How to Book Last Minute Student Accommodation

Needing student accommodation at the last minute can feel stressful – but don’t worry, you’re definitely not the only one! Many students end up in this position, whether it’s because they were waiting on results, going through UCAS clearing, or had a sudden change of plans. The good news? With the right approach, you can still find a great place to live.

Our guide is packed with helpful tips to help you navigate last-minute house hunting and turn what feels like panic into a manageable (and even exciting) step in your student journey.

Why last-minute student accommodation feels tricky

Finding yourself scrambling for a place to live just before term starts is tough, especially in a busy city like London with lots of popular universities. Many rooms have already been snapped up by this point, meaning fewer choices and higher rent prices.

Another big challenge? Having to make quick decisions without enough time to properly weigh up your options. That’s when it’s easy to settle for something that doesn’t really suit you, or worse, fall into a scam. But here’s the thing: staying calm, knowing what to look out for, and being flexible will give you a much better chance of finding somewhere you’ll actually enjoy living.

Let’s break down your last-minute accommodation search step-by-step.

1. Don’t panic

You have already completed the most challenging part: achieving the results to secure your university place. Finding student accommodation can feel stressful when time is tight, but staying calm will make the process easier to manage. It’s much easier to find accommodation when you have a plan in place.

2. Know what you want

You can still find great student accommodation even if you are looking last-minute, and knowing where to look can make all the difference. Consider the type of accommodation you would like and where you would ideally like to be based. This can help narrow your search. 

When you’re short on time, knowing your essentials is important. Make a quick checklist of your non-negotiables – like budget, travel time to campus, and safety. Keep documents ready (like ID and bank statements) so you can move fast when you find the right place. And set yourself time limits – for example, decide within 24 hours of a viewing – to stop opportunities slipping away.

Remember, you might have to compromise when looking last-minute, but having an idea of the type of accommodation you would like will help you make a start.

3. Act quickly

The best rooms will always fill up quickly, so as soon as your university place is confirmed, we recommend booking your student accommodation. Don’t waste time; even waiting just a few extra days could leave you disappointed with the options you have left to choose from.

4. Be flexible

While it’s good to have a list of what you ideally would like when it comes to your student accommodation, remaining flexible and open to different types of accommodation will serve you well when booking at the last minute. Accommodation can become available again when other students cancel their bookings, but don’t rely on this. Urbanest buildings often have a small number of high-quality rooms that become available close to term. 

Living in private purpose-built student accommodation means all bills are included, 24/7 security, and student-friendly spaces, which can take a lot of stress out of your move. You can check our live availability and pricing online using our Find A Room feature.

Temporary solutions if you’re stuck

Sometimes the best move is to get short-term accommodation while you keep looking. This gives you breathing room and avoids making a hasty long-term commitment. Some options include:

• Short-term rentals – hosts on platforms like Airbnb often give discounts for longer stays.
• Hostels or budget hotels – not a forever home, but safe and affordable while you continue your search.

Some universities may offer short-term rooms or recommend trusted private landlords, so they’re always worth contacting first. Always tell your university where you’re staying temporarily, and let friends or family know your address. 

Don’t forget student networks

Social media can be a surprisingly powerful tool for last-minute room hunting. Facebook groups are often buzzing with posts in the run-up to term, and forums like The Student Room and Reddit can connect you to students looking for replacement housemates. Just be careful – avoid sharing personal details publicly, and always view a property before paying any money. 

Stay scam safe

Unfortunately, last-minute accommodation hunters are easy targets for scammers. Look out for these red flags:

• Rent that’s way below average.
• Landlords who won’t let you view the property.
• Pressure to pay before signing anything.

Stick to secure payment methods, check contracts carefully, and make sure deposits are protected. If something feels rushed or dodgy, it’s better to walk away.

Moving in smoothly

Once you’ve secured a place, get yourself organised to make the move stress-free:

• Confirm check-in times and key collection with your landlord or provider.
• Pack a ‘first few days’ bag with bedding, toiletries and snacks.
• Unpack study essentials first so you can get into university life quickly.
• And don’t forget to introduce yourself to your new housemates or neighbours – they could end up being some of your closest friends!

Avoiding last-minute stress in future

While you can sort housing at the last minute, it’s not fun! Most students book their next place between December and March, when there is plenty of choice at reasonable prices. Set a reminder in your calendar to start early. By planning ahead, you’ll give yourself more options and avoid the mad rush.

Ready to find your new home? Explore Urbanest’s London locations today – modern rooms, all-inclusive bills, and student living made better. This year, we still have rooms left in our Battersea location – the perfect home, away from home.

If you would like to discuss your options with us, send us a message using the orange icon on the bottom right of your screen, or call us on +44207 042 7890, and we’ll be happy to help. The team are available Monday – Friday between 10am and 5:30pm GMT.