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UK Accommodation Myths Busted: What Students Really Need to Know

Updated: Jun 16

UK Accommodation Myths Busted: What Students Really Need to Know

Don’t Let Misinformation Mess Up Your Move 


For the majority of Indian and foreign students, enthusiasm regarding getting the move to the UK is shadowed by a haze of uncertainty regarding the accommodation of students. From WhatsApp to good friends, everything is made clear to students regarding how, where, and when they need to book their room. 


But here's the thing: 1 in 4 students put off booking because they don't understand, report UCAS 2024—costing more, with less choice, and unnecessary stress. 


Here at Student Roost, we debunk the UK's biggest accommodation myths and share with you just what students need to know—to enable you to book sensibly, pay up simply, and save money. 


Myth #1: "You can only book student accommodation after arriving in the UK." 


The Reality: 

You can (and should) reserve your accommodation while you're on your way from India. 

Here's why: 

  • You will need a UK address to wrap up the visa, banking, and university processes.    

  • By Early bookings you can earn cashback rewards at cheaper rent 

  • Booking from India is secure; as Acolyte Living offers 360° virtual tours of the locations. 

The majority of students who book student accommodation London book 2–3 months in advance to prevent last-minute madness. 


Myth #2 "Private rental spaces are mostly cheaper than student halls by big Accommodation providers" 


The Truth: 

Not on your life. Although a London flatshare may look cheap at first sight, the truth is typically: 

  • Utility bills 

  • Furniture  

  • Council tax 

  • Internet and setup fees 


While on the one hand, most private student housing in London is: 

  • All-inclusive 

  • Close to university campuses or Tube stations 

  • Purpose-built and equipped with everything necessary to live as a student 


Therefore always take the cost of living overall, not just the rent. 

  

Myth #3: "All lodgings are the same, just choose the lowest priced."   


The Truth 

Where you live will break or make university life. Where you live, who you're living with, what facilities there are, and how quickly the landlord responds are all just as important as how much you'll be paying in rent. 


For example: 

  • A room in Zone 3 is cheaper, but a 1-hour daily commute adds to stress 

  • An unverified listing can have hidden issues—issues of security, scams, or unexpected conditions 

  • Shared bathrooms or no common areas can impact quality of life 


Always select based on your lifestyle, university campus, and preference, and not merely price. 


Myth #4: "You can't trust online booking websites." 


The Truth: 

Caution is necessary, yet not all online websites present a risk. Even, websites like Acolyte Living provide: 

  • Real landlords and properties 

  • Student reviews and virtual tours 

  • Support for Indian students with visa-matched leases and flexible rentals 


You also receive WhatsApp support, document upload reminder, and post-booking help—something most direct landlords can't provide. 

  

Myth #5: "You should Wait for your visa to arrive before booking a room." 

The Reality: 

It's one of the worst myths. 


Most students don't know: 

  • Good rooms get booked up straight away (most importantly for the most competitive universities like UCL, King's, and LSE) 

  • There are visa-delay protection premises—you won't have your deposit lost if you have to cancel with proof 

  • Not pre-booking = fewer options and more expensive 


Acolyte Living also assists students with pre-confirmation letters, which most universities approve for visa purposes. 

 

What Students Should Care Seriously About 

What Students Should Care Seriously About 

If you're searching for student flats in London or just browsing, here's what counts: 

  • Genuine listings with honest prices 

  • On-campus walking distance or straight Tube line 

  • 24/7 support (particularly helpful during arrival week) 

  • Booking or paying flexibility 

  • Lifestyle adjustment—study, social, and cultural 


Last Thoughts: Book Clever, Not Late 

Convinced by the myths will cost you more than your peace of mind—money, time, and a quality first impression of the UK. 


If you are weighing flatshare London possibilities or value the ease of private student housing in London, do not be deterred by confusion. Preparing ahead, expert assistance, and truthful guidance are what you need. 


Need Help Booking Your Room? 


Acolyte Living assists Indian and overseas students book genuine accommodation—before stepping on UK soil. 


From online viewings to 1:1 assistance, we've helped 2,500+ students to home sweet home, faster. 


 Grab the opportunity to explore the best student accommodation services in London from Acolyte Living at acolyteliving.com. 

 

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