Your guide to student accommodation in London
Finding somewhere to live while you study is one of the most important decisions you'll make before arriving. Whether it’s Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) or a private rental, it’s important to choose somewhere that’s safe, comfortable and convenient.
Accommodation guide overview:
As a City St George’s International Study Centre student, you’ll arrange and book your accommodation directly with your chosen provider. This gives you the freedom to pick somewhere that fits your budget and lifestyle that feels like home.
- Location: Greater London area, as this makes it easy to commute to your classes.
- Requirements: Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) with ANUK or Unipol National Codeaccreditation, or another suitable accommodation option.
- Recommended accommodation: iQ Magenta House – Purpose-Built Student Accommodation in Whitechapel, London.
- Accommodation type: this depends on your age when you start your pathway programme with us. Please read below for more information.
What to look for when choosing where to live
Find the right student accommodation for you
You can live anywhere within the Greater London area, as this makes it easy to commute to your classes.
Students aged 18 or over
You can choose to stay in any accommodation you like, including PBSA or a private rental – just make sure you're within Greater London.
Students aged 17
You can stay in PBSA as long as you arrange an AEGIS-accredited UK guardianship service until you turn 18. We can arrange the INTO Guardianship Package for you – just fill out the relevant section on your application form.
Alternatively, you can live with a close family relative aged 21+. This could be a parent, stepparent, grandparent, aunt, uncle or sibling who agrees to act as your UK guardian.
Students aged 16
If you are 16 when you start your studies, accommodation options in PBSA will be limited because many providers have minimum age requirements. We therefore recommend living with a close family relative aged 21+. Eligible relatives include a parent, stepparent, grandparent, aunt, uncle or sibling. They'll act as your UK-based guardian until you turn 18.
You can also consider living in a homestay – this option can be approved on a case-by-case basis by our Centre Director.
Get advice about booking accommodation
Our team is happy to help you choose the right option.
Frequently asked questions about student accommodation
About booking your accommodation
No. City St George's International Study Centre does not arrange, book or approve accommodation for students.
You must book accommodation directly with your chosen accommodation provider. This means you are responsible for researching and selecting accommodation that is safe, suitable for your needs, and meets all relevant requirements.
The International Study Centre can provide some information about accommodation options, but the final choice and booking are your responsibility.
Before booking student accommodation, students should carefully review what is included in the accommodation contract and rental price. Important factors to check include:
Furniture provided in the room
Kitchen facilities and equipment
Study space and storage
Wi-Fi and internet access
Utility bills, including electricity, water, and heating
Laundry facilities and laundry costs
Travel time to City St George's International Study Centre
Accommodation safety and security features
Contract length and cancellation policies
Many Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) providers include bills and Wi-Fi in the rent, while private rented accommodation often charges separately for utilities and internet services.
Students at City St George's International Study Centre are encouraged to choose accommodation within a short commute of the study centre where possible. Accommodation located anywhere within the Greater London area is also generally suitable, provided students can travel to classes reliably and comfortably.
For students aged 18 and over (including students who are 17 and will turn 18 during their stay), we recommend iQ Magenta House. Located in Central London, it offers a safe, secure and student-friendly environment, with City St George's International Study Centre just 15 minutes away.
iQ Magenta House offers a range of room types to suit different budgets and preferences, including en-suite rooms, shared flats and private studios. Residents also benefit from on-site facilities designed to support student life.
To learn more about room options, availability and pricing, visit the iQ Magenta House website. Use this code when booking: INTOMAGE2627.
International students should start researching accommodation as early as possible and ideally secure their housing several months before their programme begins. London is a popular student city, and the best accommodation options can fill up quickly, especially for the September intake.
Booking early gives you more choice, helps you find accommodation that suits your budget and preferences, and allows you to focus on preparing for your move to the UK.
Yes. Students aged 17 can usually live in approved Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA), subject to any guardianship and welfare requirements. Students aged 16 are generally expected to live with a close family relative. Students under 18 should check accommodation eligibility requirements before booking, as age policies vary between accommodation providers.
General questions about student accommodation
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) is student housing designed specifically for university and college students. PBSA typically includes furnished rooms, study spaces, communal areas, Wi-Fi, security measures and on-site support staff. Many PBSA properties also include utility bills, such as electricity, water, heating and internet access, within the rental price.
Most student accommodation providers offer several room types. Common options include:
Ensuite rooms – a private bedroom with a private bathroom and shared kitchen facilities.
Studio rooms – a private bedroom, bathroom and kitchen within one self-contained space.
Shared flats or apartments – a private bedroom with shared bathrooms, kitchens and living areas.
The best option depends on a student's budget, lifestyle and preference for privacy or shared living.
The cost of student accommodation in London varies depending on the type of housing, location and facilities provided. According to British Council, student accommodation in London could range from £750–£848 per month. However, prices may be higher in central London or for premium purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA).
Need help with budgeting? Learn more about the daily cost of living in London in this guide.