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<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Why Choose Adelaide CBD for Student Accommodation?</h2>Adelaide's CBD has evolved into one of Australia's most liveable student precincts. The entire city centre sits within the Free City Tram zone, which means zero transport costs for day-to-day commuting, a genuine financial advantage when you're managing a student budget. Rundle Mall, Adelaide's retail and social heart, is never more than a short walk away for groceries, dining, and everything in between. More importantly, the CBD is home to the core campuses of both the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/adelaide/university-of-south-australia">University of South Australia</a> and the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/adelaide/the-university-of-adelaide">University of Adelaide</a>, as well as Torrens University. Staying in the CBD doesn't just save commute time. It keeps you close to libraries, labs, and the kind of spontaneous study-group catch-ups that make a real difference to your results.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Top Student Accommodation Options in Adelaide CBD</h2>The properties below are consistently among the most searched on Casita for Adelaide. Each one is purpose-built for students, professionally managed, and within easy walking distance of the major campuses.<ul><li><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/594-scape-waymouth-adelaide-australia">Scape Waymouth</a>: 5-minute walk to UniSA's City West campus, ideal for students based on the western side of the CBD.</li><li><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/97589-the-switch-adelaide-central-adelaide-australia">The Switch Adelaide Central</a>: 5-minute walk to the University of Adelaide, with a central position that suits students across both major universities.</li><li><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/757-scape-adelaide-central-adelaide-australia">Scape Adelaide Central</a>: 12-minute walk to the University of Adelaide, offering a premium location in the North Terrace precinct.</li></ul><h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">What's Included: Amenities and All-bills Pricing</h2>Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) in Adelaide's CBD removes the friction that comes with private renting. Most properties include all utility bills in a single weekly rent figure, so there are no end-of-month surprises and no awkward bill-splitting with housemates. Standard inclusions across the properties above include:<ul><li>Ultra-fast Wi-Fi included in rent</li><li>All bills (electricity, gas, and water) bundled into one payment</li><li>24/7 on-site gym</li><li>Dedicated quiet study rooms</li><li>Secure bike storage</li><li>On-site security and maintenance teams</li><li>Communal lounges and social spaces</li><li>Rooftop terraces and cinema rooms</li></ul><h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">CBD living: the Student Lifestyle Advantage</h2>When your home is minutes from your faculty, you gain back hours each week that commuters spend on buses or trains. That time compounds over a semester, leaving more room for assignments, part-time work, and the social experiences that define the university years. Adelaide's CBD is also a genuinely walkable, compact, and safe city. The communal spaces in purpose-built student housing, from rooftop terraces to shared kitchens and cinema rooms, act as built-in social infrastructure, making it far easier to build friendships and study networks than in a private rental. For international students especially, this community element makes a measurable difference to wellbeing and academic performance.

Student Accommodation in Adelaide CBD

Student Accommodation in Adelaide CBD: Your Complete 2026 Guide

Find the best student accommodation in Adelaide CBD. Compare purpose-built properties near UniSA and the University of Adelaide with all-bills pricing and 24/7 amenities.

Student Housing

Students’ Guide to London Boroughs

Discover the best London boroughs for students. Compare Inner vs Outer London, explore student-friendly areas, affordable rents, and peaceful or scholarly neighbourhoods.

Travel Preparation

Exploring

Given its unique wildlife, it’s no surprise that Australia is loved by many from all over the globe. But it’s not only this aspect that adds to Australia’s charm. Australia is also one of the most favourable destinations for international students. It’s also the chance to gain a top-tier education and build your career in one of the world’s most liveable countries. Simply put, it’s a place where you can learn and grow while creating lifelong memories in a safe, adventurous, and inclusive environment.  If you’re considering studying in Australia, we’re here to give you a list of the top universities in Australia for international students. The list is based on the <a href="https://www.topuniversities.com/world-university-rankings" rel="nofollow" style="">QS World University Rankings 2026</a>, ensuring accuracy and reliability for students planning their studies in Australia.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/02112025100859AM-08-Student-housing-scams-in-Australia_800x450.png" style="width: 600px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" fr-original-style="width: 600px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"> <h2 dir="ltr" style="">Why Study at Universities in Australia?</h2>Here’s why studying at an Australian university could be one of the best decisions you make:<ul style=""><li dir="ltr">Globally ranked degrees, recognised by employers worldwide</li><li dir="ltr">Post-study work opportunities</li><li dir="ltr">Multicultural campuses</li><li dir="ltr">Strong student support and accommodation options</li></ul>Let’s dive into the top universities in Australia for international students in 2026. <h2 dir="ltr" style="">Top Universities in Australia 2026</h2><h3 dir="ltr" style="">University of Melbourne</h3><ul><li dir="ltr" style="">Location: Melbourne, Victoria</li><li dir="ltr" style="">QS 2026 Ranking: #1 in Australia, #19 globally. </li></ul>The <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/melbourne/university-of-melbourne">University of Melbourne</a>, also known as UniMelb, is a public research university and one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Australia. The university’s nine faculties include Architecture, Arts, Business and Economics, and Medicine. It also partners with several research centres, including the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health. Melbourne is one of the world’s most liveable cities, maintaining a balance between student life, culture, and professional networking opportunities. Students benefit from UniMelb’s facilities, global industry connections, and accommodation options, making it a top choice for international students in 2026. If you’re considering enrolling at the University of Melbourne, check out our blog, <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/6-easy-steps-to-apply-to-the-university-of-melbourne">6 Easy Steps to Apply to the University of Melbourne</a>, for a step-by-step guide on how to enrol. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)</h3><ul><li dir="ltr" style="">Location: Sydney, New South Wales</li><li dir="ltr" style="">QS 2026 Ranking: #2 in Australia, #20 globally </li></ul>A member of the prestigious <a href="https://www.anu.edu.au/group-of-eight" rel="nofollow">Group of Eight (Go8)</a>, the<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/sydney/university-of-new-south-wales-unsw"> University of New South Wales</a> focuses on innovation, entrepreneurship, and strong employability outcomes.  With seven faculties, including Arts, Design &amp; Architecture, Business, and Medicine &amp; Health, UNSW Sydney is also supported by research institutions such as the UNSW Lowy Cancer Research Centre. Sydney, Australia’s commercial capital, and UNSW provide students studying in Sydney who are looking to build global careers with access to internships and industry connections in the fields of technology, finance, and design.  It’s a top choice for students seeking a future-focused learning environment and global industry links. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">University of Sydney </h3><ul><li dir="ltr" style="">Location: Sydney, New South Wales</li><li dir="ltr" style="">QS 2026 Ranking: #3 in Australia, #25 globally</li></ul>Founded in 1850, the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/sydney/university-of-sydney">University of Sydney</a> is the oldest university in Australia and one of the world's leading universities. Famous for its sandstone architecture and rich academic heritage, the university offers degrees across <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/exploring-the-faculties-of-the-university-of-sydney">eight faculties</a>, including Arts and Social Sciences, Business, Medicine, and Health.  Its strong alumni network includes five Nobel laureates and eight Australian prime ministers, highlighting its influence that spans generations and its continued status as a top destination for international students. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">Australian National University (ANU)</h3><ul><li dir="ltr" style="">Location: Canberra</li><li dir="ltr" style="">QS 2026 Ranking: #4 in Australia, #30 globally</li></ul><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/canberra/the-australian-national-university">The Australian National University (ANU)</a> ranks among the top universities in Australia and the world. It’s a member of the Group of Eight universities and the only Australian institution in the International Alliance of Research Universities.  ANU’s known for its rigorous academics and research excellence, particularly in fields such as environmental sustainability, physics, humanities, and engineering systems.  Located in Canberra, Australia’s capital, ANU is the go-to choice for students interested in research, diplomacy, or policy-related careers. In other words, it’s ideal for those seeking influence beyond academia. With close ties to national and global policy circles, it stands out as a valuable choice for students aiming for influential careers. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">Monash University</h3><ul><li dir="ltr" style="">Location: Melbourne, Victoria</li><li dir="ltr" style="">QS 2026 Ranking: #5 in Australia, #36 globally</li></ul><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/melbourne/monash-university-caulfield-campus">Monash University</a> is both global and future-oriented. As the largest university in Australia and a member of the Group of Eight, it offers world-leading programs across medicine, business, and engineering. Monash has campuses in Australia and Malaysia, a postgraduate campus in Indonesia, the Prato Centre in Italy, and research partnerships, including the IITB-Monash Research Academy (India) and the Monash-SEU Joint Graduate School (Suzhou, China).  Major research centres and facilities include the Australian Synchrotron and the Monash Science, Technology, Research and Innovation Precinct (STRIP). Monash offers the perfect blend of research excellence and practical learning through a globalised university experience. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">University of Queensland (UQ)</h3><ul><li dir="ltr" style="">Location: Brisbane, Queensland</li><li dir="ltr" style="">QS 2026 Ranking: #6 in Australia, #42 globally</li></ul>The<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/brisbane/university-of-queensland-uq"> University of Queensland</a> is one of the top Australian universities for international students. Bordered by the scenic Brisbane River, it has one of the most mesmerising campuses in the country, and its prime location leaves plenty to explore in Queensland, like mountains and rainforests. A founding member of the Group of Eight, UQ has six faculties, including the Faculty of Business, the Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, and the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.  UQ’s distinctive programmes in biotechnology, renewable energy, and business attract thousands of international students to study in Brisbane. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">The University of Western Australia (UWA)</h3><ul><li dir="ltr" style="">Location: Perth</li><li dir="ltr" style="">QS 2026 Ranking: #7 in Australia, #77 globally</li></ul>Set along the Swan River, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/perth/university-of-western-australia-uwa">the University of Western Australia (UWA)</a> is one of the world's top research universities, boasting a stunning view and a beautiful campus. UWA is a Group of Eight member university, and its famous research specialisations include History and Archaeology, Environmental Sciences, and Medical and Health Sciences. Perth is one of Australia’s safest and most affordable cities, and UWA combines academic prestige with Perth’s easy-going coastal lifestyle, giving students the best of both worlds. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">University of Adelaide</h3><ul><li dir="ltr" style="">Location: Adelaide, South Australia</li><li dir="ltr" style="">QS 2026 Ranking: #8 in Australia, #82 globally</li></ul><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/adelaide/the-university-of-adelaide">The University of Adelaide</a> is a renowned centre for both research and education. As Australia's third-oldest university and a member of the Group of Eight, it has a well-established reputation for excellence in health, engineering, and science. Locally, it’s acknowledged as an essential contributor to South Australians' health, culture, and economy. The University of Adelaide is divided into three faculties, each made up of various schools and disciplines. These include the Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics; the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, and the Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology. The university is located in one of Australia’s most affordable cities, offering high-quality education and research opportunities in a city where innovation and cultural charm are part of the student experience. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">University of Technology Sydney (UTS)</h3><ul><li dir="ltr" style="">Location: Sydney</li><li dir="ltr" style="">QS 2026 Ranking: #9 in Australia, #96 globally</li></ul>The <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/sydney/university-of-technology-sydney-uts">University of Technology Sydney (UTS)</a> is a technology-focused university in Australia that offers various hands-on learning experiences. UTS stands out for its strengths in engineering, information technology, business, design, and health sciences. Situated in the heart of Sydney’s tech district, UTS provides students with real-world learning through internships, case studies, and industry projects. Thanks to its forward-thinking approach, UTS is recognised as one of Australia’s most employability-focused universities, bridging academia and industry. Thanks to its forward-thinking approach, it’s one of Australia’s most future-focused universities for international students, bridging academia and industry. <h3 dir="ltr" style="">RMIT University</h3><ul><li dir="ltr" style="">Location: Melbourne, Victoria </li><li dir="ltr" style="">QS 2026 Ranking: #10 in Australia, #125 globally </li></ul><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia/melbourne/rmit-university">RMIT University</a>, in Melbourne, Victoria, also known as the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, is highly regarded globally for its programs in technology, design, and business.  As a dual-sector university, it offers both higher education and vocational training through its Higher Education and VET divisions. The university’s 17 academic schools are grouped into three colleges: Business and Law, Design and Social Context, and STEM.  The central Melbourne campus places students in one of the world’s most creative and tech-driven cities, with a dynamic urban setting. RMIT makes an ideal choice for students who pursue both academic learning and real-world experience, thanks to strong industry connections and an inclusive student community. <h2 dir="ltr" style="">Plan Your Future at Australia’s Best Universities</h2>Studying in Australia is more than just earning a degree; it’s a life-changing experience. With world-class education, post-study work opportunities, and welcoming multicultural cities, international students can build their careers while exploring everything that makes Australia a great place to live. Before applying, take the time to do your research. Whether you’re comparing programs, scholarship options, or choosing the city and campus that best match your lifestyle and goals, take the time to do your research. Each of these top universities in Australia provides strong support for international students, from diverse learning environments to employability services.  Start your Australian adventure with Casita, where you can find verified student accommodation near top universities in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and more.

