A guide to second-year student accommodation

As a first-year student, it's recommended that you start looking for your next accommodation as soon as possible. Whether you are rebooking the same student accommodation or applying for somewhere else, the booking window typically  starts in October for the next tenancy length.

During this period, as a first-year, you should start comparing your options and booking your student accommodation choice. Popular second-year student accommodation options include:

University halls of residence

While these student halls are typically allocated to first-years, some universities allow second-years to stay. If you enjoyed your first-year university experience in halls and prefer the convenience of on-campus living, check with your accommodation office about availability.

However, university halls of residence may not always be appropriate as second-year student accommodation. Spaces may be limited, and rent could be higher than other options. Also, you are not guaranteed a space due to first-year tenants taking priority.

Living at home

For second-year students who live near their university, staying at home can be a cost-effective option. It eliminates rent and utility bills, allowing you to save money. This may also be a viable option for mature students who own or rent their property. However, this limits your social opportunities and can be time-consuming, draining or costly if you travel to campus daily.

Shared student housing

Sharing a student house with new uni friends made during your first year is a popular choice for many second years. These houses can vary in size, location and quality but will frequently be found in particular, student-dominated parts of the city and can have up to 10 bedrooms. This option offers more independence but also requires sharing and managing bills with housemates, landlords, and contracts.

It’s crucial to consider the location, costs, and responsibilities before signing a lease. Shared housing from private landlords may have cheaper rents compared to other accommodation types. However, they often have less modern facilities and are typically further away from city centres.

Private accommodation

Private student accommodation, such as Mansion Student properties, offers an alternative to shared housing. These accommodations combine independent living with the benefits of on-site facilities and support. They are high-quality apartments, ensuites, and self-contained studios in purpose-built or redeveloped buildings, usually with great access to university campuses and other city centre attractions.

They’re the perfect option for second-year students, combining the benefits of university accommodation with added modern facilities and communal spaces for socialising with flatmates.

In the table below, compare the variety of options available for second-year student accommodation:

When looking for second-year student accommodation, make sure to match your choice to your preferences and consider certain factors:

Cost and all-inclusive bills

Budgeting is key when moving into second-year accommodation. Consider whether rent includes bills (electricity, water, WiFi) or if you’ll need to budget for additional costs. Private student accommodation usually offers all-inclusive pricing, making it easier to manage finances.

Proximity to campus

Being close to the university can save time and transport costs. Shared student houses may be located further away from university campuses, which may result in commuting expenses. Check how long it takes to walk, cycle, or take public transport to campus before committing to a property.

Read more about whether students should live close to university campus here.

Who you live with

Unlike first-year halls, where flatmates are often assigned randomly, second-year students can choose who to live with. Consider whether your potential housemates have similar lifestyles, study habits, and cleaning expectations to avoid conflicts.

The right fit

Second-year students often prefer quieter locations with more space for studying. Some accommodations cater to different preferences, offering social spaces while ensuring a calm study environment.

Does the property offer you enough space, and does it have the facilities you require? Many shared houses are quite basic in what they offer, whereas purpose-built accommodation will offer more luxury features.

At our Ernest Place Student accommodation in Durham, for example, there is a cinema room, fitness studio and gym, outdoor area, roof terrace, on-site maintenance and much more.

Arranging a viewing for a second-year home

Most students start viewing accommodation for the following academic year between October and November of their current year. 

When viewing accommodation for your second year, consider a few important factors. These include the location and quality of the property, the levels of security and privacy offered, and the on-site or nearby facilities.

If you are interested in any of our Mansion Student properties, arrange a viewing here. 

Many students going into their second year of undergraduate study get to choose who they want to live with, after being assigned flatmates in residence halls. These might be the same people who they lived with in halls or friends from their course. Think about:

·       Compatibility: Are your routines, cleanliness standards, and study habits similar?

·       Social preferences: Do you want a lively household or a quieter environment?

·       Financial reliability: Can your housemates manage rent and bills on time?

·       Conflict resolution: How do they handle disagreements? Open communication is crucial.

However, if you lived at home or alone in your first year of university and feel like you missed out on making friends, consider a flatshare in private student accommodation to meet new people. Alternatively, you might actually prefer living alone and would rather rent a studio or one-bed apartment for yourself—especially if you’re a mature student.

Unlike shared houses, purpose-built accommodation offers several property sizes to suit communal and independent living.

In Dundee, for example, our Peterson Hall development offers a choice of accommodation options, from non-ensuites, ensuite to deluxe and prestige studios. These rooms are fitted with modern kitchens, large study desks, and plenty of storage space.

One of our Peterson Hall shared kitchens – arrange a viewing here.

Mansion Student is a leading provider of high-quality, purpose-built student accommodation. We put student welfare at the heart of everything we do, and all of our properties conform with the ANUK National Code of Standards for Student Accommodation.

Located in some of the most popular UK student cities, our student apartments, ensuites, and studios provide plenty of luxury features and amenities, with all-inclusive bills and contents insurance:

·       Student Accommodation Leeds

·       Student Accommodation Nottingham

·       Student Accommodation Durham

·       Student Accommodation Dundee 

·       Student Accommodation Coventry

On-site staff can assist with maintenance, security, and general student support. This added layer of assistance ensures a smooth living experience without the hassle of dealing directly with landlords.

If you’re looking for high-quality, secure second-year student accommodation in the location of your choice, get in touch with Mansion Student to book one of our rooms today. 

Do I need a guarantor for private student accommodation?

Many private student accommodations require a guarantor, usually a parent or guardian, to cover rent. Some providers offer options for students without a UK-based guarantor.

Read more about guarantor and parent support whilst booking second-year student accommodation here.

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