Are you seeking student accommodation in Leicester UK? You're in luck. Leicester is home to some of the best universities in the UK, including the University of Leicester and De Montfort University, making it a popular city among students. Leicester has a wide selection of new purpose-built student accommodation, including modern studios, ensuite student accommodation, shared student apartments, and many amenities like study lounges, gyms, and superfast Wi-Fi included. Overall, Leicester is a safe, affordable, and vibrant city for students of all backgrounds and has something for everyone. Book your preferred student room in Leicester today with Alphaway!
Student Accommodation in Leicester
About Leicester
Leicester is an exciting, multicultural city in the East Midlands that offers a friendly atmosphere and diversity. The city blends history and modernity and provides different experiences like walking in the busy shopping precinct to riverside strolls along the River Soar.
Leicester has leading academic institutions like the University of Leicester and De Montfort University, which bring thousands of students from the UK and overseas here every year. You can either visit the local markets, go to the Phoenix cinema, or enjoy a quiet afternoon in Victoria Park; the city offers a little something for everybody. For affordable Leicester student accommodation, check out Clarendon Park and Highfields neighbourhoods. Also, cities like Nottingham, Coventry, and Birmingham are easily accessible. Visit them on the weekends, with a multi-city ticket on the trains and make use of student discounts too!
Best Student Accommodation in Leicester
Alphaway offers luxury student accommodation in Leicester for international students, which includes top-rated student housing in Leicester, affordable ensuite rooms, and private student studio. All listings are verified and come with 24-hour support. It doesn't matter whether you need a quiet study place or a vibrant student community; we have everything you need. Look at student residences in Leicester for every kind of lifestyle:
- 134 New Walk Student Accommodation Leicester
- 73 Princess Road East Student Accommodation Leicester
- Applegate Place Student Accommodation Leicester
- Castle Court Student Accommodation Leicester
Why Choose Leicester for Higher Education
Leicester provides a fantastic student experience, offering access to quality education, communities, and industry opportunities. The top-rated universities, a welcoming vibe, and the city’s multicultural environment make it a highly preferred city by students from all over the world. Further, the range of student accommodation options in Leicester is top-rated, and the facilities are world-class. As a local or an international student, Leicester is a perfect city to choose.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Leicester
Here are some of the best student-friendly neighbourhoods in Leicester:
- Clarendon Park: Popular with students from the University of Leicester, this leafy area has cosy cafes, vintage shops, and quick bus links to campus.
- City Centre: Central, buzzing, and close to both universities. Great for students who want to be close to nightlife, restaurants, and shopping.
- Highfields: An affordable area with great public transport, perfect for students at De Montfort University.
- West End: A quieter alternative that’s still walkable to the city centre and university campuses.
- Aylestone Road: Known for its balance of peace and accessibility. Great for students who prefer quieter, residential surroundings.
Different Types of Student Accommodation in Leicester
- Private Student Accommodation (PBSA): These are modern, purpose-built student housing in Leicester designed for comfort and convenience. Room types include shared rooms (common living spaces), ensuite rooms (private bedroom and bathroom, shared kitchen), and studio rooms (all private). PBSAs offer fully furnished rooms with all-inclusive rent covering amenities like Wi-Fi, utilities, gyms, study areas, and more. They are secure, social, and ideal for international student housing in Leicester.
- University Halls: Located on or near campus and managed by the university. Facilities and room setups vary according to the university.
- Shared Apartments: Shared student apartments in Leicester are privately rented student flats near universities in Leicester. Usually shared with other students, these offer flexibility and independence, though students manage bills and leases themselves.
Cost of Living in Leicester for International Students
Cost of living in Leicester for students is very affordable. Here’s a monthly breakdown:
- Rent: £170-£300/week depending on location and room type. PBSA options include bills and Wi-Fi.
- Groceries: £90-£150/month from stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Tesco.
- Travel: £40-£60/month. Leicester has an easy-to-navigate bus network and student discounts.
- Dining Out: £10-£20 per meal. Try local student favourites or budget-friendly takeaways.
- Entertainment & Shopping: £50-£100/month for cinema, clubs, and occasional shopping trips.
Transportation in Leicester
Leicester has a great connectivity across the city for the students:
- Buses: Leicester has an effective bus service; students can get discounts on travel passes with Arriva or First.
- Walking & Cycling: Most universities and student housing will be close enough to either walk or cycle.
- Train: Leicester Station provides access to other major cities: Birmingham, London, Sheffield, etc.
- Airport Access: At under an hour away, East Midlands Airport has excellent public transport links.
- Student Travel Passes: Keep those costs down; you could get a student bus card or a student railcard if you travel regularly.
Student Life in Leicester
Leicester offers everything you need for an exciting student life- from great restaurants, raging nightlife, quiet cafes to study, and weekend getaways for when you’re bored of the city. Read on to find out more:
- Restaurants & Cafés: Enjoy global cuisine from Indian street food to English brunches.
- Student Clubs & Events: Join academic societies, dance clubs, or cultural groups through your university.
- Markets & Malls: Explore Leicester Market, Haymarket Shopping Centre, and High Cross Leicester.
