When to start looking

• As a first-year student when should I start looking for accommodation?
• As a returning student when should I start looking for accommodation?

Q: As a first-year student, when should I start looking for accommodation?

A: If you are applying for University or College accommodation, then you need to return your application forms by the relevant deadline. An application for accommodation will normally be sent to you when you have confirmed that you intend to study at that institution. If you are in doubt about the procedure, look on the Accommodation Office Website or telephone them and ask.

If you want to live in private sector accommodation then start looking as early in the summer as possible - but after you are positive you will be coming to Nottingham. Students who are reliant on A-level results will have to wait until mid-August before they can look, but others don’t. So if you’re in a position to look for a house before mid-August, do it. There is a surplus of accommodation in Nottingham so try not to panic if you need any assistance the Unipol staff are happy to help.

Q: As a returning student, when should I start looking for accommodation for the following year?

A: If you want to remain in, or move back to University accommodation then you need to contact your Accommodation Office who will tell you what the system for this is. If you want a short let, contact them at any time of the year and they maybe able to help, depending on when you want to live there.

You are likely to come under early pressure from other students and the private sector to start looking for accommodation for the next letting year as early as November or December. This pressure will largely involve alarmist messages that all the good properties are snapped up at this time of year for the following year. Resist the temptation to fall for the hype. Take your time and make sure you are happy with the students you will be sharing with. Unipol will be advertising properties fro rent in 2008/2009 from November 2007 but that does not mean you need to rush. It may be wise to make sure you are settled at University and work out who you want to live with.