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Finding Accommodation

Below we answer all the frequently asked questions that we regularly hear from our International students before their arrival about finding accommodation

When should I book my accommodation?

If you are going to live in purpose built student accommodation, often called Halls of Residence you should book this before you travel.

If you are planning on living in private rented accommodation, you are advised to book this after you have arrived, so you can view the property in-person and have time to read and understand the contractual obligations. However, this may mean you need to stay in temporary accommodation until you have found somewhere to live. Temporary accommodation is limited and often means staying in a hotel or guest house, both can be expensive options.

What Halls of Residence are available to me?

Orlando Village is the only accommodation provider approved and recommended by the University of Greater Manchester. Orlando Village is only a short walk from the main campus, train station and Bolton town centre. It is staffed 24/7 to assist you before and throughout your stay.

What other options do I have?

Alternative accommodation in Bolton, Greater Manchester and the surrounding area, as well as in Manchester, can be found via high street estates agents or by searching online. The University’s Students’ Union has produced a housing guide with information about things to consider when renting from private landlords as well as legal information you need to be aware of.

Will I need a guarantor?

It is very common for all landlords and letting agents to ask you to provide a UK-based guarantor. A guarantor is someone who agrees to cover your rent and other housing costs if you cannot or do not pay them. It is usually a parent or guardian, family member or close friend. Most landlords insist that your guarantor is based in the UK. They may also need your guarantor to pass a credit check or provide proof of income.

What if I don’t have a UK based guarantor?

The University does not provide a guarantor service but private companies will act as your UK guarantor in exchange for a fee. We cannot recommend any particular company, however if you would like to explore this option, you should be able to find these by doing an internet search for UK rental guarantors.

What other costs may I incur living in the UK?

Most Halls of Residence include utility bills (gas, water and electricity) and high speed internet access with no additional charge. Private rented accommodation may or may not include utility costs within the rent and you are encouraged to check with your landlord/letting agent. It is also important to check how these additional costs are split if you are not the only tenant.

What is council tax?

Council Tax is a system of local taxation collected by local authorities. It is a tax on the properties in which people live. Full-time students who live only with other full-time students or in halls of residence do not have to pay Council Tax. If you live with others who are not students you may be liable for Council Tax. If you live in Halls of Residence, you are not liable for council tax if you are a full-time student.

Can I live in other parts of the UK?

You must live close enough to the University of Greater Manchester campus in Bolton to travel there regularly. This means a maximum travel time of 90 minutes or a distance of no more than 60 miles from the campus.

Living too far from the University may make it difficult to attend and engage with your studies. If you do not engage with your course, the University may withdraw you from your studies, which could affect your student visa.

Do I Insure my belongings?

We strongly recommend that you take out contents insurance to protect your personal belongings against loss, theft, or damage. Contents insurance is not included in Orlando Village or most privately rented accommodation. You can find student insurance providers online. Compare different policies and choose one that best meets your needs.

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University of Greater Manchester
Deane Road, Bolton, BL3 5AB.

Tel: +44 (0)1204 900 600

Email: enquiries@greatermanchester.ac.uk

The “Greater Manchester Way” represents our preferred teaching and learning approach; however, not all courses follow a block-teaching model. While course structures and delivery patterns may vary to meet Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body (PSRB) requirements, all courses beneﬁt from the GM Way approach to curriculum design and assessment. Applicants and students should refer to individual course speciﬁcations for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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Email: enquiries@greatermanchester.ac.uk

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Your future, made possible.

Browse your subject areas

Levels of study

Welcome to #UniAsItShouldBe

Studying at Bolton

More

Browse your subject areas

Levels of study

Welcome to #UniAsItShouldBe

Studying at Bolton

More

Accommodation

Finding Accommodation

myBolton

University of Greater Manchester Deane Road, Bolton, BL3 5AB.

Tel: +44 (0)1204 900 600

Email: enquiries@greatermanchester.ac.uk

Explore

Quick Links

Students & Staff

University of Greater Manchester
Deane Road, Bolton, BL3 5AB.