This article introduces typical accommodation options available and provides some tips for making the right choice for you.

Once you have an offer of a place at university you will need to think about where you would like to live. If you decide that you want to live away from home, your chosen university typically offers a variety of accommodation options suited to different budget, group sizes and lifestyle preferences.

Please visit the TUS Midwest Student TUS Midwest Accommodation office here, for more information on the accommodation available for our different campuses.

When looking for student accommodation , consider factors such as cost, proximity to your campus, facilities and the social environment. It is essential to research and plan early, as popular accommodation options may fill up quickly !

Living at Home

Many students decide to stay living at home when attending college. The decision to live at home while attending University depends on your personal preferences, financial situation, and family dynamics. It is also possible to live at home in first year and then move out in the second or subsequent years if you want to. If you choose to live at home, commuting to and from the campus may require careful time management to ensure you attend classes on time. Living at home provides a support system that can be helpful during challenging times. It also offers a sense of emotional security and a familiar environment

Living with other people

Living with other people at University can be an exciting experience. This new experience can offer opportunities for personal growth, social interactions and building friendships. Which can enhance your social skills and consider new perspectives and cultures. When living with people, it is important that responsibilities are shared. If, you happen to live with someone studying in a similar field, this can create a supportive academic environment.

Points to consider when living with people:

Effective communication is important

As you spend a lot of time in your accommodation, it is important that you make the right choice for you. You may be sharing facilities such as kitchen and social spaces with your roommates. Everybody has their own way of living, socialising and thresholds for cleanliness and noise levels.

During our research, autistic students have told us things they liked and didn’t like about their accommodation. These were related to the size of rooms, noise levels, distance to shops, availability of quiet spaces, the study choices and maturity of fellow tenants, and more.

Points to consider before renting?

Renting a property is a significant decision, and there are several important factors to check and consider before signing a lease!

It is crucial to take your time, ask questions and thoroughly check the property before signing the lease. If, you have any doubts or concerns, consider seeking advise from a trusted friend or family member. Carefully review the rental contract. It is important to understand the terms and conditions, including rent amount, lease duration and the deposit. Consider any potential sensory triggers, such as strong smells, strong lights or a noisy neighbourhood. Check the property’s proximity to the college campus, public transport and shops. Test the wifi reception ! 

Make sure the living space is compatible with your living preferences. Ask yourself the following questions. Are you okay with sharing a room?  Do you want a house where you can party and hold events or just a house where you can study and get a good night’s sleep? Do you prefer to cook for yourself? Are you willing to sacrifice certain home comforts (e.g. tv, certain cooking appliances) in exchange for independence or vice-versa? Do you want to live with other students or find your own place? Finally consider whether this property makes this possible and whether the landlord or homeowner has any rules which may conflict with your preferences (AsIAm, 2021).

Think about:

• Whether you want to live in a lively place in the city centre, or if you would prefer a quieter location outside of the city?
• Do you want accommodation that offers its own social calendar?
• Do you need an en-suite room?
• Do you want to be close to the University?
• Think about how you will get to University? Will you walk, cycle, travel by public transport?
• How many people you would be comfortable sharing with?

This article was adapted for use in TUS Midwest written originally by Kate Walker, Disability Advisor at Leeds Beckett University.