Make your time as a student in the UK truly memorable and multicultural, by joining one of the country’s international student houses.
If you’re preparing to study in the UK, you’ve probably already considered the two main student accommodation options: university halls of residence or private housing.
But for those who want a truly memorable and multicultural experience, there is a third option: international student houses.
All corners of the world
These are student accommodation facilities specifically designed to provide a place where students from all around the world can live and learn alongside one another.
Teo Bendris, from Romania, is studying human and medical science at the University of Westminster in London.
Teo lives at the International Students House (ISH) in London, which is home to around 700 students, from the UK and overseas.
“What I like most about living here is that I meet people from all corners of the world,” Teo says. She adds, “The staff are very friendly, and organize lots of events for us all to join in with.”
The events program at ISH is certainly impressive, including talks and lectures, cultural celebrations, quizzes, live music, sports clubs and film screenings.
There’s even an ISH travel group, which organizes affordable trips for those keen to explore other parts of the UK and Europe.
In terms of costs and convenience, Teo is more than happy. “ISH is very central, close to my university, and also very affordable. I would definitely recommend it to others, especially anyone studying in central London.”
Affordable option
As the UK’s capital and largest city, London is likely to present a wider variety of choice in most things, including student accommodation.
But that doesn’t mean there are no international student houses elsewhere. Erkin Koray has come to the UK from Turkey to complete a master’s degree in politics at the University of Manchester.
He lives at the Methodist International House (MIH), Manchester, which was recommended to him by a family friend. “The location and cost of MIH are a great combination,” Erkin says.
“It’s quite close to the university, and as far as I’m aware it’s the most affordable place to live in this neighborhood.”
Like ISH, MIH provides shared facilities for its residents, and aims to nurture cultural exchange by bringing together students from a wide range of backgrounds.
In particular, Erkin highlights the fact that MIH is home to both foreign and domestic students – meaning that he has been able to live alongside native Brits, as well as meeting fellow ‘internationals’.
For those not studying in either London or Manchester, other international student houses in the UK include Hull International House and Birmingham International Student Homes.
Or, of course, you could always try living on a boat...