Your accommodation questions answered video transcript

Kerry Brantnall, Hall Manager

When is the best time to book my place in halls?

It's best to book a room in halls as soon as you've chosen Derby as your first choice, you've had an offer, and you've accepted it. All our rooms are allocated on a first-come-first-served basis, so to avoid disappointment you need to make sure you apply as soon as possible. Saying that we do have some rooms left usually towards clearing, which is in August, so although you may not get the preferred room, we will offer all students a room who applied before the 31st of July.

How and when do I apply for halls?

You can apply for halls now, all you need to do is go to the website and set up a student living account, you will need UCAS number to get you started and just £50 to reserve your room. This is then deducted from your first term's rent.

How long should it take for a reply once I've applied for accommodation?

If you've applied correctly you should hear back from us within 48 working hours, so please look out for this in your inbox and in your junk mail, just in case it goes there.

How safe are halls?

Student safety is our priority, in halls we have CCTV systems, staff on call for 24 hours a day, and nighttime community supervisors.

What is in place to support student wellbeing and mental health?

There's lots of support for students in halls, your first point of call is always your Halls' Manager, they're trained to deal with these types of situations and they know who to refer you onto at the main University campus for further services. We have won awards, in 2019 we won the wellbeing award in the National Student Housing Survey for the support that our students have received.

Can I have visitors in halls?

Yes, you can have a visitor who is over the age of 18 to stay for two out of the seven nights a week, we do ask that you sign this visitor in so that we know exactly who is on-site at all times, this is especially important for fire evacuations or any other types of emergencies.

What is the wi-fi like in halls?

We know that wi-fi is crucial for students, so you'll be glad to know that our wi-fi is super fast.

Can I bring a TV to halls?

We recommend that you watch TV through your PC or laptop because the reception is much better, some people do choose to bring a TV, especially for gaming.

What appliances are provided in the kitchens?

All our kitchens have a cooker and a hob, a kettle, and toaster, fridge freezer, microwave and you'll either have a breakfast bar or a table provided, and there is plenty cupboard space for all students.

What other additional costs do I need to be aware of?

If you want to bring a car or a motorbike to halls there is an annual parking permit that you would need to purchase. Other than that it's only really your living costs that you would need to worry about.

Is there a secure lock-up for bicycles in halls?

There is free bike storage on all of our halls, which your halls fees cover free insurance for any non-electric bikes.

What can I do if I'm on placement?

If you have a placement in your second year and it is not near Derby you may choose just to do one term in halls, alternatively, if your placement is close to halls you may choose to live here throughout the period, the best thing is to check out our FAQs on our website or give us a call on 01332 594111 and we'd be happy to discuss with you your options.