The ultimate accommodation checklist for international students
So, you’re heading abroad to study – how exciting! You’re about to embark on one of the greatest chapters of your life. Make no mistake about it though – the organising involved is immense!
Among the paperwork, packing, and goodbyes, there’s one thing you’ll need to prioritise early – accommodation. From finding the right neighbourhood to setting up utilities and knowing what to pack, there’s a lot to cover.
This global guide covers everything you need to know before moving into student housing – with added tips for those heading to London, to help you settle in and make the most of the city.
Pre-arrival planning
Researching neighbourhoods
Choosing the right area is just as important as the accommodation itself.
Look for neighbourhoods that offer:
Easy access to campus.
Good transport links.
Local amenities like supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, and cafes.
Low crime rates and good street lighting.
Tools like Google Maps, Numbeo, and local forums can be really helpful for evaluating areas.
Use Google Maps to explore the layout of neighbourhoods, check commute times to your university, and locate nearby essentials. Numbeo can meanwhile help with reviewing crime rates, cost of living, and safety ratings, giving you a clearer picture of an area’s overall liveability. Local forums – like Reddit, university Facebook groups, or city-specific student communities – are similarly valuable, as they offer first-hand insights from current or former residents. These perspectives can help you get a real sense of what day-to-day life is like in a particular neighbourhood.
London tip: Want to know where to pitch your tent in London? Check out our blog post on the safest areas to live in London for a breakdown of student-friendly, well-connected neighbourhoods.
Budget planning
Living in a major city isn’t cheap. Between rent, tuition, food, transport, and social life, costs can spiral quickly. Create a budget early and stick to it with tools like:
Revolut or Monzo for digital banking.
YNAB (You Need A Budget) for detailed planning.
UNiDAYS and Student Beans for discounts on retail, transport, and dining.
If your visa allows it, part-time work can provide helpful extra income.
London tip: Looking to work while studying in London? Our Head of Sales, Mo, shares insider tips on how to find flexible jobs that fit your university schedule.
Documentation
You’ll need to prepare essential paperwork for both arrival and enrolment.
At the airport
Get ready to present:
A valid passport.
Student visa & visa letter (if required).
CAS email (for UK students staying over six months).
An acceptance letter from your university.
Proof of funds (bank statements, scholarship letter, etc.).
Accommodation details.
Health insurance (recommended).
In your first week at university/school
Here are the documents that you may be asked for in your first week:
Passport and visa documents.
Your acceptance letter.
Proof of health insurance.
A medical certificate.
Passport photos.
Bank account details.
Emergency contacts.
Scholarship documents (if applicable).
Student ID.
London tip: Keep your visa, CAS letter, and NHS registration handy during the first few weeks.
Accommodation essentials
Housing options for students
There are several types of student housing, each with their pros and cons:
University halls – Social and affordable, but basic.
PBSAs (Purpose-Built Student Accommodations) – Modern and secure, but often limited in availability.
Shared houses – A common choice for students seeking more independence, though quality and upkeep can vary widely.
Budget rentals – Cost-effective, but may lack amenities.
Private student apartments – The premium choice with hotel-style comfort, all-inclusive bills, and prime locations.
London tip: Heading to the capital? Check out our blog post on the different types of student accommodation in the UK to see what’s available and what might suit you best.
Furnishing and amenities checklist
Make sure your housing comes with key essentials, or budget to buy/rent what’s missing.
Must-haves include:
A comfortable bed and mattress.
A desk/study area.
A kitchen with a stove, microwave and fridge.
Laundry access (on-site or nearby).
Wi-Fi.
Heating/air-con facilities.
Security features (locks, cameras, intercom).
London tip: Curious what premium student apartments in London include? Our private apartments come fully furnished with hotel-style amenities like on-site gyms, co-working lounges, and concierge services. Explore our top picks here.
What to look for in a viewing
If you can, visit any properties you like in person or arrange a virtual tour.
During the visit:
Check the condition of walls, ceilings, and fixtures.
Test appliances and water pressure.
Ask about heating, insulation, and internet speed.
Verify safety measures: locks, intercoms, and CCTV.
London tip: Read our guide 8 tips for finding the best student apartments in London to avoid common pitfalls.
Safety and legalities
Contracts and deposits
Never sign a lease without reading the fine print.
Key points to check include:
The length of the tenancy.
What’s included in the rent (e.g. bills, internet).
Deposit amount and refund conditions.
Notice period and break clauses.
London tip: If you're signing an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) – which is the most common type of rental agreement for students in the UK – your landlord is legally required to protect your deposit in a government-backed Deposit Protection Scheme (DPS). This ensures your money is kept safe and returned fairly at the end of your tenancy. Read our guide to student housing contracts UK for more tips.
Understanding local laws
Wherever you're going, keep in mind that each country has its own tenant rights and rental laws.
Get familiar with:
Your rights as a tenant.
How to report maintenance issues.
Eviction notice procedures.
Your legal obligations (e.g. waste sorting, noise restrictions)
London tip: In the UK, tenants have the right to live in a safe property that’s maintained in good condition. You can report serious issues to your local council’s housing officer.
Cultural and practical adjustments
Internet and mobile setup
Set up your SIM card and broadband early:
Look for student SIM deals from Lebara, and Lyca Mobile.
Arrange internet in advance if your accommodation doesn’t provide it.
Opening a bank account
Many countries require a local bank account for rent payments or work. In the UK, common student-friendly banks include HSBC, Lloyds, Monzo, and Barclays.
Healthcare access
In some countries, healthcare is free or subsidised for students – but not always automatically.
London tip: In the UK, international students staying more than six months are eligible for NHS services. Register with a GP as soon as possible via the NHS website.
Move-in day checklist
Essentials to pack
Packing smart is key when moving abroad, not only to settle in quickly, but to avoid the cost and hassle of buying essentials in a new country.
Here's a breakdown of what to bring to set yourself up for a smooth landing:
Important documents (passport, visa, ID).
Electronic devices and chargers (laptop, phone, power adapters).
Clothing for all seasons, including comfortable shoes and formal wear.
Stationery and study supplies (notebooks, pens, planner).
Toiletries and any necessary medications with prescriptions.
Bedding and towels (check if provided by your accommodation).
Basic cleaning supplies and a small toolkit.
Inventory review
Check your room against the inventory provided. Note anything broken or missing and report it to your landlord or property manager.
Get social
Building a social circle is one of the most important parts of settling in as an international student. Friendships can ease homesickness, boost your confidence, and help you feel more connected to your new environment.
Start by personalising your space, exploring your surroundings, and saying yes to opportunities to connect – whether through student events, local meetups, or shared meals.
For more tips, read our guide on how to make friends and feel at home as an international student.
A bit about us
Relocating abroad for university is both thrilling and challenging. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to settle in smoothly, make lifelong friends, and thrive academically.
Wherever you’re headed, let this checklist be your guide. And if London is your destination, know that you’ve got a whole city of opportunities waiting – and we’ll be here to help you make the most of it.
