Homestay vs Student Accommodation: What to Expect

When you come to the UK to study English, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is where to live. The right accommodation can make a huge difference to your comfort, your learning experience, and even the friends you make along the way. At IL Centres, we offer a range of options, but most students choose between homestays and student accommodation. Here’s what to expect from each.

What is a Homestay?

A homestay means living with a local host family during your stay in the UK. You’ll have your own room in their home and share meals, conversation, and daily life with them.

Benefits of a Homestay:

• Cultural immersion – You experience British life firsthand, from traditions to meals.
• Everyday English practice – You’ll naturally improve your listening and speaking by chatting with your hosts.
• Supportive environment – Hosts can help you settle in, explain local customs, and provide guidance.
• Meals included – Many homestays provide breakfast and dinner, so you don’t have to worry about cooking.

Things to consider:

• Less independence – You’ll be living in someone else’s home, so you’ll need to respect house rules.
• Commute time – Homestays are usually outside city centres, so travel to school might take longer.

What is Student Accommodation?

Student accommodation usually refers to residences or shared flats with other students. You’ll have your own bedroom (sometimes with an ensuite bathroom) but share communal areas like the kitchen and lounge.

Benefits of Student Accommodation:

• Independence – You cook your own meals and set your own routine.
• Social life – You live alongside other students, often from around the world.
• Convenience – Residences are usually closer to the school or city centre.

Things to consider:

• Self-catering – You’ll need to buy groceries and cook for yourself.
• Less family support – Unlike a homestay, there isn’t a “family environment,” so you’ll need to manage more on your own.
• Potential noise – Student residences can be lively, which may be distracting for some.

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Which Option is Right for You?

• Choose Homestay if you want a supportive family environment, lots of everyday English practice, and a “home away from home.”
• Choose Student Accommodation if you want independence, enjoy socialising with peers, and prefer living closer to the city.

At IL Centres, we carefully select our homestay hosts and partner with trusted student accommodation providers to ensure you feel safe, comfortable, and supported wherever you choose to stay.

Final Thoughts

Both homestays and student residences offer excellent opportunities, and the “right” choice depends on your personality, goals, and lifestyle. Whichever you pick, living and studying in the UK will be an unforgettable experience – and we’re here to make sure it’s the best it can be.

👉 Still unsure which is best for you? Our team at   ILCentres can guide you to the option that fits your needs and expectations. Get in touch with us today!

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