Accommodation

Planning Ahead

Accommodation can be one of the most challenging parts of studying or working abroad, so start planning as early as possible. If you are going abroad for one semester, you will also need to decide what to do with your Manchester accommodation, as the University of Manchester no longer offers single-semester housing for exchange students.

Begin researching accommodation three to six months before departure where possible.
Check whether proof of accommodation is required for your visa or arrival requirements.
Allow several weeks to secure accommodation, especially in cities with high demand.
Use university-approved support and providers before considering private or unmoderated platforms.

Managing Your Manchester Accommodation

Manchester Student Homes provides free housing advice, support with private accommodation, accredited landlord information and contract-checking before you sign.

Advertise your room clearly as a replacement tenancy, including dates, rent, bills, furnishings, location and photos.
Use Manchester Student Homes where possible and be cautious with unmoderated platforms such as SpareRoom, Gumtree or Craigslist.
Keep written records of any agreement and seek contract advice before committing.

Accommodation whilst abroad

Check your host’s accommodation guidance as soon as your placement is confirmed. Partner universities may offer halls, shared flats or approved private providers, but accommodation is not always guaranteed and may be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you are studying at one of our exchange or Languages partners, read the accommodation section in your partner institution brochure on My Placement and check whether they offer guaranteed accommodation for exchange students.
Contact the host institution's accommodation office or international student services for approved providers and local advice, if applicable.
Attend Go Abroad accommodation drop-ins and country meetings.
Consult Global Guidance Ambassadors at the Go Abroad desk in the Atrium, University Place for tips based on their experience.
Ask current, recently returned or inbound students for advice on areas, landlords and realistic costs.
Look for any specific apps available for your host country/city and sign up for alerts. Examples students have used in the past, but not endorsed by the University, include:

Spotahome, Uniplaces, Student.com, Erasmus Play or HousingAnywhere

Choosing University Accommodation or Private Renting

University-managed accommodation is usually the safest and simplest option where available. It may provide furnished rooms, proximity to campus, utilities, security and student support, although it can be more expensive, less flexible and may involve shared rooms or restrictions.

If you rent privately, use host university-approved providers where possible and research the area, transport links, rent levels, tenancy rules and safety carefully before signing.

Compare total costs, including rent, deposits, utilities, Wi-Fi, transport, insurance and any meal plans or fees.
Check whether the property is furnished and what is included.
Ask for photos, reviews or a virtual tour if you cannot view in person.
Confirm rules on guests, subletting, renewals, early termination and additional charges.
Ask whether the property has been rented out before.

Safety, Scams and Legal Checks

Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true, requests for payment before viewing, or landlords who will not provide a contract.
Google your landlord and check reviews.
Use secure payment methods only and keep receipts, contracts and written correspondence.
Do not sign a contract in a language you do not understand without translation or advice.
Check tenancy length, deposits, repairs, eviction rules, guarantor requirements, break clauses and renewal terms.
Confirm that the property has secure locks, functioning utilities and appropriate fire safety equipment.

Temporary Accommodation, Insurance and Local Adjustment

If suitable long-term accommodation is not arranged before arrival, consider temporary accommodation while you search locally, but check visa and insurance implications first.
Check whether your accommodation is covered by the University’s travel insurance policy; private homes, shared accommodation, Airbnb and similar unregulated accommodation may be excluded.
Arrange additional insurance if your contract or University cover does not adequately protect your belongings or liability.
Research local housing customs, required documents and shared living expectations before arrival.

Budgeting

You need to be realistic on how much you can afford to spend on rent each month to allow you to work out how much you will have left for utility bills, public transport, food and luxuries.

Costs to consider:

Rent (including utilities if applicable)
Deposits (typically 1-3 months’ rent)
Travel costs: living further from campus might save money but can increase travel costs and time. Assess public transport availability, costs, and student discounts.
Extras (Wi-Fi, insurance, cleaning, etc.)

To check:

Use online cost calculators like Numbeo to estimate living expenses in your host country.
Confirm if your UK student loan or grants can be used abroad and what they cover.