Accommodation

Where you live and who you live with can really shape your student experience so it’s important you get it right.
Living in College

Most undergraduates and some graduates spend part of their time living in college accommodation, either in the main site or various halls around the city. If you have any special requirements as a result of health or disability you should contact your Domestic Bursar and inform them of any reasonable adjustments the college needs to make.
Living Out

Chances are you will also spend part of your time at Oxford ‘Living Out’ in private rented accommodation. There are many options available and the Student Advice Service can provide you with the information and resources to make good decisions.

The main thing to remember when thinking about living out is to take your time when choosing your housemates and your house: don’t be rushed or pressured into a decision. To help you plan, OUSU’s Living Out Guide has useful information to guide you through the process. The Student Advice Service also provides ‘Living Out’ talks at college with your JCR/MCR welfare team. Contact an advisor to find out when will be in your college.
Starting your search

The Student Pad is a great place to start your housing search. It’s a property finder that is free to use and managed by the University of Oxford’s Accommodation Office. You can also use a letting agency and there are many in the city. However, be aware that these agents will charge you administration fees of around £150 per person once you decide to rent a property with them. Agencies might also charge you for credit checks. If you think you’re being charged an unfair amount or for inappropriate expenses, please contact the Student Advice Service.
Starting your tenancy

Once you have chosen a property you will need to sign a contract in order to secure the tenancy. Most student tenancies have specific clauses related to the length of the contract and the liability of each person living in the house. These clauses will relate to things like, non-payment of rent and any damage caused. Tenancy agreements are legally binding and can seem complicated and daunting. If you would like help to understand your responsibilities, before you sign your contract, please contact the Student Advice Service who will be happy to help.
University Graduate Accommodation

If you are enrolled on a full time graduate course you may be eligible for graduate student accommodation. The University has seven sites around the city providing accommodation for single graduate students. Information on the eligibility criteria and allocation of University graduate accommodation may be useful to you when looking for somewhere to live. If you have any questions or concerns please contact an advisor, at the Student Advice Service who will be happy to help.
University Student Parents and Couples

The University has five sites around the city providing accommodation for student parents (both undergraduate/mature and graduate parents) and student couples. Read more on the definition, eligibility criteria and allocation of University accommodation for couples and student parents to help you in your search for suitable accommodation. If you have any questions or concerns about your accommodation please contact an advisor who will be happy to help.
Accommodation problems?

Hopefully your will have no problems with your accommodation during your time in Oxford. If you do have any issues or concerns with either college or private accommodation please contact the Student Advice Service.