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As a parent, guardian or supporter, watching your child leave for university can be a nerve-wracking experience. 

London offers a wide range of accommodation choices which can seem daunting at first glance, but supporting your child to make an informed decision about where to live that they are comfortable with can ensure that they get off to a great start at SOAS.

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Whilst many students choose to live in halls of residence in their first year, some new students prefer to live elsewhere – at home, in private rented accommodation or with a host family for a variety of different reasons. Considering the cost of accommodation, location, quality as well as personal preference is key to supporting a decision.

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March 

SOAS publish the list of halls and room types available for the coming academic year.

University of London Housing Fair 

A mix of exhibitors from private halls, accredited letting agents and other housing providers will be in attendance to answer any questions. More information about the annual fair is available.

April

Applications open for SOAS Halls of residence.

Early September

Waiting list opens for SOAS and University of London Halls of Residence. Private rented properties are usually advertised 4-8 weeks before they become available – see our advice pages for more information.

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It is common practice for private London Landlords to ask for a guarantor to underwrite the cost of a tenancy. Most expect the guarantor to be based in the UK, and may charge up to 6 months’ rent in advance if the tenant is unable to provide this, which can leave the tenant in a vulnerable position. There are properties that do not require a guarantor and a list of these can be provided by the SOAS Accommodation Office. 

If you are acting as a guarantor for an individual contract between your child/a tenant and the landlord, then you only have liability for that contract, however if a joint contract has been signed, you may potentially find yourself liable for the bills and rents of other tenants. If you are not happy with the guarantor form provided by the landlord, you can ask them to limit the liability to one tenant.