Top Universities in Australia

Top 10 Universities in Australia in 2026 for International Students

Discover Australia’s best universities for international students in 2026. Compare rankings, programs, and study opportunities in Australia’s top-ranked institutions.

University Life

Picture this: your friend gets accepted to study in<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/spain/barcelona" style=""> Barcelona</a> through the Erasmus+ programme with a scholarship. Meanwhile, you just applied directly to a university in <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/japan/tokyo" style="">Tokyo</a> as a Free Mover student and got in within two weeks. Same goal, completely different study abroad paths. Understanding the <a href="https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/" rel="nofollow">Erasmus+</a> vs <a href="https://www.wearefreemovers.com/" rel="nofollow">Free Mover</a> debate is crucial for international students planning their academic journey. Most students think Erasmus+ is the only way to study abroad. It's not. Free Mover programmes allow you to apply to any university worldwide that accepts visiting students. The catch? You’ll need to handle most of the process on your own. So which study abroad programme should you take? Let's break down the real differences. <img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/13042026112048AM-Untitled-2-03-(3).jpg" style="width: 650px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" fr-original-style="width: 650px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"> <h2 dir="ltr">What Is the Erasmus+ Programme?</h2>The Erasmus+ programme is an EU exchange programme where your university has pre-established partnerships with other institutions across Europe. Think of it as a structured, all-inclusive package for studying abroad. Here's how the Erasmus+ exchange programme works: your home university has agreements with partner schools, usually across Europe. You apply through your university, and if accepted, you study abroad for a semester or year while still paying your home university's tuition. Erasmus students typically receive scholarship funding to help cover living costs. The advantage? Everything is coordinated for you. Credit transfer is guaranteed, and you get financial support through the Erasmus+ grant. <h2 dir="ltr" style="">What Is a Free Mover Student?</h2>A Free Mover student independently arranges their study abroad experience outside of organised exchange programmes. Instead of choosing from your university's partner list, you apply directly to any university that accepts visiting students. Free Mover students can study anywhere in the world.<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia" style=""> Australia</a>,<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/japan" style=""> Japan</a>, the<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/usa" style=""> United States</a>,<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/canada" style=""> Canada</a>, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, not just Europe. You build your own international student experience from scratch, choosing the destination, courses, and timeline that align with your academic goals. Complete freedom, complete responsibility. <h2 dir="ltr" style="">Erasmus+ vs Free Mover: Study Abroad Programmes Comparison</h2><table style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;" fr-original-style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td>Factor</td><td style="width: 47.31%;">Erasmus+ Programme</td><td style="width: 41.2539%;">Free Mover Programme</td></tr><tr><td>Destination</td><td style="width: 47.31%;">Partner universities with which your department has agreements</td><td style="width: 41.2539%;">Any university worldwide that accepts visiting students</td></tr><tr><td>Application Process</td><td style="width: 47.31%;">Coordinated through your home university with strict timelines and limited slots.      </td><td style="width: 41.2539%;">Apply directly to host universities with more flexible deadlines</td></tr><tr><td>Financial Support</td><td style="width: 47.31%;">With an Erasmus scholarship, you pay your home university tuition</td><td style="width: 41.2539%;">You pay tuition fees at the host university, typically self-funded</td></tr><tr><td>Credit Transfer</td><td style="width: 47.31%;">Guaranteed through pre-approved agreements</td><td style="width: 41.2539%;">Needs verification with the home university</td></tr><tr><td>Course Selection</td><td style="width: 47.31%;">Pre-set list of approved courses</td><td style="width: 41.2539%;">Access to a wider range of courses based on your academic goals</td></tr><tr><td>Competition</td><td style="width: 47.31%;">Limited seats, competitive internal ranking</td><td style="width: 41.2539%;">Acceptance based on meeting university requirements</td></tr><tr><td>Best For</td><td style="width: 47.31%;">Students wanting structured support and financial aid</td><td style="width: 41.2539%;">Adventurous students wanting complete control over their experience</td></tr></tbody></table><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Visa &amp; Legal Considerations: Erasmus+ vs Free Mover</h2>One of the biggest differences you will not see in a brochure is how each path handles visas and legal paperwork. With Erasmus+, your home university and the host university handle most of the bureaucracy. If you are an EU student, you do not need a visa at all. If you are a non-EU student studying in Europe through Erasmus+, your host country usually gives you a simplified residence permit or a fast-track visa process. The paperwork is still yours to submit, but the institutions guide you through every step. As a Free Mover, you are on your own. You apply directly to a university, receive your acceptance letter, and then figure out the visa process on your own. For countries like the<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/usa"> United States</a>,<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/japan"> Japan</a>, or<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia"> Australia</a>, you will need to prove you have enough funds, secure housing, and sometimes show health insurance before the embassy will issue your student visa. The timeline is also tighter: you often have to wait for your acceptance letter before you can even start the visa application, which can take months. Before you choose Free Mover, check the visa requirements of your target country. Some countries do not allow free mover arrangements at all. They require you to be part of an official exchange programme or hold a specific type of student residence permit. A quick visit to the embassy website or a call to the university's international office will save you a lot of stress later. <h2 dir="ltr" style="">Cost Breakdown: What You'll Actually Pay</h2>Tuition and living costs can look very different depending on which path you take. Let's break it down. <h4>Erasmus Programme Cost</h4>You continue paying tuition to your home university. If your home university charges low fees or you have a scholarship, the cost stays the same. You also receive an Erasmus grant, typically between €200 and €500 per month, depending on the country you are going to and whether you are from a disadvantaged background. That grant is meant to offset living costs, but it rarely covers everything. You still pay for housing, food, transport, and health insurance on your own. <h4 dir="ltr" style="">Free Mover Costs</h4>You pay tuition directly to the host university, and that amount varies wildly. In countries like<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany"> Germany</a> or Norway, public universities often charge low tuition even for independent international students (sometimes just a semester fee of a few hundred euros). In the United States, the<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk"> United Kingdom</a>, or Australia, tuition for a single semester as a visiting student can range from $8,000 to $25,000. There’s no grant, so all expenses are self-funded: tuition, housing, flights, insurance, and daily expenses. A quick rule of thumb: if your dream university is in a country with high international tuition and you do not have substantial savings or external scholarships, Erasmus is usually the more affordable option. If you are targeting a country with low tuition and you are comfortable handling all expenses yourself, Free Mover can still be feasible. <h2 dir="ltr" style="">Choosing Between Erasmus+ and Free Mover Study Abroad Options</h2>Choose the Erasmus+ programme if:<ul style=""><li dir="ltr">You want financial support through grants and scholarships</li><li dir="ltr">You prefer a structured, pre-organised exchange experience</li><li dir="ltr">Your dream destination is already on your university's partner list</li><li dir="ltr">You're comfortable with limited course options within agreements</li></ul> Choose Free Mover if:<ul style=""><li dir="ltr">You want to study at universities outside your department's partnerships</li><li dir="ltr">You're ready to handle the application and planning independently</li><li dir="ltr">You want complete freedom to customise your international student experience</li><li dir="ltr">You couldn't get a spot in competitive Erasmus programmes</li></ul> If you can study at your dream university through Erasmus, that's typically more affordable since you avoid paying extra tuition. But if Erasmus doesn't offer what you want, or you didn't get accepted, Free Mover mobility opens up the entire world.<h2 dir="ltr" style="">Find Your Perfect Student Accommodation</h2>Studying abroad is one of the most transformative experiences you'll have, whether you go through the Erasmus programme or as a Free Mover student. You shouldn't have to stress about student housing. With Casita, finding verified, safe, and affordable student accommodation anywhere in the world is simple. International students consistently rate Casita 4.8/5 stars on Trustpilot, trusting the platform to connect them with quality student homes near universities worldwide. No matter which study abroad programme you choose, Casita makes sure your student accommodation is sorted so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

Erasmus+ vs Free Mover Study Abroad Comparison

Erasmus+ vs Free Mover: Which Study Abroad Programme Is Right for You?

Erasmus+ or Free Mover? Discover the differences in costs, applications, visas, and flexibility to choose the right study abroad programme for you.

Erasmus+ vs Free Mover: Which Is Right for You?

