This information is about applying for accommodation at Sheffield Hallam University (SHU). We understand that due to your personal circumstances, you may have additional requirements when applying for accommodation. At the bottom of the page, please click on one of the links to take you to more specific guidance. Alternatively, if you are planning to stay at home during your studies you can visit our Guide to Commuting for advice on travelling into university. 

Accommodation at SHU 

SHU has a range of accommodation across Sheffield to suit all tastes, budgets and needs which can be viewed on Sheffield Hallam’s accommodation website . You can also take a look at the video below, which talks you through the different accommodation options.

We have a dedicated team of accommodation specialists, who are on hand to advise you and co-ordinate your accommodation. They can be contacted at accommodation@shu.ac.uk or 0114 225 5555. 

Top tips for applying for accommodation 

When choosing accommodation, consider the following: 

  • your budget 
  • how close to campus you would like to live 
  • facilities you require e.g. laundry, gym, cycle storage, car parking, etc. 
  • type of accommodation e.g. size of flat and the complex, room type: en–suite, self-contained or larger rooms
  • If you have any special requirements – please write full details in the additional notes section on your application for accommodation 
  • If you are worried about upfront costs, some of our halls have lower requirements including smaller deposits 
  • If you are choosing to live in private sector housing make sure it is SNUG registered 
  • If you need to stay in the accommodation for a period longer than the initial contract period e.g. you require 365 day accommodation 
Visiting our accommodation 

Campus and accommodation tours take place on Wednesdays between 11am and 2pm.  You can book a space on a tour here.  If you have any questions, our accommodation team would be happy to answer these at 0114 225 5555.  

 Private sector accommodation 

For more information about finding accommodation in shared student houses, or accommodation not allocated by the university, visit the university private sector housing website. This Studentpad database gives you information about Snug registered properties and can help you find good-quality, safe accommodation. 

Single gender accommodation 

Our accommodation is usually allocated on a mixed gender basis. If you require single gender accommodation, you can request this on your application with details regarding your requirement for our team to consider. Please note this cannot be guaranteed and an early application helps.  

 You can find more information on our allocation criteria here. 

Upfront Payments 

When offered accommodation you will be given a deadline to complete all payments and paperwork. 

You will be required to pay an accommodation deposit or early rent payment. The amount can vary between halls of residence but is typically between £150-£300. Please note, the damage deposit is refundable in full at the end of the tenancy agreement but only if the property is left clean, undamaged and where the terms of the contract agreement have been met. 

Guarantors 

If you live in halls of residence you will be asked to provide a guarantor. A guarantor is someone who will be legally responsible and prepared to pay for rent arrears or the cost of damage to the property, where the tenant is unable to meet the terms of their tenancy agreement. A parent or family member often acts as a guarantor. 

It is common that the guarantor will have to sign your tenancy agreement and provide their contact details. In some circumstances, they may be asked to provide bank details. 

If you think you are going to struggle getting a guarantor, contact the SHU Progress team on 0114 225 4777. 

Applying for Accommodation 
  • You can apply once Sheffield Hallam is your firm or insurance choice (whether you have a conditional or unconditional offer). 
  • We guarantee a room in halls of residence, but advise that you apply for accommodation as soon as possible for the best chance of securing your preferred halls as the date you apply is taken into consideration when making a room offer.
  • Write all special requirements in the notes field. Remember, if you need additional requirements due to a medical condition or disability, you may be required to fill in extra paperwork. 
  • You will be made an offer of accommodation once you have an unconditional firm (UF) university place offer. If you already have an unconditional firm university place offer expect to be made an offer of accommodation from March onwards. 
Accommodation to suit your personal circumstances 

We understand that not every students’ circumstances are the same. In addition to the advice on this page, you can also explore our advice by clicking on one of the links below: