Accommodation - Q & A with Student Housing Services Manager, Lisette Metcalfe

The move from living at home to university is a big step. Even if you’re a mature student or moving your family to a new area, it’s a big transition.

At Middlesex, we understand that knowing where you will live is a big factor in helping you to feel secure with your choice of university, and finding a room is one of the top concerns. So we approached our friendly accommodation team and asked all the right questions, so you don’t have to.

How do I decide where to live?

Choosing where you live depends on how you like to live, study, relax and socialise. Only you know how you prefer to spend your time and the kind of environment that works best for you to thrive, get on with your studies and relax in your leisure time.

What are my choices?

Halls of residence are popular with many first year students. You’ll have your own bedroom and share facilities like a kitchen with other students. It's the perfect way to build a community and make new friends quickly. At Middlesex, all halls have residents' assistants, usually second or third-year students, who are the friendly face of the hall and help keep things organised. They’re trained to support you, answer any questions and signpost you to information.

Private rented accommodation is another popular option. You'll live in an area outside the campus in the local community and you’ll have more independence. You can sometimes choose who you live with, especially if you find a group of like-minded students to share with. Start your search early to have the best choice. Middlesex Student Pad is a great place to see what’s out there.

Does Middlesex guarantee all first-year students a room in halls?

Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee a room in the halls for every student. If you are a 1st year full time undergraduate and you apply early, you will have the best chance of securing a room. We operate on a first come first served basis, which is why we advise applying early.

Who can apply for a room in halls of residence?

If you’ve received and accepted an offer to study with us, you can apply for a room in halls. You will need your student number, which can be found on any correspondence from Middlesex University's admissions office and will look something like this M12345678.

When is the right time to apply for a room in a hall of residence?

Applications are due to open in April 2025 for September 2025 start. Visit the halls of residence page to start your application.

If your course starts in January, you can apply in November, but we do prioritise accommodation for students starting in September so we may have a limited vacancies in January.

What happens if I don’t get a room in a hall of residence?

Don’t panic! There are plenty of options out there for you and you won’t be alone. Many students like you will be looking for somewhere to live and we will support you to find a room.

Can you help me find somewhere to live?

There's lots of support to help you find accommodation. One of the best ways to start is to come to our Private Rented Housing Fair that runs every year in March. You can meet the team and get advice and connect with different private hall providers and local letting agents. We promote this event across our channels nearer the time.

And you can always contact the accommodation team with any questions or concerns. We’re a friendly bunch and two of the team are former students themselves, so they know all about student life and the importance of finding a nice place to live. Get in touch by email or by phone +44 (0)20 8411 6121.

Do you have accessible rooms for students with a disability?

Yes. If you have specific needs and support with your accommodation, get in touch with our Disability Support team. They will put together a support plan for you and make a recommendation to the Accommodation team.

How will I pay for my room in halls of residence?

If you’re a UK student, you will pay in three instalments after receiving your maintenance loan, in September, January and April. International students pay in two instalments in September and January.

You’ll find more frequently asked questions on our halls of residence webpages.

Contact Lisette and her team by email or by phone +44 (0)20 8411 6121.