Student Living

Living away for the first time? Get advice on making new friends, cleaning, laundry, recycling, personalising your room and more with Unite Students.

All Posts Parents & guardians Food & Drink Health & Wellbeing Student Living Study & Careers Money

HMO Vs. PBSA Student Accommodation

You’ve found your perfect university – now you now need to find somewhere to stay. With so many options, it can be hard to know what’s right for you. Understanding the difference between purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs) can help you make the right choice, and save you money, time and stress before the academic year.

3 March 2026

Read now

Students in the Courtyard

Student Living posts

Students in the Shared Kitchen

How to Choose Accommodation for Uni | Unite Students Finding the best student accommodation can make all the difference to your time at university. Learn how to choose accommodation for uni with Unite Students.

Students in Reception

What are the different types of student accommodation? Unsure where to start with the different types of accommodation for students? Learn more about the type of student accommodation with Unite Students.

Chinese New Year lanterns

Chinese New Year: Celebrate like student writer CynthiaEver wondered how to go about celebrating a traditional festival whilst living away from home? Cynthia shows us what a traditional Chinese New Year celebration looks like whilst living in the UK.

18 December 2025

2025 The year of the snake

Celebrating Lunar New Year as a studentThe Lunar New Year, also called Chinese New Year or Spring Festival is celebrated widely across the UK. Check out our tips for having an epic start to this Year of the Horse!

15 December 2025

Student with a head on the desk

What happens if I drop out of university?University is a big adjustment, and many factors can determine if it’s right for you. This blog will talk you through how to drop out of university, whether you can transfer and more.

A group of friends sat outside

The best societies to join at uniNot sure what society is the best fit for you? Discover some of the best societies to join and why.

ByJack Williams

Holi celebrations

How to celebrate Holi as an international studentHoli is a special time of year and is celebrated by Hindu's all over the world. Despite being away from home, there are plenty of ways to celebrate in your own special way.