If you’re planning your stay in Northern Ireland and are considering living in student accommodation in Belfast, this article is for you! Here you’ll find all the information you need about this type of accommodation in the Northern Irish capital, so you can choose the ideal place and book it as soon as possible. We’ll tell you about the advantages and disadvantages, the differences between private and university halls of residence, how to find affordable options, and we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions from students. Welcome to Belfast!
Below we mention the most notable pros and cons of living in this type of housing:
Belfast offers a wide variety of student residences located in strategic areas such as the city centre, Queen's Quarter and areas close to the main universities. These locations provide excellent transport links and proximity to university campuses, shops, restaurants and leisure facilities.
There’s a wide variety of accommodation types available. Among the most common options are single rooms with private bathrooms (en suite). There are also studio flats, ideal for one person, and shared flats with several rooms that allow for shared use of the kitchen and bathroom.
Among the shared facilities available in private residences in Belfast are study areas, games rooms (which may include video games and billiards), gyms, communal kitchens, laundry facilities, and relaxation areas with sofas.
For their part, the services that are usually included in the rental price are Wi-Fi, utilities (electricity, water and heating) and cleaning of common areas. Sometimes they also include social activities, free coffee and contents insurance, although these services may incur an extra cost.
The residences managed by the universities in the Northern Irish city are located in different areas. Some of them are in Belfast city centre, Queen's Quarter, Linen Quarter and South Belfast. All have good access to leisure areas and easy access to the campuses of the institutions.
The types of accommodation available vary depending on each residence. Some offer single rooms, which can vary in size and have a single or double bed. These usually include access to shared areas such as a kitchen, living room and bathrooms. (It’s important to check the ratio, as in some cases there may only be two bathrooms for 14 rooms). On the other hand, some residences also have en-suite rooms, which include a private bathroom for greater comfort. In addition, there are options for full flats, which can be studios for one person or larger accommodations with two, three or even four bedrooms, ideal for those seeking a higher level of privacy or sharing with friends.
It’s common for these residences to have common areas designed for the comfort and entertainment of students. Among the most notable spaces are karaoke rooms, fully equipped kitchens, and laundry rooms (some at a small extra cost). They may also have games rooms with consoles and video games, gyms offering classes, and ping-pong tables for a bit of fun. For those looking to study, there are areas designed specifically for this purpose, both private and shared. In addition, many accommodations include outdoor spaces with barbecues, ideal for socialising in the open air.
University residences in Belfast typically include a wide range of services in their price. Among the most common are Wi-Fi, heating and electricity, maintenance, weekly cleaning of common areas, and secure bicycle storage. In addition, many offer extras that enhance the student experience, such as social activities and outdoor experiences, television licences, and even gym memberships. In some cases, additional benefits such as free coffee and insurance for your belongings are also included.
This institution has a wide variety of residences, which offer different types of accommodation and shared facilities. They’re also located in different neighbourhoods of the city, offering easy access to both the institution's main campus and the city's leisure and entertainment areas.
One of the best ways to find affordable student accommodation in Belfast is by using our platform, Erasmus Play. Here you can explore and compare prices, locations and features of verified and available accommodation for your stay. You’re sure to find your perfect accommodation quickly and easily! What's more, you can make your booking completely online and securely.
You must be enrolled at a university or educational institution in the city and present a letter of admission. An initial deposit is also required as a guarantee to confirm your reservation. If you’re an international student, additional information such as your visa may be required.
The cost of student accommodation varies depending on the type. Private residences typically cost between £150 and £200 per week, depending on the facilities and location, including services such as Wi-Fi, a gym and social activities. On the other hand, university halls of residence are usually cheaper, with prices ranging from £120 to £170 per week, although they offer fewer amenities than private halls. Both types include basic services such as heating and electricity.
It’s advisable to apply as soon as possible, ideally as soon as you receive your letter of admission to the university. Places are usually limited and fill up quickly, especially in the months leading up to the start of the academic year, such as May or June. Some residences have specific application periods, so it’s essential to check their deadlines. If you’re an international student, it’s advisable to apply even earlier to secure your accommodation.
They typically include Wi-Fi, heating, electricity, maintenance, cleaning of common areas, and access to facilities such as gyms, study rooms, and social areas. They may also offer additional services such as organised activities, free coffee, and insurance for belongings. However, they don’t usually include daily meals or kitchen utensils, and some residences charge extra for the use of laundry facilities or TV licences.
To find affordable student accommodation in Belfast, you can use Erasmus Play, our platform specialising in student accommodation. There you can compare prices, locations and features of verified residences in real time. It also allows you to filter by budget and services included, ensuring you find the ideal option. And booking is easy and secure online!