Have you ever wondered why international students select universities in <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/spain">Spain</a>? It could be due to the presence of well-established universities. Spain has 89 <a href="https://studying-in-spain.com/plan-your-studies/universities/" rel="nofollow">Spanish universities</a>, which are divided into 50 public universities and 39 private universities. Many courses and degrees are available in English, either completely or partially. In this blog, we will explore the top universities in Spain for international students to provide all the information they may need.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/31032026103020AM-1000294715.png" style="width: 650px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" fr-original-style="width: 650px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"><h2 dir="ltr">Top Universities in Spain for International Students</h2>According to <a href="https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/best-universities/best-universities-spain" rel="nofollow">Times Higher Education</a>, the top four universities in Spain for 2026 are the<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/spain/barcelona/university-of-barcelona"> University of Barcelona</a>, the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/spain/barcelona/the-autonomous-university-of-barcelona">Autonomous University of Barcelona</a>, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/spain/barcelona/pompeu-fabra-university">Pompeu Fabra University</a> and the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/spain/pamplona/university-of-navarra">University of Navarra</a>. <h3 dir="ltr">The University of Barcelona (UB)</h3><h4 dir="ltr">History</h4>The University of Barcelona (UB) was founded in 1450. As one of Spain's premier public universities, UB offers exceptional higher education and research opportunities across six campuses in Barcelona. <h4 dir="ltr">Education</h4>UB serves a diverse student body of over 44,000 undergraduate students and nearly 19,000 master's, postgraduate and doctoral candidates. According to <a href="https://www.topuniversities.com/universities/universitat-de-barcelona" rel="nofollow">QS</a>, around 15% of the students are from overseas and of over 122 different nationalities. The University of Barcelona is one of the best universities in Spain, with 17 faculties, including Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Economics and Business, Education, Fine Arts, and Law.  It also houses over 100 departments, such as Arts, Conservation and Restoration, Biochemistry and Physiology, and Classical, Romance, and Semitic Languages, as well as Geography and the History of Art. According to <a href="https://web.ub.edu/en/web/actualitat/w/qs-rankings-subject-scimago-2025#:~:text=The%20University%20of%20Barcelona%20(UB)%20is%20the,*%20**Chemistry**%2084.2%20international%20research%20collaboration%20indicator" rel="nofollow">QS rankings by subject in 2025</a>, the University of Barcelona was one of the top 100 universities worldwide in fields such as: <ul><li dir="ltr">Life Sciences and Medicine: 55th</li><li dir="ltr">Natural Sciences: 79th </li><li dir="ltr">Arts and Humanities: 83rd</li></ul> The University of Barcelona ranks among the top 100 universities worldwide in several fields, such as: <ul><li dir="ltr">Archaeology</li><li dir="ltr">Philosophy</li><li dir="ltr">Pharmacy and Pharmacology</li><li dir="ltr">Biological Sciences, </li><li dir="ltr">Psychology</li><li dir="ltr">Environmental Sciences</li><li dir="ltr">Education</li></ul> <h4 dir="ltr">Students Life</h4>The cost of living in Barcelona can vary depending on each student's lifestyle. However, the city is known for its affordability in food, accommodation, and transportation. Students can explore the city using public transportation, which offers student discounts, or by bicycle, as cycling is a popular option throughout the city. Casita can help you find the best accommodation options near the campus while you study in Spain, offering great deals and competitive prices. Here are some of them: <ul><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/49385-the-loft-town-barcelona-spain">The Loft Town</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/97658-xior-collblanc-barcelona-spain">Xior Collblanc</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/110979-poblenou-barcelona-spain">Poblenou</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/277603-terrassa-can-telar-barcelona-spain">Terrassa Can Telar </a></li></ul>At UB University, you will participate in a variety of physical activities in a city that encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. As part of the university community, students have full access to 100,000 square meters of open space, which includes: <ol><li dir="ltr">Stadium</li><li dir="ltr">Track</li><li dir="ltr">Rugby pitch</li><li dir="ltr">Natural and artificial football pitches</li><li dir="ltr">Tennis courts</li><li dir="ltr">Paddle courts </li><li dir="ltr">Pool</li></ol> The University of Barcelona is committed to promoting culture. It shares its rich history and artistic heritage through <a href="https://www.ub.edu/cultura/activitats/exposicions" rel="nofollow">exhibitions and events</a>, guided tours, and concerts. You can also explore its collections online via the <a href="https://museuvirtual.ub.edu/" rel="nofollow">Virtual Museum</a> or participate in events celebrating notable historical figures.<h3 dir="ltr">The Autonomous University of Barcelona (AUB)</h3><h4 dir="ltr">History</h4>The University is one of the second-best public universities in Spain. It was founded on June 6, 1968, and offered only four majors: Arts, Science, Medicine, and Economics. At the time, there was no dedicated campus, so lectures were conducted in various locations throughout the region. Specifically, lectures for Arts and Philosophy took place in a monastery, while medical lectures were conducted at the Hospital de Sant Pau. A year later, classes for Science and Economics were held in central Barcelona. <h4 dir="ltr">Education</h4>The Autonomous University of Barcelona the top universities in Spain for international students. According to QS Rankings in 2025, the UAB University was among the top 100 universities in the world in seven fields: <ul><li dir="ltr">Veterinary Science 27th</li><li dir="ltr">Modern Languages 72nd</li><li dir="ltr">Linguistics and Sociology both 81st</li><li dir="ltr">Economics 91st</li><li dir="ltr">Archaeology and Geography between 51 and 100</li></ul> These study areas are available at all educational levels, from bachelor's degrees to doctorates. The university provides outstanding academic programs in all disciplines, offering more than 100 bachelor’s degrees, 300+ postgraduate programmes and nearly 90 PhD programs. The university offers some bachelor's degrees fully in English, along with various other degrees that include subjects taught in English. <h4 dir="ltr">Student Life</h4>Student life at UAB provides a variety of academic, social, cultural, and recreational activities on the spacious Bellaterra campus. The campus offers sports facilities such as gyms, playing fields, soccer and beach volleyball courts, and a swimming pool, all of which promote physical wellness and encourage team sports. "Cultura en Viu" offers a diverse cultural program featuring over 125 annual events, including theatre performances, dance shows, music concerts, exhibitions, and movies. There is the annual festival known as "Festa Major," which is held on campus and includes performances, games, and community gatherings. As an international student, one of the most important things for you, besides the university, is the accommodation. Casita has available accommodation everywhere, so let’s suggest some of the nearest properties to make it easy when you study in Spain: <ul><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/110980-vita-pedralbes-barcelona-spain">Vita Pedralbes</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/270566-plaza-universitat-h4-barcelona-spain">Plaza Universitat H4</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/94500-diagonal-alto-barcelona-spain">Diagonal Alto</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/269724-alba-viu-barcelona-spain">Alba Viu</a></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr"> </h3><h3 dir="ltr">Pompeu Fabra University (UPF)</h3><h4 dir="ltr">History</h4>The UPF was founded in 1990 and is one of the top universities in Spain for international students. It started with 300 students in a building in Barcelona and has grown into a large institution with seven schools and eight departments. <h4 dir="ltr">Education</h4>Students can choose from many majors, including Arts and Humanities, Archaeology, Business and Economics, Languages and Literature, and Computer Science. The UPF offers many bachelor’s programs taught in English, such as Business, Management and Administration, Human Biology, Philosophy, Politics and Economics, and Mathematical Engineering. The duration of the studies is four years. <h4 dir="ltr">Student Life</h4>UPF provides a diverse array of activities to ensure your time there is unforgettable. You can participate in the theatre workshop, join the choir or orchestra, and take part in creative competitions such as the Sant Jordi Contest. Additionally, there are numerous opportunities to explore cultural events throughout Barcelona. There are numerous accommodations available near Pompeu Fabra University. You can explore options to stay close to your campus and attend your lectures on time: <ul><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/1371-the-social-hub-barcelona-poblenou-barcelona-spain">The Social Hub Barcelona</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/138496-smart-double-bedroom-close-to-parc-joan-miro-barcelona-spain">Smart double bedroom close to Parc Joan Miró</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/139698-neat-double-bedroom-close-to-parc-de-les-rieres-dhorta-barcelona-spain">Neat double bedroom close to Parc de les Rieres d'Horta</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/49875-xior-diagonal-besos-barcelona-s">Xior Diagonal Besòs</a></li></ul> <h3 dir="ltr">The University of Navarra</h3><h4 dir="ltr">History</h4>This is the fourth-best university. It is a private institution that is situated on the southeastern edge of Pamplona, Spain. It officially opened on October 17, 1952, with 48 students enrolled in the School of Law. The institution expanded quickly, establishing the School of Philosophy and Letters (now known as Humanities and Social Sciences) in 1955 and the Liberal Arts Institute in 1960. <h4 dir="ltr">Education</h4>Approximately 4,374 international students enrolled at the university in the last academic year, largely due to its bilingual language courses. The institution provides degrees across various disciplines, including architecture, communication, humanities, social sciences, medicine, and theology. Currently, the university offers 38 Bachelor’s degrees, 43 Master’s degrees, and 19 doctoral programs. According to the QS World ranking by subject 2025, the University of Navarra has a good place among the universities in different subjects, such as: <ul><li dir="ltr">Business Management and Administration 42nd</li><li dir="ltr">Theology and programs of study on religion 43rd</li><li dir="ltr">Markting 50th</li><li dir="ltr">Accounting and Finance 64th</li><li dir="ltr">Communication and Media programs of study between 51 and 100</li><li dir="ltr">Nursing between 51 and 100 </li></ul><h4 dir="ltr">Student Life</h4>At the University of Navarra, sports are considered essential to students' comprehensive education. The university offers numerous sports facilities and clubs, including a mountain club, a running club, and a cycling club. We discussed life on campus; now, let's talk about life off campus and nearby accommodation options:<ul><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/55563-micampus-pamplona-pamplona-spain">Micampus Pamplona</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/333735-calle-del-sadar-pamplona-pamplona-spain">Calle del Sadar, Pamplona</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/222106-h5-francisco-bergamin-pamplona-spain">H5 Francisco Bergamín</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/340868-travesia-de-jesus-guridi-pamplona-pamplona-spain">Travesía de Jesús Guridi, Pamplona </a></li></ul><h2 dir="ltr">Choosing the Best University in Spain</h2> After reviewing the top universities in Spain, have you chosen one yet? If you’re still undecided, here are some tips to help you make a decision.  First, consider the city where the university is located and the institution’s reputation. Also, think about the cost of living and the availability of housing in the area.  Second, check the language of instruction to see if your chosen program is offered in English, Spanish, or a combination of both.  Third, establish a budget to estimate your total expenses for the academic year, including tuition fees, rent, and daily living costs. These steps will help you make a decision without stress. Try to make your university life unforgettable and full of memories. For more information related to the top universities in Spain, you can read <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/best-spanish-universities-students">Best Spanish Universities for International Students</a>.

