What to Consider
Following on from the benefits of University accommodation and having reviewed the differences between catered and self-catered options, here are some important factors you may wish to consider before making your final decision on which accommodation is best for you:
Do you want to live in a small or large community?
Some of our sites accommodate large numbers of students and offer a student village atmosphere. Whilst this is acceptable for some students, others may find it overwhelming and would prefer a smaller site with fewer students. On each site page we tell you how many rooms are on the site.
Who do you want to share with?
We can offer mixed or single-gender rooms. At Castle Leazes and Henderson Hall, while the blocks are usually mixed, you share floors with students of the same gender. At other sites, within a flat you have an opportunity to request to live in mixed-gender flat, although we cannot guarantee this choice. This does not suit everyone and you may feel more comfortable living with other students of the same gender.
Is cost important to you?
Please be aware that en suite facilities are more expensive than other wash facilities and accommodation closer to the campus is also more expensive. Check out information on Opportunity Scholarships but be aware the accommodation fund is only applicable should you live in University-owned accommodation, therefore Managed Partnership Accommodation may not be suitable for you.
Do you want to purchase and prepare your own food?
When considering catered over self-catered, remember that in one you have your meals provided and prepared for you within the price, but in the other you have to purchase and prepare the food, so overall there may not be much difference in price.
Do you want to be close to the University campus/city centre or away from the campus?
The majority of our accommodation sites are within 10 minutes’ walk from the campus and city centre, but bear in mind that Newcastle is a fairly compact city, so even those sites that are off campus are not very far from the city centre. Look at the map on the back cover of the Accommodation Brochure to check out where each site is in relation to the campus. We discount our off-campus sites to assist with travelling costs and these sites also offer free car parking.
What facilities are important to you?
Information about the facilities offered by each accommodation site is listed in the Accommodation Brochure and on each site page, so check these details carefully before deciding. If the type of wash facilities is important to you, then choose accordingly. If you would prefer somewhere that offers on-site activities then you should consider catered accommodation or a self-catered site that offers communal facilities.
Do you have special requirements?
If you have specific disability related needs, you should take a look at our accessible accommodation and contact us if you require more specific advice before submitting your online application.
