Accommodation

Some students prefer to stay in University accommodation because  it's often easier and cheaper than finding private accommodation, with bills often included. You can apply in advance, and there's a ready-made social life.  You will often be housed with other international students - on the downside, this may make it more difficult to immerse yourself in the language and culture of your host country. 

You should read through all correspondence you receive from your host institution, check their website and visit their social media (if applicable) for information on potential accommodation provision. It's also worth trying to get in touch with students who've studied at your host university before to find out what they would recommend.

Be aware that not all institutions will offer student accommodation, but they may be able to give advice on other options in the area instead. 

If your host institution has student accommodation, you should keep the following in mind:

• At most host universities you can choose to live on or off campus, although there are some which require you to live on campus 
• Your host should let you know how you can apply for student accommodation, and when the deadline is for this. Remember to check your university emails regularly over the summer
• It will be your responsibility to find out about student accommodation and apply for it on time. You may not receive reminders, so be proactive!
• University accommodation is often oversubscribed, and even if you apply on time you are not always guaranteed a place. You should apply as early as possible after being accepted by your host institution
• Accommodation can vary in quality, even at the same institution. Standards may not be what you are used to, so do as much research as you can into what's on offer  before committing
• Check in advance what the rules and norms are for the university accommodation you're applying for. Is there a curfew? Will you need to share a room? Are you allowed to have friends over?  What things will you need to buy when moving in (bedding, pans, kettle, cutlery etc.)?

If you’re going abroad on a work placement or can’t/choose not to stay in university accommodation, you’ll need to look for private accommodation.

Finding private accommodation with locals can make it easier to immerse yourself in the language and culture of your host country. It can also allow you more freedom over where you live.

The University advises that you choose from accommodation providers that have been recommended by your host institution, where possible, or stay with friends/family.  This reduces the chances of being the victim of a scam. You may also be able to terminate their rental contracts with these providers more easily. 

If you opt for private accommodation:

• Ask your host institution/organisation (many universities have an accommodation office) for advice on safe areas, costs, and where the best places are to look
• Be aware of scams – often if something looks too good to be true, it is! Make sure you use reputable sites for your search - your host institution/organisation may recommend what these are
• Remember to check what’s included – in some countries it’s normal for private rents to come unfurnished, or without things you might be used to in Edinburgh like heating, bedding or even an oven or fridge

More advice for seeking private rentals:

• Ask to see the property and the owner/agent virtually before committing (e.g. on a video call) 

• Ensure you know the financial and legal implications of ending your lease early before committing to anything (e.g. what would happen to your rent payments/personal belongings if you need to return home at short notice) 

• Ensure you receive a rental agreement and written evidence of any deposit payments (if applicable) 

• If in any doubt as to the legitimacy of the accommodation, do not transfer any money or sign a contract 

• Remember - if something looks too good to be true, it probably is 

•  Opt for a private room (not a shared room or dormitory) wherever possible 

​Here are some websites which may be helpful when exploring accommodation options. The Study & Work Away (SWAY) team cannot endorse any of these, but former exchange/work placement students have recommended them as good starting points.  Please note that some of these agencies may charge a fee.