Student Accommodation in Birmingham

Student Accommodation Birmingham

We always recommend that students take a multi-faceted approach when selecting their ideal accommodation. Start by listing your must-haves and nice-to-haves - do you require en-suite facilities? Proximity to campus? Vibrant neighborhood? This helps you determine priorities. Next, thoroughly research location options - travel times, access to public transit, and surrounding amenities.

Also, inspect safety and security measures like controlled access, adequate lighting and transparent policies. Compare prices, fees and payment plans to find value and avoid hidden costs. Visualize the community you'll be part of - one that fosters connections that can enrich your university experience. With a focus on your needs, diligent research, in-person visits and guidance from a real estate professional like Uhomes, you're sure to find the perfect student accommodation in Birmingham - one that helps make your university years more rewarding.

Birmingham Overview

Located in the centre of England, Birmingham is a thriving and diverse city and a top destination for international students studying in the UK.

With the most prominent young population in Europe, Greater Birmingham has been ranked as the UK's best city for quality of life by the global Mercer Lifestyle Index for three consecutive years and is home to world-class companies, research and development centres, world-renowned universities, and innovative entrepreneurs, it is a vibrant and thriving business region with over 1,900 international companies, one of the major manufacturing hubs in the UK, with a wide range of industrial sectors, with a focus on predominantly heavy industry.

The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Symphony Hall and Birmingham Circus are just a few of the city's many cultural attractions that make Birmingham a centre for arts and culture. There are also several shopping destinations, including the Bullring retail centre with over 160 shops and restaurants.

Cost Of Living In Birmingham

1. Housing costs

Housing costs are relatively high, especially for Birmingham student accommodation in the city centre. Generally, student flats rent will be relatively cheap, ranging from around £700 per month. In addition, if you choose to live in an area further away from the campus, the rent will also be relatively low. Overall, the cost of one month's housing in Birmingham for international students is between £600-1200.

2. Food and drink costs

In Birmingham, international students can eat in the school canteen or buy cooking ingredients. In terms of food and drink costs, it will cost around £400 per month. Ingredients and daily necessities are relatively inexpensive if you buy them in supermarkets, especially when buying seasonal fruits and vegetables. In addition, if you often eat out, the cost will be higher, whereas if you cook for yourself, you can save much money.

3. Transport costs

Transport costs within Birmingham are not expensive, and students can buy bus or train cards to reduce transport costs. The cost of transport is around £50-£100 per month. Meanwhile, Birmingham also has a bicycle rental service. Students can travel by bicycle, which saves money and is environmentally friendly. Transport costs will increase if you need to travel frequently or around Birmingham.

4. Recreational activities

As the second largest city in the UK, Birmingham has a wide range of recreational activities. Students can go to the cinema, theatre, museums and other places for entertainment, participate in volunteer activities or join student societies. The cost of recreational activities varies from person to person, but it costs about £100-500 per month, which can be chosen according to personal preference and financial strength.

5. Miscellaneous Study Fees

While studying in Birmingham, students also need to take into account some study miscellaneous fees, such as textbooks, photocopying fees, laboratory materials and so on. These costs range from £50-£100 per month. In addition, there will be additional costs if you need to attend academic conferences or obtain professional certificates. Therefore, you need to consider your study plan and goals when estimating the miscellaneous expenses during your study period.

Summing up: The above five perspectives have been combined to justify the cost of living in Birmingham for an international student in the UK for a month. According to the above analysis, the living cost in Birmingham for international students is about £800-2000 including living cost, and the specific cost varies according to individual living habits and financial strength. When making a living budget, international students must consider the quality of life and economic pressure and reasonably arrange the expenses in each aspect to ensure their study life in Birmingham can go smoothly.

Best Location In Birmingham

Birmingham has a range of budget-friendly accommodation options available for international students. Some student accommodations in Birmingham near the institution have simple public transportation access and 24/7 security for your pleasant stay.

