Finding accommodation is one of the most pressing issues for many students preparing to study in the UK. Some students find accommodation prior to arriving in the UK, however many others travel to the UK with the intention of finding accommodation upon arrival.

General information and guidance on searching for accommodation prior to and upon arriving in the UK can be found on the main Housing Support webpage here.

If you intend to travel to the UK and find accommodation upon arrival, you will need to make sure that you have suitable short-term accommodation for the period that you are house hunting.

Many students opt to stay in hotels for this period, however if your search takes longer than expected this can end up being very costly. In order to avoid spending large amounts of money on hotels you may find it useful to consider one of the following options:

Short Stay Hostels: The maximum length of stay is usually two weeks, however this is often negotiable if you need a little longer.

Indian Student YMCA
YHA St Pancras
YHA St Pauls
YHA Earls Court
YHA Holland Park
YHA London Thameside
YMCA City
London Hostels Association Belsize House
Journey's Kings Cross

Homestay accommodation: Flexible accommodation with a family in London. This is a good option for students who are looking for a secure family environment until they find somewhere more long term.

HFS London
Hosts International

Short Term Renting: Flexible accommodation aimed at students that can be rented on a nightly basis.

Flat-Club

Please note that due to the number of students arriving in London in September, short-term accommodation fills up very quickly. You are therefore advised to book accommodation as far in advance as possible in order to avoid disappointment.

Also when booking accommodation make sure you are clear about the terms and conditions of the agreement, especially in relation to cancellations, extending your stay or leaving early.