AS THE end of the academic year is fast approaching, many students are moving out of student halls and looking at other options.
Journalism student Ben Morris writes about the aspects that need to be considered when looking for your next accommodation in Winchester.
He said: "Student halls is where most students at the University of Winchester go when they first arrive in the city, but unless there is a reason for you to stay, for example a disability, then it is normal for students to find alternative places to call home.
"At the university, the most expensive student halls of residence, is a premium room at Queens Road, with a fee of £6,790, standard room with a price of £6,356, with a standard ensuite room at Burma Road, coming in third, with a fee of £6,482 per academic year.
READ MORE: Student Ben Morris talks about life for a person in an electric wheelchair in Winchester
"This comes with unlimited free wifi, all bills covered, 24-hour security, cleaning service for communal areas and bedroom furniture.
"The cheapest student halls is a shared facilities room at £5,014.10. This comes with the same features as Burma and Queens, without the ensuite availability. This is something to consider if you don’t want the hassle of managing different bills and focus on settling into university life.
"After moving out of halls, you have two options. Firstly, students can either rent a house or apartment, with friends or individually. Which would cost roughly £5,000.
"Secondly, you can rent a room from a company like Unilife in a building specifically built for students, with additional features, such as free breakfast and a TV. However, the price of the room per academic year is almost double, at £12,000. The cost also covers all bills. This is good if you want to continue the halls experience but will come with a price."
When asked about accommodation Journalism student Annija Leleva said: “It has been challenging as you have to consider a lot of factors such as landlords and people that you surround yourself with for your own wellbeing.”
Ben added: "Students should get applications or deposits soon, as accommodation is limited, and everyone will be trying to find places to live."
Message from the editor
Thank you for reading this story. We really appreciate your support.
Please help us to continue bringing you all the trusted news from your area by sharing this story or by following our Facebook page.
Kimberley Barber
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here