Selly Oak: Selly Oak is a well-liked student neighbourhood close to the University of Birmingham. It provides various reasonably priced housing options, such as shared homes and specially designed dorms for students. Also, it boasts a bustling high street with restaurants and bars nearby.

City Center: Birmingham City University and Aston University students can easily access the city centre from either campus. For individuals seeking a more independent living situation, there are many possibilities for purpose-built student housing, flats, and apartments. Also, the city centre has excellent transportation options, making getting there simple.

Edgbaston: The University of Birmingham is close to the green district of Edgbaston. It provides a selection of housing in Birmingham, including apartments and shared accommodation, and convenient access to the city centre by public transportation.

Harborne: Situated adjacent to the University of Birmingham, Harborne is another well-liked student neighbourhood. It offers a variety of housing options, such as shared houses and purpose-built student housing, as well as a high street with many boutiques, cafes, and eateries.

Student Living Experience In Birmingham

Birmingham offers a dynamic and diverse student lifestyle. The city has a thriving student population, with over 70,000 students enrolled at its universities and colleges.

The living cost for students is one of the main advantages of studying in Birmingham. Compared to other UK cities, housing expenses are modest, and various options are available, including purpose-built student housing, shared houses, and flats, with some properties even including bills with the rent. The city also offers various reasonably priced food and drink alternatives with diverse cuisines.

Being an international student in Birmingham can be a rewarding and thrilling experience. Several universities in Birmingham offer various courses, from undergraduate to postgraduate programs. Some of the top universities in Birmingham include the University of Birmingham, Aston University, Birmingham City University, and Newman University.

Birmingham offers a thriving night-time scene with various bars, clubs, and live music places to check out for socialising. Many student-friendly venues offer specials and discounts in the city centre and student neighbourhoods like Selly Oak and Moseley, which are particularly famous for nightlife.

Birmingham has a variety of parks and green spaces to explore, so there are many chances for outdoor activities. Students who want to unwind or exercise frequently visit Cannon Hill Park and Sutton Park, and adjacent Lickey Hills offer hiking paths and breathtaking city views.

TOP Universities In Birmingham

University of Birmingham - One of the top institutions in the UK and a constant contender for the top 100 universities in the world, the University of Birmingham was founded in 1900. The institution offers a wide variety of courses and programmes, with a focus on social sciences, engineering, and medical research.

Aston University - Aston University, a research-driven institution focused on business, management, and engineering, was established in 1895. The university is well known for its marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship research.

Birmingham City University -Birmingham City University is one of the most prominent universities in the area, with more than 24,000 students. The institution is renowned for its close ties to commerce and industry and its emphasis on employability. It offers various courses in disciplines like art and design, business, and law.

University College Birmingham - University College Birmingham is a specialised institution offering hospitality, tourism, and business programmes. It is well known for its strong industry partnerships and vocational training.

Transportation In Birmingham

There are many ways to get to Birmingham, including buses, trains, trams, and bike lanes.

National Express West Midlands is the largest bus company in the area and provides service to the city and its surroundings on more than 300 bus routes. With three main railway stations—Birmingham New Street, Birmingham Snow Hill, and Birmingham Moor Street—the city also includes a network of suburban and regional services.

Students can benefit from affordable transportation choices like the Student Bus and Rail Pass, which provides unlimited bus and rail travel in the West Midlands. Many universities and colleges are also within walking or cycling distance of the city centre, making transportation convenient and accessible for students.

Will I have to pay a deposit for Birmingham student accommodation?

Some student accommodations in Birmingham will require a deposit (which may start out as a reservation fee) but not all – it depends on which accommodation you choose. If you are asked for a deposit, it will be capped at five weeks’ rent.

Can I get discounts for student accommodation in Birmingham?

Yes, students who book early or a while in advance are eligible for good deals and pay lower rent in Birmingham. You can also save on rent by making a group reservation. Other offers are constantly available; we recommend you keep an eye out for the latest ones on our website!

