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Roadman slang is a type of colloquial language commonly used by young people in London and other urban areas of the UK. It is an ever-evolving language, with new terms and phrases being added to the lexicon all the time. Mastering Roadman slang is necessary if you want to sound like a proper Londoner and understand what your friends are saying. Get ready to level up your slang game with our full guide to mastering roadman slang! From understanding popular phrases to learning pronunciation and usage, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of urban slang like a pro. Whether you want to impress your friends or expand your vocabulary, our guide has everything you need to speak like a true roadman. In this full guide, we'll take a look at some of the most common Roadman slang terms and phrases and how to use them correctly. Come on, hop in for the ride! <img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/03082026020824PM-Inner-page-banner-01.jpg" style="width: 650px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" fr-original-style="width: 650px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"><h2 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;"> </h2><h2 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Trap Lingo</h2>One of the most common types of roadman slang is trap lingo. Trap music originated in the southern United States and is characterised by its aggressive beats and lyrics about life on the streets. Trap lingo has become an important part of roadman slang and is used to describe a variety of situations. Examples include the following:<ul><li dir="ltr">Peng - attractive or good-looking</li><li dir="ltr">Mandem - a group of friends or associates</li><li dir="ltr">Bands - large amounts of money</li><li dir="ltr">Skeng - a weapon, usually a knife</li><li dir="ltr">Waste man - an insult for someone who is useless or a failure</li><li dir="ltr">Feds - the police</li><li dir="ltr">Endz - a neighbourhood or area where someone is from</li><li dir="ltr">Wagwan - a greeting, similar to "What's up"</li><li dir="ltr">Link up - to meet with someone</li><li dir="ltr">Grind - to work hard, often referring to illegal or illicit activities</li><li dir="ltr">Gassed - excited or hyped up</li></ul> <h2 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Regional Slang</h2>In addition to trap lingo, roadman slang also includes regional slang that varies depending on where you are in the UK. Examples include the following:<ul><li dir="ltr">Yute - a young person (London)</li><li dir="ltr">Jook - to stab or poke with a sharp object (Birmingham)</li><li dir="ltr">Chirps - to flirt or chat up someone (London)</li><li dir="ltr">Gyaldem - a group of girls or young women (London)</li><li dir="ltr">Pagans - enemies or rivals (London)</li><li dir="ltr">Oi oi - a greeting or exclamation of excitement (Manchester)</li><li dir="ltr">Bait - obvious or noticeable (London)</li><li dir="ltr">Whips - cars or vehicles (London)</li><li dir="ltr">Riddim - a beat or instrumental (Birmingham)</li><li dir="ltr">Hella - very or extremely (Liverpool)</li><li dir="ltr">Truss - to believe or trust (London)</li></ul> Other terms include:<table style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;" fr-original-style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;"><thead><tr><th style="background: rgb(230, 230, 230);" fr-original-style="background: rgb(230, 230, 230);">Slang </th><th style="background: rgb(230, 230, 230);" fr-original-style="background: rgb(230, 230, 230);">Meaning </th><th style="background: rgb(230, 230, 230);" fr-original-style="background: rgb(230, 230, 230);">Example </th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Allow It </td><td>Let something go or stop doing something </td><td>"Allow it, I don't want any trouble." </td></tr><tr><td>Bruv </td><td>Slang for "brother" or "bro"; term of endearment or familiarity between friends </td><td>"What’s up, bruv?" </td></tr><tr><td>Bare </td><td>A lot or many </td><td>"There were bare people at the party." </td></tr><tr><td>Clapped </td><td>Unattractive or ugly </td><td>"That car is so clapped." </td></tr><tr><td>Dench </td><td>Good or excellent </td><td>"That outfit looks dench on you." </td></tr><tr><td>Ends </td><td>One’s neighbourhood or local area </td><td>"I'm from the east ends." </td></tr><tr><td>Fam </td><td>Short for "family"; used among friends as a term of closeness </td><td>"You good, fam?" </td></tr><tr><td>Garms </td><td>Clothing or garments </td><td>"Those are some nice garms you're wearing." </td></tr><tr><td>Hype </td><td>Excitement or enthusiasm </td><td>"The party was hype." </td></tr><tr><td>Innit </td><td>Short for "isn't it"; used at the end of a sentence for agreement </td><td>"That movie was good, innit?" </td></tr><tr><td>Jokes </td><td>Funny or entertaining </td><td>"That comedian is jokes." </td></tr><tr><td>Nang </td><td>Cool or awesome </td><td>"Those shoes are nang." </td></tr><tr><td>Par </td><td>Being paranoid or suspicious </td><td>"Why are you so par about going to that party?" </td></tr><tr><td>Reh Teh Teh &nbsp; </td><td>Filler phrase to indicate uncertainty or continue a vague story </td><td>"So he was talking, reh teh teh, and then just left." </td></tr><tr><td>Safe </td><td>OK, all good </td><td>"Are you ready to go?" "Yeah, I'm safe." </td></tr></tbody></table><h2 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">How to Use Roadman Slang</h2>Proper use of roadman slang needs an insight of the situation the phrase is used. Using the correct slang in the correct situation is important and one must not use some slang he does not know. It should also be mentioned that roadman slang is a way of speaking commonly in more informal contexts e.g. with friends or through social media and it might not be suitable in less informal contexts. And there you have it! Roadman slang is one of the most <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/uk-slang-words-every-student-should-know">important UK slang to learn</a> if you’re planning on staying in the UK for a while. Mastering roadman slang is an important part of fitting in with the youth culture of London and other urban areas of the UK.&nbsp; By learning the common terms and phrases, you can communicate more effectively with your friends and better understand the culture around you. However, it is important to use roadman slang responsibly and avoid using it in inappropriate situations. With this full guide, you should be well on your way to becoming a fluent speaker of roadman slang!

