UK vs USA Student Housing: Rowan, Arizona, and UK Options

Introduction

Finding housing is one of the most important steps when preparing to study abroad. Where you live affects your budget, lifestyle, safety, and even academic success. For international students, the biggest challenge is understanding how housing systems work in different countries.

In this guide, we’ll compare student housing in the UK and USA with real examples from Rowan University (New Jersey), the University of Arizona (Tucson), and typical UK universities.

We’ll cover:

• On-campus vs off-campus housing options
• Typical costs in both countries
• Contract lengths and what’s included in rent
• Visa money rules in the UK
• Tips to avoid scams and secure safe accommodation

By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to budget smartly for your studies.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Contract length:
  • UK: 40–51 weeks (many halls and private student apartments use 45–51-week contracts)
  • USA: Usually 9 months (academic year), with separate summer housing options
• Meals:
  • UK: Most student halls are self-catered (you cook for yourself).
  • USA: Many dorms require meal plans, especially for first-year students.
• Costs:
  • UK London PBSA average: ~£295/week for ~45 weeks (2024/25).
  • UK outside London: often £120–£220/week depending on the city.
  • USA: Varies by university, but usually semester-based billing.
• Visa requirement (UK):
  • Must show maintenance money for 9 months:
    • £1,483/month in London
    • £1,136/month outside London
• Guarantor:
  • UK: Often required for private rentals or PBSAs.
  • USA: Usually not needed for on-campus housing.

Student Housing in the UK

International students in the UK usually choose between:

1. University halls of residence (run by the university)
2. Private purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA)
3. Shared private rentals with other students

University Halls

• Guaranteed for most first-year students
• Single rooms, sometimes ensuite bathrooms
• Bills and Wi-Fi included
• Safe, with support staff available
• Usually self-catered (you cook in shared kitchens)

Private Student Apartments (PBSA)

• Modern buildings with ensuite rooms or studios
• Extra facilities: gyms, study lounges, common rooms
• All bills included
• Usually more expensive than university halls
• Longer contracts (45–51 weeks)

Private Rentals

• Shared houses or flats with other students
• Cheapest option in smaller UK cities
• More freedom but more responsibility (bills, maintenance, council tax exemption paperwork)
• Many landlords ask for a UK-based guarantor or up to 6 months’ rent upfront

👉 External Resource: British Council – Finding accommodation in the UK

UK Housing Costs

• London:
  • Average PBSA rent: £13,595/year (£295/week for ~45 weeks)
• Outside London:
  • Many halls charge £120–£220/week
• Visa budgeting:
  • Students must show proof of funds for up to 9 months:
    • £1,483/month (London)
    • £1,136/month (outside London)
  • UKVI – Student Visa Money Requirements

Student Housing in the USA

In the US, most international students live in on-campus residence halls during their first year, with the option to move off-campus later.

Rowan University (New Jersey)

• On-campus:
  • Multiple residence halls and apartment-style housing
  • Some halls require meal plans
  • All utilities, furniture, and Wi-Fi included
• Off-campus:
  • Guidance available via Rowan’s Off-Campus Student Hub
  • Students are responsible for leases, utilities, and landlords

👉 Rowan University Housing Options

University of Arizona (Tucson)

• On-campus:
  • 20+ residence halls, with rates set per room type
  • Furniture, utilities, and Wi-Fi included
  • Meal plans optional depending on the hall
• Contracts:
  • Typically 9-month academic year
  • Separate rates for summer sessions

👉 University of Arizona Housing Rates

Comparing UK vs USA Housing

How Housing Affects Your Visa (UK)

Housing choices tie directly to your UK Student visa application.

• You must prove maintenance funds:
  • London: £1,483/month
  • Outside London: £1,136/month
• The amount is calculated for up to 9 months, regardless of contract length
• Many private landlords require a guarantor. If you don’t have one, university halls or a commercial guarantor service are your safest options

Tips for Securing Housing

1. Apply early – UK halls and US dorms fill up quickly.
2. Compare options – check what’s included (bills, meals, Wi-Fi).
3. Budget realistically – factor in food, transport, and deposits.
4. Read contracts carefully – check cancellation rules and payment schedules.
5. Avoid scams – use official university portals or trusted providers.

👉 External Resource: British Council Checklist – What to check before booking

Budget Examples

• London PBSA: ~£295/week × 45 weeks ≈ £13,275/year (bills included, food extra).
• Regional UK hall: £160/week × 42 weeks ≈ £6,720/year.
• Rowan University: Housing rates vary by hall, plus meal plans (check official Rowan Housing Rates).
• University of Arizona: Costs differ by hall type; see official Arizona Housing Rates.

Conclusion

Both the UK and USA offer excellent student housing, but they work very differently:

• UK: Longer contracts (40–51 weeks), mostly self-catered, guarantors often required, and higher costs in London.
• USA: Academic-year contracts, meal plans common, and easier on-campus processes without guarantors.

If you value flexibility and meal plans included, the USA system might suit you better. If you prefer independence and cooking for yourself, the UK gives you more options.

Wherever you choose, apply early, use trusted university housing portals, and always budget beyond rent for a smooth study abroad experience.