Best Spanish Universities for International Students

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<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london" style="">London</a> is a wonderful city to study in. You’ve secured your university spot, and the adventure of a lifetime in one of the world's biggest places awaits. But with the daydreams of exploring Camden Market and studying in <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk" style="">the UK’s</a> many world-class libraries, you’ll need to keep something in mind: finding a place to live that matches your budget and meets your needs. The city's reputation for high living costs is not a concern. It might feel challenging, but finding cheap student accommodation in London is definitely possible. This guide will show you how. We'll break down everything you need to know, from the types of housing available to the best neighbourhoods and the pro-tips that will save you time, stress, and, most importantly, budget.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/10022026020854PM-Untitled-1-04-(1).jpg" style="width: 650px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" fr-original-style="width: 650px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Understanding Your Cheap Student Accommodation in London: Halls, Houses, and Everything In-Between</h2>Your first major decision is choosing the type of accommodation that best suits your budget and lifestyle. Each option has pros and cons, and Casita lists them all in one place to make it easier for you to compare. Understanding each type is the first step toward finding the perfect place to call home. 1. University Halls of Residence: These are a popular choice for first-year students. You're surrounded by peers from your university, making it incredibly easy to socialise and build a community from day one.<ul style=""><li dir="ltr">Pros: Bills (Wi-Fi, electricity, water, heating) are almost always included in the rent, making budgeting straightforward. They are usually on or very close to campus, saving you significant money on transportation. Plus, there's usually a support system in place, like resident assistants and on-site security. </li><li dir="ltr">Cons: They aren't always the cheapest option. You have less flexibility with rules (such as overnight guests or parties), and the rooms can be quite basic. You also won't have a choice in the people you live with. </li></ul>2. Private Student Halls: Similar to university halls but managed by private providers, often with upgraded facilities. They usually offer a wider range of room types and more modern facilities, such as on-site gyms, cinemas, and study spaces. This is a rapidly growing sector for private student accommodation in London. <ul style=""><li dir="ltr" style="">Pros: They have high-quality facilities and all-inclusive bills. These house students from different universities around London, including yours, help you be around a diverse group of people from different places. Some providers also give flexible contracts, which can be useful if you're looking for short-term student accommodation in London. </li><li dir="ltr" style="">Cons: It can be one of the more expensive options. While they offer a premium experience, that luxury comes at a price. If you’re looking for value for money, this is the best choice. </li></ul>3. Private Rentals (House or Flat Shares): This is where you and a group of people (friends or strangers) will rent a property directly from a private landlord or through a website. Students usually take this path after their first year, and it's where you’ll typically find the cheapest student accommodation in London. <ul style=""><li dir="ltr" style="">Pros: This is usually the most budget-friendly option, because you can split all the costs with several people. You also get far more independence and a real taste of "living" in London. You’ll also have the freedom to choose the people you're with and the exact place you want to be in. </li><li dir="ltr" style="">Cons: You are responsible for setting up and paying for the bills separately, which might be a hassle to manage, depending on how you set it up. You’ll also have to deal with landlords and letting agents directly. A deposit and the first month's rent are required upfront, which can be a high initial cost. </li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Why Your London Student Housing Location Matters</h3>London's public transport network is divided into 'Zones', starting with Zone 1 in the very centre and radiating outwards to Zone 9. As a general rule, the further you move from Zone 1, the cheaper the rent becomes, while not necessarily sacrificing quality. While the dream of finding cheap student accommodation in Central London is tempting, you’ll need to look in-depth. Living in Zone 1 or 2 means you're in the heart of the action, but you will pay a serious premium for it. The real value is found by looking further afield. Exploring Zones 3 and 4 often hits the sweet spot between affordability and a reasonable commute time. Areas such as Stratford (East), Tooting (South), or Finsbury Park (North) are popular with students thanks to lower rents and strong transport links. Look beyond the rent; travel costs and commute times can make a huge difference to your real monthly budget. A 30-minute journey on the Tube or a bus can save you hundreds of pounds a month in rent, which more than covers the cost of a travelcard. The reality is that for most students, finding truly cheap student accommodation in Central London involves accepting a longer commute. <h2 dir="ltr" style="">How To Find The Perfect Student Accommodation in London</h2>So, you know what you want and where you want it. Now, how do you find it? A scattered approach won't work. You need a plan.<ul style=""><li dir="ltr" style="">Start with Your University: Your university's accommodation office is an amazing resource. They have lists of approved landlords, information on their own halls, and can offer advice on contracts and your rights as a tenant. </li><li dir="ltr" style="">Use Reputable Websites: For private rentals, marketplaces like Casita specialise in student housing and let you browse verified options across London. You’ll find plenty of accommodation options on it that will suit your needs, and you can always ask if you have something specific in mind that you want or can’t find. </li><li dir="ltr" style="">Consider Different Room Types: If you crave your own space, a cheap student accommodation in London like a studio might seem elusive, but options in outer zones or specialised private halls can make it a reality. However, the most common and affordable option is an en-suite room (your own bathroom, shared kitchen) or a standard room with a shared bathroom. For those prioritising privacy and a self-contained living space, looking for a cheap student accommodation London studio in areas with excellent transport links in Zone 3 or 4 is a smart strategy. </li><li dir="ltr" style="">Be Vigilant: The demand for housing in London, unfortunately, attracts scammers. Don’t pay a deposit for a property you haven't seen in person or via a live video tour. Don't feel pressured into signing a contract on the spot. Read it carefully. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to ask an expert if you’re unsure about any part. </li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Timing is Everything: When to Start Your Search</h3>The student rental market in London moves quickly, so timing your search is crucial. Start too early, and nothing will be available. Start too late, and you might not find something that suits you.<ul style=""><li dir="ltr">January - March: Start your research. Decide on your budget, preferred locations, and the type of accommodation you’d like. If you're applying for university halls, the application window usually opens around this time. </li><li dir="ltr">April - June: This is the absolute best time to start seriously looking for private rentals for the next academic year. Landlords and agents will begin listing properties that will become available over the summer. </li><li dir="ltr">July - August: This is peak season. Competition is fierce as A-level results are released and clearing takes place. If you haven't found a place by now, don't panic, but you need to be actively searching every day. </li><li dir="ltr">For Shorter Stays: For exchange students or those on shorter courses, getting short-term student accommodation in London is possible, although it’s limited and usually more expensive than normal stays. Many private halls offer semester-long contracts, and university halls often rent out empty rooms during the summer.</li></ul><h2 dir="ltr" style="">The Hidden Costs: Budgeting Beyond the Rent</h2>Your rent is your biggest expense, but it’s not your only one. To really manage your finances, you need to be aware of the other costs involved. <ul style=""><li dir="ltr" style="">Bills: In private rentals, factor in utilities (gas, electricity, water, Wi-Fi). These can add £50 - £100+ per month, depending on usage. This can add a significant amount to your monthly outgoings. Always have an estimate of these costs from the current tenants or from the landlord themselves, and keep your all-inclusive bills in mind. </li><li dir="ltr" style="">Deposit: For private rentals, you will need to pay a security deposit, which is legally capped at five weeks' rent. You will also likely need to pay the first month's rent in advance, so keep these numbers in mind. </li><li dir="ltr" style="">Other Essentials: Your transportation, food, luxuries, etc. Keep these in mind and set aside a dedicated budget for each of them, as they can pile up on you very quickly if you’re not careful with them.</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="">Pro-Tips for Finding the Best Student Accommodation in London</h3>What makes the best student accommodation in London is personal—it’s about finding the right balance for you. Here are a few final tips to help you in your search. <ul style=""><li dir="ltr" style="">View in Person (or Live Video): Photos can be deceiving or even inaccurate. Always insist on seeing a property before you commit. This also gives you a feel for the neighbourhood and the place you’ll be spending your time in. </li><li dir="ltr" style="">Talk to Current Tenants: If you're viewing a room in a shared house, ask the current tenants what it's like to live there. Are they happy? Is the landlord responsive to issues? Is there anything they wish they could’ve known beforehand? </li><li dir="ltr" style="">Read the Contract: Before you sign anything, read every single word of the tenancy agreement. Check the contract length, cancellation policy, and rules on things like redecorating or having visitors. </li><li dir="ltr" style="">Compromise is Key: You might not find a huge, cheap room right next to your campus in a brand-new building. Though there is a strong chance you won’t need to, be prepared to compromise on one of your criteria, whether it’s location, size, or price. Ultimately, securing cheap student accommodation in London is a balance of these factors. </li></ul><h2 dir="ltr" style="">Student Accommodation Options in London</h2>These are a curated selection of affordable and highly-rated student accommodation options across London. You may find your favourite among these, or they can interest you in browsing similar properties that may fit your needs better.<ul style=""><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/242601-fifty-one-london-london-uk">Fifty One London</a>: A comfy property that offers various studios and flats. It’s a short five-minute walk to <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/imperial-college-london">Imperial College London</a>.</li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/91096-go-britanya-kings-cross-residence-london-uk">Kings Cross Residence - Flexible Tenancies</a>: A modern student accommodation in London that offers studio rooms. A 21-minute walk to <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/university-college-london">University College London</a>.</li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/169559-great-court-london-uk">Great Court</a>: A comfortable student accommodation in London that offers a variety of en-suite rooms and self-contained studios. A 12-minute drive to <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/london-south-bank-university">London South Bank University</a>.</li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/1250-louise-house-london-uk">Louise House</a>: A student accommodation that offers both single rooms and studio rooms to give you a variety of choices. A 15-minute drive to London South Bank University.</li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/213-north-lodge-unite-london-uk">North Lodge Unite</a>: A comfy student accommodation in London that offers en-suite rooms. A 25-minute drive to <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/loughborough-university-london">Loughborough University, London</a>. </li></ul>Finding a place to live in London as a student can feel like a big task, but it’s very possible. By starting early, being flexible on location, understanding all the costs involved, and using the resources available to you, you can find a place that is both affordable and perfect for your journey. Once you’ve unpacked that last box and are heading out to explore your new neighbourhood, you’ll know it was all worth it. Finally, if you ever need help with choosing an accommodation option, Casita’s team can guide you through the search, compare options, and help you secure accommodation safely. If you’re interested in learning more about London, check out <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/best-student-accommodation-in-london" style="">Best Student Accommodation in London</a> and <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/cost-of-living-in-london-as-a-student" style="">London Cost of Living 2025</a>.