- Weekend Getaways: Take day trips to Nottingham, Birmingham, or the Peak District.
- Libraries & Study Spots: From the university libraries to hidden café corners-study spaces are everywhere.
- Live Music & Art: Check out O2 Academy Leicester or attend city festivals and art shows.
Universities in Leicester
- University of Leicester: This innovative research university is distinguished for its academic strength in science, medicine, and the humanities, is routinely ranked in the upper echelon of UK universities and presents a comprehensive portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate study opportunities. The university receives recognition as a top-tier institution in space exploration research, cancer research, and genetic studies.
- De Montfort University (DMU): The university has a reputation for its creative, enterprising, and imaginative ethos, particularly in its programs in art, business, and law. DMU encourages students to engage in productive and industry-relevant work experience; equally, DMU is endowed with state-of-the-art facilities in health, media, and design, located in a city-centre campus.
- Leicester College: Offers further education and diploma education and is ideally placed for students taking vocational and/or foundation programs. Leicester College is one of the UK's largest colleges and provides transitions into university or employment.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- University Scholarships: Both the University of Leicester and DMU offer scholarships for merit and financial need.
- Government Grants & Loans: Available for eligible UK residents for tuition and living expenses.
- GCC Scholarships: Students from Saudi Arabia, UAE, and other Gulf countries can apply through their Ministry of Education.
- External Scholarships: Consider Chevening, Commonwealth, and other international awards for study in the UK.
Tips for International Students
- Open a UK Bank Account: Helps manage rent and everyday costs.
- Get a SIM Card: Providers like GiffGaff, Three, and Vodafone offer affordable plans.
- Learn Local Phrases: A friendly "You alright?" or "Cheers!" goes a long way.
- Budget Smartly: Use apps like Student Beans for discounts and track spending.
- Alphaway Support: From airport pickup to starter kits, we help you settle in fast.
Health & Safety Tips & Student Well-Being Resources
- Register with NHS: Visit a local GP to access free healthcare.
- Save Emergency Numbers: Keep 999 and university security contacts handy.
- Stay Safe at Night: Stick to well-lit streets and use student-safe transport.
- Mental Health Support: Both DMU and the University of Leicester offer free counselling, helplines, and support workshops.
Explore Student Accommodation in Nearby UK Cities
Looking beyond Leicester? Here are some popular student cities you can consider:
- Explore student accommodation in Nottingham, a lively student city
- Discover student housing in Coventry, known for its student-focused environment
- Find places to stay in Birmingham, a major UK student hub
- Check student apartments in Derby, offering affordable living
Frequently Asked Questions
How does student accommodation work in Leicester?
Students can choose from university halls, PBSAs, or shared apartments. Most bookings can be made online.
What is the most affordable student area in Leicester?
Highfields and Aylestone Road are popular for affordable student housing in Leicester.
How do I find student accommodation near universities in Leicester?
Use Alphaway to search verified student flats near university in Leicester with filters by distance, budget, and room type.
What is included in student accommodation in Leicester?
PBSA student rooms in Leicester usually include furnishings, Wi-Fi, bills, and amenities like gyms and study areas.
When should I book student accommodation in Leicester?
It’s best to book early! Ideally, you should book before July to get your preferred room.
Are there student accommodations for international students in Leicester?
Yes, Leicester has a range of options for international student housing, including ensuite rooms and private studios.
What documents do I need to book a student room in Leicester?
You’ll typically need your student ID or offer letter, passport, and a guarantor document.
Is it safe to live in student accommodation in Leicester?
Yes, most purpose-built student housing in Leicester has 24/7 security and CCTV.
Are short-term rentals available in Leicester for students?
Yes, some student homes in Leicester offer flexible leases or semester-only stays.
What is the difference between ensuite, shared, and studio rooms in Leicester?
Ensuite rooms have a private bathroom, shared rooms include common living areas, and studios offer complete privacy with your own kitchen and bath.
Are couples allowed in student accommodation in Leicester?
Some PBSA options offer dual-occupancy studios-check with the provider.
Can I pay rent in instalments in Leicester?
Yes, most student residences in Leicester offer term-wise or monthly instalment plans.
Can I visit the property before booking in Leicester?
Yes, many properties offer virtual tours or in-person visits.
Are pets allowed in student accommodations in Leicester?
Generally, no. Most student accommodations have a no-pets policy. But there might be an exception for service dogs and animals. Contact us for any details.
Can I extend my stay in student accommodation in Leicester?
Yes, if availability allows, you can often renew your lease or extend your contract.
Student Accommodation in Leicester
- 134 New Walk
- The Aspen
- The Glassworks Leicester
- St Martins House
- Newarke Point
- Grange Lane Apartments
- The Nest
- Pennine House Leicester
- 73 Princess Road East
- 140 - 142 New Walk
- 136 New Walk
- Tudor Studios
- Applegate Place
- Castle Court
- Filbert Village
- Highgate
- Liberty Park
- Newarke Point
- Opal Court
- Reynard House
- St Martins House
- True Leicester