Private Manchester Student Halls vs. University Accommodation: What Offers the Best Value for Money?

You have decided on your study abroad plan. You are settled at a university in Manchester. You know what would be the final course and mode of study. Now you are anxious—where would I live? Will I get a good and comfortable living place? The answer is YES! It is a very complex process to decide whether a private accommodation or university halls. Yet, with appropriate study and research, you can have the best in your hand. This blog compares private Manchester student halls and on-campus accommodation and shows what offers the finest value for money.

What is University Accommodation?

University accommodation, AKA halls of residence, are the living spaces offered by the universities for the students attending that university. They are usually close to the university and convenient to commute from. They are directly managed by the university and designed for first-year students. This provides them a supportive environment to adjust the university life.

Important Features

1. Meals: The university student halls offer mainly two options for meals—either they provide different meals or they allow students to prepare their own meals. This allows flexible eating choices, catering to various lifestyle and dietary needs. 
2. Close Locations: University halls are generally located on or nearer to the campus, allowing students to commute easily. Due to shorter distances, it is easy for students to attend lectures, use libraries and enjoy other activities at the university. This reduces travel stress and saves valuable time. 
3. Room Variety: The university accommodation offers various types of rooms. It includes single bedrooms, shared flats and studio apartments with various amenities. According to their preferences and budgets, students can choose any room type. 
4. Budget-friendly Living: On-campus accommodation generally has lower costs than private accommodation. Their prices vary according to room types and amenities; however, they generally include electricity and internet bills in the rent. 
5. Social Interaction: As students from different countries and universities live in the university accommodation, students can bond with each other and grow friendships. Sometimes, the university also arranges various activities and events for students to promote social interaction.

Everything Comes with Pros and Cons!

Pros: 

1. With everything nearby, students can access university lecture halls, libraries, activities, and events easily. This can lower the distraction and commute time for students and they can focus on studies. 
2. As university halls include the bills for electricity and internet, they don’t have to worry about student expenses. With all the important charges taken care of, students can manage their monthly budgets also. 
3. As these halls are situated near to the university, the staff is always there to help students no matter what! They are available 24/7 to resolve any issues faced by students.

Cons: 

1. Students can face the issue of privacy because of shared rooms. There is less personal space and sometimes, it can be an inconvenience for some students. 
2. Apart from that, the quality of facilities may differ. Some facilities can be older or less maintained than others. This can create comfort issues. 
3. The most important con is—students have to stay with their assigned roommate. Sometimes, students may face compatibility issues with those they are living with.

Now, let’s focus on 

Private Student Accommodations and Their Features 

Private student accommodations are handled by private companies or owners. They accommodate students from various universities nearby and offer different facilities than on-campus living. Living in a private accommodation turns out to be a vibrant experience for students.

Notable Primary features include:

1. Tailored Living Choices: Private student accommodation providers offer various types of rooms. They include ensuites and studio apartments. To their happiness, the property allows students to decorate their rooms as per their choice. This can give students a ‘Possession with pride’ feeling and a personal touch to their living space. 
2. Less Homesick Environments: The motto of these private student living spaces is to provide students with a homely and comfortable environment. For that, they provide rooms with various amenities and cozy common spaces for students to relax, study and bond with each other. This makes students feel settled and they can focus on their studies. 
3. Cultural Celebrations: Most private student accommodation halls in Manchester host numerous events, student-bonding events, cultural celebrations, and themed parties throughout the year. They allow students from various backgrounds and cultures to meet and bond, enriching the university experience.
4. On-site Amenities: Apart from basic facilities like wifi and laundry, private accommodation provides amenities such as fitness spaces, such as gym and yoga studios. Then come the quiet study spaces with libraries for students to concentrate on their academics. Not just this, they have games area, TV and lounges to chill and enjoy. For example, a student living—Clydesdale House, Manchester—provides all the amenities with fresh rooms. 
5. Health and Well-being Services: Private accommodations have a great facility to easily access healthcare. As they prioritize students’ health, they often provide access to on-site healthcare services or contacts of local healthcare providers. They also arrange wellness programs, mental health support and counselling services.

What Would You Choose? 

Well, it depends on your preferences and budget. When we are comparing and deciding between university accommodation and private living spaces, do not forget to consider: 

Budget: What is your budget and what lifestyle can you acquire? 

Facilities: Do you wish to live in a simple yet comfortable accommodation or do you consider modern amenities like a gym and ensuite bathrooms? Decide your choice first and then start finding your place to stay. 

Social Life: Your social preferences do matter when you are deciding on your accommodation. Do you wish to have more privacy or does the bustling city life excite you? It’s your choice! Location: How much travel time are you prepared for when attending classes? The distance can significantly affect your everyday activities.

Final Note

Both on-campus university student accommodation and private Manchester student halls have their own advantages and disadvantages. However, what a student chooses completely depends on his/her inclinations and priorities. If you are a student who wishes to study abroad and live in a good accommodation, invest your time in weighing these two options and decide what’s best for you.