While most first-year students live in university residence halls, you have a number of housing options. Here are some quick pros and cons of the main housing options available to students, as well as advice on how to choose the best one for you.

Different types of student housing

University residence halls

Most first-year students are assigned to university-managed housing or halls, which has its advantages. In terms of socializing, living with other students is an excellent way to meet people with whom you may end up becoming good friends (and even living with them next year). 

You'll also be conveniently located, which means you won't have to worry about commuting in daily for lectures, group work, or using the library, as well as for the more fun stuff like societies, clubs, and activities put on by your student union - though it's worth noting that some university-managed halls may not be on campus, but rather in the local city or town.

If you're going to live away from home for the first time, halls can be a good preparation for living in the privately rented sector because you get many of the benefits of independence without having to worry about utility bills or landlords. If something goes wrong, you're also likely to be well supported by the housing office or the university itself.

Pros:

The social scene provides an excellent opportunity to meet a large number of students in one location. It's the halfway house option, easing you into living away from home gradually. You are not alone: if you require additional assistance, your university will provide it.

Cons:

You are thrown in at the deep end and have no say in who you live with. There are no guarantees: you may not be able to book your preferred lodging. Living near a large number of students: get used to dealing with noise and mess!

Private student residences

A second option in some areas is to get a room in a purpose-built student living complex, which is becoming increasingly popular.

The layout is similar to university residence halls - you have your own room and share communal areas such as a kitchen or TV room - but it is owned by a private company. Studio apartments are also possible, though they are usually more expensive. Private hall providers are common in large cities such as London and Manchester, which have
several universities and thus a large number of students looking for a place to live.

If you're considering this option, make sure you do your homework on what you'll get for your money, such as included bills and on-site facilities.
Private Student Accommodation Manchester can be a great way to meet students from other universities because they are housed in the same building. When researching providers, look for communal spaces as well as any regular activities or events where residents can meet and socialize.

Your university will have an approved list of private accommodation providers, and may even have a more formal partnership in place with one if they don't have enough places in their own halls to meet demand.

Advantages:

Because it is designed for students, it offers the same benefits as university residences. 

Mod cons: useful perks such as wi-fi can be included in the package.

Location: you'll be close to all the student activity (not necessarily limited to just your university).

Cons:

If you factor in any up-front or additional costs, studio rentals will be more expensive.

Unnecessary perks: Some private halls have plush extras (such as saunas and cinema rooms) that look nice but you may never use them.

The same student pitfalls apply: noise, not being able to choose who you live with, mess, and so on.

Accommodation in a private home

Others may prefer not to live in halls at all and instead opt for the privately rented sector, in which
you rent a house or flat with a group from a landlord or letting agent. It may be your choice at times, such as if you are a mature student looking for your own living space outside of the university.

Other times, it may not be - not all universities can guarantee a place in halls of residence for all first-year students (a good question to ask at an open day), so you may be among those who miss out, particularly if you came through Clearing or are late with your application. 

Living in a privately rented property can be appealing because it allows you to choose where you live and who you live with. While finding others in a similar situation and organizing viewings can be difficult if you haven't yet moved to university, your housing office can help by, for example, matching you up with others and recommending approved lists of landlords. To find student accommodation in Manchester, you can also try any student-focused letting agents in the area.