Have You Considered Homestay?

Every year, a staggering 430,000 international student’s move to the UK to pursue an education at one of the country’s many universities[S1] . Given that the UK has one of the most established education systems in the world, it is no surprise that UCAS receives so many applications. Although the UK has always been a hotspot for international students, in recent years there has been a surge in the number of applicants from foreign countries.

 

For example, a record 4,346 American students are now registered on degree programmes in the UK. However British universities do not just receive applications from American students[S2] , the current student population encompasses students from over 180 different countries[S3] .

 

While the growing population of international students makes for a vibrant university experience, this increase comes at the same time as a 4% increase[S4] in the number of UK applicants.

As a consequence of this surge in students, a huge amount of pressure is placed on the already stretched private student accommodation sector. This is especially true in place like London where affordable accommodation is scarce at the best of times.

 

While students hoping to study in the UK may struggle to find appropriate private student accommodation, there are still plenty of other options available which offer both flexible and affordable solutions for accommodation. Take for instance homestay; through becoming a homestay tenant, students can enjoy all the perks of more conventional accommodation but with the added benefits of staying with a local family.

 

One of the biggest advantages of staying with a host is that you can utilize their expert knowledge about the local area. Given that moving a new place can be an extremely daunting prospect, having some friendly locals to show you round can really help you settle in. While this can take the stress out of moving when you first arrive in England, staying with a host family can enrich your whole experience of England. For example, if you are hoping to improve your English while completing a study programme in to UK, your host family can provide you with the perfect environment in which to practice your language skills. Perhaps, in return you could even teach your hosts some of you native language.

 

Another major advantage is that when it comes to choosing homestay accommodation, there is plenty of choice on offer. While you may struggle to find somewhere suitable if you search for student accommodation through private landlords, there are a number of hosts across the country seeking tenants. Whether you are moving to England alone or are part of a bigger group, there could be a suitable homestay accommodation available.

 

Given that many universities have already started to offer positions and many students have started to look for somewhere to live next year, it would be highly recommendable to start thinking about where you will spend your time in England. Why not get in touch now to see if Hosts International could help you find somewhere to live while you study?