Moving to university can involve a massive number of decisions, with accommodation ranking high among them. This blog will explore the difference between private and uni-managed accommodation while considering district advantages and considerations.

University Halls vs. Private Rentals:

University Halls:

Living in BU-managed accommodations, such as those in Lansdowne or the Student Village on Talbot Campus, comes with several perks. Prices can vary depending on the accommodation you choose, for reference Purbeck House is roughly £160 a week with other options falling around that range. A benefit to university-managed accommodation is the ResLifeBU program, integrated into the rent, this programme holds events and offers support through various activities and resources. Think weekly activities for students to meet other people and enjoy their time starting! There is the option to include the UniBus pass in rent, allowing you to travel across the greater Bournemouth area. Additionally, amenities like contents insurance, communal spaces, washing and drying rooms, and more contributed to a more comfortable living experience in halls.

Private Rentals:

Opting for a private rental affords students greater flexibility in choosing their living arrangements. Whether it’s sharing a house with friends or renting a flat solo, private rentals offer independence and varied living options. However, with independence comes added responsibility, such as managing bills, resolving issues with landlords, and maintaining the property. There is also currently a housing crisis in the UK, making it harder to find and secure private living arrangements which is important to consider.

Cost of Living Challenges:

For international students like myself, navigating the UK’s higher cost of living can be daunting. Since I came in 2022, expenses have risen a great amount, I now spend 60-70 pounds more per week on the same or even less of what I was spending in 2022. To combat this I took on part-time work and heavily budgeted and managed my finances, sticking to that plan to prevent any potential issues related to saving money.

University Support:

The university does have various programmes to support its students, and through the Careers team, I was able to secure Part-time work. Furthermore, there is the option of speaking with the university student advice team on better managing your finances. There are steps in place to support students such as priority waiting lists for university accommodation and the academic excellence scholarship which helped fund some of the expenses I faced at university.

Conclusion:

In Bournemouth, navigating accommodation options and managing the cost of living as a student requires careful consideration and access to support systems. Whether opting for university halls or private rentals, weighing the benefits and responsibilities is crucial. Leveraging available resources, such as bursaries and transportation assistance, can significantly alleviate financial burdens. With the right support and planning, students can thrive academically and enjoy a fulfilling experience in Bournemouth.