😄These are some personal insights for your reference:
🏫Currently, the university opens dormitories for booking from April to May, and the allocated apartments are shown in the pictures. Offers for September, October, and November will be distributed gradually.
🏡Even if you haven't received an offer for student apartments, you can still start making reservations.
🏫Advantages of on-campus dormitories:
1. Facilities maintenance and repairs are usually faster.
2. The internet is shared among residents, so it tends to be more stable.
3. On the day of check-in, you receive a free bedding set and kitchen utensils.
4. Package delivery requires identity verification, ensuring a safer process.
5. You can meet and interact with a diverse group of British students.
🏫Disadvantages of on-campus dormitories:
1. Limited options for graduate students to choose from.
2. Rooms are small and there are no studio apartments available.
3. Package collection is only possible during specific times.
4. Dormitories have strict cleanliness requirements, with warnings and fines for non-compliance.
5. Restrictions on the use of electrical appliances, with no usage allowed in ensuite rooms.
🏡Advantages of student apartments:
1. Commuting distance is similar to that of on-campus dormitories, or even closer in some cases.
2. More options in terms of room types, including ensuite, studio, twins, doubles, and lofts.
3. Larger room sizes, well-decorated, and good natural lighting.
4. Fully equipped with amenities, bills included, and 24/7 concierge service.
5. Most residents are Chinese international students, making it suitable for those who prefer a quiet, comfortable, and safe environment without much interaction with British students.
6. Various free amenities such as gyms, breakfast, bicycle storage, and parcel collection services.
7. Apartments are generally located in bustling areas, within walking distance to subway stations, train stations, shopping centers, and Chinatown.
🏡Disadvantages of student apartments:
1. Prices tend to be higher compared to on-campus dormitories.
2. The demand for student apartments is high, and popular options are usually sold out between January and May. If you book late, you may have to settle for less desirable apartments or look for private housing options.
Yan Di's suggestion: If there are student apartments available, it is recommended to choose student apartments.