One of the most important aspects of student life is where you live. For many international students coming to the UK, it will be their first time living abroad.
The home surroundings are where you need to feel like you can relax and be able to create home comforts in an alien environment.
International and EU fee status students are guaranteed on-campus accommodation for the duration of their studies as long as they apply within the deadline.
As an international student, this accommodation guarantee helps to give you the added security of knowing Brunel University is genuinely looking out for your well-being.
Not all universities offer this promise and it is rare to receive an accommodation guarantee for the entire duration of your studies!
Table of Contents
- Does Brunel University have accommodation for international students?
- When can I apply for accommodation at Brunel University?
- What are the advantages of on-campus accommodation?
- Off-Campus Options
Naturally, many students choose to live with friends or just in private rental housing in the second and third years of study, and Brunel University helps them find reputable housing in the nearby area.
The university is ideally situated in West London, one of the most well-known areas in the world for its west-end performances and pop culture history.
Does Brunel University have accommodation for international students?
Brunel University student accommodation varies hugely, offering more than 4,000 well-equipped rooms with a range of accommodation options on its campus.
Students can select their preference for which halls of residence they want to live in but the Student Living Team cannot guarantee preferences, only rooms.
As a leading UK university providing on-campus accommodation, the standard of living in their housing options is high.
All prices and listed amenities are plainly stated on the official Brunel website so there is a fair representation with universally recognised symbols: prices!
All residence halls come with free WiFi, an electronic door entry system, CCTV, a 24-hour on-site security team, laundry facilities, a communal kitchen, en-suite amenities and cohabiting spaces.
Some residence halls are reserved for returning undergraduates or postgraduate students, etc.
All rooms provided in the halls of residence are self-catering and situated only a 10-minute walk from Brunel’s lecture rooms, which often provide comfort to international students.
The Student Living team is nevertheless always on hand to assist international students in finding the most comfortable accommodation during their degrees, usually off-campus.
Any language barriers can be overcome by clear communication and practical support in finding student accommodation near Brunel University.
When can I apply for accommodation at Brunel University?
New international students need to apply by 31 August to be allocated a room on campus.
Students also must ensure they meet the conditions of their course offer and have received a confirmation of their place at Brunel University London.
In the event a student applies for accommodation from Sunday 1 September, it may still be possible to get a room on campus but it is not a guarantee as it will take longer and there will be hundreds of applicants ahead of you in the queue.
Instead, your name goes onto a waiting list and if the Brunel University student accommodation team cannot find a suitable on-campus room, they might allocate you to a room off campus.
What are the advantages of on-campus accommodation?
Studies show students who live on campus are more likely to graduate and get better grades than those who live off-campus for the duration of their course.
For international students particularly, living off-campus provides a feeling of belonging effortlessly, as the halls of residence include social spaces and communal kitchens.
Here are some potential benefits of choosing to live on campus at Brunel University:
- Convenience: Living on campus means you're close to your classes, the library, and other university facilities. This can save you a lot of time and hassle in commuting, especially during early mornings or late evenings.
- Community: Meet fellow students from diverse backgrounds. On-campus accommodation helps you to quickly become a part of the university community. It's easier to meet people and make friends, as you're living close to fellow students.
- Support: The Student Living Team provides a range of services to students that include counselling, and academic support. This can be particularly beneficial for first-year students or international students adapting to a new environment.
- Security: Brunel University student accommodations offer a high level of security, including controlled access, campus security patrols, and sometimes even in-room safety features. This can provide peace of mind for both students and their families.
- All-Inclusive Living: Brunel University’s student accommodation includes utilities like electricity, water, internet, and sometimes even a meal plan in the cost of rent. This can simplify budgeting and reduce concerns about additional bills.
- Structured Environment: Perhaps the biggest advantage of on-campus accommodation for international students is the structured environment of on-campus living, with set rules and guidelines that can help in transitioning to the independence of university life.
Off-Campus Options
If you prefer more independence or a specific budget, you can always explore private rentals around Uxbridge.
Brunel Student Lettings provides support in finding suitable housing and navigating legal issues that international students may naturally be unfamiliar with.
Things to Consider
Location: Proximity to campus, transportation links, and amenities: areas within a short bus or bike ride can be particularly appealing for ease of access to lectures and campus facilities.
Uxbridge is well-served by the London Underground (Metropolitan and Piccadilly lines) and local bus services, facilitating easy travel to and from campus, as well as into central London for leisure and internships.
Budget (Rent, bills, and living expenses): Off-campus rent is often lower, however not all tenancies come as all bills are included.
The university actively helps students budget living expenses by providing detailed information on its website.
Students are advised that living slightly further from campus in areas with lower rent can help them save money, especially if the areas are well-connected by public transport (via the London Underground).
Sharing large houses with more students can also drive down individual costs.
It's often possible to find other Brunel students looking for roommates through student forums, social media groups, or the university's accommodation services.
Flatmates: Sharing or having your place.
Rental agreements in the Uxbridge area typically last for 12 months, but some landlords may offer shorter leases or more flexible terms.
It’s worth negotiating if you need accommodation for just the academic year or a different arrangement.
Contract length: Flexible options available.
Remember, choosing accommodation is a personal decision. Consider your needs, budget, and desired lifestyle to find the perfect fit. Brunel's dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way in finding student accommodation near Brunel University, ensuring you feel welcome and at home during your studies.
Browse our dedicated page for Brunel University to explore all the information you need to know about the university in a simple, easy-to-understand format.
