Starting university this year? Here is what you should know about student living

Getting started in the world of higher education is pretty daunting. But fear not, on the Student Places website, you’ll find loads of information on our blog page which has everything you need to know about student life in Canterbury and Medway. From tips on the best pubs and bars for students in Canterbury to the ins and outs for student accommodation, we have it all. To save you a bit of time, we have put together this blog which summarises everything you need to know about student living before joining university.

What will happen in my first year of uni (and where will I live next year)?

Your first year of uni will be quite a ride. From meeting new people (spoiler: there’ll be a lot of them) and getting to grips with the demands of uni work, you probably won’t spare a thought for next year’s accommodation. After all, most first-year students live in Halls of Residence and next year can wait till next year, right?

Most accommodation companies re-advertise their properties for the following year at the end of October, so the best time to start your search for next year’s accommodation is between November and February. You get the best deals and properties the earlier you start. Even if you are unsure on who you want to live with or your group size, we recommend you start looking just to get an idea on where you would like to live and gather a list of houses you like, this will save you alot of time once you have decided who you are going to live with.

How much is everything going to cost?

Tuition fees, rent, bills… it all adds up. If you’re not careful, your expenditure can spiral so it (literally) pays to get a handle on how much everything is going to cost. If your savings and your student loan are buckling under the weight of all this, it might be a good idea to get a part-time job. From casual work to a regular evening and weekend gig, Canterbury and Medway are full of employment options for student’s great for an easy way to earn some cash, add some experience to your CV which will help you stand out in the current competitive job market!

If you don’t have the time for a part-time job due to the overwhelming amount of assingments, lectures and exams then it might be worth getting a student bank account with an interest free overdraft. This is just ot have that extra security if you need some extra money asap! Check out the Money Savers Blog to find the best student bank accounts CLICK HERE.

Best places to live in Canterbury and Medway for students

With universities dotted all over Canterbury and the Medway towns, these areas have their share of property stock aimed exclusively at students. In either location, it’ll come as no surprise that the best areas to live for students are all within walking distance of the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church campuses. Wincheap, St Dunstan’s, Northgate and St Stephen’s are your best bet in Canterbury, while Chatham and Gillingham should be at the top of your list in Medway.

What should I look for in my next student home?

Sure, it’s important to make your student room homely, but bear in mind that next year’s house share won’t be like living in halls of residence. You’ll have your own room, sure, but there’ll also be communal areas you’ll be using. Make sure to read our guide on what to look for in a student house and what to ask during a viewing.