Ultimate Accommodation Guide for Prospective Medical Students (UK)
So you’ve secured your firm choice for medical school – congratulations! 🎉 Now, it’s time to tackle the next big question: where will you live?
Your first-year accommodation will significantly influence your university experience, from who you meet to how you manage your studies and downtime. This guide is tailored for prospective medical students in the UK, especially sixth formers preparing for their next steps. Let's break it down.👇
🕒 When and How to Apply for Accommodation
Each university has its own timeline, but generally, you can apply for accommodation once you’ve accepted your firm offer – usually in spring or early summer.
👉 Top tip: As soon as you’ve confirmed your firm choice, check the university’s accommodation portal or your email inbox for the next steps.
Most universities operate under one of these two systems:
First come, first served: Apply early to increase your chances of securing your preferred room.
Deadline-based: All applications are considered equally, provided they’re submitted before the deadline (usually June or July).
Don’t miss the deadline – most universities guarantee first-years a place in halls if you apply on time. Set a reminder for Results Day in your calendar! 📅
🤔 Firm vs Insurance Choices
You can usually apply for accommodation at your firm choice initially.
If Results Day doesn’t go as planned and you end up at your insurance choice, you’ll apply for housing there in August. Universities are accustomed to this situation and often extend accommodation guarantees to insurance students who act quickly.
In this case:
Apply for housing at the insurance university immediately.
Explore private accommodation if needed – but remember, halls are often better socially for first-years.
🏘️ Types of Accommodation
1. University Halls of Residence
These are the most popular choices for freshers. They come in various shapes and sizes, so consider what suits you best:
🍽️ Catered vs Self-Catered
Catered: Meals (typically breakfast and dinner) are provided, offering convenience if you're not confident in your cooking skills.
Self-catered: Prepare your own meals, which allows for flexibility and is generally more cost-effective.
🚿 En-suite vs Shared Bathrooms
En-suite: Private bathroom: greater comfort, increased cost.
Shared: Communal bathrooms are more budget-friendly and are regularly cleaned.
📍Location
On-campus/in city centre: Costlier but extremely convenient.
Further out: Often less expensive, but consider commute times.
🧑🤝🧑 Social Vibe
Some halls are lively and social (think parties and noise), while others are quieter and more academic. Ask current students or check forums to get a feel for the environment.
Living with other medics can enhance mutual understanding of your demanding course, but residing with non-medics might offer a welcome balance.
🚘 Car Parking
Some halls may include secure car parking, often at a hefty fee, especially if they are located in a central city.
Some medical schools may also have on-site parking for students, particularly those in more rural areas. Others may restrict parking to disabled students only.
2. Private Student Halls
Managed by companies such as Unite and iQ, these accommodations resemble university halls but are available for independent booking. Some first-year students use them, especially if university halls are full or if they have specific requirements (e.g., studio flat, location).
3. Shared Houses/Flats
Less common for first-year students, but a viable option for mature students or those who seek more independence. Most students transition to shared housing in their second year.
4. Living at Home
If you’re studying near home, staying put might save money. But remember:
Commute times and costs
You’ll need to put in more effort socially (join societies, stay on campus longer)
📝 How to Apply
Apply online through your university’s accommodation system.
You’ll typically rank your preferences (e.g., “en-suite, self-catered, near med school”).
Your top choice is not guaranteed, so remain open-minded!
When you’re offered a room (often after Results Day for conditional offers), you’ll need to:
Accept the offer
Pay a deposit (usually £150–£500) – refundable at the end of the year, minus any damages.
📌 What to Consider When Choosing
💷 Budget
Ensure your rent aligns with your maintenance loan and any other funding.
Verify whether the rent includes utilities and whether it’s for a 39-week or 52-week contract.
🧘 Comfort vs Cost
Is an en-suite worth the extra cost for you?
Would you prefer catered meals or enjoy flexibility?
🧑🦽 Special Requirements
Inform the university if you require accessible rooms, quiet spaces, or medical accommodations.
👀 Visit if You Can
Many universities offer virtual tours, which are great if you can’t visit in person.
Check student reviews to hear genuine experiences.
🧭 Final Tips for Medical Students
Apply early, primarily if your university allocates rooms on a rolling basis.
Don’t worry if you don’t get your first choice; you might love wherever you end up.
Remember that accommodation is mainly for the first year; you’ll likely move into a house with med school friends in your second year.
Focus on making connections and creating a comfortable environment for what will be a demanding (but exciting!) year ahead.
💬 Considering where to live for medical school? Begin planning early, remain flexible, and prioritise your well-being and studies. Regardless of where you end up, it’s the people and memories you create that matter most.
