Moving into university accommodation is one of the biggest changes you’ll face during your first year.
And while it’s exciting, it can also be overwhelming.
New routines. New people. A new space to call “home”.
At CIS University, we know that where you live matters. Not just for your comfort, but for your focus, well-being, and university experience as a whole.
That’s why we’ve gathered these practical university accommodation tips to help you settle in, stay organized, and make the most of this new stage in your life.
Choosing the Right University Accommodation for You
Before thinking about how to decorate your room or pack your bags, let’s start with the basics:
Where will you live?
What options exist?
- Residence: usually located close to campus, great for meeting people
- Apartments: more independence, often shared with other students
- Host families: cultural immersion and support, ideal for international students
Each option has pros and cons. The key is finding what suits your personality, budget and lifestyle.
Factors to consider
- Distance: How long will it take to get to class every day?
- Cost: Rent, bills, groceries… it all adds up
- Lifestyle: Do you need quiet? Do you enjoy social spaces?
Questions to ask before signing anything
- What’s included in the rent?
- Are there quiet hours or shared responsibilities?
- Can you personalize your space?
Choosing the right accommodation is the first step to creating a positive and productive university experience.
What to Pack (and What You Can Skip) When Moving In
You don’t need to bring your entire life with you. Just the essentials, and a few things that make your space feel like your own.
Essentials for comfort and study
- Good bedding and a proper pillow
- A desk lamp and extension cables
- Stationery, notebooks and chargers
Items that help you feel “at home” quickly
Photos or small decorations from your room back home
- A familiar mug or blanket
- Headphones for focus and privacy
What not to bring
- Duplicates: coordinate with roommates before buying big items
- Too many clothes: think seasonally
- Unnecessary appliances: check what’s already provided
You’ll find that living with less (but better) makes it easier to settle in, and to focus on what matters.
How to Make the Most of Your New Space
A room is just four walls, until you make it your own.
Here’s how to create a space that supports both your comfort and your studies.
Setting up a study zone that helps you concentrate
Even in a small room, designate a corner for studying.
Good lighting, minimal distractions, and all your materials within reach will help you stay focused.
Organizing your room for comfort and productivity
- Keep things tidy (a cluttered room = a cluttered mind)
- Use vertical storage and organizers to save space
- Keep your study area and sleep area separate, if possible
Roommate agreements and tips for peaceful coexistence
If you’re sharing, set clear expectations from day one:
- Cleaning schedules
- Noise rules
- Respecting each other’s space
For more ideas on how to structure your time and keep a healthy routine, check out our post on how to create a study schedule (link).
Your space can be your support system, if you set it up with intention.
How University Accommodation Shapes Your Student Life
Where you live doesn’t just affect your logistics, it impacts your energy, mood, and overall experience.
The social impact: meeting people, building community
Living in student accommodation gives you daily chances to meet classmates, join spontaneous conversations, and create meaningful connections.
Living close to campus = more time, less stress
You gain time for:
- Studying without the rush
- Joining clubs and sports
- Saying yes to campus events
Why your room can be more than just a place to sleep
It’s your sanctuary. A space to recharge, reflect, and grow.
If you’re coming from another country, take a look at our post on study abroad in Spain (link) to get a feel for what life here is like.
And for planning your budget in advance, don’t miss our student budgeting tips (link).
Your accommodation is part of your experience. Choose it (and live it) consciously.
Tips to Balance Independence and Routine
Living away from home gives you freedom.
But it also gives you responsibility.
Here’s how to stay on top of things without losing your balance.
Creating personal structure when no one’s watching
- Set your own wake-up and sleep routines
- Stick to meal times and study sessions
- Use alarms and reminders if needed
Cooking, cleaning and staying healthy on your own
You don’t need to be perfect, just consistent:
- Learn a few basic meals
- Clean a little every day
- Stay hydrated and move your body
Making time for rest, study, and connection
Balance means planning for all three. Not just cramming in study time.
Need help finding that balance? Our posts on how to balance work and study and time management for students offer practical tips.
Living independently isn’t about doing everything perfectly; it’s about building habits that support the life you want.
CIS University: Living Well, Studying Better
At CIS University, we believe that your living space should support both your learning and your life.
Housing recommendations and support
Our housing team is here to guide you through accommodation options, whether you’re local or coming from abroad.
Need help with logistics? We’ve got you covered.
A student-centered campus and welcoming environment
CIS University is designed to feel like home from day one.
Our international community and small campus size make it easy to feel connected and supported.
Events and initiatives that help you build a life, not just a degree
From social events to mentorship programs, we create spaces where learning, growth and community go hand in hand.
Want to know more about what it’s like to be part of our campus? Explore the full experience of student life at CIS University.
And if you need help with accommodation, we will be glad to support you!
A place to live, a place to grow
Finding the right accommodation is just the beginning.
What matters most is how you make it yours, and how it supports the student (and person) you’re becoming.
At CIS University, we don’t just help you find a room.
We help you find your rhythm, your confidence, and your community.