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Posted July 2, 2025

How to find affordable postgraduate accommodation in the UK

Finding suitable – and affordable – accommodation as a postgraduate student in the UK can be a real challenge, especially if, like many postgrads, you’re balancing study with a really tight budget. Whatever your postgraduate student accommodation wants and needs, the search process can have a very satisfying outcome if handled properly.

In this blog post, we share our top tips for finding postgraduate digs that suit your requirements and complement your budget.

Start your search early

With time on your side, you’ll be less likely to panic and opt for accommodation that’s on the expensive side. We recommend starting your search three months in advance. Give yourself a little longer if you’re travelling from overseas to study in the UK.

If you’re yet to find the perfect postgraduate program, considering the affordability of the surrounding city or town as well as your course options is another must for keeping accommodation costs and living expenses to a minimum. The UK is home to cheap and expensive places to live for students so do your research.

Set a realistic budget

Knowing how much the essentials (and non-essentials) will set you back, and how far savings and funding will stretch is the key to starting your search on the right foot. Be sure to include rent, utilities, internet, transport and council tax if applicable to make sure you’re searching for accommodation that is within your means as your postgrad course progresses.

When shortlisting accommodation, be sure to clarify if bills are included, and what the average monthly utility costs are if they’re not. All-inclusive rent can be easier to budget for, although it may be more expensive overall in some cases.

Consider living off campus

Living on campus may be important for undergraduate students, with many first years benefitting from the social aspect of being based so close to the action, but it tends to be less of a priority for postgraduates. Living off campus in private student accommodation could save you money.

Besides lower accommodation costs, there are other plus-points to living off-campus as explained on Tovisorga.com:

“Living off-campus can be cheaper than university housing. You’ll probably have more independence, freedom, privacy, and space. Private apartments are usually quieter and have fewer distractions, and therefore, are better for studying. Having a rental history will make it easier to get a place after you graduate.”

When weighing up whether living on- or off-campus is more affordable in your chosen student city, don’t forget to budget for extras, like utilities and travel.

Get a helping hand

You don’t have to take on your search for affordable postgraduate accommodation alone. Your university may be able to help you source suitable accommodation that works for you and your budget.

Many universities have postgraduate-specific housing or priority places. Postgrad-only halls are a great choice, and are typically quieter and more suitable for mature students. Alternatively, your university may have partnerships with local housing providers.

Beware of hidden costs

After you’ve picked accommodation that suits your budget, take the time to go over your contract with a fine-tooth comb. Your tenancy agreement should be reviewed thoroughly. Keep an eye out for hidden charges and unreasonable notice periods that could cost you dearly later down the line.

Yet to find the postgraduate course that’s right for you? Get to know all your options by browsing our database of more than 30,000 courses here.

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