Guide to Summer Student Accommodation

Summer student accommodation is a great way to extend your stay or move in early, but knowing what to expect is key to a smooth transition. This guide covers everything you need to know about staying in student housing over the summer so you can make the most of your experience.

Why choose summer student accommodation?

There are several reasons why some students opt to stay in student halls or flats during the summer, including:

Extending your stay—Most contracts for student accommodation end when your academic year ends, but you might want to stay longer to study, work, or if you can’t (or don’t want to) go home.
Moving in early – Some students prefer to move in before their course starts to settle in.
Summer school – Universities may run summer courses, and staying in summer student accommodation can be convenient.
Summer internships – If you’ve secured a student summer internship, you’ll need a place to stay.
Exploring the city – Summer student housing allows you to experience the local area at a more relaxed pace.
Spending time with friends – Your housemates may be staying over the summer, and you might want to join them.

Student accommodation for the summer offers other benefits too. Besides the convenience of staying close to university facilities, exploring the city, spending time with friends or meeting other students staying for the summer, it’s more affordable than hotels or short-term rentals. Whether you want to stay to maintain your independence or for other reasons, there are plenty of housing options to choose from.

Can you stay in student accommodation over the summer?

Yes, many student accommodations offer summer rental options. If you’re already staying in student housing, talk to your provider for more information. They may allow you to extend your contract or provide you with a short-term rental agreement.

However, it’s entirely optional, so if you don’t want to, you don’t have to stay in summer student accommodation. Some students choose to return home, travel, or move elsewhere. If you decide not to stay, planning what you are doing with your belongings is important.

Do I have to pay rent for student housing during summer break?

This depends on your tenancy agreement or contract. Some student accommodation only allows you to pay – and therefore stay during the academic year. If this is the case, you won’t have to pay rent if you won’t be in the property during the summer.

If your contract is year-long and includes the summer months, or if you extend your stay or move in during the summer, you will likely need to pay additional rent for that period.

What should I do with my belongings over the summer?

If your supplier won’t let you stay for the summer or if you choose to vacate your accommodation, you have several options.

If you need to store your things – Most universities offer storage facilities separate from accommodation providers, or you can use private storage companies. Alternatively, ask friends or family if they’re comfortable looking after your things while you’re away for the summer.
If you’re moving to a new location—If you’re moving home or to another accommodation, consider shipping your belongings or having friends and family help move them if needed.

How to find student summer accommodation

Many universities offer summer accommodation at a lower rate than other accommodation types, so make sure to check with yours first to see what’s on offer. Or look for private student summer housing providers who offer short-term leases. Depending on where you are trying to get summer student accommodation, the options you have available will differ.

What to consider when looking for summer accommodation

Whether you’re thinking of staying in your current student housing or if you need to find somewhere else, here are a few things to consider:

Proximity to your university – If you’re attending summer school or you’re moving in early before the academic year, you’ll need to make sure you’re close by so you can easily get to classes.
Access to public transport—If you don’t drive, Choose a location with easy access to buses, trains, or the underground.
Local amenities – Make sure that where you’re staying has plenty of nearby grocery stores, restaurants and things to do.
Safety – Ultimately, you’ll need to ensure the area and property have proper security measures in place. Our guide to choosing safe student accommodation covers everything you need to know.

If you want to stay in London over the summer, Urbanest offers summer student accommodation, flexible contracts, and various accommodation options right in the capital. All our locations are located near the major London universities, close to public transport and local areas, and have 24/7 CCTV security.

Summer student accommodation in London

London is the prime location for summer student housing due to its vibrant culture, internship opportunities and renowned universities. Whether you are doing some sightseeing, networking or attending academic programmes, urbanest can help.

Types of summer student accommodation at urbanest

At urbanest, we offer private student halls and summer flats around the city, including:

Private and en-suite rooms – Shared between 3-6 people, you’ll have your own private bedroom and work area with a shared kitchen and lounge.
Shared rooms – Also called twin rooms, you’ll share a room with another person in a shared flat with 6-11 students.
Studios – You’ll have your own private living area with a desk, bathroom, kitchen and lounge.
Luxury studios and penthouses – Private apartments with stunning views of the city located on higher floors.

To view all of our options, take a look at our summer accommodation in London.

Where to stay in London for the summer

Our summer housing for students is located all over the heart of London. We offer locations in:

Hoxton – Stay in our Hoxton student accommodation for close proximity to London Metropolitan University and a trendy area with vibrant nightlife.
Tower Bridge – Choose Tower Bridge student rooms for stunning views and access to King’s College London and London South Bank University.
King’s Cross – Our King’s Cross student housing is close to UCL and the University of The Arts London, with the King’s Cross underground on your doorstep.
St Pancras – St Pancras student accommodation is close to several major train stations, as well as UCL and LSE.
Vauxhall – Enjoy beautiful riverside apartments at our Vauxhall accommodation, close to Imperial College London and King’s College London.
Westminster Bridge – Be close to London’s landmarks at Westminster Bridge student halls, located near LSE and King’s College London.
City – Ideal for students taking internships, City student accommodation is situated in the business and financial hub.
Victoria – Centrally located, our Victoria student flats have links to various university and cultural and tourist attractions.
Battersea – For a quieter stay, our student accommodation in Battersea offers green spaces and easy access to the Royal College of Art.

Take a look at all our student accommodation in London or our university accommodation list to find the closest choice to where you’re studying.

How to book summer student accommodation

If you’re staying outside of London, contact your university or private provider to enquire about staying over the summer. To secure your place, make sure to apply early and read the tenancy contract to understand all costs and requirements.

Looking to stay in London for the summer at urbanest? With central London locations, a wide range of rooms, all-inclusive rents and 24/7 security, you can’t go wrong. Booking with us is easy! Simply find a room via our booking system and select your tenancy dates. Plus, our flexible contracts allow you to change your terms. If have any questions or if you already stay with us and wish to extend your stay, you can always contact our team for help.