International Student Accommodation in the UK: Visas, Guarantors and Essential Booking Advice

Moving to the UK for university? Discover everything international students need to know about booking accommodation, guarantors and student housing options near the University of Lancashire to enjoy a smooth and stress-free transition to student life in Preston.

Relocating to a new country for university is a life-changing event for any student. So, to begin with, focus on finding a good place to live, then move on to the other essentials. The whole moving process can feel overwhelming, especially if you're moving from another country. You may have to navigate visa rules, fill out rental forms, prove you have enough money and complete other legal formalities.

If you are relocating to a new country and finding it difficult to choose student accommodation, here’s what can help!

This guide makes it easy for you to find UK student housing so you can enjoy student life at the University of Lancashire in Preston.

How to Book Student Accommodation Before Arriving in the UK:

Book your room early to make your arrival easier. Before you arrive, most accommodation providers ask for a few documents to verify your tenancy. These include:

Student Visa and CAS Letter: You need a confirmed Student visa and a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter from your university in the UK before you can sign your accommodation agreement.
Proof of Enrolment: Your accommodation provider needs an official acceptance letter. If you don't have that, you can even use your course confirmation letter.
Best Time: If you're starting in September, book early online between January and March. You can do identity checks and sign digital contracts at home.

Do International Students Need a Guarantor in the UK?

A guarantor is someone who can financially vouch for you and will pay rent if you can't. Here are some important points to know:

UK Guarantor Requirement: Many accommodation providers in the UK require a guarantor who lives in the UK.
Renting Upfront: If you do not have a UK guarantor, many accommodation providers will ask you to pay your rent annually or in larger instalments.
Third-Party Services: You can also use third-party guarantor services, which can act as your guarantor for a fee.

Accommodation Guide for International Students in the UK

Which UK student accommodation options are available to you will primarily depend on your budget and preferences. The different types of accommodation include:

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA): These are modern studios and private apartments with amenities such as high-speed internet, access to an on-site gym and bills included in the rent.
Private rented houses: Shared houses are low-cost, but you'll need separate utility contracts and monthly bills in addition to rent.
Local Student Social Life: Being close to campus means you're right by the main student spots in Preston. Coco's on Adelphi Street sells jerk chicken; you can get coffee at Town House Coffee and Brew Bar or go to Avenham Park.

International Living Made Stress-Free with Urban Hub

Urban Hub simplifies international relocation by helping you book rooms from abroad. We offer high-specification studio apartments next to the University of Lancashire campus, so you'll have quiet, private spaces to study, proximity to campus and the support you need to do well in your degree. Urban Hub is the ideal place for international students, with everything they need to thrive academically, including all bills included, on-site security and modern study spaces.

FAQs

Q1. Is it possible to book UK student accommodation before having a Student visa?

Yes, you can book your accommodation well in advance, but accommodation providers will ask for your visa and CAS details before you move in.

Q2. Do all UK international student accommodation providers require a guarantor?

It depends on the accommodation provider. While a UK guarantor is not always required, you can avoid needing one by paying rent in advance or using third-party guarantor services.

Q3. Are international students' utility bills included?

In purpose-built student accommodation, the weekly rent usually includes electricity, water and Wi-Fi, so there are no hidden charges.

Q4. How far is student accommodation from shops and facilities in Preston?

Most student areas in Preston are within a 15-minute walk of the university campus, supermarkets and local parks.

Q5. What are my cancellation rights if my UK visa application is refused?

Cancellation and refund policies vary by accommodation provider. Check the terms and conditions of your booking to understand what happens if your UK visa application is refused.