Master Roadman Slang: A Full Guide

Looking to learn the roadman slang? Check out our full guide to mastering the lingo and sounding like a true Londoner! Check it out now!

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<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633828929&amp;usg=AOvVaw0J7mSyEo2so-09lveZdgYI">Germany</a> has long stood as a beacon for those seeking more than just a degree; it is a place where centuries of academic tradition meet the cutting edge of modern technology. The decision to move abroad is a pivot point for many people in their lives, and choosing a country that balances world-class standards with an accessible lifestyle is beyond important. Known globally as the "Land of Ideas," this European powerhouse offers a unique ecosystem where students aren’t just observers but active participants in innovation. Whether you are drawn by the prospect of studying in high-tech laboratories or the charm of historic university towns, the German educational landscape provides a stable, welcoming, and intellectually stimulating environment that prepares graduates for a globalised workforce. <img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/03082026121125PM-Basic-Banner-03-(1).jpg" style="width: 650px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" fr-original-style="width: 650px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"><h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;"> </h2><h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Higher Education Without the Financial Burden</h2>One of the most compelling reasons to choose this destination is the unique approach to tuition. Unlike many other global education hubs where student debt can follow graduates for decades, the majority of public institutions here do not charge tuition fees for undergraduate and most master’s programs. Instead, students contribute a small semester fee that usually covers administrative costs and, quite often, a "semester ticket" for unlimited local public transport. This model reflects the belief that education is a public good rather than a commercial product. By removing the barrier of high tuition, the country ensures that talent is the primary driver of academic success. This financial freedom allows you to focus more on your research, internships, and cultural immersion rather than worrying about the accumulating costs of your education.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Navigating the Landscape of Top-Ranked Universities in Germany</h2>When you look at global rankings, German institutions consistently secure high positions, particularly in the fields of engineering, natural sciences, and medicine. These top-ranked universities in Germany are known for their rigorous academic standards and a strong emphasis on research. For instance, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany/munich/technical-university-of-munich&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633832049&amp;usg=AOvVaw0peesEil29XPamHX0CbYIx">Technical University of Munich (TUM)</a> and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) are favourites, often leading the way in innovation and humanities, respectively. Other notable institutions include&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany/heidelberg/heidelberg-university&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633832491&amp;usg=AOvVaw22zH2lobxiRJOCL8sJ72ps">Heidelberg University</a>, the country’s oldest, which offers a deep historical context alongside modern medical research, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany/aachen/rwth-aachen-university&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633832814&amp;usg=AOvVaw14TfRTIDxTaj3aBmz1GKvf">RWTH Aachen</a>, a world leader in engineering. These universities aren't just about prestige; they are about the "Excellence Strategy" of the German government, which funnels significant funding into research-heavy institutions to maintain their status as global leaders. Choosing to study at one of these locations means you are part of a network that includes Nobel laureates and industry pioneers.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Why Study in Germany: The Bridge Between Theory and Practice</h2>A major factor in why you should study in Germany is the focus on "learning by doing". The system is divided between traditional research universities and "Fachhochschulen" (universities of applied sciences). While the former focuses on theory and academic research, the latter is designed to get you ready for the workplace immediately. Students often find that their curriculum is deeply intertwined with the local industry. Engineering students might work on projects sponsored by major automotive companies, while business students might find themselves interning with global financial firms in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany/frankfurt&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633834313&amp;usg=AOvVaw3rIVhEq7n0snL6ADb68uOj">Frankfurt</a>. This practical approach ensures that by the time you graduate, you aren't just holding a certificate; you have a portfolio of real-world experience.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Building a Career and the Opportunity to Study in Germany</h2>The decision to study in Germany is also a strategic career move. The country boasts one of the strongest economies in the world and has a significant demand for skilled professionals in various sectors. International graduates are allowed to stay in the country for up to 18 months after finishing their degrees to find a job related to their qualifications. The transition from student to professional is supported by robust career services at most universities, which host job fairs, provide CV workshops, and maintain alumni networks. Since the German labour market is hungry for international talent, especially in STEM fields, the path to residency and long-term career growth is more straightforward than in many other Western nations.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Exploring the Vibrant Top Study Destinations</h2>While the quality of education is uniform across the country, each city offers a distinct flavour of student life.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany/berlin&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633836102&amp;usg=AOvVaw3-28h7keYLOPMWnUHtUcLr">Berlin</a>, the capital, is a magnet for those interested in the arts, startups, and a multicultural atmosphere. It’s a city that never sleeps, offering endless opportunities for networking and cultural exploration. On the other hand,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany/munich&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633836492&amp;usg=AOvVaw0-55QGgaR7p9WQteyp4_Ea">Munich</a> provides a blend of high-tech industries and traditional Bavarian charm, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes like the Alps. Cities like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany/aachen&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633836831&amp;usg=AOvVaw0xMYeBFFFYKN8vuiRhOADe">Aachen</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany/karlsruhe&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633836954&amp;usg=AOvVaw08y3zPw_kRR1Slq_LMC9zc">Karlsruhe</a> are perfect for those who want a student-centric environment where the entire town revolves around the university. These top study destinations provide safe, walkable environments with efficient public transport, making it easy to balance your studies with weekend trips to neighbouring European countries.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Financial Planning: Understanding the Cost of Living in Germany</h2>Living in a foreign country requires careful budgeting, and the cost of living in Germany is generally considered quite reasonable compared to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633837786&amp;usg=AOvVaw0_O6__cqzAPGRlsDQeUd6p">UK</a> or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/usa&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633837904&amp;usg=AOvVaw0LIjgF1BNu5TgaBOUdR6LR">US</a>. While you won't be paying high tuition, you do need to account for health insurance, food, and social activities. Most students find that groceries are affordable, especially when shopping at popular local supermarkets. Public transport is another area where you save significantly, as your semester fee usually covers your travel within the city or even the entire state. The most significant portion of your budget will inevitably go toward rent, which varies depending on whether you choose a bustling metropolis or a smaller university town. To satisfy visa requirements, international students often need to provide proof of funds through a "blocked account", which ensures they have sufficient funds to cover basic living expenses for their first year.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">The Top Student Accommodation Options in Germany</h2>In Germany, student housing is diverse, ranging from university-run dormitories to private shared flats. Finding a balance between proximity to your campus and your monthly budget is key. Whether you prefer the social environment of a shared house or the quiet of a private&nbsp;studio, starting your search early with Casita is essential to finding a place that feels like home. These are examples of the best accommodation options you can find in Germany: <h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Aachen Theaterplatz</h3><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/283481-aachen-theaterplatz-aachen-germany&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633840040&amp;usg=AOvVaw05VuPVFbXopD0V_MBOD8vc">Aachen Theaterplatz</a> is an accommodation option in Aachen that offers flatshares and studio rooms. The property’s amenities include Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, social spaces, a rooftop terrace, and all-inclusive bills. The property is a 13-minute walk from RWTH Aachen University. <h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Alvarium</h3><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/1773-alvarium-frankfurt-germany&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633840648&amp;usg=AOvVaw1XnUFdDIqQ2GDK8ldTSPDW">Alvarium</a> is an accommodation option in Frankfurt that offers a variety of studio rooms. The property’s amenities include Wi-Fi, laundry, a games room, a communal lounge, management and maintenance teams, CCTV, paid parking, and all-inclusive rent. The property is a 28-minute walk to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/germany/frankfurt/goethe-university-frankfurt&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633841121&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Hs8We60VSKvOxPFnA-xD1">Goethe University in Frankfurt</a>.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">A Future Built on Excellence</h2>Choosing to study in Germany is an investment in a future defined by high standards, cultural richness, and professional stability. The combination of low costs, prestigious universities, and a welcoming atmosphere for international talent makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to broaden their horizons. As you prepare for this journey, remember that the skills you gain and the connections you make in the heart of Europe will serve as a foundation for whatever path you choose to follow. If you want to learn more about Germany, check out our other blogs:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/blog/student-experience-studying-in-germany&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785758633842111&amp;usg=AOvVaw3VqZUMTJn1xmvGPNDTjPHj">Student Experience: Studying in Germany</a>.

