How to Find Student Accommodation in London: A Complete Guide for 2025

London is one of the most exciting cities in the world to study in. But finding student accommodation here? That can be overwhelming. With so many options, high costs, and fierce competition, choosing the right place to live is just as important as selecting the right university.

Whether you’re an international student or moving from another UK city, this guide will help you understand how to find student accommodation in London that suits your budget, lifestyle, and study needs.

Why London is a Popular Choice for Students?

Before we dive into accommodation tips, let’s look at why so many students choose London:

• Home to top universities like UCL, King’s College London, and LSE
• Multicultural environment with over 100,000 international students
• Great career opportunities and internships
• Endless entertainment, food, and travel options

But with all these perks comes the challenge of affordability and availability, especially for housing. So, let’s break it down.

Types of Student Accommodation in London

Understanding your options is the first step. Here are the most common types of student accommodation available in London:

1. University Halls

• Managed by your university
• Mostly first-year students
• Safe, with bills included
• Limited availability and offered on a first-come-first-serve basis

2. Private Student Halls

• Run by companies like Unite Students, iQ, or Scape
• More modern facilities, flexible options
• Ideal for international students who want a ready-to-move-in setup
• Slightly more expensive than shared housing

3. Shared Houses / Flats

• More independent
• Shared with friends or other students
• May require managing your own bills
• Great for second or third-year students

4. Homestays

• Live with a host family
• Suitable for younger or first-time travelers
• Meals and support often included
• Not very common in central London

What’s the Average Cost of Student Accommodation in London?

Student housing in London isn’t cheap, especially in zones 1–2. Here’s a rough idea:

• University halls: £180–£300/week
• Private studios: £250–£400/week
• Shared flats: £150–£250/week
• Homestays: £120–£200/week

Your costs will vary depending on location, facilities, and room type (ensuite, studio, shared room, etc.). Always factor in transport costs if you’re living farther from campus.

How to Search for Student Accommodation in London

Finding the right place to live in London requires planning and patience. Here’s how to get started:

1. Use Trusted Accommodation Portals

Finding the right place to live in London requires planning and trusted sources. One of the best platforms dedicated to helping international students secure housing is University Living.

Why Choose University Living?

University Living is a leading global student housing platform that helps students find verified accommodation near universities in London and across the UK. It offers a wide range of properties including ensuite rooms, studios, and shared apartments—catering to different budgets and preferences.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

• 100% verified listings to ensure safety and quality
• Expert support through live chat or phone, helping you through every step
• Flexible booking policies for students waiting on visas or final admission
• Wide coverage near top London universities like UCL, LSE, King’s College London, and more
• Add-on services like airport pickup, guarantor assistance, and rent negotiation support

With University Living, students can filter by rent, location, room type, and amenities. Each property includes detailed photos, location maps, and contract terms, so you know exactly what you’re getting before booking.

2. Check Your University’s Accommodation Office

Most London universities have a dedicated housing team. They:

• Help you apply for on-campus housing
• Recommend trusted off-campus providers
• Share contacts of students looking for roommates

Apply early—most halls fill up months in advance.

3. Join Student Forums and Social Media Groups

Facebook groups like “London Student Accommodation 2025” or Reddit threads can connect you to students who are subletting or looking for flatmates.

Be cautious of scams—never transfer money without verifying the property and landlord.

Best Areas for Students to Live in London

If you’re not familiar with London’s geography, here are a few popular student-friendly areas:

• Camden – Close to UCL, artsy, lots of pubs
• Stratford – Affordable, well-connected, close to Queen Mary University
• Hackney – Trendy, vibrant, slightly pricier
• Holloway – Great for budget-conscious students, near University of London
• Greenwich – Beautiful and relaxed, ideal for University of Greenwich students
• Ealing – Calm, leafy, near University of West London

The farther you live from Central London, the cheaper rent tends to be. But always factor in the travel time and cost (especially for Zones 3–6).

Things to Consider Before Signing a Contract

Before you book or sign anything, make sure to check:

• What’s included in the rent (Wi-Fi, water, electricity?)
• Is the place furnished?
• Is there a deposit? If yes, how much?
• Is there a cancellation policy in case of visa delay or course change?
• Are you dealing with a licensed landlord or agent?

Always visit the property if possible, or ask for a live video tour. Ask current or past tenants for honest feedback.

Tips for Booking Accommodation as an International Student

• Start your search at least 3–4 months before arrival
• Prepare your documents (passport, admission letter, guarantor info)
• Have a UK bank account ready for rent payments
• Don’t fall for deals that sound too good to be true
• If you’re unsure, choose university-approved housing for peace of mind

Conclusion

Finding student accommodation in London is definitely one of the most important parts of your study abroad journey. The city is vibrant, diverse, and full of opportunity—but the housing market is competitive.

Start early. Set a budget. Compare options. And most importantly, choose a place that feels safe, comfortable, and close enough to your campus life.

Once you’re settled in, you can fully enjoy all that London has to offer—from weekend markets and museum visits to study breaks in cozy cafés.