Cheap Accommodation In London for International Students
Are you sick and tired of searching for suitable accommodation in London? London is a bustling educational hub, attracting both local and international students. With world-class universities, diverse cultures, and a vibrant social scene, no wonder so many students choose to study in the UK capital. That’s why finding cheap accommodation in London for international students can be a challenge, especially in central London and city areas. However, this write-up will show how you can find affordable housing in the east and west parts of the city.
Tips and Tricks on How to Get Cheap Accommodation in London
Starting Your Search Early
All the best student accommodation deals are snapped up quickly. So, you must start searching as early as you can. It is especially true if you seek accommodation in central London or other popular areas.
Consider the Location
You must consider how important it is to live closer to your university and public transport lines. If your campus is in central London, you may be willing to pay more for convenience. But, if you are willing to live further out, you can save a lot of money.
Here are some factors you should consider while choosing a location for your accommodation:
- Proximity to your university
- Proximity to public transport lines
- Safety & Security
- Amenities
Online Marketplaces
There are several popular online marketplaces, such as websites and tools that you can use to find cheapest accommodation in London for international students. Some popular options are:
- Casita
- Student.com
- Uniplaces
- Gumtree
- Zoopla
Asking for Recommendations
Another good way to find affordable student accommodation in London city is to ask for recommendations from your network or people you know. Talk to your friends, family, and classmates to see if they have any recommendations for cheap yet reliable accommodation in London. You can also ask for help from your university or student unions.
Negotiating the Rent
Do not shy away from negotiating rent with the landlord. You can get a better deal if you commit to a longer lease term or are willing to pay rent in advance. Here are some factors you can consider:
- Be flexible with your move-in date
- Consider shared accommodation options
- Search for deals and discounts
- Be ready to act quickly
Top 5 Affordable Areas in London for Students
King’s Cross
King’s Cross is a central location in London with various budget-friendly accommodation options for students. It is home to several universities, including University College London and the London School of Economics. Many student pools call this area home because of its affordability and link to public transport.
The area is well connected to the rest of London by public transport, with the King’s Cross St. Pancras railway station connecting London City and providing direct trains to many major cities in the UK. King’s Cross also has many cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it a popular social spot for students.
You will find various student accommodation options, including student halls of residences, private halls, and flats. Although the crime rate in this part of the city is slightly higher than the average in London, it has declined to a satisfactory level in recent years. Overall, King’s Cross is suitable for local and international students to live and study.
Shoreditch
Shoreditch is a vibrant neighborhood offering cheap accommodation in East London, known for its mix of independent shops, restaurants, bars, and clubs. This trendy location is a popular choice among students because of its proximity to several universities and colleges, such as Queen Mary University of London, London Metropolitan University, and the University of East London.
It is centrally located and connected to public transport, making it easy for students to get to and from their classes and other parts of London. The rent and living costs in this part of London are lower than others. Shoreditch also has a lively and youthful atmosphere, always having to do something.
Shoreditch also has a higher crime rate than London’s average. The most common type of crime here is theft. Despite the higher crime rate, it is generally a safe place for students to live and study. Just make sure your accommodation is safe and secure.
New Cross
New Cross is another diverse neighborhood in South London, famous for its multicultural atmosphere, lively nightlife, and affordable housing. It’s a popular destination for students because of its proximity to several universities, including the University of London, Goldsmiths, and St. George’s Hospital Medical School.
One of the main things that makes New Cross attractive to students is its affordability. Rents in this area are significantly lower than in other areas of central London, making it an excellent option for students on a budget. Many student accommodation options are available in New Cross, including student halls, shared houses, purpose-built student flats, etc.
It is also a well-connected neighborhood, with access to Central London and other parts via public transport. The public transport links are covered by several trains and bus routes. The crime rate here is slightly lower than the London average. All in all, it’s a hidden gem for students.
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Shepherd’s Bush
Shepherd’s Bush is a West London district with excellent connectivity to the city center, with direct access to the Central and Overground lines. It only takes 15 minutes to go to the Central London. The area is also connected by several bus routes that provide further options for getting around.
Shepherd’s Bush is a popular area for students because of its good connectivity to several educational institutes and its relatively cheap accommodation in London for students. It is also home to many institutions, including Imperial College London White City Campus, University of West London Shepherd’s Bush Campus, and West Thames College.
The crime rate here is also relatively lower than the London average, where theft and burglary are the most common types. Students have plenty of places to go, such as bars, restaurants, clubs, and many more. In a word, Shepherd’s Bush is a well-connected, safe place for students with lower accommodation costs.
Navigating Accommodation with Casita
Why Casita is a Recommended Platform for Finding Student Accommodation
Casita is an online platform that helps students find suitable accommodation based on their budget. Like many other countries and cities, it also helps students in London to find a variety of student rooms. With a fully automated process of searching and booking houses, students can easily find a place to stay using this service. Most importantly, Casita partners with only the best accommodation providers.
Here are some reasons why Casita is a recommended platform for student accommodations:
- Casita is a global platform with several types of accommodation options, including student halls of residences, shared houses, flats, and private rooms.
- It’s specially designed for students. So, students can easily find accommodations close to universities and public transport. It also shows places with amenities that students need, such as Wi-Fi and laundry facilities.
- The platform has accommodation search options with various search filters. So, students can search for accommodation customized to their own needs and preferences.
- Casita provides detailed information about all the available accommodation options, including photos, descriptions, and reviews from other students.
- It has a secure booking system with different payment gateways.
- Casita provides 24/7 customer care support.
How to use Casita to Find Cheap Accommodation in London for Students
To use Casita in searching for cheap accommodation in London, you will have to follow these simple steps as an international student:
- Firstly, go to the Casita website or app and sign up using your email and other information.
- Then, enter your search criteria, including the location, budget, and move-in date.
- Now, you can use filtering options to narrow down your search results. You can filter the accommodation type, amenities, rent, etc.
- After that, view each accommodation option’s details and look at other students’ reviews.
- Now, click the Book Now option when you find an accommodation you like.
- Finally, enter your personal and payment information to complete booking your accommodation.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Book Cheap Accommodation
Research and Compare
The first step in booking cheap accommodation is to do your own research and compare prices from different sources. You will find several different websites and apps to help you do this. Some popular options include Casita, student.com, Zoopla, etc.
Contact the Landlord or Booking Agent
Contact the landlord or booking agent to confirm the details when you find a few suitable accommodations. You can ask about the availability of the accommodation, the price, and the lease terms.
Check for Hidden Costs
Some landlords or booking agents may want to charge hidden costs, such as cleaning fees, utilities, or damage deposits. Make sure to ask about these costs upfront and get them in writing.
Secure Your Booking
Once you have all the details and are happy with everything, secure your booking as soon as possible. You may have to pay a deposit or sign a lease agreement.
Conclusion
In searching for cheap accommodation in London for international students, you must note that the best deals tend to go quickly. It’s especially true in popular areas like Greenwich, Westminster, and the city center. So, consider all of your options. You can use Casita to find the perfect and affordable place for you in London.