Why Germany is a Top Destination for International Students

Why Germany is a Top Destination for International Students in 2027

Discover why you should study in Germany! From top-ranked universities to low living costs, explore everything great about this student destination.

Top Universities in Germany to Study in 2027

These top universities in Germany offer high-quality education that every international student deserves; read the blog to know more information.

Germany, known as the "Land of Thinkers", is home to some of Europe's most respected universities, and Heidelberg University stands among its most prestigious. Founded in 1386, it is Germany's oldest university and has earned a global reputation for academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and a welcoming international community. This guide explores everything you need to know about Heidelberg University, including its courses, tuition fees, admissions process, student life, living costs, and accommodation options. <img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/02082026024930PM-Heidelberg-University-Guide-03.png" style="width: 650px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" fr-original-style="width: 650px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"> <h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Why Study at Heidelberg University?</h2>As one of Germany's Universities of Excellence, Heidelberg University is internationally recognised for its strengths in medicine, life sciences, humanities, natural sciences, and interdisciplinary research. The university collaborates with institutions including Heidelberg University Hospital, the German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), and several Max Planck Institutes, giving students valuable opportunities for research projects, internships, and hands-on learning. The university combines historic campuses in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://heidelberg&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785685660242243&amp;usg=AOvVaw29s20_Okhl-Na9to5pklTo" rel="nofollow">Heidelberg</a>'s picturesque Old Town with the modern science and medical campus at Neuenheimer Feld, one of Germany's largest research hubs. Students benefit from advanced laboratories, university clinics, and internationally recognised research facilities, while enjoying life in a compact university city with excellent public transport, riverside scenery, and a welcoming international community.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">University Snapshot</h2><table style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;" fr-original-style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 17.9544%;">Fact </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 82.0454%;">Details </td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 17.9544%;">Founded </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 82.0454%;">1386 </td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 17.9544%;">Location </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 82.0454%;">Heidelberg, Germany </td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 17.9544%;">Type </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 82.0454%;">Public research university </td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 17.9544%;">Student Population </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 82.0454%;">32,178 </td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 17.9544%;">International Students </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 82.0454%;">6,633 </td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 17.9544%;">QS World University Ranking 2027 </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 82.0454%;">#86 </td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 17.9544%;">Language of Instruction </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 82.0454%;">German and English </td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 17.9544%;">Tuition Fees </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1" style="width: 82.0454%;">EU/EEA: Semester contribution only (€189.80). Non-EU/EEA: €1,500 per semester for Bachelor's and consecutive Master's programmes, plus the semester contribution </td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">What Can You Study at Heidelberg University?</h2>With more than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.uni-heidelberg.de/en/study/all-subjects&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785685660246218&amp;usg=AOvVaw351a5fWADLf0-YxG0OPUH8" rel="nofollow">190 degree programmes</a> across 13 faculties, Heidelberg University offers options in medicine, natural sciences, humanities, law, economics, social sciences, and many other disciplines. The university is especially recognised for medicine, life sciences, molecular biology, physics, psychology, law, economics, and the humanities. It offers Bachelor's, Master's, doctoral, and State Examination programmes, with many courses encouraging interdisciplinary learning and research. <h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Popular Programmes at Heidelberg University</h3>Some of Heidelberg University's most popular programmes include:<ul><li>Medicine</li><li>Molecular Biosciences</li><li>Physics</li><li>Data and Computer Science</li><li>Psychology</li><li>Economics</li><li>International Health</li><li>Law</li></ul><h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;"> </h3><h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Heidelberg University English Programmes</h3>Although most Bachelor's degrees are taught in German, Heidelberg University offers a growing selection of English-taught Master's programmes, particularly in science, technology, health, and economics. A number of Bachelor's programmes are also taught in English, and some require German language proficiency for admission. Some of Heidelberg University’s popular&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.uni-heidelberg.de/en/study/fields-of-study/international-courses-and-courses-in-other-languages-than-german/degree-programmes-taught-in-english&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785685660248157&amp;usg=AOvVaw0x936Scn1lV0co_dHW6YWe" rel="nofollow">English Programmes</a> include:<ul><li>Data and Computer Science</li><li>Molecular Biosciences</li><li>Physics</li><li>Scientific Computing</li><li>International Health</li><li>Mathematics of Machine Learning and Data Science</li><li>Economics</li></ul> Applicants to German-taught Bachelor's degrees and Master of Education programmes generally need German proficiency equivalent to DSH 2 (or an accepted equivalent). Even for English-taught programmes, learning basic German can make everyday life and part-time work much easier.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Heidelberg University Tuition &amp; Fees, Admissions, and Living Costs</h2>Before you study abroad in Heidelberg, it's worth understanding the admissions process, tuition fees, and expected living costs so you can budget and prepare in advance. <h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Admissions for International Students</h3>Admission requirements vary depending on your programme and level of study. In general, applicants need recognised academic qualifications, transcripts, proof of language proficiency, and supporting documents such as a passport, CV, or motivation letter where required. As entry requirements differ between faculties, it's always worth checking the official programme page before applying. <h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Tuition Fees</h3>One of the biggest advantages of studying in Germany is its affordable tuition. Students from EU and EEA countries don't pay tuition fees at Heidelberg University but must pay a semester contribution of €189.80, which covers administrative costs, student services, and other campus-related fees. Most non-EU and non-EEA students pay €1,500 per semester for Bachelor's and consecutive Master's programmes, in addition to the semester contribution. Some non-consecutive Master's programmes have different fee structures, so it's important to check your chosen course before applying. <h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Cost of Living in Heidelberg</h3>Besides tuition fees, students should budget for accommodation, food, health insurance, transport, and personal expenses. Rent is usually the largest monthly expense and varies depending on the type and location of accommodation. <table