All applications for accommodation are processed by the Accommodation Office who will endeavour to meet your needs. If you come late through the clearing system you are not covered by the guarantee but every effort will be made to find you accommodation. If you are unable to obtain University accommodation for the beginning of the academic year, you will be given details of temporary housing until a place is found for you, usually in the first few weeks of term. While applicants are able to indicate preferences for particular residences, direct canvassing of wardens is not encouraged. You may be allocated accommodation in designated postgraduate buildings or in mainstream housing, although new undergraduates, with a guarantee of University accommodation, have priority in the allocation of places in these buildings.
Emphasis is placed on achieving an appropriate mix of academic faculties, age, sex and nationality.
It is worth noting that it is common for rooms to become available early in the academic year due to non-arrivals and cancellations. The Accommodation Office holds details of short-term lodgings available in the local area. Returning Students You will be able to apply each year to continue in University accommodation and the actual number permitted is reviewed annually. Details of this procedure are publicized in January each year. If your application is late and there are no rooms available, assistance will be given to find you temporary accommodation in the private sector, often living with a British family, to cover the initial period of your stay.