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Music is a blessing on earth. Studying music is not just about academics, as it also has aspects that can effectively heal your soul. However, choosing a suitable music school is a significant step towards your music career. This blog highlights some of the world's finest musical institutions, but remember that the best school for you is one that aligns with your specific goals and aspirations. This connection can blossom into a lifelong musical journey for aspiring musicians. To help cultivate these talents, a variety of schools offer exceptional music programmes. <img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/02022026044423PM-Best-Music-Schools-in-the-World--Ranks,-Courses,-and-More!-25.png" style="width: 650px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" fr-original-style="width: 650px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"><h2 dir="ltr"> </h2><h2 dir="ltr">Top 10 Music Schools in the World</h2><h3 dir="ltr">Royal College of Music (London, UK)</h3><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/royal-college-of-music--london">The Royal School of Music</a> was opened in 1883 by King Edward VII. The school has trained many important musicians in the world of British and international music, such as Alfie Boe,  Roger Norrington, Vaughan Williams, and Holst. The school offers various programmes, such as the Bachelor’s degree in music, which offers specialisation in Jazz, Historical Performance, Music Theory, and Conduction. There are also numerous postgraduate programmes, including the Master of Music, Artist Diploma, and Graduate Diploma in Vocal Performance. The college also provides courses for highly talented high school students, like their Junior and Piano Accompaniment Fellowships. <ul><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.topuniversities.com/university-subject-rankings/music" rel="nofollow">QS World Rankings for Music 2025</a>: #1</li><li dir="ltr">Top Courses: Classical Instrumental &amp; Vocal Studies, Musicology, Electronic Music Composition.</li></ul> <h3 dir="ltr">Royal Academy of Music</h3>Founded in 1822 and based in the heart of London, the <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/royal-academy-of-music--london">Royal Academy of Music</a> is Britain’s oldest degree-granting music institution and a leading global conservatoire. As a constituent college of the University of London, it combines deep musical tradition with modern artistic training. Students benefit from one-on-one lessons, small-group teaching, and a broad range of performance, composition, and academic studies designed to prepare them for diverse careers in music, from solo performance to creative entrepreneurship. The Academy is known for its strong international reputation and has produced renowned alumni across the music world.  <ul><li dir="ltr">QS World Rankings for Music 2025: #2 </li><li dir="ltr">Top Courses: Performance (Classical &amp; Contemporary), Composition, Music Education &amp; Pedagogy</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr">Guildhall School of Music &amp; Drama (London, UK)</h3><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london/guildhall-school-of-music-drama">The Guildhall School of Music &amp; Drama</a> is one of the most prestigious, oldest, and top music schools in London and worldwide. It was founded in 1880 as the first music school in Great Britain.  The school offers a wide range of music programmes for students of all ages, from short courses, summer schools, and workshops for those under and above 18 years old to various postgraduate studies and many bachelor's degrees in music.  Courses offered by this school for undergraduates include BMus – Bachelor of Music Honours, which is a bachelor’s programme that offers intensive, personalised training for performers, composers, and electronic musicians, with a strong emphasis on developing practical musicianship.  Furthermore, a two-year online course called Guildhall Young Artists Online provides foreign musicians with a unique opportunity to experience the first year of the Guildhall School's BMus programme through an advanced two-year online study. <ul><li dir="ltr">QS World Rankings for Music 2025: #3.</li><li dir="ltr">Top Courses: Performance, Composition, Conducting, and Music Therapy.</li></ul> <h3 dir="ltr">Conservatoire de Paris (Paris, France)</h3><a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/france/paris">Conservatoire de Paris</a> is one of the best music schools in the world and the oldest as well, as it was founded in 1795. This school has nurtured legendary musicians, including Hector Berlioz, Frédéric Chopin, Pierre Monteux, Maurice Ravel, and Maurice André. The school provides specialised training and programmes at the highest level in different music fields, including Classical and Contemporary Music (instrumental, vocal, early music, jazz), Composition, Conducting, and Musicology.<ul><li dir="ltr">QS World Rankings for Music 2025: #4</li><li dir="ltr">Top Courses: Classical music performance (instrumental and vocal), Composition, and Conducting.</li></ul> <h3 dir="ltr">Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM)</h3>Founded in 1973, the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) is one of the UK’s leading conservatoires, located in the heart of Manchester. The institution has built a strong international reputation for excellence in performance-led music education and professional training. RNCM offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across performance, composition, conducting, and music research, with a strong emphasis on live performance, industry engagement, and career preparation within the global music scene. <ul><li dir="ltr">QS World Rankings for Music 2025: #5</li><li dir="ltr">Top Courses: BMus (Hons) in Performance and Composition, Popular Music, and Vocal Studies &amp; Opera</li></ul> <h3 dir="ltr">Juilliard School (New York, USA)</h3>Established in 1905 in New York City, Juilliard School ranks highly among the best music schools in the world. The school was first founded as the Institute of Musical Art and was named Juilliard after Augustus D. Juilliard in 1946. The school offers undergraduate and postgraduate music degrees, where you will learn everything about Instruments, Vocal arts, Jazz Studies, Historical Performance, Composition, and orchestral conduction. <ul><li dir="ltr">QS World Rankings for Music 2025: #6</li><li dir="ltr">Top Courses: Composition, Conduction, and Jazz Studies.</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr"> </h3><h3 dir="ltr">The Royal Danish Academy of Music</h3>Founded in 1867, the Royal Danish Academy of Music is Denmark’s oldest and most prestigious music institution. Based in Copenhagen, the academy is known for its strong grounding in European classical traditions alongside contemporary and experimental music practices. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and postgraduate programmes in performance, composition, conducting, and music pedagogy, attracting students seeking a rigorous academic and artistic environment within Scandinavia. <ul><li dir="ltr">QS World Rankings for Music 2025: #7</li><li dir="ltr">Top Courses: Classical Performance, Composition, Conducting</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr"> </h3><h3 dir="ltr">Curtis Institute of Music</h3>Founded in 1924, the Curtis Institute of Music is one of the most selective and elite music schools in the world. Located in Philadelphia, Curtis is unique for offering full-tuition scholarships to all admitted students, ensuring that admission is based solely on artistic merit. The institute focuses on training exceptional performers, composers, and conductors through intensive one-on-one instruction and frequent professional-level performance opportunities. <ul><li dir="ltr">QS World Rankings for Music 2025: #8</li><li dir="ltr">Top Courses: Instrumental Performance, Conducting, Composition</li></ul> <h3 dir="ltr">Sibelius Academy, University of the Arts Helsinki</h3>Founded in 1882, the Sibelius Academy is Finland’s most renowned music institution and a key part of the University of the Arts Helsinki. Named after composer Jean Sibelius, the academy is internationally recognised for its high academic standards and artistic excellence. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs with a strong focus on classical performance, composition, music education, and artistic research. <ul><li dir="ltr">QS World Rankings for Music 2025: #9</li><li dir="ltr">Top Courses: Classical Music Performance, Composition, Music Education</li></ul> <h3 dir="ltr">Moscow State Conservatory P. I. Tchaikovsky (Moscow, Russia)</h3>Moscow State Conservatory P. I. Tchaikovsky is one of the best music schools in the world. The school was established in 1866 by Nikolai Rubinstein as the first music conservatory in Russia, and it quickly proved itself as a leading centre for musical education. The conservatory provides a range of departments that offer a wide range of disciplines, including Vocal Studies, which focuses on teaching and developing vocal techniques and principles. Orchestral Conducting, which specialises in choral and opera performances. In addition to Historical Theory, which is dedicated to studying and teaching music history and theories. Over the years, the school has nurtured important musical figures, such as Sergei Rachmaninoff, Sviatoslav Richter, and Valery Gergiev. <ul><li dir="ltr">World ranking: #10</li><li dir="ltr">Top Courses: Performance (classical), Composition, Conducting, Musicology, Music Theory.</li></ul> <h2 dir="ltr">Choosing the Best Music School for You</h2>So there you have it. These were some of the world’s top music schools, along with all the reasons that make each of these schools special. The information presented here should help you make an informed decision about your musical future. Now, it's time to turn those dreams into beautiful melodies. If you’d like to know more about other top universities in the world, check out our additional <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog">blog</a> resources, such as Cracking <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/ucas-conservatoires-complete-guide">UCAS Conservatoires: Your Complete Guide</a>, <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/top-universities-in-the-uk-and-how-to-find-yours">Top Universities in the UK and How to Find Yours</a>, and <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/top-computer-science-universities-in-the-uk">Top Computer Science Universities in the UK</a>, about their rankings, top courses, and acceptance rates!

Best Music Schools in the World: Ranks, Courses, and More!

Check out a list of the best music schools in the world. Everything you need to know about music schools; ranks, courses, acceptance rate, and more.

Some might think that when calling “choosing Christmas gifts,” art is a bit of an exaggeration, but when you think about it, it’s an accurate description of how this matter shouldn’t be taken lightly! One of the best ways of communication is giving someone a gift, and by default, the choice of this gift. Presents are words waiting to be read and interpreted by the receiver. We eagerly monitor the effect of our offerings on the recipient to see if they were understood, appreciated, and well-received. Thinking of the proper message and then manifesting it to the perfect Christmas present is an art of seeing beyond material things and through people simultaneously. As you’re sitting in your student room panicking about shopping for Christmas gifts for your loved ones, whether it’s for Secret Santa and boxing day or for regular Christmas gifts' exchange, here are some things for you to consider to turn that stressful task into an art that they will appreciate.<h2 style="text-align: center;">Pre-Choosing Tips &amp; Tricks</h2><h3>1. Character Digging</h3>Knowing the personality of who you’re gifting is integral to getting something they will genuinely appreciate. Bearing in mind the person’s interests, from the TV shows they’re obsessed with, to their favorite artists. Are they that jokester friend who would love a gift that makes them laugh out loud? If they’re interested in astrological signs, it’ll be even easier to know what they’re like.Start making a Christmas wishlist of each person’s interests to make it easier. Their social media could be their wishlist in the palm of your hands! Doing a little social media stalking to find out the person’s character could be beneficial at this stage. Realistically speaking, who doesn’t have posts with captions like “I need this in my life!”<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11122019024644PM-shutterstock_628640720.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="different characters funny fingers" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h3>2. Weigh The Relationship</h3>One of the most important things to consider while selecting a Christmas gift is the type of relationship you have with this person. Is it a close friend? A family member? A colleague? Your roommate? This will help you choose the proper gift depending on how well you know them. You definitely wouldn’t get your mother the same thing you get for a colleague! Think about the person’s place in your life and what they mean to you and tailor your present to what you come up with! It will help determine whether to make it personal or nothing more than a nice gesture.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11122019024721PM-shutterstock_290402693.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="weighing relationship before choosing your Christmas gift" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h3>3. Go The Extra Mile &amp; Be Thoughtful</h3>It is more thoughtful to get someone something they need rather than something they want. Turn on your observation goggles whenever you’re with any of your loved ones and try to figure out what they need since they’re just like you, international students living away from home. Being attentive to people’s needs is bound to make them feel special and cared for. Just imagine their surprise when they get something they have been needing and how touched they would be that you noticed!<h2 style="text-align: center;">The Art of Gifting In-Action</h2>Now that you have an idea for what you should be focusing on, it’s now time to get down to business! Here’s how you ace Christmas gifts this year:<h3>1. Think Outside the Box!</h3>Since Christmas comes once a year, don’t be afraid to get a little creative to make it extra special! Who said gifts can only be tangible objects? Experiences can be offered as gifts too. Book tickets to a Christmas show or concert for that friend who is obsessed with Christmas songs and parties! If there’s no parties or events near you, purchase them a month of subscription to their favorite music mobile app. You can also buy them a 3-month GYM membership if they’re into fitness.Time is one of the greatest gifts you can give, especially in the midst of all the hectic stress of studying and exams, so take the time to cook a homemade meal for your friend then take them skating and laugh at each other’s poor skating skills!Do you have that one family member who always says they don’t need anything for Christmas? Surprise them by making a donation under their name to a charity! While you’re doing that social media stalking trick, write down a quote the person admires and plaster it on a throw pillow or a mug! Just try to think of unusual things that will make an unforgettable Christmas gift.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11122019024834PM-shutterstock_717510808.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="students opening Christmas gifts" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h3>2. Show Your Care &amp; Get Creative</h3>Does your roommate seem to be always suffering from a cold? Put together a ‘Christmas Care Package’ full of the things they still need and run out quickly! Make a Christmas gift basket for that friend who’s been going through a tough time lately and fill it with their favorite chocolates and motivational quotes to cheer them up. Did you go to your friend’s student room and noticed something missing?Even if it’s a cute throw pillow or scented candle, it’ll make them feel less homesick. If your colleague keeps talking about how much they miss home, don’t be afraid to get personal by printing portraits of their family photos for them to hang on their room’s wall or stick it to their desk’s sticky board! They will feel noticed and loved, and who knows, it could even make that colleague turn into a best friend!<h3>3. Try Artistic DIYs!</h3>Since they have plenty of thought, time, and effort put into them, handmade presents never fail to make a person feel special. This literally turns your Christmas gifts into art! If you’re a good artist, don’t hesitate to send your mother a portrait of a family picture. Love to bake? Make your dorm buddy a batch of their favorite cookies and leave it on their doorstep or desk with a lovely card, and the mouthwatering smell will do the rest!Is writing lyrics and composing songs one of your hobbies? Put together a short Christmas song, grab your guitar, and play it for someone who would appreciate music as the best artistic Christmas gift. Whatever it is, remember that gifts are not valued for how expensive they are, but for how well-thought they are!For more DIY Christmas ideas, read our <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/diy-christmas-student-rooms-decorations" target="_blank">DIY Christmas Student Rooms Decorations</a> blog post.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11122019024913PM-shutterstock_348812570.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="Student DIYs Christmas gifts ideas" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h3> 4. Finish Strong!</h3>The presentation is everything! Even if you have the perfect Christmas gift, the way you present it is the key to leaving a long-lasting effect. Putting thought into packaging will not be a waste of time when you watch the person’s excitement as they see how pretty it is! Don’t be afraid to go crazy with simple wrapping paper and making different shapes and styles with it. It’s always fun to put together a little scavenger hunt for the person to find their gift, it will build their anticipation and excitement. You can take revenge from that prankster friend who was torturing you all year by orchestrating an awesome prank that leads to their Christmas present!<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11122019024942PM-shutterstock_500798452.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="Christmas gifts wrapping creative ideas" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil">In a nutshell, mastering the art of choosing gifts doesn’t come easy, that’s why we have 365 days to prepare adequately. Making people happy with how considerate you are will give you the best Christmas joy you could ask for. Let’s face it, having a reputation as being a great gift-giver is a plus, indeed!

