraduate or postgraduate diploma students. All other postgraduate students are offered 50 week contracts. The only exception to this rule is for some Exchange Students who may be offered accommodation for one semester only.
What is included in the rent?
For most residences, your rent includes, personal possessions insurance, gas and electricity plus cleaning once a week. There are some exceptions to this, so please check the details on the Accommodation Options and Charges sheet.
What do I need to bring?
A full list will be sent to you with your offer of accommodation but briefly you'll need to bring: towels, duvet cover, sheets and pillowcase, pots and pans, some cutlery and crockery.
Do I have to pack my belongings and take them home over Christmas and Easter?
No.
Do the residences have laundries?
Not every residence has its own laundry but there are enough for everyone to share.
When do I get my keys?
You'll get all your Arrival Information sent to you with your offer of accommodation. Most students pick up their keys and move in on Arrival Weekend, which is the weekend before Freshers' Week.
What size is the study bedroom?
Room sizes vary between residences but an average size will be between 10-12m2 for a basic room and between 13-14m2 for a room with a private bathroom.
What size are the beds?
6 foot 3 inches long (190cms) by 3 foot (91cms) wide.