When students go to university, one of the biggest decisions they have to make is where to live. The main options are university halls(run by the university) or private halls (run by outside companies). Each has good and bad sides, and it’s important to know what makes them different. In this article, we’ll look at things like cost, location, room size, social life, food, safety, and more to help you understand what both types of halls are like.
One of the first things students think about is the cost. University halls are usually cheaper, especially for first-year students. They often include bills (like electricity, water, and internet) in the price, as well as shared spaces like kitchens or lounges.
Private halls often cost more because they sometimes have extra things like gyms, games rooms, or quiet study areas. While the rooms in private halls might be bigger or more modern, you usually pay more for these upgrades. Some universities also offer help, like scholarships for students living in university halls, which can make them even more affordable.
Where you live can make a big difference. University halls are often on campus or very nearby, so it’s easy to get to classes and university buildings. This is great if you don’t want to travel far.
Private halls might be closer to the city centre, which means more shops, cafés, and places to go out. But that could also mean a longer walk or bus ride to lectures. You’ll want to think about whether you prefer to be near your classes or closer to the action in town. Also, using buses or trains adds to your travel costs, so that’s something to keep in mind.
University halls usually offer a range of rooms—some are single bedrooms, others are shared flats with several students. Rooms usually come with a bed, desk, wardrobe, and access to a shared kitchen and bathroom.
Private halls might have bigger or more modern rooms, and many have en-suite bathrooms (your own bathroom in your room) or even small kitchens inside the room. They might also have laundry rooms, study areas, or gyms. But again, all those extras come with a higher price. When deciding, think about what matters most to you: do you need lots of space or would you rather save money?
For many students, meeting new people is a big part of the university experience. University halls are often very social, with shared areas and events to help students make friends. These halls are filled with people from the same university, which makes it easier to connect.
Private halls also offer events and social spaces, but the experience might be more independent and less busy. Some students like this quieter environment. In the end, it depends on what kind of social life you want; some like big, busy halls with lots of people, while others prefer more private or relaxed places.
Another thing to think about is food. Some university halls are catered, which means you get meals prepared for you every day. This is easy for students who don’t want to cook.
Other university halls (and most private halls) are self-catered, which means you’ll have your own kitchen or share one with others. This gives you more freedom to eat what and when you want, but it also means you’ll need to plan and cook your own meals. Think about whether you enjoy cooking or would rather have meals made for you.
Safety is really important. University halls usually have CCTV,secure doors, and sometimes security staff on site. They also tend to have rules about visitors and noise, which helps keep things calm and safe.
Private halls usually have similar safety features, but they can vary depending on the building. Some have security all day and night, while others use CCTV and card-entry systems. If safety is a top concern for you or your family, be sure to check what kind of protection each hall offers.
In university halls, students are often matched with roommates based on things like lifestyle and interests. You might not know who you’ll be living with until you arrive, which can be exciting but also a bit nerve-wracking.
Private halls often give you more control. You can sometimes choose to live with friends or request specific roommates. This is helpful if you already know people you want to live with, but it’s also important to make sure you’ll get along.
University halls usually offer contracts for the school year, which is about 9 or 10 months. This works well if you want to go home for the summer, but it might mean you need to find somewhere else to stay if you want to stay longer.
Private halls often have shorter or more flexible contracts, so you might be able to stay just for one term or a few months. This can be useful if you’re doing a short course or a placement. However, if you stay longer than planned, you’ll need to check if you can extend your stay or move somewhere else.
There’s no one right answer when it comes to choosing between university halls and private halls. It really depends on what you’re looking for.
Before choosing, think carefully about your budget, needs, and personality. Do you like being around lots of people, or do you prefer quiet spaces? Do you want your own bathroom or don’t mind sharing? How far are you willing to travel to class?
If you take the time to compare your options, you’ll be able to pick the accommodation that’s right for you and make your university experience the best it can be.