style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%; width: 25%;" fr-original-style="border: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; empty-cells: show; max-width: 100%; width: 25%;"><tbody><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Expense </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Estimated Monthly Cost </td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Food &amp; Groceries </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">€200 - €400 </td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Health Insurance </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">€150 </td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Public Transport </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">€45 - €63 </td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Leisure &amp; Personal Expenses </td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">€150 - €300 </td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Student Life at Heidelberg University</h2>One of the biggest advantages of studying at Heidelberg University is the lifestyle that comes with it. With students making up a significant share of the city's population, Heidelberg offers a vibrant academic atmosphere where historic streets, riverside cafés, libraries, and cultural venues become part of everyday student life. <h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Student Clubs &amp; International Community</h3>Heidelberg University offers a wide range of student organisations covering music, theatre, entrepreneurship, volunteering, politics, and academic interests. International students can also join initiatives such as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://heidelberg.esn-germany.de/&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785685660253603&amp;usg=AOvVaw2lzvc-ULUirbwzGhHFeg07" rel="nofollow">Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Heidelberg</a>, which organises welcome events, city tours, language exchanges, and social activities throughout the year. <h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Sports &amp; Recreation</h3>Students have access to Heidelberg University's General University Sport (Hochschulsport) programme, offering activities including football, volleyball, rowing, climbing, yoga, skiing, martial arts, and many more. Many activities are available at little or no additional cost, making it easy to stay active while meeting students from different faculties. <h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Living in Heidelberg</h3>Life outside the classroom is one of Heidelberg's biggest attractions. Students can explore Heidelberg Castle, walk along the Neckar River, relax in Old Town cafés, or enjoy seasonal events such as the Christmas Market and cultural festivals. The city's tram and bus network makes getting around easy, while the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://int.bahn.de/en/offers/regional/deutschland-ticket&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785685660254875&amp;usg=AOvVaw1bFLi7xeqv47alwGa811tp" rel="nofollow">Deutschlandticket</a> provides affordable travel across Germany using regional and local public transport.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Accommodation Near Heidelberg University</h2>Student accommodation near Heidelberg University is highly sought after, so starting your search early gives you the best chance of securing your preferred location and room type. Private student accommodation near Heidelberg University starts from around €630 per month, with options ranging from en-suite rooms to self-contained studios to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Here are some of our recommendations:<ul><li><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/324071-amazing-neat-suite-in-sandhausen-heidelberg-germany&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785685660255791&amp;usg=AOvVaw03Cj8wMjelpEhy9OunAgQg">Amazing, Neat Suite in Sandhausen</a>: A suite featuring a TV, a well-fitted kitchen, and a bathroom. It also includes Wi-Fi, central heating, and laundry facilities.</li><li><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/463097-4-room-shared-apartment-in-heidelberg-heidelberg-germany&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785685660256153&amp;usg=AOvVaw02k1ydqNhQBwGT-r7A_OP-">4-Room Shared Apartment in Heidelberg</a>: A shared apartment offering a single room with a bed, wardrobe, and workspace, along with access to a shared bathroom and kitchen. It also includes Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, a social area, and all-inclusive bills.</li><li><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/442554-studio-in-the-center-of-heidelberg-heidelberg-germany&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785685660256625&amp;usg=AOvVaw3IGWDiTQq013HWvZZkFdNV">Studio in the Center of Heidelberg</a>: A centrally located studio with Wi-Fi and laundry facilities, offering a convenient option for student living.</li><li><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/463662-2-room-studio-close-to-oldtown-neckarview-parking-heidelberg-germany&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785685660257083&amp;usg=AOvVaw0QNbvLvYFMnv183Du3tvLy">2 Room Studio - Close to Oldtown - Neckarview - Parking</a>: A two-room studio located close to Heidelberg's Old Town, with Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and parking.</li><li><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/438394-fashionable-wonderful-suite-heidelberg-heidelberg-germany&amp;sa=D&amp;source=editors&amp;ust=1785685660257471&amp;usg=AOvVaw024mEYtnOFcDFXWtFJSwvH">Fashionable, Wonderful Suite (Heidelberg)</a>: A suite with Wi-Fi and laundry facilities, offering a practical accommodation option for students.</li></ul><h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;"> </h3><h3 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Popular Student Areas</h3>Altstadt (Old Town)Ideal for students who want to live in Heidelberg's historic centre, Altstadt offers easy access to cafés, restaurants, cultural attractions, and many humanities faculties. NeuenheimLocated close to Neuenheimer Feld, this neighbourhood is popular with students studying medicine, life sciences, and related disciplines. BergheimA lively central district with excellent public transport connections, Bergheim provides convenient access to shops, supermarkets, and everyday amenities. WeststadtKnown for its attractive architecture and relaxed residential atmosphere, Weststadt offers a quieter place to live while remaining within easy reach of both the university and the city centre.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Can International Students Work While Studying?</h2>International students are generally permitted to work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year under current German regulations, allowing them to earn extra income while gaining valuable work experience. Heidelberg University's strong research environment also offers opportunities to work as a student assistant (HiWi) within university departments, laboratories, and research institutes. Many students also find part-time jobs in retail or hospitality, while German language skills can open up additional employment opportunities. After graduation, Heidelberg University's international reputation and research network provide excellent career prospects across healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, engineering, finance, academia, and many other industries. Note:&nbsp;Compulsory internships that form part of your degree programme are generally treated differently from regular part-time employment under German regulations.<h2 style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Is Heidelberg University Right for You?</h2>Whether you're looking for world-class research opportunities, internationally recognised degrees, or the experience of living in one of Germany's most historic university towns, Heidelberg University offers an outstanding environment for academic success. If you're planning to study at Heidelberg University in Germany, starting your accommodation search early can help you secure a home close to campus and make your transition to university life much smoother. If you're planning to study at Heidelberg University in Germany, start your accommodation search early to secure a home close to campus. Casita helps you compare verified student accommodation near Heidelberg University, making it easier to find the right home before your studies begin.

