Preparing for Uni
It's almost time to start your new adventure and move in! Here is some helpful information about what to expect. We can’t wait to welcome you to the #USWFamily!
Accommodation Student LifeFrom visiting us at an Open Day and taking an accommodation tour to finding out what you should have on your packing checklist, we have everything covered.
HELP AND SUPPORT
Whilst you’re living away from home (perhaps for the first time), it’s good to know about the support that we can offer you at USW.
Upcoming Open Days
Explore our campuses and discover the vibrant cities of Cardiff, Newport and Pontypridd at a USW Open Day.
View upcoming eventsFAQs
We’ve got lots of choice!
- Ensuite rooms
- Accessible rooms
- Quiet flat
- Non-alcohol flat
- Single Gender
- Welsh speaking
From February onwards, we will contact you and invite you to apply for accommodation within two weeks of firmly accepting your offer.
A parent, guardian, or anyone over 18 can be your guarantor. They must have a valid UK address and bank account.
To find out more about applying, visit our Applying for accommodation web page.
It’s better to apply early with your living preferences. If you leave it to the last minute, the accommodation you want may not be available.
You’ll need to let us know your top 3 accommodation preferences.
Yes, you can. We have a range of accommodation options such as accessible rooms, Welsh-speaking, single gender, alcohol-free and quiet flats. Let us know your top preferences when you submit your application, and we’ll do our best to sort it out for you.
It takes around a month from when you apply. The process usually begins in March.
The total amount is split into three easy payments throughout the year. There’s also an upfront fee to secure your room. As soon as your accommodation is allocated, we’ll let you know how much you need to pay and when you need to pay by.
Your room, Wi-Fi and all your utility bills (electricity, heating and water) are included in your rent. If you’re living at our Treforest campus, you’ll also have access to our Residential Life programme.
If you’re planning on watching TV, you’ll need to buy a license.
We often stagger start dates to ensure a smooth moving-in process. We’ll email you all the information in the weeks before your contract begins.
If you aren’t happy with where you live, please let us know us as soon as possible. We’ll do our best to move you somewhere else.
Utility bills are all covered. Your kitchen is kitted out with a kettle, toaster, microwave, iron/ironing board, oven, fridge and freezer. Single and double duvet bedding packs are available to buy for £25-£35 in case you forget to bring yours or you want a spare.
Please let us know if you need any support to live in accommodation. We work closely with the Wellbeing and Disability Team to make sure you’re well supported and have a fantastic student experience.
No, you’re free to come and go as you please.
Sure! There’s bike storage in halls where you can keep it free of charge. We suggest bringing a padlock with you.
Yes. If you live on Treforest campus, you’ll need to apply for a residential parking pass. These are usually in high demand so parking options may be limited. If you’re living in Cardiff or Newport, you’ll need to organise your own parking permit. It’s a good idea to research your costs beforehand as parking passes are expensive.
Of course, you can have someone to stay for up to 3 nights a month. You’ll have to sign them in. All your guests must comply with the type of flat you live in. For example, if you live in a female-only flat, your overnight guest should be female.
When you sign up for a room, either with USW or a private provider, you’re entering a legally binding contract. It will specify how you can be released from a contract without being charged. Check out page xx for further details.
No, you don’t. You’ll need to clear out your room before the summer holidays unless you have a 51-week contract or an agreed extension.
Yes, if you have a 51-week contract or an extension, you can stay in halls over the summer holidays.
Yes, you’ll need to clear all your belongings out of your bedroom and communal spaces. Accommodation should be clean and tidy before you leave.