Accommodation / Living

Can I live in University accommodation?
Yes, the majority of postgraduate students reside in Graduate College during their year here. Further information about Graduate College can be found on the College's website.
How do I find accommodation?
Please refer to the Postgraduate Accommodation Guide for information.
How do I apply for accommodation?
All students who firmly accept a place are sent accommodation details and links to the online application form from late Spring onwards.
When is the deadline for applying for university accommodation?
Accommodation can normally be guaranteed if the Graduate College receives your completed application for accommodation by 15 August (if you are from outside the EU) or 1 August (if you are a UK/EU student) and you are applying for a programme starting in the following October.
Can I get accommodation for me and my family?
There are small numbers of on-campus flats suitable for couples and families but we regret that availability can be limited. Please refer to the Postgraduate Accommodation Guide for details. Accommodation for students with families cannot be guaranteed but if you are unable to secure accommodation on campus, the Student Union's Housing Office is very helpful in finding off-campus housing.
How much does accommodation cost?
This depends on the type of accommodation you choose. Prices are subject to change each year but in 2011/12 typical prices are from £85.40 per week for a standard room with a washbasin, £102.60 per week for an ensuite room (with its own bathroom) and £150.50 per week for a studio for two people. Further information on the type of accommodation available and weekly rents can be found in the Postgraduate Accommodation Guide.
How and when do I pay for my accommodation?
Your residence charges (rent) are payable in advance in termly instalments, and will be expected via an online payment using your Credit Card or by Direct Debit collection from a UK bank account direct to the University. We regret that we are not able to accept payment by bank transfer.
What is the cost of living in Lancaster?
Living expenses will vary depending on your lifestyle choices and individual needs. However, rents and some living expenses do tend to be lower at Lancaster than in some larger cities.You may view a sample cost of living budget here.
For how long can I stay in university accommodation?
The majority of rooms in Graduate College are let on a 51 week basis, as most postgraduate courses run for this period. You may, however, choose a 40 week let if you wish. If we have no 40 week contracts left when we receive your application, you will automatically be offered a 51 week contract.
What is included / what is not included in the residence charges?
If you live in University managed accommodation your residence charges (rent) are inclusive of heating, lighting, electricity, and a 24-hour security presence during term time. Access to the University network and high speed Internet (known as 'ResNet') is also included within the residence charge.
An insurance premium is included within the residence charge, covering your possessions up to the value of £3500. You may wish to increase cover on certain items as you see necessary.
A basic cleaning service is included for all shared areas such as kitchens and corridors, though you are responsible for keeping your own room clean. There is no cleaning service available in the studio apartments, family flats or townhouses.
What types of accommodation are available? - single-sex, smoking, disabled access?
If you have any disabilities which might affect your accommodation needs, you can mention these when you apply. A small number of rooms are adapted for students with hearing impairments and wheelchair-users. The majority of rooms are non-smoking but there are a small number of flats for smokers. Single-sex flats are also available.
What facilities are provided in University accommodation?
All bedrooms contain: desk and chair; bed and mattress; wardrobe with hanging section; shelving;carpet and curtains; telephone and network connection point;waste bin; electric socket(s).
If you have an ensuite room or studio you will have your own private bathroom (which contains a shower unit, toilet and washbasin). If you are allocated to a standard room there will be separate showers and toilets shared between the occupants of the flat. You will have your own private washbasin in a standard room.
All residences are self catering and have fully fitted kitchens, including storage units, table and chairs, fridge and freezer, electric oven, grill and hob, microwave and kettle. You will need to provide cooking utensils, equipment, cutlery and crockery as these are not provided. A vacuum cleaner, iron and ironing board are available however. In Graduate College residences the kitchens are shared.
You will need to bring your own bedding, or purchase a single bedding pack at the point of accepting your offer. These consist of a single duvet and pillow, covers for both the duvet and pillow, and a bed sheet.
You will need to bring towels. There are launderettes across campus where you can conveniently do your own laundry for a small charge.
As a postgraduate, will I be accommodated separately from undergraduates?
Yes, residences in Graduate College are separate from the undergraduate colleges.
Do you have halal or kosher kitchens?
In Graduate College residences the kitchens are shared. Please be aware that vegetarian/halal students are not housed separately. However, the Spar supermarket on campus stocks halal foodstuffs and in addition there are two halal catering outlets.
Back to top