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Nepali students in the UK usually choose between university halls, private purpose-built student accommodation and shared houses. Halls often include bills and suit the first year, private blocks cost more, and shared houses are usually cheapest from the second year. Read the contract length before signing. House of Admissions (HOA) gives free guidance from Kathmandu and Pokhara.

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Quick answer

Halls suit most first-year students because bills are usually included. Private blocks cost more, and shared houses are often cheapest from year two. Check the contract length, deposit protection and what the rent includes.

Student Life 3 min read

UK Student Accommodation Guide for Nepali Students

Finding the right accommodation in the UK can make or break your student experience. Here's how to navigate it.

UK student accommodation room interior

Types of Student Accommodation in the UK

  • University Halls of Residence — managed by your university; usually includes bills; most popular for first-year students
  • Private Student Accommodation — purpose-built student blocks managed by companies like Unite Students or iQ; often near campus
  • Shared Private Houses — most affordable option; typically used by students from their second year onwards
  • Private Flat/Studio — expensive but offers privacy; mainly used by mature students or those with families

University Halls — Is It Worth It?

For your first year, university halls are strongly recommended:

  • Often guaranteed for first-year international students who apply by the deadline
  • Bills included (electricity, water, internet)
  • Best way to meet people and settle in
  • Usually booked directly through your university after you accept your offer

The trade-off is cost — halls are typically £550–900/month, which is more than shared housing but removes the stress of finding and managing a private tenancy.

Shared Houses — Saving Money from Year 2

After your first year, most Nepali students move into shared private houses, usually with 3–5 other students. Average costs: £350–600/month per room (plus bills). Tips:

  • Start searching for the following academic year in January/February — popular houses go quickly
  • Use Rightmove, Zoopla, Spareroom, and Facebook Marketplace
  • Always view the property before signing a contract
  • Check that your landlord is registered with the local council (required in many areas)

Keep reading: Pre-departure checklist · UK cost of living in NPR · Student life in the UK page

Key Facts — 2026

UK Visa Fee
£558 (from 8 Apr 2026)
IHS (NHS Surcharge)
£776/yearA 1-year master’s is granted ~16 months leave, so you pay £1,164 (UKVI, 2026)
Bank Balance (Outside London)
£10,539/year£1,171/month × 9 months (NPR 20.5L). From 30 Nov 2026: £1,203/month, £10,827/year
Bank Balance (London)
£13,761/year£1,529/month × 9 months (NPR 26.8L). From 30 Nov 2026: £1,570/month, £14,130/year
HOA Guidance Fee
100% Free
Part-time Earnings
≈ £1,017/month (20 hrs × £12.71)

Which maintenance figure applies to you is set by the date you submit the visa application, not your course start date. The increase is in Statement of Changes HC 584. Full breakdown in NPR →

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