Student accommodation for apprentices: Options & benefits
For those uninterested in following the traditional educational path, there are alternative routes to university for young people to obtain and develop adult skills, whilst working towards a career. One viable option is an apprenticeship, which is particularly beneficial for career-focused people and those looking to learn relevant skills in a specific industry. In the 2023/24 academic year, there were 736,500 people participating in an apprenticeship in England.
Landing an apprenticeship is an exciting milestone—a stepping stone into the world of work and newfound independence. This opportunity may come with certain factors to consider, including where you will live during the apprenticeship.
This guide will explore whether there are benefits to living at student accommodation for apprentices, their options, and factors to consider.
What are degree apprenticeships, and which universities offer them?
Degree apprenticeships are becoming more popular in the UK and are aimed at 18 to 19-year-olds who have just left school and do not want to attend university. These apprenticeships combine full-time work with part-time study, so the person is working towards a bachelor's or a master's degree.
Many universities across England and Wales offer degree apprenticeships (in Scotland, it is called a graduate apprenticeship). Candidates will earn a salary whilst partly attending university with zero tuition fees. The courses offered tend to favour management and industry-led topics.
Here are some degree apprenticeships available, as of February 2025:
· Coventry University: Management & Leadership at Work
· Manchester Metropolitan: Digital & Technology Solutions
· Nottingham Trent University: Food & Science Technology
· Sheffield Hallam University: Chartered Management, Engineering, Facilities Management
If you are looking to apply for a degree apprenticeship, occasionally, the university will provide accommodation. For example, Sheffield Hallam has specific halls for degree apprentices.
It's important to check through the university website or your employer whether this accommodation type is supplied along with the apprenticeship.
What are the pros and cons of living in student accommodation as an apprentice?
Private student accommodation—such as private halls or shared housing—can be a good option for apprentices looking for affordable living arrangements with a built-in social scene.
While apprentices and traditional university students have different lifestyles, if you're undertaking a degree apprenticeship or part-time study alongside your work, you may still qualify to live in student housing. However, it's important to first check with the accommodation provider or landlord to see if they accept non-students to let their property.
Below, we explore the key pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you:
Pros of living in student apprenticeship accommodation
✅ Affordability and potential employer support
Student accommodation is often one of the most budget-friendly options, especially when compared to private rentals. In some cases, your employer may contribute towards your living costs, particularly if your apprenticeship includes studying at a university.
Certain student accommodation providers also include utilities such as water, electricity, and WiFi in the rent. All-inclusive bills are ideal for non-students who have to manage budgeting and expenses.
✅ Convenient location
Many student accommodations are close to university campuses, training centres, and city centre places of interest, making it easier to balance your work, study, and social life.
✅ Ready-made social life
Living with students means you'll have plenty of opportunities to meet new people, make friends, and enjoy a lively social atmosphere. This can be particularly appealing if you’re moving to a new city and want to build a network.
Cons of living in student apprenticeship accommodation
❌ Different schedules
Unlike full-time students, you’ll be working full-time or balancing study with a job, meaning your lifestyle may differ greatly from your student flatmates. Late-night parties and social events might not fit well with your early mornings and work commitments.
❌ Limited Availability & No Guarantee
Apprentices don’t always have a guaranteed place in student housing, as undergraduate students will take priority. Non-students, such as apprentices, may need to apply early or explore alternative options.
Though certain universities, companies, and landlords may offer non-student accommodation, often this is not the case. Before trying to book student accommodation as an apprentice, make sure you are an acceptable candidate by reading the property's terms and conditions or speaking to a staff member.
What are the student accommodation options for apprentices?
As an apprentice, choosing where to live is an important decision that can impact your lifestyle, budget, and overall experience. There are several accommodation options to consider, each with its own benefits and challenges:
· 1. University halls: Usually located on or near campus. They offer a social environment with shared facilities. However, many prioritise first-year students, which can be challenging for potential apprentice tenants. Some universities provide specific accommodation with degree apprenticeships.
· 2. Private student accommodation: Similar to university halls but managed by private companies and often includes more modern facilities. Primarily designed with undergraduates in mind, many private student accommodations do not permit non-students, like apprentices, to be tenants.
· 3. Shared student housing: Many landlords may offer non-students to live amongst students, providing greater flexibility in choosing who you live with. However, students and apprentices may have varying lifestyles and conflicting work schedules that may cause issues. Read more about non-student flat shares here.
· 4. House shares with other apprentices: Some apprentices choose to live with fellow apprentices, either by finding shared housing together or through employer-supported accommodation schemes. Though this choice is rarer and may require more research, it's a great option for living with like-minded individuals.
What to consider as a non-student looking for accommodation
As you explore your options, several general considerations will need to be made:
· Prioritising budgeting: Apprentice salaries are often lower than those of full-time professionals, which may restrict your choices.
· Location impact – Properties in city centres tend to be more expensive but may save commuting costs.
· Council tax exemption – Check with your employer if you qualify for an exemption like full-time students. If you are not exempt and living with students, you may be solely responsible for paying council tax.
· Housemate compatibility – Living with students may mean late nights and different schedules, which could impact your routine.
The main consideration that may impact your decision is whether the student accommodation allows non-students, like apprentices, to become tenants. Often, undergraduates and postgraduates are prioritised and solely catered to.
Read more about accommodation considerations for non-students with our full guide here.
Renting with Mansion Student
Since 2007, Mansion Student has acquired, developed, and maintained modern student accommodations in some of the most popular student cities in the United Kingdom. Although we do not provide accommodation for non-students at our properties, we are here to provide information on your accommodation options so you can better understand them.
We have several privately rented, purpose-built buildings suitable for students in major UK cities, including Nottingham, Durham, Coventry, Dundee, and Leeds. These cities are also home to popular universities, some of which offer degree apprenticeships.
Our Leeds student accommodation – Austin Hall & Asquith House.
Our private accommodation buildings have on-site hospitality staff to answer any questions and ensure your home is well-maintained. Utilities, such as WiFi, contents insurance and other bills, are included in your rent, making for an easy, single payment you can budget each month.
If you would like more information, please contact us at enquiries@mansionstudent.co.uk to discuss your options further.
Frequently asked questions
Most apprentices do not pay tuition fees. In the UK, apprenticeship programs, including degree apprenticeships, are funded by the government and employers. This means your training and education costs are typically covered, so you won’t have to take out a student loan like traditional university students.
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