Choosing where to live as a student is a big decision, and it could affect how well you do in your studies or how much fun you have at college. If you're about to make that decision, you're in the right place. In this article, we're going to look at a few tips and some other advice so that will help you get the best out of your university experience by choosing the right housing.

Is it affordable?

This is the number one thing you need to look at when picking student accommodation—affordability. Going away to university is expensive, not only with regards to housing but also tuition, books, food, and transport.

Not just that, but unlike your later adult life, you won't have much money coming in like you will when you've got a regular job. That means you have to be careful when you pick your student accommodation and only pick something you can afford. Otherwise, it will be a major source of stress and you won’t enjoy it.

However, you might not just want to pick the absolute cheapest possible property. Sometimes, you get what you pay for. Paying a bit extra could enable you to have a better university experience and get more from both your study and after school hours. Just as long as you can afford it.

What's the location like?

Some student accommodation will be on campus, but this also might be more expensive, or in higher demand. If you're happy to live a bit further from where you study, you'll have to make sure it's close enough that you can get there easily and cheaply. Are there good public transport options?

Aside from actually getting to university, you need to look at what the actual area you'll be living in is like. Are there plenty of amenities and services? Is it a safe area? Some cheap student accommodation might be in a location you don't particularly want to live in, so do the right research before you decide to move there.

What bills are included?

Some student rents include bills and utilities, while others don't. So you'll have to factor this in when doing your calculations. Also, the rent might only be for 40 or so weeks a year rather than 52. Do you have somewhere to go in those other months, or would you rather have a yearly lease?

What are the extra-curricular possibilities like?

Some accommodation will have built-in activities and stuff going on all the time. Is that something you're interested in, or would you rather be somewhere quieter?

Could off-campus housing be a good choice?

Not everyone wants to live on campus for a variety of reasons. Maybe you'd like the independence of your own property or you don't want to be stuck in a student area all the time? If that sounds like you, you might want to consider off-campus housing, where you'll get a bit more freedom and independence while still getting to enjoy university life. There should be plenty of great and affordable off campus housing options available.