The Art of Choosing Christmas Gifts

Choosing a gift that matches the occasion, character, and budget is not easy, while also bearing in mind weighing the relationship adequately.

The countdown has begun! Do Regular decorations satisfy your hungry Christmas spirit? With the holiday season on the horizon, it is time to spend some time decorating your student room. As your student room is now your private kingdom away from home, you probably wouldn’t like leaving dull during the holiday season. Splashing some Christmassy vibrant decorations will surely set the mood with positive vibes, and it’s actually scientifically proven! Psychologist Deborah Serani confirmed that decorating creates a neurological shift that produces happiness, as for Christmas decorations, she states that it “will spike dopamine, a feel-good hormone.” All those lights and colors increase energy levels, and that’s why we can’t help but smile when we first light up a Christmas tree!While most student halls do not allow nailing pictures or decorations on the wall, there are multiple creative solutions to create your creative yet straightforward Christmas haven.<h2>1. Try the ‘Candy Effect’</h2>Regular Christmas trees are usually decorated using simple balls and star ornaments. While these regular shapes might feel nostalgic and essential, there are other creative ways to decorate your Christmas tree with your flatmates. Try adding candy-colored decorations to your tree, or better yet, add in a mix of real candies. Try adding a Nestle Runts Cane as an ornament you can eat, or buy one of Amazon’s famous <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Shinyee-Christmas-Ornaments-Clear-8cm-3-14in-12/dp/B07TBSCWKK/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=clear+ornament+fillable&amp;qid=1575021773&amp;s=kitchen&amp;sr=1-4" rel="nofollow">clear plastic ornament balls</a> that you can fill with anything. Gather around it with your flatmates and open the candies and eat them in turns, It’s funnier when you share which flavor did each of you get.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/09122019060739PM-shutterstock_114877261.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="Christmas candy for student room decoration" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>2. Decorate Your Bath Towels</h2>A unique experience starts by focusing on the details, and nothing is more detailed than decorating your bath towels to fit the Christmas mood. You don’t need to trim your every sheet, only choose one or two towels that you intend to hang during Christmas. Use outdoor acrylic paint and sturdy brushes to draw the shapes you wish to keep on your sheet. You could simply draw a tree, candies, and Christmas socks. If you are sure about your artistic skills, try drawing Santa Claus with his reindeers. If you’re not sure about this, you can buy a Christmas bath mat and hang some decorations in the bathroom mirror. Looking at it in the morning will make your whole day.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/09122019060822PM-shutterstock_7681288.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="Christmas bath towels for students" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>3. Use Fillable Alphabets!</h2>Whether you are sharing your student room with others or living in it alone, you probably have a table that needs Christmassy decorations somewhere. Use fillable alphabets for just that; they are mostly found in DIY shops like <a href="https://www.hobbycraft.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">Hobby Croft</a> in the UK, and you can choose a couple of simple letters to buy. Fill these letters with stars, balls, and snow-shaped confetti, and you will get a Christmas decoration like no other. You can always refill them with something else after the holiday season is over. This way, you win a year-long room decoration that you can play around on different occasions. Try to get 4-5 initials and see if you can make a word out of them; name your student gang by it!<h2>4. Bake Your Wall Decoration!</h2>Wall decorations might seem impossible since you can’t use nails in your student room. In general, you can blue-tack or tape Christmas decorations to the wall, so they’re easily removed when the holidays are over. What do you wish to hang on the wall, though? If you do not want to hang tinsel wreaths and stars, you can make your creative wall decorations using polymer clay. Unlike regular clay, polymer clay is baked in the oven after it is shaped, and as it hardens, it retains its shape and color for years. Make use of that oven in your student flat and buy some polymer clay to shape with your flatmates. It is easy to find in craft stores, and you can shape it into anything you want, a star, a snowflake, a Christmas tree, or maybe even Merry Christmas letters. Whatever you try, you will enjoy the process, and the results will be spectacular.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/09122019061433PM-shutterstock_1551441944.jpg" style="width: 356.976px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; float: left; margin: 5px 10px 5px 0px; left: 5px;" alt="Polymer clay Christmas tree" fr-original-style="width: 356.976px;" fr-original-class="fr-fil fr-dii"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/09122019061500PM-shutterstock_1364103029.jpg" style="width: 329.99px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="Christmas handmade snowman" fr-original-style="width: 329.99px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>5. Sway and Spice Christmas Lights!</h2>Nothing screams festive more than good old-fashioned Christmas lights, but there are more creative ways to include them in your student room. Try hanging lights in short strings dangling from the ceiling along with some ornaments to make it seem like it’s raining tiny balls of lights! You can create a Christmas tree out of string lights on the wall instead of taking up space for an actual tree. Some students even hang family pictures instead of the usual balls and star ornaments, so start gathering some cherished family pictures of yours! Christmas lights can also come in the shape of candles with popular Christmas scents like pine, cinnamon, or gingerbread. They don’t only create a pretty decoration, but they give your room a warm and cozy atmosphere. If you’re not allowed to have candles in your student room, search for LED candles with festive drawings to give you a similar vibe.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/09122019061009PM-shutterstock_331918706.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="creative Christmas lights for student room" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>6. Snazz Up Your Room’s Door!</h2>This is one of the most popular things to do to decorate a student room for Christmas, but you can always find new, creative ways to bring to the table. Why not make your door look like a present by covering it with festive wrapping paper with a ribbon to create a bow? Love gingerbread houses, but baking them takes too much time and effort? Why not recreate them on your door with cotton balls for snow, some wrapping paper, and of course, sticker of the gingerbread man. People will crave some gingerbread cookies by just passing your door! You can hang a snowman on the door, whether it’s a sticker or a DIY one, by using white cups taped to the door in its shape! If you’re a fan of Christmas songs and they are always stuck in your head, hang your favorite lyrics on the door with some decorations to get people to sing along as they pass by!<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/09122019060904PM-shutterstock_503559868.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="creative student door Christmas decoration" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>7. Take Advantage of Dull Surfaces!</h2>Every unattractive surface in your student room is a chance for creative Christmas decorations! For example, you can turn your fridge to a snowman with some simple stickers, or you can cover it with festive wrapping paper! Your windows are another way to get creative by hanging or sticking snowflake-shaped decorations on it or sprinkling fake snow on the edges. It’s a great way to not only create a Christmas vibe for yourself but to show off your creativity to students passing by the building.The most essential thing while decorating your student room for Christmas is not to be afraid to think outside the box and try new things. If you want to go all out on decorating your room without breaking the bank, check out our blog on <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/diy-christmas-student-rooms-decorations" target="_blank">DIY Christmas Student Rooms Decorations</a> to save up on cash!

7 Creative Ways to Decorate Your Student Room for Christmas

Do Regular decorations satisfy your hungry Christmas spirit? With the holiday season on the horizon, it is time for decorating your student room!

There is no doubt that the recent technological development has revolutionized this decade’s social communication. The whole world has become in the palm of our hands. However, it also changed general human nature and behavior. For example, are your eyes always glued to your mobile screen? Does your free time consist of endless scrolling between the same three or four apps? Do you feel anxious and fidgety when you haven’t checked your phone for fifteen minutes? Does that notification sound has you jumping to reach for your phone no matter what you’re doing? Are your grades dropping rapidly because you just can’t focus? If your answer is yes, then you most likely have an addiction to social media!Students nowadays are obsessed with posting every detail of their lives and how many likes or comments they get on their posts. Someone could make a post on Instagram or Facebook and spend the entire day monitoring people’s reactions and counting likes instead of doing something productive. It could go back to how social media presence is now related to how ‘cool’ someone is, and getting the most likes or retweets is, in a way, code for being accepted and welcomed into society. So if you’re a college freshman, you’ll probably try your hardest to make it into the ‘cool kids crowd’ thinking it’s the way to make friends, but it’s definitely not because actually talking to people and being yourself is the way to gain true, lifelong friends.This sort of addiction to social media is proved to cause negative impacts specifically on students, as it’s time-consuming and affects their academic performance. Even when we’re studying, we are all guilty of peeping our phones to check for social media notifications every 5 minutes, but do you ever wonder why? Here are some reasons why you just can’t help yourself, and neither can we:<h2>1. More Than a Wi-Fi Connection </h2>When we’re searching frantically for a Wi-Fi network to connect to, we’re actually looking for much more than that; it’s the human connection that we’re seeking. Social media was created to bring people closer to one another and it’s one of its most addictive traits. Humans are social by nature, and platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat make that so much easier. Mark Zuckerberg described Facebook as being “at the intersection of technology and psychology, and it’s very personal.”Finding people on social media that are like-minded or seeing a post that you and others can relate to, makes you feel like you’re not alone in your life experiences. That’s why we constantly share specks of our lives, like pictures of the places we are in or visit, the food we’re eating, and our daily accomplishments or opinions. Something as simple as receiving the ‘like’ button satisfies our inherent human need to be in touch with others and be accepted. This need multiplies if you’re an international student, of course, since you’re away from home, family, and friends, and the desire to be accepted increases.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/01122019034954PM-interaction-on-social-media-relation-to-college-popularity-2019.jpg" style="width: 400px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="interaction on social media relation to college popularity 2019" fr-original-style="width: 400px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>2. Taking Off your Invisibility Cloak </h2>Do you find it difficult to share your opinions and feelings in your class, in groups, or at home? Does it make you feel invisible and unheard of? If you’re naturally a shy person, social media could be your safe space to express yourself and create your own world. Social platforms have the perk of allowing you to pick exactly the type of people you want to interact with and the type of content you want to be exposed to so that you can share your thoughts about it. The idea of privacy and anonymity that exists in social media will make you feel safe in doing so without receiving any judgment. That feeling of freedom of expression without the complications of real-life interactions is one of the best things about social media platforms and it could be addictive. However, anonymity is considered to be one of both the pros and cons of social media when people start taking advantage of it in ways that are harmful, so make sure you are being careful while interacting with strangers online.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/01122019035027PM-anonymous-students-social-media-2019.jpg" style="width: 400px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="anonymous students social media 2019" fr-original-style="width: 400px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>3. You’re Doing Amazing, Sweetie!</h2>Another human need that social media fulfills is the need of receiving validation. Sharing your achievements, whether personal or practical, on social platforms usually has one goal: to receive attention and praise, which is completely normal. As a teenager, you might often feel a need to be seen and validated by someone who isn’t family! Being praised by strangers gives us a kind of satisfaction that differs from that of the people we see every day. Who doesn’t like hearing that they’re doing a great job or that they are looking good? Many studies show that getting likes, retweets or shares on a social media post releases the happiness hormone in the brain, Dopamine. This is because the natural need to be seen and validated is met, giving the brain positive reinforcement that could actually be addictive. This explains how it could turn to an obsession of craving a constant stream of those notifications to get your daily dose of happiness!On the other hand, there are other ways to get that dose of happiness without obsessing over post engagement. Social media platforms have a fun side to them that makes them more enjoyable than wasting them on popularity contests. It can be a place you go to cheer yourself up by watching silly videos of babies and animals, laughing about the newest meme being passed around with relatable captions, sharing your love for an artist with other fans, or asking for opinions on anything you’re dealing with.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/01122019035204PM-students-having-fun-on-social-media.jpg" style="width: 400px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="students having fun on social media" fr-original-style="width: 400px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>4. Keeping Up with the World</h2>One of the reasons you can’t put down your phone is this era’s growing urge to stay updated with everything going on. Dan Herman, a marketing strategist, marked it as a modern-day phenomenon and gave it the name “the fear of missing out (FOMO)”. People always want to stay up-to-date with the latest news or trends as to not feel excluded, especially with the world moving so fast and not waiting for anyone to catch up. It’s why social media has live streams and live posts of important events, so even if you don’t have time to catch the news, it’s all there in your back pocket. You can make use of these essential benefits when you want to stay posted with how things are at home. It also helps you keep up with updates in your university, your student accommodation event groups and pages, or college study groups on various social media platforms. Staying updated also strengthens the previously mentioned need for human connection since people usually do it to be in touch and not feel left out.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/01122019035110PM-pros-and-cons-of-social-media-2019.jpg" style="width: 400px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="pros and cons of social media 2019" fr-original-style="width: 400px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>5. Me, Myself, and I</h2>Studies show that people enjoy talking about themselves the most, so there’s no point in trying to deny it! However, the idea of constantly talking about yourself in real life is socially unacceptable. Social media platforms give you that luxury without raising doubts that you are a narcissist because that’s what they are made for! It’s where people can narrate their everyday life, memories, hopes, and dreams freely. Research shows that this self-driven communication stimulates the brain’s pleasure centers. This is why you just can’t help but share what you’ve had for breakfast or how much you’re stressed about your midterms! You can use this wisely by checking up on your friends if they’re posting about feeling down, help someone complaining about a subject that you’re ace-ing and starting study groups. Sharing study materials with one another is also another way of communicating with your college friends, some even post their hour-by-hour achievements to motivate one another. As a student, having effective study strategies might be tiresome, so using some help from extra-organized students by sharing your study plans with them will help you a lot. To learn more, read our <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/24-hours-to-improving-studying-strategies" target="_blank">24 Hours to Improving Studying Strategies</a> blog article.<h2>6. Sweet Escape</h2>Feeling the pressure of starting a new academic year or the stress from the amount of preparation you have to do? This is probably why you try to distract yourself by constantly being on social media. It can become problematic if you’re not careful when you use it as a coping mechanism for the problems you have. It’s a common reason for social media addiction since people use social platforms to escape stress, depression, or loneliness. It gives them feelings of reward and validation they don’t receive in their real lives. However, it’s a slippery slope and could cause more harm than good, so try to put down the phone and talk to a friend instead or leave your phone at home and visit your favorite place.Ultimately, even though social media is important in every student’s life, if you think that its influence is starting to get in the way of your studying and academic performance, then you have to take a step back and think about how to combat the issue. Take a look at our <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/4-study-hacks-to-avoid-distractions" target="_blank">Study Hacks to Avoid Distractions</a> blog article for more guidance.