Heidelberg University - All You Need to Know

Explore tuition fees, admissions, English programmes, student life, living costs, and student housing near Heidelberg University.

The <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk" target="_blank">United Kingdom</a> is one of the most interesting countries in the world and one of the most popular as well. Yet, some people get it mixed up with other countries, <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/interesting-facts-about-uk" style="">facts</a>, and names that relate to it. When it comes to understanding the political and geographical divisions of the British Isles, it's easy to get confused by the terms UK, Great Britain, and England. Though they are commonly interchanged, they represent different entities that have their characteristics and meaning. Let's delve into the complexities and shed light on the differences between these terms. <img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/12072026020019PM-Bannes-03.jpg" style="width: 450px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" fr-original-style="width: 450px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"><h2 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;"> </h2><h2 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">First things first, What is the British Isles?</h2>The British Isles is a geographical term that refers to a group of islands located off the northwestern coast of continental Europe. It encompasses not only the island of Great Britain but also Ireland, along with numerous smaller islands.  The term “British Isles” is purely geographical and does not have any political connotations. The British Isles countries are Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. <h2 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Great Britain vs UK: How are the UK, Great Britain, and England Different?</h2><h3 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">1. The United Kingdom (UK)</h3>The United Kingdom, commonly referred to as the UK, is a sovereign nation consisting of four constituent countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It is a political union formed in 1707 when the Kingdom of England, which included Wales, and the Kingdom of Scotland merged. In 1801, the Kingdom of Ireland joined the union, forming the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. However, in 1922, the Anglo-Irish Treaty led to the partition of Ireland, resulting in Northern Ireland remaining part of the UK while the rest of Ireland gained independence. <h3 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">2. Great Britain (GB)</h3>Great Britain refers to the largest island in the British Isles and is geographically comprised of three of the four constituent countries of the UK: England, Scotland, and Wales. It does not include Northern Ireland. Therefore, Great Britain is a purely geographical term, not a political entity. <h3 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">3. England</h3>England is one of the four constituent countries of the UK and occupies the southern and central parts of the island of Great Britain. It is the largest and most dominant nation in the UK. England possesses a unique identity, history, and legal system. The capital city of England and the UK, <a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/uk/london" target="_blank">London</a>, is a world centre of finances, culture, and politics. <img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/06062023125656PM-shutterstock_514737448.jpg" style="width: 300px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt=" Great Britain vs UK" fr-original-style="width: 300px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"><h2 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Other Terms Related to the UK</h2><h3 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Scotland</h3>Another constituent country of the UK is Scotland and takes up the northern territory of the island of Great Britain. It possesses not only a specific legal system but also a system of education and cultural heritage. Scotland is a historical country with stunning landscapes, flourishing cities such as Edinburgh and Glasgow, and contributions to literature, science and arts. <h3 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Wales</h3>Wales is also a constituent country of the UK and is located west to England. It has its own devolved government and a distinct cultural identity. Wales is famous for its stunning landscapes, such as the Snowdonia National Park, and rich Celtic culture. <h3 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Northern Ireland</h3>The fourth member of the UK is Northern Ireland, located within the northeastern region of the island of Ireland. It is the state with a land border with Republic of Ireland and a complicated political history. Though Northern Ireland constitutes a part of the UK, there is a devolved government of Northern Ireland, and distinct cultural relationships. <h3 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Crown Dependencies and Overseas Territories</h3>Besides the nations that constitute UK, other regions are also found to be related to British Isles. Crown Dependencies, including the Isle of Man, Jersey, and Guernsey (which includes the islands of Alderney, Sark, and Herm), have their own independent administrations and are not part of the UK but are under the sovereignty of the British Crown. They are autonomous to different extents and have their own laws. The UK is known to have overseas territories as well that are distributed all over the world. They consist of such regions as Bermuda, Falklands, Gibraltar, and British Virgin Islands among others. They have great autonomy in self-governance, though they are under UK sovereignty and have different cultural identities. <h3 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Devolution</h3>In the late 20th century, the UK underwent a process known as devolution, granting certain powers and decision-making authority to the devolved governments in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Devolution allows these regions to govern specific aspects of their internal affairs, such as education, health, and transportation, while certain areas, like defence and foreign affairs, remain under the control of the UK government. During the late 20th century, UK experienced a process termed as devolution, which involved some powers and authority being given to the devolved governments located in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Under devolution, such regions will take control of certain areas of its internal policy such as education, health, and transport sector while certain spheres, defence and foreign policy, will continue to be controlled by the UK government. <h3 dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal;" fr-original-style="font-weight: normal;">Union Jack and National Flags</h3>The <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/the-uk-flag-why-is-it-called-the-union-jack" rel="">Union Jack</a> is the official flag of the United Kingdom. It combines the flags of England (St. George's Cross), Scotland (St. Andrew's Cross), and Northern Ireland (St. Patrick's Cross). However, Wales is not represented on the Union Jack as it was considered part of the Kingdom of England when the flag was created.  Each constituent country within the UK also has its own distinctive national flag: the St. George's Cross for England, the St. Andrew's Cross (or Saltire) for Scotland, and the Red Dragon (Y Ddraig Goch) for Wales. And there you have it! We hope we managed to clear up some of the confusion around these terms, and you got to know the difference between Great Britain vs UK! Understanding these differences is crucial for appreciating the diverse identities and complexities of the British Isles. So, the next time you hear someone refer to the UK, Great Britain, or England, you can confidently navigate the distinctions and appreciate the unique attributes of each term.

