How does student accommodation work in Exeter?

Student accommodation in Exeter usually comes fully furnished with bills included in the rent. You can choose between private studios, ensuite rooms, and shared apartments. Most are close to the University of Exeter or have good transport links.

What is the most affordable student area in Exeter?

Areas like St. James, Mount Pleasant, and Pennsylvania are popular and affordable for students, with plenty of budget-friendly housing options.

How do I find student accommodation near universities in Exeter?

You can browse verified listings on Alphaway to find student housing near the University of Exeter’s main campus. Booking early gives you more choices and better prices.

What is included in student accommodation in Exeter?

Most Exeter student accommodations include furniture, Wi-Fi, utilities (water, gas, electricity), and access to common spaces like kitchens, study rooms, and social lounges.

When should I book student accommodation in Exeter?

It’s best to book 5-6 months before your course starts, especially since Exeter is a popular student city and rooms sell out quickly.

Exeter Student Accommodation - Find Rooms & Flats

About Exeter

Exeter in Devon, southwest England, is a quaint, little city. It has a university located inside a historic city, which is a rare combination. The Roman Walls, beautiful Gothic cathedral and energetic city center offer students a great place to study while still providing a great quality of life. The fact that it is a coastal city and has a lot of open spaces also contributes to the mellowed-out vibe, making it one of the best places to study in the UK. Every year Exeter welcomes students from all over the world because of how high-ranking universities and the friendly people who live here. Whether it’s modern Exeter accommodation, cozy shared housing or even short-term student accommodation in Exeter to accommodate your arrival for your first night or few nights, there are housing options for all price levels!

Best Exeter Accommodation

Exeter homes some amazing student accommodations. From affordable shared rooms to premium ensuites and private studios- you'll find the whole range of Exeter accommodation options here in safe and secure locations minutes away from the university campus. Here are some of the best student accommodations in Exeter:

Why Choose Exeter for Higher Education

Exeter offers top-ranked academics, especially in Business, Environmental Science, and Medicine. It blends small-town charm with a vibrant, multicultural student community. With easy train links to London and Bristol, plus nearby beaches and Dartmoor National Park, it’s perfect for students who want a great education, nature, and a friendly, balanced lifestyle.

Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Exeter

James: This is a popular area just a short walk from the University of Exeter. You'll find markets, grocery shops, restaurants, cafes and everything else needed for a comfortable student life, just a short walk around this area.
Mount Pleasant: A mixed, residential neighborhood with plenty of student accommodation, shared flats, and houses. Mount Pleasant is a good area for students looking to balance living costs with comfort.
Heavitree: This area is one of the most affordable areas in Exeter and has good bus routes! It also homes some amazing restaurants, markets, and grocery stores just a short walk from residential areas, making it a great place for students to live.
Thomas: A peaceful place to live with plenty of green spaces. The area is good for postgrads or students wanting a quieter living experience.
Exwick: A family-oriented area, with cheaper Exeter accommodation. Exwick has great bus routes to link the campuses.
City Centre: A good area for students looking for a lively lifestyle, you can walk to nightlife, cafes, and shops but it is a pricier area to live!

Different Types of Student Accommodation in Exeter

University-managed halls: Perfect for first year students and international students. University-managed halls provide a safe place to live and provide instant access to a welcoming community, all near the University of Exeter.
Private Student Accommodation (PBSAs): Purpose-built buildings are specifically built for students. These are the most popular Exeter accommodation options and offer en-suite rooms, studios and shared flats. Most PBSAs offer all bills included, as well as great student-focused facilities!
Shared student houses and apartments: Taking out a shared house/flat with friends can be a great way to live more independently, at an affordable price. You will normally find them in more popular areas such as St. James and Heavitree.
Short-term lets and flexible contracts - These types of Exeter accommodation options are suitable for semester exchange or study abroad students looking for student accommodation in Exeter for a semester or less.

Cost of Living in Exeter

Here is the cost of living in Exeter for students:

Rent: PBSAs can cost around £150 - £300 per week. This includes electrivciry, WiFi and water bills.
Utilities (if not included): £50-£100/month
Food & groceries: About £150-£250/month depending on where you shop from.
Transport: £40/month (student bus pass); many areas are walkable or cycle-friendly
Leisure & lifestyle: £100-£200/month (cafes, nights out, gym, etc.)