Addicted to Social Media? 6 Reasons We Just Can't Stop

The whole world has become in the palm of our hands; however, it also changed general human behavior. Why students can't stop social media addiction?

<ol start="1" type="1"><li>Almost 40% of USA companies missed international business opportunities because they don’t have internationally competent personnel. In other words, they don’t have employees coming from different countries with various cultural backgrounds. When a company does have that sort of environment, it is more likely to land worldwide business opportunities due to the fact that having employees who speak foreign languages makes it easier for them to build strong relationships with clients, customers, and suppliers.</li></ol><ol start="2" type="1"><li>Australia has witnessed a remarkable rise in the number of international students enrolling in its nation's universities and vocational institutions in 2019. It reached 812,000 international students, approx. 20% of the overall student enrollment in the country, which makes it higher than the percentage of international students enrolled in universities in other leading educational countries.</li></ol><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/26112019025013PM-info2.jpg" style="width: 1000px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="Infographic" fr-original-style="width: 1000px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"><ol start="3" type="1"><li>A student survey in the UK has shown that 80% of students constantly worry about money and 1 in 6 students have never budgeted. International students now spend an average of £816 each month, which is £37 more than in 2018.</li></ol><ol start="4" type="1"><li>Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States together host 36% of all foreign students worldwide, which means that they’re the 3 top university student countries on a global scale. This figure indicates that these countries excel at the great student study experiences, ease of admission process, effective student-teacher interactions, world-class quality of programmes, students diversity, quality of students life, increasing career development, campus infrastructure, and manageable cost of living.</li></ol><ol start="5" type="1"><li>The number of students who study abroad is still on the rise on a yearly basis, as it rises by 10% annually. The largest share of international students in the United States is from China. This year marked an increase of 1.7 per cent in the number of Chinese students attending US universities, approximately, 369,548 students enrolled.</li></ol>

Infographic: 5 New Stats About International Students

Check our infographic showing some interesting stats about international students.

Finding somewhere to live as a student studying abroad can be challenging. Various points are to be considered when choosing your room. What are the student room types available is one of the most basic yet critical questions, and knowing which one suits your personality best is not to be taken lightly either. Deciding on which facilities to share and which ones to remain private is a cornerstone to your university life. Are you fine with sharing your kitchen and bathroom with flatmates, or is it too much to handle? Do you prefer living in a spacious room to stretch out, or you find it cosy to be living in a petite room?Each room type in a student home usually grants you a different benefit. Weighing the pros and cons of each room type is no crime; on the contrary, it will make it easier for you to decide and not have second thoughts. Thinking this over and over is totally fine, but cancellation might not be an option. If you might be stuck in a room for a year till you can change it, you might want to think twice if not thrice about it. To get to the chase, we might need to evaluate why international students, just studying abroad as you do, care about room types?<h2>1. They are a Good Place to Communicate with Others</h2>When it comes to choosing your student room, social bees search for a place to communicate and bond with other like-minded students rather than a place to study and spend the night at. Luckily, there are two room types suitable for you if you’re one of these social and interactive students: a single room and an en-suite room. They’re both the perfect choice for you if you are into socialising with others. Your communal kitchen will always be full of memories, and funny situations will always be your thing after your long university day. These rooms are typically located within a large flat with two bedrooms or more, and the kitchen and living area are shared in both types. The single room comes with a shared bathroom and kitchen facilities. It is typically booked by a group of friends wanting to share the same flat.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/26112019083059AM-students-communicating-in-their-student-room.jpg" style="width: 450px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="students communicating in their student room" fr-original-style="width: 450px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"> <h2>2. They Provide a Chance to Depend on Yourself</h2>Your student room can be a place where you can enjoy your quiet time and learn to depend on yourself. While living abroad alone is enough for you to feel independent, the responsibilities you have to handle in certain room types are definitely more of a challenge than others. If you choose to live a year in a studio or a flat, you will most likely have more opportunities to feel independent. You will have to calculate your home essentials alone, manage your budget, clean, organize, and even cook. Flats and studios are both self-contained and mainly accept single occupancy only. Some might have double occupancy as well; however, that is the maximum number of tenants for these room types. Flats are generally fully-furnished apartments with plenty of space, a separate bathroom, and a kitchen while Studios are usually fully-furnished rooms, slightly larger than the standard rooms, with a private bathroom and an open-plan kitchen. <img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/26112019083145AM-independent-student-in-her-student-room.jpg" style="width: 450px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="independent student in her student room" fr-original-style="width: 450px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"> <h2>3. They Help You Create Irreplaceable Memories </h2>Sharing a living area with strangers is not the only available option; you could also share your room with your friends or your couple. Your student room could be the place where you form an unbreakable bond with your friend and have fun till dawn. If you and your friend are ready to jump on the plane together, booking a twin student room together is the best choice. Twin rooms usually have two beds, workspaces, and a double wardrobe to fit your clothes.On the other hand, If you are travelling with a group of friends, it might be better to check out a more affordable option like a quadruple or a triple room where you can all share a room with three or four beds. You could even try sharing a triple room with new students if you wish to form a strong bond with a roommate from a different culture. Whoever you end up with at this student room, you are bound to share a lot and grow closer by the end of the year. If you are open-minded and willing to challenge yourself to a higher level of communication than just day to day communication, these room types are for you.Another option you could check is the double room. Shared with only one person and one bed, double rooms are a perfect choice for couples travelling together. It is where you can enjoy a journey that is unlike any other with your significant other. It could even be a trial of how you both could manage to live together in the future. Double rooms are generally affordable with a double bed, a workspace, or two, and a wardrobe.In conclusion, choosing the best room type depends on two important factors, understanding the different room types available and understanding your personality and your preferences. It might benefit you to understand the terminologies you come across in the process of looking for your student room. Try reading <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/whats-allinclusive-bills" target="_blank">What is All-Inclusive Bills?</a> and <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/student-accommodation-terminology" target="_blank">Student Accommodation Terminology</a> blogs to learn more about the student accommodation world.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/26112019083301AM-students-studying-together-in-their-student-accommodation.jpg" style="width: 450px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="students studying together in a shared room" fr-original-style="width: 450px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil">

Why Students Care About Room Types?

As an international student, choosing a room type is a bit overwhelming. Here are some of the reasons why you should care about room types to decide.

