Accommodation for non-students: apprentices

Successfully getting onto an apprenticeship can be an exciting time, and an important step into the world of work and independence. One of the considerations that will need to be made is where you choose to live – this may feel especially overwhelming if you have not lived away from home before.

In this article, we explore the possibility of living in student accommodation for an apprenticeship, and the other accommodation options available for apprentices. We’ll also look into some considerations when choosing accommodation, and how renting with Mansion Student during your apprenticeship might be a good option for you.

Living in Student accommodation as an apprentice

University accommodation, such as student housing or halls are great for degree apprentices looking for affordable accommodation with the opportunity for socialising. While there are big differences between a degree apprentice and a university student, you will be considered as a part-time student if you study while doing an apprenticeship. In some cases, your employer may be able to cover your accommodation fees, as well as your tuition fees, while you study, work and attend training. You may be able to live with students in student accommodation such as halls of residence, however, there are other options.

As an apprentice, you will be working full-time or studying while working, so you may not have as much free time as your student flatmates. Also, employers usually don’t offer an accommodation guarantee to apprentices. You will need to check with your employer and find suitable accommodation.

Accommodation options for apprentices

When investigating your options for where to live as an apprentice, you have a range of choices. You can opt to use a private accommodation service, where you rent from a private landlord or you can rent through an estate agent.

You may also be able to live with students on or near a university campus, either in student accommodation or in a house or flat share. Living with students may be a good accommodation option for young people – for socialising among a similar age group. However, you will likely have many more contact hours than your housemates, your tenancy agreement will follow the academic year and you will also need to take council tax into consideration.

Depending on your apprenticeship program you may be able to connect with other apprentices and find a house share together; investigate whether this is an option on your apprenticeship. The advantage of this is that your housemates will have a similar schedule and lifestyle and you can expect everyone to be of a similar age. You may also be able to share transport.

Accommodation considerations for apprentices

As you explore your options, there are several general considerations that will need to be made.

To begin with, you will need to think about the accommodation costs. The salary from an apprenticeship is usually low, which could limit your accommodation options, compared to a young professional for example. You will likely be looking at smaller or shared properties, especially once you’ve taken location and amenities into consideration. If you drive, you will need parking, if not, you will need a central location (depending on where you work, study or attend training). Alternatively, you will need a good range of transport links. Studio flats can be an affordable option for apprentices, they often come with many options for city centre living.

Another financial consideration is council tax. You will need to check with your employer if, like students, you are exempt from paying council tax. If you are not exempt, you will need to account for council tax in your budget, consider the possibility your housemates may be students so, will not contribute towards the bill. You will need to plan how you will manage your bills.

Give thought to what kind of lifestyle you want during your apprenticeship – is socialising important to you, or would you rather live alone or in a quiet space? Shared accommodation is great for growing a social network, but you may want to prioritise work and study; this can be hard if you are living with students.

Renting with Mansion Student

As an apprentice, take advantage of the many more accommodation options open to you than there are for students. If you aren’t sure exactly what you are looking for, and you want high-quality, purpose-built student accommodation while you work, Mansion Student may be able to help you gain a balance between calm and community living.

We have several privately-rented, purpose-built buildings suitable for students, which can be found in major UK cities, including Nottingham, Newcastle and Leeds, which are also home to some of the most popular universities.

Located in the heart of Newcastle and Sheffield, we offer a range of choices suitable for apprentices, from various studio apartments to one-bed apartments, allowing you to have your own space. If you wish, you can choose to gather with other residents, including international students, couples, postgraduates, young professionals and other apprentices, in the communal areas.

Our secure buildings have on-site hospitality staff to answer any questions and ensure your home is well maintained. Utilities such as WiFi and other bills are included in your rent, making for an easy, single payment that you can budget for each month. However, council tax may still apply if you are an apprentice.

If you are looking for your home away from home during your apprenticeship and want to see what we have to offer, get in touch with us at enquiries@mansionstudent.co.uk to discuss your options further.

Common queries

Can apprentices get student accommodation?

Those on a degree apprenticeship, may be able to get student accommodation and live with full-time students. However, keep in mind that a degree apprenticeship may have much more contact hours than university and you may have to pay council tax.

Is there any financial help for apprentices?

Full-time apprentices are able to claim benefits as they are earning on a low salary. Some apprenticeships also offer a council tax exemption which can massively help with finances. Check with your employer if you are exempt from council tax and whether you are eligible for benefits.