This article is designed for use as general guidelines for those considering moving to Scotland to study.
It should in NO way be taken as exhaustive.

Rented flats and houses

Some colleges and universities have their own accommodation although this is not the case at each establishment. In addition most colleges or universities which do have accommodation, do not have enough to meet demand. You are therefore likely to have to find private accommodation at some point in your studies. Self-contained furnished flats and houses are more expensive to rent and can be difficult to find although the situation varies enormously across the country. When you rent on this basis you normally have to sign a legal agreement with the landlord (a lease) and you may have to pay an initial deposit as security against any breakages or damage. A Student Services Assistant (from the college at which you are applying) should be able to advise you about the availability of such accommodation and how to find it. In this type of accommodation you will need to do your own cleaning and provide bed-linen and towels. Costs depend on size and location of the accommodation.

Housing agreements and rights

If you decide to look for a flat or house to rent, you will need to sign a written agreement between yourself, as tenant and the landlord. Tenants and landlords have certain rights protected by law. However you must check the agreement before you sign in case you think there is something unreasonable in it.

If you have problems with accommodation. contact the Student Services Assistant or the students union at your place of study. If you need help with a legal matter then your local Citizens Advice Bureau (see local telephone directory for address) will be able to tell you your rights as a tenant and the rights of your landlord

Checklist (Use as a guide ONLY) - points to consider when renting private accommodation

1 What does the rent cover: meals, electricity, gas, hot water, use of telephone, television?
2 When is rent to be paid?
3 Who is it to be paid to?
4 How will you keep a record of what you have paid - is there a rent book. For example? Are there any meters for gas, electricity, and telephone? If so, how much will you pay per unit?
5 If you pay an initial deposit, when will this be returned?
6 Ensure that the initial deposit being requested is no more than two months rent.
7 Ensure that you have a receipt for the initial deposit.
8 How long is your lease?
9 If you wish to stop the agreement on what terms can you do so?
10 If you wish to leave the accommodation what period of notice must you give the landlord?
11 If the landlord wishes you to leave. how much notice must he give you?
12 If you are renting a flat or house, will you or your spouse be responsible for paying the Council Tax? (A local government tax payable on housing) If so, check to see how much this will add to your outgoings. (Normally full-time students and any spouse and children who have been adinitted to the UK as your dependants will not have to pay the tax as long as no other non-student is sharing your accommodation. However, dependants of an EEA national may not be exempt from the tax). You should ask for advice about Council Tax from a Student Services Assistant at the college to which you are applying.

Student Accommodation