Where Can European Exchange Students Find Short-Term Housing

Finding a proper short-term place to stay in the UK may be stressful for European exchange students who come for a semester or a placement. There are more than 758,000 international students in the UK in 2023, and therefore, the competition for beds is very high. At the same time, the UK will have a shortage of 621,000 student beds by 2026, according to the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI), "Student Accommodation: The State of the Nation in 2024". So, if you are coming from Europe for only one semester or a short exchange program, it is very important to be aware of your options.

At the end of this manual, you will know the best kinds of accommodation for short stays, will be aware of places and costs along with guarantor requirements, and will figure out how to get your favorite room even before your arrival.

Why European Exchange Students Face Unique Housing Challenges

The conditions for European students to get education in the UK have changed after Brexit. Unlike the Erasmus+ programme that was reciprocal, the UK's new Turing Scheme doesn't provide money for incoming students. So, European students have to find a place for themselves as there is no support from the institution, which was verified by the UK Parliament "The Turing Scheme Research Briefing".

Generally, the European exchange students require accommodation for one or two semesters while a full academic year is rarely needed. Most landlords offer 12-month contracts and therefore the short ones are usually more difficult to find. Besides that, 60% of UK students need a guarantor to rent and 40% have difficulties in finding one according to the National Union of Students (NUS) "Housing Survey 2024". Thus, European students who do not have UK-based guarantors face an additional obstacle.

Purpose-built student accommodation is a good option because most facilities offer flexible agreements specifically for international students arriving abroad.

Top Housing Options for Short-Term Stays

1. Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

PBSA is considered as the fastest-expanding sector of housing for students in the UK. The number of students living in private halls increased by 33% from 2017 to 2022, going up from 150,725 to 200,895 residents. Private halls nowadays provide all-inclusive bills, security on-site, and short-term or annual contracts.

For European exchange students coming to the Midlands, places like The Heights Birmingham are a great choice. With the en-suite rooms, areas for individual or group study, and variation of the offer for tenancy length which can be just 1-semester or more, this place is perfect for a short stay.

2. University-Managed Halls

Most universities in the UK hold student halls specifically for exchange and study abroad students. As per UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs) "Accommodation for International Students", university residences are not subject to the right-to-rent immigration checks, thus the procedure is easier for EU nationals.

Nevertheless, there is only a handful of them. For instance, the University of Exeter says that semester-only students can get access to "a limited number of rooms for short-term accommodation," whereas the demand is far greater than the supply.

3. Private Rentals with Flexible Contracts

Some private landlords and letting agents might have short-term student rentals for two to six months. They can be less expensive, but you should be very careful when choosing one. Always make sure:

• The deposit you give is under a government-approved scheme (DPS, TDS, or MyDeposits)

• The landlord issues a valid gas safety certificate

• You get the tenancy agreement in writing

Finding Student Accommodation in Birmingham

Through its universities attracting a great number of international students every year, Birmingham is among the top cities for students in the UK. Besides excellent transport links, Birmingham has a vibrant cultural life and a more affordable living standard compared to London—where the average student rent goes up to £237 per week while it is £148 elsewhere.

While looking for student accommodation in Birmingham, consider the places close to your university and public transport stations as well. Areas like Selly Oak, Edgbaston, and the city centre are popular with students. Numerous providers have in-stock student apartments in Birmingham, student rooms in Birmingham, and studios with short-term student accommodation Birmingham contracts fitting exchange students' needs.

If you are interested in flexible student accommodation in Birmingham, then you should know that the majority of the purpose-built residences would be able to provide you with the best security, facilities, and contract flexibility.

Step-by-Step Guide: Securing Your Short-Term UK Housing

Step 1: Confirm Your Exchange Dates

Have the knowledge of your exact coming and going days. Usually, UK universities are running Semester 1 from September to January and Semester 2 from January to May.

Step 2: Research Accommodation Early

Try to find the place at least three months before you come. The research by Knight Frank says that approximately 60% of all student tenancy signings take place in August and September, thus competition is at its highest level just before the start of the term.

Step 3: Contact Your Host University

Inquire about the existence of the student accommodation program for exchange students. Some institutions commit to providing housing to incoming exchange students.

Step 4: Compare PBSA Providers

Search for the places that can offer you a semester-length contract with all bills paid. Check out whether a guarantor from the UK is necessary or if there are alternative options.

Step 5: Prepare Required Documents

Usually, the required documents are university enrolment proof, a passport copy, and a deposit (normally equal to five weeks' rent for the properties under £50,000 per year).

Step 6: Book and Confirm

With a deposit, you can secure your place and get a written confirmation. If you decide to proceed, make sure to take a good look at your contract before putting your signature on it.

Costs and Budget Planning

Knowing the living costs of UK students you would be able to manage your budget well:

 Location Average Weekly Rent London £237 Birmingham £150–£180 Manchester £160–£190 Edinburgh £170–£200 Other UK cities £120–£160

Source: Knight Frank UK Student Housing Report

Most PBSA agreements come with the provision of all the basic utilities, Wi-Fi, and contents insurance. For students living in Birmingham, the weekly rent for an en-suite room in a central location should be between £150 and £200.

Understanding Your Rights as a Student Tenant

The law in the UK is on the side of every tenant and this includes international students. Major rights are:

• Protection of the deposit – it must be registered within 30 days

• Safety norms – e.g. there should be working smoke alarms, an up-to-date gas safety certificate, and the property should undergo electrical safety inspections

• Privacy – landlords have to alert you at least 24 hours before their visit

• Non-discrimination – According to the Equality Act 2010, landlords are not allowed to refuse you a tenancy because of your nationality, race, or religion

When encountering difficulties, get in touch with the accommodation office of your university or seek Citizens Advice assistance.

Key Takeaways for European Exchange Students

Even though there are changes after Brexit, the UK doesn't lose its attractiveness for European students. While the Turing Scheme doesn't provide any funds to incoming students, there are still short-term housing options in the UK for students who come prepared. The easiest way is through purpose-built student accommodation as there are flexible agreements, bills are included, and there is no need for lengthy credit checks.

Get going with your search weeks or months before your arrival; focus on PBSA providers that offer semester contracts; and be certain that your tenancy agreement safeguards your ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌rights.