Moving to London

Whether you choose to live in one of our halls or in a privately rented property, the Accommodation Services team is here to support you throughout your time at UAL.

Our Accommodation Services team can support you in your search. Whether it’s one of our UAL halls of residence or private property you’re looking to rent, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Once you receive an offer, you’ll be able to register on the UAL Accommodation Portal to browse halls availability, explore room types, view pricing and book.

For private accommodation, our team can support you in your search and provide advice and resources to help you make an informed choice.

Use our interactive map to explore where our halls are and how close they are to our Colleges and London neighbourhoods.

UAL’s Colleges are at the heart of London’s creative and cultural districts, with a wealth of local places to explore, eat, socialise and relax.

Our College area guides will help you get to know the neighbourhoods where you’ll study:

• Camberwell – galleries, parks and creative spaces
• Chelsea – design, fashion and lively streets
• Elephant and Castle – developing creative spaces and evening activities
• King’s Cross – cultural institutions, transport connections and places to eat
• Stratford – contemporary arts, green spaces and markets
• Wimbledon – local neighbourhood feel with easy access to central London.

You’ll find cafes, exhibitions, studios, theatres, museums and more – all just a short walk or tube ride from campus.

As an international student studying in the UK for more than 6 months, you’ll usually pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa application. This gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), which covers most medical treatment during your studies.

Once you arrive:

• Register with a local doctor (GP) once you have your UK address
• Use NHS services for general health care, prescriptions and urgent treatment
• Use our wellbeing and counselling support available to help you settle in and look after your physical and mental health while you study.

This means you have support in place for unexpected health needs as well as day-to-day care.

Opening a UK bank account helps you manage living costs, pay rent, receive any part-time earnings and make everyday transactions easier.

Most banks ask for:

• proof of your student status (UAL offer or enrolment)
• a UK address
• photo ID (passport).

Once your account is open, use the tools and advice to help with:

• budgeting and living costs
• everyday spending tips
• understanding fees and transactions.

We also share practical advice on managing your finances in our guidance for international students and on living costs in London.