How much does student accommodation cost in Birmingham?

The amount you pay will depend on the type of student accommodation you choose. A shared house in Birmingham will cost you £179.29 per week. A halls of residence will cost, on average £179.29 per week, but could cost more depending on what type of room you select.

Are bills included in my rent?

This depends on the property you rent, but most of our properties in Birmingham have all bills included, so you’ll only have to pay the rent and nothing else. Remember to make sure if this is the case with the property you’ve chosen though. You can see what bills are included on the property page of every property.

How much do I have to pay for a deposit?

This will depend on the type of property you choose. The most anyone can legally charge is 5 weeks rent. Some accommodation in Birmingham halls of residence will not require a deposit at all, while on average the deposit in a shared house in Birmingham will be £896.45

How do students look for accommodation in Birmingham?

1．University student halls are a popular choice for student accommodation in Birmingham, particularly students in their first year, as they’re usually located close to the university campuses. There are many types of university accommodation in Birmingham, but most are ensuites or come with shared bathrooms and kitchen facilities. 2．Private student halls are a great choice for student accommodation in Birmingham, with options located across the city, making them ideal for attendees of any Birmingham university. This type of student accommodation, like on uhomes.com, offers Studio, En-suite, and shared student flats often with premium facilities, including on-site gyms, TV and movie rooms. 3．Shared flats and houses are another common type of student accommodation in Birmingham. Though further away location-wise, Birmingham’s transport network makes travelling for lectures a breeze.

How long will my tenancy agreement last?

Most tenancy agreements run between 42 and 51 weeks, meaning you’ll be able to keep your student accommodation in Birmingham for the whole year. Some Birmingham student halls will allow you a longer or shorter tenancy agreement if you ask for it, but the agreements are designed to suit the typical student.

What if I don’t like my accommodation after moving in?

At uhomes, we try our best to find student accommodation that meets all your needs and preferences. If you do not like your accommodation due to unforeseen or unacceptable circumstances, getting back to the provider is recommended, as cancellation policies vary from one provider to another.

What should I look for when booking Birmingham student accommodation?

While searching for student accommodation in Birmingham, you want to look for places that offer all-inclusive bills, as well as fully-furnished accommodation options, accommodation close to your university of choice, and student homes that have the basic amenities you might need, including Wi-Fi, secure parking, and on-site laundry facilities, among others.

Do the accommodations offer facilities for disabled tenants?

Yes, we do acknowledge specially-abled people. For example, we offer various rooms for students with hearing or visual impairments, mobility issues, wheelchairs, etc.

What factors should I consider for student accommodation in Birmingham?

The points you should consider are to look for places that offer all-around bills, accommodation with all amenities, and accommodation near the premises of your university.

When is the best time to look for student accommodation in Birmingham?

Most students look for shared housing in Birmingham from May, although there will be student accommodation available all year round. First year and international students generally start looking in January for halls of residence.

How can I make sure I get my deposit back at the end of my tenancy?

All landlords and property managers in Birmingham are legally required to protect your deposit in a legally recognised tenancy deposit scheme. If you take care of your student accommodation you should have no problem getting your money back. You can check out some further information right here.

What options are there for contract length? Can I book summer accommodation as well for example?

Most contracts last for one academic year. If you would like to stay for a longer or a shorter time, contact us and our booking consultants will be able to give you information about which landlords are currently accepting stays of different lengths. If you’d like to stay in your accommodation over the summer as well, this can usually be arranged as many of the properties we list also accept bookings for summer accommodation.

What different accommodation types are available for students in Birmingham?

Students who are selected for the September intake may begin their search for accommodation between January and March or preferably 6 months prior to their intake.

When should I book student accommodation for september intake?

Student housing in Birmingham provides a comfortable experience at a reasonable price. You can choose from a wide range of properties, including flats, student halls, Studio apartments, private apartments, and many others.