The Difference Between the UK, Great Britain, and England?

The Difference Between the UK, Great Britain, and England

Great Britain vs UK. Explore the distinctions between the UK, Great Britain, and England and unravel the complexity! Read on to find out all about it!

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The Difference between the UK, Great Britain, and England

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The countdown has begun! Do Regular decorations satisfy your hungry Christmas spirit? With the holiday season on the horizon, it is time to spend some time decorating your student room. As your student room is now your private kingdom away from home, you probably wouldn’t like leaving dull during the holiday season. Splashing some Christmassy vibrant decorations will surely set the mood with positive vibes, and it’s actually scientifically proven! Psychologist Deborah Serani confirmed that decorating creates a neurological shift that produces happiness, as for Christmas decorations, she states that it “will spike dopamine, a feel-good hormone.” All those lights and colors increase energy levels, and that’s why we can’t help but smile when we first light up a Christmas tree!While most student halls do not allow nailing pictures or decorations on the wall, there are multiple creative solutions to create your creative yet straightforward Christmas haven.<h2>1. Try the ‘Candy Effect’</h2>Regular Christmas trees are usually decorated using simple balls and star ornaments. While these regular shapes might feel nostalgic and essential, there are other creative ways to decorate your Christmas tree with your flatmates. Try adding candy-colored decorations to your tree, or better yet, add in a mix of real candies. Try adding a Nestle Runts Cane as an ornament you can eat, or buy one of Amazon’s famous <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Shinyee-Christmas-Ornaments-Clear-8cm-3-14in-12/dp/B07TBSCWKK/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=clear+ornament+fillable&amp;qid=1575021773&amp;s=kitchen&amp;sr=1-4" rel="nofollow">clear plastic ornament balls</a> that you can fill with anything. Gather around it with your flatmates and open the candies and eat them in turns, It’s funnier when you share which flavor did each of you get.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/09122019060739PM-shutterstock_114877261.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="Christmas candy for student room decoration" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>2. Decorate Your Bath Towels</h2>A unique experience starts by focusing on the details, and nothing is more detailed than decorating your bath towels to fit the Christmas mood. You don’t need to trim your every sheet, only choose one or two towels that you intend to hang during Christmas. Use outdoor acrylic paint and sturdy brushes to draw the shapes you wish to keep on your sheet. You could simply draw a tree, candies, and Christmas socks. If you are sure about your artistic skills, try drawing Santa Claus with his reindeers. If you’re not sure about this, you can buy a Christmas bath mat and hang some decorations in the bathroom mirror. Looking at it in the morning will make your whole day.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/09122019060822PM-shutterstock_7681288.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="Christmas bath towels for students" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>3. Use Fillable Alphabets!</h2>Whether you are sharing your student room with others or living in it alone, you probably have a table that needs Christmassy decorations somewhere. Use fillable alphabets for just that; they are mostly found in DIY shops like <a href="https://www.hobbycraft.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">Hobby Croft</a> in the UK, and you can choose a couple of simple letters to buy. Fill these letters with stars, balls, and snow-shaped confetti, and you will get a Christmas decoration like no other. You can always refill them with something else after the holiday season is over. This way, you win a year-long room decoration that you can play around on different occasions. Try to get 4-5 initials and see if you can make a word out of them; name your student gang by it!<h2>4. Bake Your Wall Decoration!</h2>Wall decorations might seem impossible since you can’t use nails in your student room. In general, you can blue-tack or tape Christmas decorations to the wall, so they’re easily removed when the holidays are over. What do you wish to hang on the wall, though? If you do not want to hang tinsel wreaths and stars, you can make your creative wall decorations using polymer clay. Unlike regular clay, polymer clay is baked in the oven after it is shaped, and as it hardens, it retains its shape and color for years. Make use of that oven in your student flat and buy some polymer clay to shape with your flatmates. It is easy to find in craft stores, and you can shape it into anything you want, a star, a snowflake, a Christmas tree, or maybe even Merry Christmas letters. Whatever you try, you will enjoy the process, and the results will be spectacular.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/09122019061433PM-shutterstock_1551441944.jpg" style="width: 356.976px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; float: left; margin: 5px 10px 5px 0px; left: 5px;" alt="Polymer clay Christmas tree" fr-original-style="width: 356.976px;" fr-original-class="fr-fil fr-dii"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/09122019061500PM-shutterstock_1364103029.jpg" style="width: 329.99px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="Christmas handmade snowman" fr-original-style="width: 329.99px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>5. Sway and Spice Christmas Lights!</h2>Nothing screams festive more than good old-fashioned Christmas lights, but there are more creative ways to include them in your student room. Try hanging lights in short strings dangling from the ceiling along with some ornaments to make it seem like it’s raining tiny balls of lights! You can create a Christmas tree out of string lights on the wall instead of taking up space for an actual tree. Some students even hang family pictures instead of the usual balls and star ornaments, so start gathering some cherished family pictures of yours! Christmas lights can also come in the shape of candles with popular Christmas scents like pine, cinnamon, or gingerbread. They don’t only create a pretty decoration, but they give your room a warm and cozy atmosphere. If you’re not allowed to have candles in your student room, search for LED candles with festive drawings to give you a similar vibe.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/09122019061009PM-shutterstock_331918706.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="creative Christmas lights for student room" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>6. Snazz Up Your Room’s Door!</h2>This is one of the most popular things to do to decorate a student room for Christmas, but you can always find new, creative ways to bring to the table. Why not make your door look like a present by covering it with festive wrapping paper with a ribbon to create a bow? Love gingerbread houses, but baking them takes too much time and effort? Why not recreate them on your door with cotton balls for snow, some wrapping paper, and of course, sticker of the gingerbread man. People will crave some gingerbread cookies by just passing your door! You can hang a snowman on the door, whether it’s a sticker or a DIY one, by using white cups taped to the door in its shape! If you’re a fan of Christmas songs and they are always stuck in your head, hang your favorite lyrics on the door with some decorations to get people to sing along as they pass by!<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/09122019060904PM-shutterstock_503559868.jpg" style="width: 350px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="creative student door Christmas decoration" fr-original-style="width: 350px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>7. Take Advantage of Dull Surfaces!</h2>Every unattractive surface in your student room is a chance for creative Christmas decorations! For example, you can turn your fridge to a snowman with some simple stickers, or you can cover it with festive wrapping paper! Your windows are another way to get creative by hanging or sticking snowflake-shaped decorations on it or sprinkling fake snow on the edges. It’s a great way to not only create a Christmas vibe for yourself but to show off your creativity to students passing by the building.The most essential thing while decorating your student room for Christmas is not to be afraid to think outside the box and try new things. If you want to go all out on decorating your room without breaking the bank, check out our blog on <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/diy-christmas-student-rooms-decorations" target="_blank">DIY Christmas Student Rooms Decorations</a> to save up on cash!

