If you prefer to arrange your own accommodation then please consider the following points:
Can I afford the accommodation?
What is included in the price – meals, gas and electricity bills, water rates – and if I am
paying my own utility costs, how much should I budget for?
Does the price include possessions insurance?
Is there internet connectivity in the accommodation and if so is there an extra cost?
Are bed linen, towels and kitchen utensils provided and if not, does the institution offer
packs I can buy?
What is Council Tax and do I have to pay it?
If I have a car, are there parking facilities and if so, is an extra cost attached?
Am I required to pay a deposit? If so, how much is it and what is it for?
What are the payment terms?
What is a guarantor, and will I need one?
Is there any communal living space and if so, is it adequate?
Do I want or really need en suite provision and can I afford it?
What is the mix of students in the accommodation likely to be?
Can I practice and improve my English?
If I sign a joint contract, will my liability be different?
Does the accommodation offer good social opportunities?
What are the management and security arrangements for the accommodation?
What are the arrangements for the provision of food?
Am I prepared to clean my accommodation and take the rubbish out?
What are the accommodation arrangements for vacation periods?
Does the length of the contract fit my period of study?
Where is the accommodation located?
What are the transport links and what are the costs?