One of the most important things to consider when moving to Australia is opening a bank account that will be used as your everyday bank account and can be used for international money transactions, paying your bills, and managing your<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia" target="_blank"> student accommodation in Australia</a>. Figuring out the best student bank accounts in Australia is easy peasy if you know exactly what to consider.Comparing student bank accounts, savings accounts, and credit cards features is exactly what you need to do, so here is a list of the banks that offer transactional accounts:<h2>1. Westpac - Westpac Choice Student  </h2>The Westpac Choice Student account suits full-time students looking for a fee-free account with a major bank.Benefits? You can open your account online up to 12 months before your arrival, transfer money from anywhere around the world, shop securely online by using a Debit Mastercard linked to your Choice account, and manage your money on-the-go with award-winning mobile banking services.You will also pay no withdrawal fee at any major bank ATM in Australia, like Westpac, Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, NAB, St.George, Bank of Melbourne and BankSA. You will enjoy unlimited free transactions online, over the phone, in-branch, or via BPAY.The overseas ATM access is with $0 account fee. However, if you want to withdraw money overseas, it will cost you a $5 ATM fee and 3% foreign exchange commission.<h2>2. ANZ - ANZ Student Access Advantage </h2>The <a href="https://www.anz.com.au/personal/bank-accounts/everyday-accounts/access-advantage/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ANZ Student Access Advantage</a> account keeps your money secure while being easily accessible for everyday spending. It is the best bank account for a teenager in Australia, as it comes with a $0 account fee. To be eligible, you’ll need to be a full-time student and present a valid student card to an ANZ agent at the beginning of each year.Your debit card could be used to make withdrawals at overseas ATMs, but consider that it costs $5 ATM fee and 3% foreign exchange commission.<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/19082020080337AM-sales_banner.jpg" style="width: 838px; height: 120px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="Student Housing in Australia" fr-original-style="width: 838px; height: 120px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"></a> <h2>3. Commonwealth Bank - Student Smart Access </h2>It is one of Australia's oldest and largest banks. It allows you to open an account if you are arriving in Australia within 3 months. <a href="https://www.commbank.com.au/banking/students.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Commonwealth Bank</a> has a $0 monthly fee, which makes it perfect for students who want to use a day-to-day transaction account. You can securely use your debit card to shop in stores or online with free access to exclusive offers and competitions.The bank grants a <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/are-you-eligible-for-free-healthcare-in-the-uk" target="_blank">free health check</a> that helps you figure out the best banking services that meet your needs. Also, you can track and organise your money from anywhere by using the <a href="https://www.commbank.com.au/digital-banking" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CommBank app</a> with the <a href="https://www.commbank.com.au/digital-banking" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spend Tracker</a> to monitor your student budget.<h2>4. NAB - NAB Classic Banking  </h2>The <a href="https://www.nab.com.au" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NAB Classic Banking</a> account is literally so: a classic everyday banking account. It has no monthly account fees, no overdrawn fees, and no direct ATM fees from any NAB or rediATMs. You can effortlessly access your account through the internet and phone banking services. At no extra cost, you can possess a VISA debit card to shop wherever Visa is accepted. It is noteworthy to mention that with the NAB classic account lets you do your ordinary banking from any Australia Post office. This NAB student account has the foreign exchange commission of 3% and an overseas ATM withdrawal fee of $5. It also comes with NAB Defence security promise, letting you know that your account is shielded against fraud. You could always just link to a NAB isaver and transfer cash over whenever you need it. It is one of the best student savings accounts.<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/19082020080744AM-sales_banner2.jpg" style="width: 838px; height: 120px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="Student homes in Australia" fr-original-style="width: 838px; height: 120px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"></a> <h2>5. Citibank - Citibank Plus Everyday Account</h2>It is one of the <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/best-student-banks-in-australia" target="_blank">best banks in Australia</a> with an extensive ATMs network across Australia. The Citi Plus account lets you enjoy fee-free banking in Australia with no monthly account fee and free ATM withdrawals within the Citi ATM network. Its Debit MasterCard is accepted anywhere MasterCard is accepted and it can be used for cash withdrawals at ATMs around the globe. Fee-free ATM withdrawals can be made in Australia through Citi, Westpac, St George, Bank of Melbourne, and Bank SA ATMs. This Citi Plus Transaction account lets you transfer money from anywhere in the world to any bank account worldwide for free or to an overseas Citi account instantly.Finally, here are some of the most common questions when it comes to student bank accounts in Australia<h2 dir="ltr" style="">FAQs:</h2><h2 style="font-weight: bold;">1. Can I open a bank account in Australia as a student?</h2>Yes, definitely. All you need is a passport, an active email address, and your arrival date in Australia (three months beforehand). You must complete the form on the bank's website and provide information such as your passport number and expiration date.<h3>2. When should I get a student bank account?</h3>Before you enter university, it is sensible to open a student account, especially if you plan to apply for student loans, as the funds will be deposited straight into your bank account.<h3>3. Why are student bank accounts good?</h3>The benefits of a student bank account include that it is created exclusively to meet their needs and to make the financial aspects of university life less difficult. It will also aid them in managing their finances and <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/reduce-your-cost-of-living-in-australia">reducing the cost of living in Australia</a>.There you have it! These are the best student banks in Australia that will help you manage your finances, your money, and your life in Australia!

Best Student Banks in Australia

Having a student bank account is essential to manage your daily transactions while living abroad.

Student Finance

When booking your student room and starting your new aca`demic year or starting your whole university life experience, you usually have some expectations on how your life as an independent student studying abroad will look like, but the reality, as it turns out, is slightly different. Whether these expectations are ours, our parents’ or friends’, we still fall under the myth of having to control everything in our lives as students. We’re here to assure you that we’ve all been there, every student who moves to join university whether in an on-campus or off-campus student accommodation at least had experienced one the things listed below.<h2>I’ll clean my room every week</h2><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11112019024249PM-Expectation-3.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px 10px 5px 0px; display: inline-block; float: left; left: 5px;" alt="Cleaning with friends" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-fil fr-dii"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/19112019025739PM-Reality-2.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: inline-block; float: none;" alt="No need to clean" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-dii">We all think that we’ll be residing in amazing apartments for college students and cleaning will be the easiest thing to do when we live by ourselves since there will be no one else to clean after or to mess up our stuff. The reality hits when you realize that you leave everything as is because you still know where everything is. So why go through the hassle of cleaning then? To avoid procrastinating more than you should, try using this golden rule of ours: anything that takes less than 10 minutes do it now.<h2>I’ll pre-cook my meals every week</h2><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11112019024714PM-Expectation-2.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px 10px 5px 0px; display: inline-block; float: left; left: 5px;" alt="student cooking in the kitchen" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-fil fr-dii"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/19112019025041PM-Reality-3.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: inline-block; float: none;" alt="Students messing in the kitchen" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-dii">We get all excited about cooking and preparing our meals a week ahead. But that’s not as easy as it seems, it needs shopping on the weekend, and preparing the ingredients beforehand, whether they’re vegetables, protein, or fruits. If you’re one of the students who love to pre-cook their meals, it might be a good idea to book a self-contained studio or an en-suite where you have a private fridge/freezer. If this option is unavailable, make sure you talk to your flatmates about organizing the fridge’s shelves with your names on it so your food won’t get mixed with theirs. And of course, there will be times when you’ll have to grab-and-go your food to catch up with the bustling student life of yours, so don’t worry, we’ve all been there.<h2>I’ll rock it with laundry</h2><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11112019025131PM-Expectation-4.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px 10px 5px 0px; display: inline-block; float: left; left: 5px;" alt="Student doing his laundry regularly" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-fil fr-dii"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/19112019025011PM-Reality-4.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: inline-block; float: none;" alt="laundry piles up" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-dii">We all think that laundry is easy to handle until it’s our to-do task. It might be a good idea to separate your clothes throughout the week, meaning when you’re storing your unclean clothes, group dark colours together since they’ll be washed separately and have the light coloured clothes in a different laundry bag. So when it’s laundry day, you won’t struggle with grouping them. Get your own laundry basket as your room will not come with one. It’s better to buy it when you arrive at your student accommodation in the city you’re going to. If you need to know where to find these easily, ask your accommodation mates. <h2>I’ll have the best roommate/flatmate</h2><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11112019025327PM-Expectation-1.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px 10px 5px 0px; display: inline-block; float: left; left: 5px;" alt="Flatmates sharing life" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-fil fr-dii"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/19112019025107PM-Reality-5.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: inline-block; float: none;" alt="flatmates fighting" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-dii">We all strive to make new friends and meet new people, but regardless of the fact that other students might not be at ease when it comes to socializing, some flatmates/roommates are not really that easy to deal/live with. You have to understand that we all come with different backgrounds and cultures, which certainly affects what we think of as friendly and what we think of as not. Feel free to read our <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/6-types-of-roommates-youll-meet-in-college-" style="">6 Types of Roommates You’ll Meet in College</a> blog post to learn more.

Student Rooms: Expectations vs Reality!

What do you expect when booking your student room? Here's a list of expectation vs reality funny facts about living in a student room.

Your initial struggles as a student usually start during your university years. Calculating each and every step and considering possible variables when making any big decision could wear your energy out if you don’t look at it from a positive angle. Being an international student studying and living away from home could make you either confused, puzzled and lost or excited, adventurous, and up to the challenge. Deciding on which one to adhere to is not an easy to task to many, as it may surprise you, some of your fellow students, if not you yourself, might hate it even.On one hand, university life comes with a set of changes that you should get accustomed to and learn how to make use of them during your university years. On the other hand, having clear objectives and goals during this critical time will determine and shape your future career prospects. To be able to view and experience it differently, think about the various benefits that university life give to you as an international student. <h2>1. It Gives You Freedom</h2>University life gives you freedom and independence to an extinct that boosts your self-confidence as you learn to be responsible for your actions and decisions. As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "With more freedom comes more responsibilities." From choosing your university major, schedules, and student accommodation, to managing your budget, laundry, and the sort. The process itself is capable of teaching you more and more about life as you grow as a student living abroad.<h2>2. It Helps You Acquire New Skills</h2>Acquiring new skills is aligned with changing your lifestyle, and that’s what happens in your university years. These skills are of a huge benefit when it comes to choosing a career path and landing a job. From interpersonal skills, critical and creative thinking ones, to organizational skills and problem-solving ones. Living in a culturally diverse community allows you to develop these skills without even being aware of it. Further, interacting with your university professors is completely different from interacting with high-school teachers, or your university classmates. Participating in student activities and presenting your ideas in group-projects are all various methods of learning more about who you truly are and by default, acquiring new skills.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/03112019054409PM-casita-student-blog-student-accommodation-university-life-(1).jpg" style="width: 457px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="Student studying" fr-original-style="width: 457px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>3. You Live in Student Residences</h2>During your university years, most probably you’ll be living in purpose-built <a href="https://www.casita.com/" target="_blank">student accommodation</a> with a close-knit community of students from different countries and distinct backgrounds. That gives you a great opportunity to interact with like-minded students, yet accept and tolerate their differences. Your flatmates in a student home are most likely foreigners from different parts of the world, which means you gain insight into their traditions and culture while living with them.<h2>4. You Join Student Societies</h2>University has a society for just about everything, societies that help you make friends, gain real-life experiences and broaden your network. Any activity you participate in during university is an excellent addition to your CV and will surely make you stand out, so pick it carefully. Also, Societies can help you land useful internships in the fields you wish to pursue after college. For example, if you’re into journal writing, join a society that’s closely related to this field, or one with fieldwork, photography and interviewing people.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/03112019054338PM-casita-student-blog-student-accommodation-university-life-(3).jpg" style="width: 535px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="Confident Students collaborating together" fr-original-style="width: 535px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>5. You Choose Your Courses </h2>One of the most important things in university that you get to choose what to study, even if it’s partially, it’s surely better than before. During school, you probably didn't have a choice in what you were studying, you just focused on your grades. But when you’re in a university, it’s more likely for you to seek your passion in a subject of your choice; you interact with people of similar interests, hobbies, and career plans. You also get to decide what courses you wish to take and drop the courses you don't like much. This really sums up some of the benefits we listed above, like freedom, responsibility and acquiring new skills.<h2>6. You Build a Solid Network</h2>One of the great benefits of university life, if not one of the main points of it all, is to build a solid network and have lots of connections. Your current colleagues are soon to become future business connections, whether in the same field or in other ones strongly related to yours. Also, your student home flatmates and professors will provide valuable assets to help you in your career and life journey after university.<h2>7. You Have Various Career Options</h2>In 2016, according to the Department of Education in the UK, the unemployment rate of non-graduates aged between 16 and 64 was 3% higher than graduates’. These statistics show that planning your future during your university years is the best idea there is. While there are ways to land a job without a university degree, there are limits to where you'd go in your career without a university degree.<h2>8. Making Extra Money</h2>Generally, as a university graduate with the right specs, the right experience and the right CV, you are bound to land a higher paid job than a normal high school graduate. University graduates on average earn about £23,000, in the UK, 4% more than what graduates earned in 2018. Studies in the current age show that various employers refer to real skills besides a degree, but a degree is always preferable.Tell us now; what do you like the most about university life so far? Share with us your thoughts.

8 Reasons You Shouldn't Hate University Life

University life is likeable to many, yet detestable to others. It can either be puzzling and confusing or adventurous and funny. So pick yours now!

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