7 Creative Ways to Decorate Your Student Room for Christmas

Do Regular decorations satisfy your hungry Christmas spirit? With the holiday season on the horizon, it is time for decorating your student room!

There is no doubt that the recent technological development has revolutionized this decade’s social communication. The whole world has become in the palm of our hands. However, it also changed general human nature and behavior. For example, are your eyes always glued to your mobile screen? Does your free time consist of endless scrolling between the same three or four apps? Do you feel anxious and fidgety when you haven’t checked your phone for fifteen minutes? Does that notification sound has you jumping to reach for your phone no matter what you’re doing? Are your grades dropping rapidly because you just can’t focus? If your answer is yes, then you most likely have an addiction to social media!Students nowadays are obsessed with posting every detail of their lives and how many likes or comments they get on their posts. Someone could make a post on Instagram or Facebook and spend the entire day monitoring people’s reactions and counting likes instead of doing something productive. It could go back to how social media presence is now related to how ‘cool’ someone is, and getting the most likes or retweets is, in a way, code for being accepted and welcomed into society. So if you’re a college freshman, you’ll probably try your hardest to make it into the ‘cool kids crowd’ thinking it’s the way to make friends, but it’s definitely not because actually talking to people and being yourself is the way to gain true, lifelong friends.This sort of addiction to social media is proved to cause negative impacts specifically on students, as it’s time-consuming and affects their academic performance. Even when we’re studying, we are all guilty of peeping our phones to check for social media notifications every 5 minutes, but do you ever wonder why? Here are some reasons why you just can’t help yourself, and neither can we:<h2>1. More Than a Wi-Fi Connection </h2>When we’re searching frantically for a Wi-Fi network to connect to, we’re actually looking for much more than that; it’s the human connection that we’re seeking. Social media was created to bring people closer to one another and it’s one of its most addictive traits. Humans are social by nature, and platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat make that so much easier. Mark Zuckerberg described Facebook as being “at the intersection of technology and psychology, and it’s very personal.”Finding people on social media that are like-minded or seeing a post that you and others can relate to, makes you feel like you’re not alone in your life experiences. That’s why we constantly share specks of our lives, like pictures of the places we are in or visit, the food we’re eating, and our daily accomplishments or opinions. Something as simple as receiving the ‘like’ button satisfies our inherent human need to be in touch with others and be accepted. This need multiplies if you’re an international student, of course, since you’re away from home, family, and friends, and the desire to be accepted increases.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/01122019034954PM-interaction-on-social-media-relation-to-college-popularity-2019.jpg" style="width: 400px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="interaction on social media relation to college popularity 2019" fr-original-style="width: 400px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>2. Taking Off your Invisibility Cloak </h2>Do you find it difficult to share your opinions and feelings in your class, in groups, or at home? Does it make you feel invisible and unheard of? If you’re naturally a shy person, social media could be your safe space to express yourself and create your own world. Social platforms have the perk of allowing you to pick exactly the type of people you want to interact with and the type of content you want to be exposed to so that you can share your thoughts about it. The idea of privacy and anonymity that exists in social media will make you feel safe in doing so without receiving any judgment. That feeling of freedom of expression without the complications of real-life interactions is one of the best things about social media platforms and it could be addictive. However, anonymity is considered to be one of both the pros and cons of social media when people start taking advantage of it in ways that are harmful, so make sure you are being careful while interacting with strangers online.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/01122019035027PM-anonymous-students-social-media-2019.jpg" style="width: 400px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="anonymous students social media 2019" fr-original-style="width: 400px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>3. You’re Doing Amazing, Sweetie!</h2>Another human need that social media fulfills is the need of receiving validation. Sharing your achievements, whether personal or practical, on social platforms usually has one goal: to receive attention and praise, which is completely normal. As a teenager, you might often feel a need to be seen and validated by someone who isn’t family! Being praised by strangers gives us a kind of satisfaction that differs from that of the people we see every day. Who doesn’t like hearing that they’re doing a great job or that they are looking good? Many studies show that getting likes, retweets or shares on a social media post releases the happiness hormone in the brain, Dopamine. This is because the natural need to be seen and validated is met, giving the brain positive reinforcement that could actually be addictive. This explains how it could turn to an obsession of craving a constant stream of those notifications to get your daily dose of happiness!On the other hand, there are other ways to get that dose of happiness without obsessing over post engagement. Social media platforms have a fun side to them that makes them more enjoyable than wasting them on popularity contests. It can be a place you go to cheer yourself up by watching silly videos of babies and animals, laughing about the newest meme being passed around with relatable captions, sharing your love for an artist with other fans, or asking for opinions on anything you’re dealing with.