Moving to the UK to study? Renting your first home can seem overwhelming, especially if you're unfamiliar with the UK rental market. Fraser Bond explains how international students can find accommodation, prepare a successful tenancy application, understand their legal rights, and overcome common challenges such as having no UK credit history or guarantor.
Can International Students Rent Property in the UK?
Yes. Thousands of international students rent accommodation in the UK every year, including:
University halls of residence
Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA)
Private rented apartments
Shared houses (HMOs)
Studio apartments
Build-to-rent developments
The best option depends on your budget, university location, and preferred lifestyle.
Types of Student Accommodation
University Accommodation
Many universities offer accommodation for first-year and international students.
Benefits include:
Close proximity to campus
Inclusive utility bills
Student support services
Furnished rooms
Flexible tenancy arrangements
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
Private student accommodation often includes:
En-suite rooms
Studios
Shared kitchens
High-speed internet
Study areas
Gym facilities
On-site security
Many PBSA providers have experience working with international students.
Private Rental Properties
Students may also rent:
Apartments
Houses
Shared accommodation
Private rentals can offer greater flexibility but usually require tenant referencing and a tenancy agreement.
Documents You'll Need
Most landlords or letting agents will ask for:
Valid passport
Student visa (where required)
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), if applicable
University offer or enrolment letter
Proof of Right to Rent in England
Bank statements
Proof of scholarship or sponsorship (if applicable)
Evidence of parental financial support (if applicable)
Having your documents ready before applying can speed up the process.
Right to Rent Checks
In England, landlords are generally required to verify that tenants have the legal right to rent.
Depending on your immigration status, you may need to provide:
A passport
A visa
Digital immigration status through the UK Government's online service
Right to Rent checks must be carried out fairly and consistently.
What If You Have No UK Credit History?
Most international students arrive without a UK credit history.
This is common and many landlords are prepared for it.
You can strengthen your application by providing:
Overseas bank statements
Scholarship confirmation
Sponsor letters
Proof of savings
Family financial support
Previous landlord references from your home country
Do You Need a Guarantor?
Some landlords ask students to provide a guarantor.
If you do not have a UK-based guarantor, possible alternatives include:
A professional rent guarantor service (if accepted by the landlord)
Always ask the landlord or letting agent which options they accept.
Understanding Rental Costs
Before signing a tenancy agreement, budget for:
Monthly rent
Tenancy deposit
Holding deposit (where applicable)
Utility bills (if not included)
Internet
Contents insurance
Travel costs
Food and living expenses
Some student accommodation includes utilities within the rent, while private rentals may not.
Understanding Your Tenancy Agreement
Before signing, check:
Rent amount
Payment schedule
Deposit
Length of tenancy
Notice requirements
Responsibility for bills
Repair obligations
House rules
Read the agreement carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
Tips for International Students Renting in the UK
To improve your chances of finding suitable accommodation:
Start searching several months before your course begins.
Apply early, particularly in major university cities.
Prepare all required documents in advance.
Use trusted letting agents or university accommodation services.
View the property in person or request a live virtual viewing.
Never send money before confirming the property is genuine.
Read the tenancy agreement carefully before signing.
Avoid Rental Scams
Unfortunately, international students can be targeted by fraudsters.
Protect yourself by:
Using reputable letting agents or recognised student accommodation providers.
Confirming the landlord owns or manages the property.
Viewing the accommodation before paying where possible.
Avoiding requests to transfer money without a signed agreement.
Being cautious of offers that seem unusually cheap for the area.
Fraser Bond's Residential Lettings Services
Fraser Bond provides specialist residential lettings and relocation services for international students across London and the UK, including:
Student Accommodation
Residential Property Lettings
International Tenant Support
Tenant Referencing
Relocation Services
Property Management
Build-to-Rent Consultancy
Landlord Services
Investment Property Advice
Corporate Housing Solutions
Our experienced consultants help international students find quality accommodation, understand the UK rental process, and prepare strong tenancy applications.
If you are interested in opportunities in property management, residential lettings, estate agency, customer service, administration, marketing, technology, finance, or business development, Fraser Bond welcomes applications. Please send your CV to jobs@fraserbond.com.
Why Choose Fraser Bond?
Fraser Bond is a trusted UK property consultancy supporting students, tenants, landlords, investors, and developers across London and the UK. Whether you are arriving for your first year of study or beginning a postgraduate course, our experienced team provides practical guidance to help you find safe, suitable accommodation and navigate the UK rental market with confidence.
Contact Fraser Bond today to explore student accommodation, discuss your rental requirements, and receive expert support with renting in London and across the UK.
