Tuition fees and living costs are your two main expenses at university. Budgeting early for everyday outgoings like accommodation, household bills, food and leisure, means you can focus on enjoying your time at Kent.
Choosing accommodation that works for your budget
With the rising cost of living on everyone’s mind, it’s more important than ever to find accommodation that suits both your lifestyle and your budget. That’s why we’ve put together some helpful tips to guide you through what to consider when planning for next year’s housing.
What’s my budget?
Before making any decisions, take time to calculate your finances. Your maintenance loan, savings, part-time income, and any bursaries or grants need to cover not just rent, but all your living costs – from groceries to socialising.
It’s a good idea to sit down and estimate your monthly outgoings early, so you know how much you can comfortably afford for accommodation. There are plenty of helpful tools out there, including from independent providers like Blackbullion and Money Saving Expert, as well as budgeting advice and tools tailored for University of Kent students.
Accommodation options for every budget
You’ll find a wide range of accommodation options at Kent to suit different price points. All prices are clearly listed on our accommodation prices page, and we publish them in January for the following academic year, so you can budget with confidence. Once prices are set, they’re fixed for the year, regardless of inflation or energy price changes.
More than just a room
While campus accommodation might not always be the cheapest option on paper, it offers real value and peace of mind. Here’s what’s included when you live on campus:
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All utility bills included – no unexpected costs
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24/7 campus security for added safety
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On-site maintenance and repairs for quick fixes
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Free Kent Sport membership is included in your rent
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No upfront deposit required
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A short walk to lectures – save on travel time and costs
- ResLife activities – make friends and socialise
Plus, our straightforward application process means you can secure your accommodation early and focus on the rest of your university prep with one less thing to worry about.
How much will I spend on accommodation?
Accommodation is likely to be one of your biggest expenses while at university, but the good news is there are plenty of options both on and off campus to suit different budgets and needs. Read more about our accommodation options in:
📝 Start with your essentials
When choosing where to live, begin by deciding what matters most to you. Do you need to be close to your classes? Is fast Wi-Fi a must? Do you want your own en-suite bathroom? Knowing your priorities will help narrow down your options. For more on this, read our blog: Your Guide to University Accommodation.
Then, look carefully at what’s included in the total cost. For example, some off-campus housing may seem cheaper at first glance, but be sure to read the small print. If utility bills (like water, heating, and electricity) aren’t included, you could end up paying more than expected, and you’ll also need to manage splitting and paying those bills with housemates. Other hidden costs could include:
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Wi-Fi setup and monthly fees
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Contents insurance
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Travel costs to and from campus
On the plus side, there are discounts available on local bus travel, which can help ease transport costs if you’re living further away.
Campus accommodation: All-inclusive peace of mind
When you live on campus, everything you need is included in your rent:
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No utility or Wi-Fi bills
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Free personal possessions insurance
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Free Premium Plus Kent Sport membership
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No deposit required
Plus, you’ll benefit from 24/7 support, dedicated on-site maintenance, and a short walk to lectures and dedicated study spaces.
You’ll also be part of a vibrant residential community. Our Residential Life Ambassadors organise events and create opportunities to meet your neighbours and settle in. If you want to take a more active role, you can apply to be a Residential Life Ambassador – a great way to build connections and receive a discount on your accommodation fees.
Check contract lengths
Another important detail to look at is contract length. If you’re planning to head home during the summer, shorter contracts can save you money.
At Kent, undergraduate contracts typically run from September to June, while postgraduate contracts run from September to September. We also offer shorter-term, non-vacation contracts for undergraduates, a simple way to cut costs if you’re not staying year-round.
Tools and tips for smarter budgeting
Not sure what you can afford? The Save the Student rent calculator is a helpful tool to find your ideal price point. And don’t forget to explore our cost of living support pages, they’re packed with advice, tools, and resources tailored to Kent students.
Remember: Your room isn’t everything
While it’s important to find accommodation that meets your needs, it’s also worth remembering that living within your means is key. That might mean giving up an en-suite bathroom in favour of saving a bit more each month – money you can then use for a social event or night out.
And if you’re struggling or unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help.