Questions
How Do I Find Accommodation in Clearing?
Universities usually have a simple process that they’ll guide you through once you’ve officially accepted your place with them. For example, if you're offered a place at Derby through Clearing and you accept it, you just need to follow these simple steps to secure your room in halls.
Wait a few hours after you have accepted your offer, so that the updated admissions data can come through to their accommodation system.
Then you can apply online . You will need your 10-digit UCAS number or your 9-digit student number to apply so make sure you have it with you.
Pay your £100 advanced booking fee to secure your booking. This will be deducted from your first term’s rent.
Contact the Student Housing Centre if you are experiencing any problems in applying for halls and they will be happy to help. They can also advise you about what private accommodation is available. You can call them on 01332 594111 or email them on studentliving-housingteam@derby.ac.uk
And if you’re worrying that you’ll be left with the worst of the worst places to stay, you can stop panicking about that right now. Just because you’ve come through Clearing doesn’t mean you get second-rate quality. So, while you may not get the en-suite king-sized bedroom of your dreams, you’ll still happily call it home.
Teresa from the Student Living team at the University of Derby says, “We guarantee a room in university halls to all first year and overseas students who apply by 31 July. However, we are normally able to provide halls accommodation to later applicants as well. At Derby we are lucky to have lots of choice for students and lots of good quality accommodation available, so don’t panic.”
In fact, The University of Derby’s halls of residence are once again finalists in the National Student Housing Survey awards for The Best Booking Experience, The Best Customer Service Award and The Best Environmental Management.
“It’s still possible to come through Clearing and secure decent accommodation, either in halls or through our DASH (Decent and Safe Homes) scheme,” she adds.
Is the Accommodation Process Different During Clearing?
When it comes to applying for student accommodation, just because you’re coming through Clearing, doesn’t mean you’ll face a different process to anyone else.
Teresa says, “The process of applying for halls is the same for all prospective students, whether they come through Clearing or not. The only difference is that people who come through Clearing apply for halls later in the year and therefore there are less halls and rooms available to choose from.”
Which leads us neatly into our next point…
How Much Accommodation Choice Will I Have In Clearing?
As it is later in the year and universities allocate rooms in halls on a first come first served basis, inevitably there is less choice during Clearing, however Derby are usually able to accommodate people with a suitable room in halls.
If you can, it’s a good idea to come along to a Clearing Open Day where you will be able to view first hand, what rooms are still available in halls and talk to staff about what alternative, private accommodation they can recommend if there aren’t any places on campus left.
What Should I Consider When Choosing Accommodation?
“Students don’t have to take the first place that is offered to them, we advise them to ‘shop around’ before they commit.”
“In the first year of University, ideally it’s nice to live with other first year students as you are starting your University adventure together. That is why University halls are the best choice for first years.
“You should also be thinking about the proximity to your lectures and facilities like supermarkets and cinemas, bars, pubs and restaurants can also be important. Clearly the price of the accommodation is also crucial. Don’t just look at the headline price – check what’s included and how long the contract is.
If you speak to your Student Living Team, they can advise you on your options and then you will be in a position to make a fully informed decision.”
What Accommodation Support Will I Get?
Universities have Student Living support teams who are completely dedicated to helping students with any accommodation issues. During Clearing these teams will be on hand to answer any burning questions you may have, from finding rooms in the right places and moving in days, to rules about what you can and can’t bring with you.
The team in Derby are already available to answer any queries you have about halls. Feel free to give them a ring on 01332 594111. During Clearing, they will be extending their opening hours too.
Student Housing will constantly check the availability of rooms in halls and will do their best to offer you a place. If these run out, they can signpost you to good quality private accommodation nearby.
Can I Change My Mind About My Accommodation?
Picture the scene: You hang up the phone after confirming your accommodation and immediately regret it, what can you do? If you change your mind before you arrive at your chosen university, contact your Student Living Team asap to see if there’s any flexibility to go anywhere else.
But what if when you turn up in September you hate your accommodation? You don’t like your room, you struggle to get on with your flatmates and it’s too far away from campus. What next?
Any issues that arise once you’ve moved in needs to be raised with Hall Managers (or whatever the equivalent is at your chosen university).
Teresa confirms, “In these instances, we will work with you to make sure you have accommodation you are happy with.”
Final Piece of Advice for Students
“The faster you act, the better the result will be. Once you’ve secured your place on the course you want to do, contact the Student Living Team and if possible try to get to see in person, what accommodation is still available.
“Don’t worry if you can’t come and have a look yourself. The housing team can advise you and the photos and 360 ◦ tours on websites like the University of Derby’s
“Finally, it’s important to stay positive. Lots of people before you have come through Clearing and have had a very successful time at University. Take full advantage of the expertise of the housing team to help you get the accommodation you want.”
For more information on the University of Derby, step right this way …
Need more Clearing tips? We’ve got a dedicated section just for that…