Can I stay with a friend at my student accommodation in Birmingham?

Yes, you can rent an apartment with your friends; but, depending on the property, you may be charged a small fee to do so. You can either share a room or rent a dual occupancy unit.

What do you mean by dual occupancy student accommodation?

As per local authority licencing schemes, dual occupancy properties are generally one or two-bedroom properties, as larger properties do not typically allow two people to stay in the same room.

How do I find Student accommodation in Birmingham?

To find student accommodation in Birmingham, compare properties using multiple filters. Once you have shortlisted your student accommodations, consult our property expert and make a final choice.

Can I get a private student accommodation in Birmingham?

Yes, you can! There is a wide range of private student accommodation in Birmingham that you choose to live in. Pick the one that's perfect for you.

Why are there so few flats in Birmingham?

There are a number of reasons why there are so few flats in Birmingham. One reason is that demand for housing is high and there aren't enough flats to meet the demand. Another reason is that many people who work in Birmingham don't want to live in the city center, preferring to live in the suburbs instead. Finally, developers often prefer to build houses rather than flats because they can make more money from selling houses.

What are the advantages of renting a furnished flat?

When you rent a furnished flat, you have everything that you need right there in the apartment. This can be really convenient, especially if you are new to the city and don't know where to start looking for furniture. Another advantage of renting a furnished flat is that it is usually cheaper than renting an unfurnished apartment or house. This can be helpful if you are on a tight budget. One advantage of renting a furnished flat is that you can rent it for medium-long term periods. This is ideal if you are in Birmingham for a few months and need a place to stay, as it can be difficult to find long-term rentals in the city. Furnished flats come with all of the amenities that you need, such as furniture, appliances, and linens.

When do I apply for a student accommodation in Birmingham?

It is beneficial to apply for student accommodation early around 5-6 months before your course start date. Most of the student accommodations get booked fast and thus, if you wait till the end moment to make a booking, you might not find the room of your choice. Uhomes assists you with the entire booking process and paperwork so that you can secure your desired accommodation on time.

What are the different types of rooms offered?

Generally, four kinds of rooms are offered in student accommodations,

Ensuite: This type of room entails a room with a private bathroom, but the kitchen facilities are shared among 5-6 flatmates. There may be variations in types of room but these features are constant.

Studio: Studio rooms contain private room, bathroom and kitchen facilities. Other facilities like the common room, study lounge, etc. are shared. There may be variations in types of room but these features are constant.

Twin room: This room entails a shared room with two beds, a shared bathroom. If it a twin-ensuite then the kitchen facilities will be shared and if it a twin studio there will be a private kitchen available for the two people.

1 bed or 2 bed apartments: This room entails 1 or 2 bed apartments, with either a shared or individual washroom (depending on the property), a shared kitchen and living space. These types of rooms give more of a flat feel.

What should I look for when booking a student accommodation in Birmingham ?

There are a couple of things you should look for when you apply for a student accommodation. The number of people you want to live with, commute time, type of room availability, budget, additional facilities, 24/7 security. Uhomes suggests you properties based on all your criterion and assists you with the booking process as well. 

Cost of living in Birmingham

Accommodation:- The location and type of accommodation will affect the cost of accommodation. While shared houses or flats can be more reasonable, student housing in Birmingham costing between £60 and £120 per week, purpose-built student accommodations (PBSA) can run from about £120 to £250 per week. It's important to keep in mind that while some accommodation options might include bills like water, electricity, and internet, others might not.

l  Food:- The cost of food will also depend on a person's habits and preferences. With groceries costing between £40 and £60 per week, students can save money by preparing meals at home rather than dining out. However, there are many possibilities for affordable food options, and many cafés and restaurants provide students discounts.

l  Transportation:- How much you travel and where you reside will affect how much it costs for transportation. A monthly student bus pass costs about £45, thus using the student discounts on public transportation can help students save money. Another excellent choice is to go biking or walking, especially if you live close to your university.