What should students consider when choosing a student accommodation size?

Before booking student accommodation, it is important to consider several factors that will affect your comfort, lifestyle and finances throughout your tenancy:

Booking as early as possible

You should start looking for and booking student accommodation as soon as possible. Typically, this window opens between November and January, so booking as quickly as possible is important to guarantee your room type and size preferences.

For more information, read our guide on when to search and book student accommodation here.

The different types of student accommodation

Other than living at home, there are typically three accommodation choices for undergraduates to consider. Generally, first-year and international students will gravitate towards university halls of residence, as these can be a great way to meet similar students. However, this accommodation type can be outdated and sometimes smaller than other choices.

Private accommodations, such as purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), may offer greater versatility in size and available facilities.

Find out more about the different types of student accommodations for undergraduates here.

Your budget

Budget plays a major role in determining the size and type of student accommodation you choose. Smaller rooms are usually more affordable, while larger rooms, such as studios and apartments, are more expensive.

Your student loan or personal budget will typically need to cover rent, bills (where applicable), university fees, food, travel and social expenses. While cheaper accommodation may be appealing, it may offer fewer facilities, less space or older interiors.

At Mansion Student, we provide modern, purpose-built student accommodation in the UK’s most popular student cities. Our properties offer a wide range of room sizes and all-inclusive amenities, alongside modern communal spaces such as games rooms and roof terraces.

Browse our student accommodation locations to find your ideal room today.

Find your perfect student room today and browse our student accommodation locations here.

As aforementioned, university halls tend to be populated by international and first-year students. University accommodation will include a private room and communal areas to be shared with flatmates.

Halls are often made up of four to eight students in one flat. A standard flat typically contains a private, lockable bedroom for each student, a shared bathroom or ensuite, a shared kitchen, and other communal areas. There are also catered and non-catered halls available, depending on the university.

Typical room types in university halls of residence include:

●    Non-ensuite  – Usually the smallest and most affordable option, typically including a bed, desk and sink.

●    Ensuite – Similar to a standard room but with a private bathroom.

●    Studio – This is typically the largest room size available in university halls of residence. The self-contained room usually features a larger bed, a living area, a kitchenette, and an ensuite bathroom.

Although university halls are often more affordable, their facilities and communal spaces may be less modern or spacious than those in private student accommodation.

Find out more about the differences between private student accommodation and university halls with our expert guide here.

As students progress into later years of study, university halls may no longer meet their needs or availability requirements. Private student accommodation, such as PBSA student halls or shared student houses (HMOs), offers greater space, privacy and flexibility - perfect for third-year, mature and postgraduate students.

PBSA options are developed specifically for a student’s convenience, and are often more modern and larger than other accommodation alternatives.

At Mansion Student, we offer a variety of room types and sizes, depending on the student accommodation location:

●    Premium non-ensuite – These rooms are similar to standard university halls of residence. They offer a spacious room with a large bed and a study area.

o  Example: our Dundee student accommodation, Peterson Hall

●    Classic ensuite – This room type includes a large bed, desk, and ensuite bathroom with a shower.

o  Example: our Durham student accommodation, Ernest Place

●    Premium ensuite – The premium style has all the features of the classic ensuite, plus extra storage space and a double shower.

o  Example: the Platinum Ensuite at our Exeter student accommodation, Exeter One

●    Classic studio – Our classic studios are self-contained, including a double bed, private bathroom, and kitchenette. Tenants will still have access to the communal areas.

●    Premium studio – Similar to upgrading the classic to a premium ensuite, this room type has the same features as the classic studio but is larger.

o  Example: our Cardiff student accommodation, City Heights

●    One-bedroom apartment – Although this room type is the most expensive, one-bedroom apartments are large, spacious, and ideal for older students looking for their own place, providing extra space for studying and relaxing.

o  Example: our Coventry student accommodation, Singer Hall

●    Two-bedroom apartment - Rare in student accommodation, these are perfect for two friends wanting privacy combined with sociable living. Expect two spacious bedrooms with a double bed and a dedicated study area.

Example: our Edinburgh student accommodation, Goods Corner

Browse through all our student accommodation locations to find your ideal room size.

Ultimately, the choice of student accommodation comes down to your own decisions and preferences. When booking student accommodation, consider your needs and what will support your stay over the tenancy. For example, third-year and postgraduate students may require a bigger room for studying in a quieter area. However, first-year students may prefer a small room close to the city centre and their university campus.

Viewing the property beforehand is the best way to ensure you are satisfied with your student accommodation choice. This will give you complete clarity on the size of the room, communal spaces, and the quality of the facilities.

Arrange a viewing with Mansion Student at one of our many student accommodation options.

How do you apply for student accommodation?

To apply for student accommodation, you must provide your university offer and ensure the window is open for new applicants. This can be done either online, over the phone or in person after a student accommodation viewing.

Find out more about when and how to apply for student accommodation with our expert guide here.

What should you bring to student accommodation?

When you move into student accommodation, you may require a form of ID when checking in (either a passport or a driver’s licence). The main amenities typically provided in student accommodation include a bed and kitchen facilities. However, you must bring your own items, such as mugs, cutlery, plates and pans.

Other items to bring include your own duvet, duvet covers, pillows, and any other blankets or personalisation for your individual bedroom.

To find out more about what to bring to your student accommodation, browse or print out our essential checklist here.

How can I tell if my student accommodation room is big enough for comfortable living?

Consider the following factors:

1. Space for essentials - a bed, desk, chair, and storage for clothes and books.

2. Walking space - you should have enough space to move around comfortably. If you find yourself constantly bumping into furniture or struggling to navigate the room, it might be too small.

3. Personal comfort - think about how you plan to use the space. Do you need room for socialising with friends, studying, or hobbies?

4. Natural light and ventilation - a well-lit, well-ventilated room can make even a smaller space feel more comfortable and inviting.

But what feels "big enough" is subjective; trust your instincts on whether the space meets your personal requirements for comfort and functionality!

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