It is standard for landlords in the UK to ask for one month’s deposit and 1 - 3 months rent in advance when they lease out accommodation to students.

Most private accommodation comes with furniture. The quality and amount of this furniture will vary depending on the rent you are paying. It would usually include a: sofa, fridge, cooker, cooking utensils, one bed per bedroom, wardrobe etc. It would not normally include: bed linen, towels, TV, video or telephone.

This is a government tax that is levied in the UK for all properties and assessed according to the value and location of the property. The tax has to be paid by the residents of the property as opposed to the owner of the property. Full time students are exempt from this tax but you will have to visit your local Council Tax office to give them proof of your student status if you are renting a private property.

Yes, some institutions will allow students to stay in their accommodation on a temporary basis before the start of term to give students somewhere to stay whilst they look for private accommodation. Other institutions may arrange for you to stay in a Guest House if they cannot offer you temporary accommodation. It is advisable to inform the University of your requirement well in advance else it may be difficult to accommodate a last minute request from you.

The decision is yours, however we would advise all students to strongly consider the accommodation maintained and managed by your University/College. This accommodation is usually very close to where you will be studying, and will have 24 hour security and often include your bills for heating and lighting. You will find it easier to settle down into your new environment if you do not have to worry about finding accommodation in the private sector.

The British High Commission may require you to show evidence of the accommodation arrangements that you have made for the duration of your study period in the UK. However, it is not normally a requirement that you have finalised your accommodation in the UK.