Transportation in Exeter

Getting around in Exeter is a breeze thanks to its public transport system. Here are a few ways to get around town:

Walking and Cycling: Exeter is a small and walkable city with routes that are easy for pedestrians. Cycling is also easy and cheap thanks to dedicated cycling lanes and bike hire schemes for students.
Buses with student discount: Stagecoach Buses operate across the whole city and University of Exeter campuses. Student travel cards offer unlimited travel at discounted prices.
Trains: Exeter has two main train stations-St. David's and Central stations-providing direct services to London, Bristol and the Southwest. Students can buy railcards and save money on everyday commuting.
Exeter International Airport: It is 15 minutes from the city center by car or bus and offers flights to most major cities in the UK and Europe which are great for holidays and getting home.

Student Life in Exeter

Student life in Exeter is exciting and offers a bit of everything. Here are the best ways to make the most of your student life in Exeter:

Cafes & Gardens: Enjoy green, peaceful areas like gardens, modern libraries, and cafés like The Forum and Exploding Bakery.
Student Clubs: Choose from 100+ clubs and societies at your uni- academic, cultural, creative, and sports.
Cathedrals, Parks and Beaches: Visit Exeter Cathedral, walk along the Quayside, or explore beaches and Dartmoor National Park.
Gyms: Stay fit with gyms, pools, and sports clubs at major university campuses or in your student accommodation.
Events: Join exciting student events like Freshers' Week, themed nights, and cultural festivals year-round.

Universities in Exeter

University of Exeter: The University of Exeter is one of the UK's leading universities, and is part of the Russell Group of universities, which stands for research-led education and academic quality. It is high-ranking in a few fields including Business, Science, Law, Engineering, and International Relations. It has a large global student body, with students coming from over 30 countries.
Exeter College: Exeter College is a highly respected further education institution for international students, providing pathways to university. It offers Foundation Programs and International Year One courses. It partners with universities, including the University of Exeter, to enable students to complete an undergraduate program and is perfect for students who need academic or English language preparation before entering undergraduate programs.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

University of Exeter Global Excellence Scholarships: International fee-paying students who have received an unconditional or conditional offer in full-time undergraduate or postgraduate teaching programs at the University of Exeter are eligible for this scholarship.
Business School Scholarships: The University of Exeter Business School has a variety of Scholarships open to undergraduate and postgraduate students, and merit-based Scholarships.
Law Scholarships: The Faculty of Law announces 6 undergraduate Scholarships for £3000 for students meeting academic criteria on an annual basis.
Green Futures Scholarships: Applicable to postgraduate students studying with the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy. Includes full tuition fee waivers as well as living stipends.

Tips for International Students

It is better to apply for your student visa as soon as possible. Double check the required documents and entry requirements for immigration before sending your application.
Once you arrive in the UK, set up a bank account and buy a local SIM.
If you’re looking to save some money and earn money while you’re studying, look for part-time jobs in local cafés and shops.
Joining societies is the easiest way to meet people and settle in.
Setting monthly budgets and making use of student discounts will help you save money.
Don’t hesitate to contact your university’s international office for support-they’re there to help.

Health & Safety Tips & Student Well-Being Resources

Although Exeter is safe and student-friendly, it is good to stay alert when staying out late at night.
Once you arrive in the UK, register with a GP for free NHS healthcare.
Most universities offer free counselling and well-being workshops. Don't hesitate to make use of these.
Save emergency contacts and campus security numbers in your phone.

Explore Student Accommodation in Nearby UK Cities

Looking beyond Exeter? Here are some popular student cities you can consider:

Explore student accommodation in Bristol, a vibrant student city with strong university culture
Discover student housing in Southampton, offering a coastal lifestyle and excellent student amenities
Find places to stay in Plymouth, known for its affordable and student-friendly environment
Check student apartments in Cardiff, a lively and well-connected student destination
Browse accommodation options in Birmingham, one of the UK’s largest education hubs