Why do students want to stay in the same accommodation as their friends?
Many students would like to live near friends or classmates when moving to a new country. Having someone you know in the building makes settling in easier, whether that means sharing a commute to campus, studying together or simply having a familiar face during the first few weeks. Friends often book at different times, through different platforms, or directly with the property because they start searching at different stages. This is especially common when students are comparing prices and deals across several websites.
What happens if you and your friend booked through different providers?
You can both stay at the same property because it accepts bookings from different channels. Each booking is a separate contract, so your payment plan, cancellation terms and refund terms follow the platform or provider you booked through. This means your friend’s terms may differ from yours.
The property may not be able to place you and your friend in the same flat. Rooms are given based on room type and availability. It also depends on the property's rules.
- Book the same room category as your friend where possible.
- Check that your move-in dates and contract lengths are compatible, as flats are often allocated for specific dates.
- Contact the property as early as you can with both booking references and ask whether they can note a flatmate request.
- Ask for any confirmation in writing.
UniAcco can help you make this request and check the policy before you pay.
Properties Worth Checking
- Belgrave View - 1 Belgrave Middleway, B5 7AJ. From £154/week, rated 4.4, with bills included and an international guarantor accepted. It is about an 8-minute drive or 17-minute bus ride from the University of Birmingham.
- Selly Oak Court - 1 Sturge Close, Selly Oak, B29 6GH. From £200/week, rated 4.2, with bills included and a UK-based guarantor. It is about 1.9 miles from the University of Birmingham.
- Altura - 160 Bath Row, B15 1NR. From £175/week, with bills included and a UK-based guarantor.
FAQs
Can I book accommodation through a different provider than my friend?
Ans: Yes, you can book the same accommodation as your friend through a different provider. You and your friend will have separate bookings with the property.
Will I automatically be placed in the same flat as my friend?
Ans: No, the property decides flat allocation based on availability, room type, and its policy. Contact the property early to ask whether they can note your flatmate request.
Does booking through a different provider change my payment or cancellation terms?
Ans: Yes, it can. Your payment plan, cancellation terms and refund conditions follow the platform or provider you booked through. Check them before you pay.
Can I request a mixed-gender flat?
Ans: Yes, many properties allow students to request a mixed-gender flat when booking. Shaman chose this option, but getting a room in a mixed-gender flat depends on availability.
What should I do to improve my chances of sharing a flat with my friend?
Ans: Book the same room category, make sure your contract dates match, and contact the property as early as possible with both booking references.