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/01122019035204PM-students-having-fun-on-social-media.jpg" style="width: 400px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="students having fun on social media" fr-original-style="width: 400px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>4. Keeping Up with the World</h2>One of the reasons you can’t put down your phone is this era’s growing urge to stay updated with everything going on. Dan Herman, a marketing strategist, marked it as a modern-day phenomenon and gave it the name “the fear of missing out (FOMO)”. People always want to stay up-to-date with the latest news or trends as to not feel excluded, especially with the world moving so fast and not waiting for anyone to catch up. It’s why social media has live streams and live posts of important events, so even if you don’t have time to catch the news, it’s all there in your back pocket. You can make use of these essential benefits when you want to stay posted with how things are at home. It also helps you keep up with updates in your university, your student accommodation event groups and pages, or college study groups on various social media platforms. Staying updated also strengthens the previously mentioned need for human connection since people usually do it to be in touch and not feel left out.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/01122019035110PM-pros-and-cons-of-social-media-2019.jpg" style="width: 400px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="pros and cons of social media 2019" fr-original-style="width: 400px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>5. Me, Myself, and I</h2>Studies show that people enjoy talking about themselves the most, so there’s no point in trying to deny it! However, the idea of constantly talking about yourself in real life is socially unacceptable. Social media platforms give you that luxury without raising doubts that you are a narcissist because that’s what they are made for! It’s where people can narrate their everyday life, memories, hopes, and dreams freely. Research shows that this self-driven communication stimulates the brain’s pleasure centers. This is why you just can’t help but share what you’ve had for breakfast or how much you’re stressed about your midterms! You can use this wisely by checking up on your friends if they’re posting about feeling down, help someone complaining about a subject that you’re ace-ing and starting study groups. Sharing study materials with one another is also another way of communicating with your college friends, some even post their hour-by-hour achievements to motivate one another. As a student, having effective study strategies might be tiresome, so using some help from extra-organized students by sharing your study plans with them will help you a lot. To learn more, read our <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/24-hours-to-improving-studying-strategies" target="_blank">24 Hours to Improving Studying Strategies</a> blog article.<h2>6. Sweet Escape</h2>Feeling the pressure of starting a new academic year or the stress from the amount of preparation you have to do? This is probably why you try to distract yourself by constantly being on social media. It can become problematic if you’re not careful when you use it as a coping mechanism for the problems you have. It’s a common reason for social media addiction since people use social platforms to escape stress, depression, or loneliness. It gives them feelings of reward and validation they don’t receive in their real lives. However, it’s a slippery slope and could cause more harm than good, so try to put down the phone and talk to a friend instead or leave your phone at home and visit your favorite place.Ultimately, even though social media is important in every student’s life, if you think that its influence is starting to get in the way of your studying and academic performance, then you have to take a step back and think about how to combat the issue. Take a look at our <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/4-study-hacks-to-avoid-distractions" target="_blank">Study Hacks to Avoid Distractions</a> blog article for more guidance.

Addicted to Social Media? 6 Reasons We Just Can't Stop

The whole world has become in the palm of our hands; however, it also changed general human behavior. Why students can't stop social media addiction?

<ol start="1" type="1"><li>Almost 40% of USA companies missed international business opportunities because they don’t have internationally competent personnel. In other words, they don’t have employees coming from different countries with various cultural backgrounds. When a company does have that sort of environment, it is more likely to land worldwide business opportunities due to the fact that having employees who speak foreign languages makes it easier for them to build strong relationships with clients, customers, and suppliers.</li></ol><ol start="2" type="1"><li>Australia has witnessed a remarkable rise in the number of international students enrolling in its nation's universities and vocational institutions in 2019. It reached 812,000 international students, approx. 20% of the overall student enrollment in the country, which makes it higher than the percentage of international students enrolled in universities in other leading educational countries.</li></ol><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/26112019025013PM-info2.jpg" style="width: 1000px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="Infographic" fr-original-style="width: 1000px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"><ol start="3" type="1"><li>A student survey in the UK has shown that 80% of students constantly worry about money and 1 in 6 students have never budgeted. International students now spend an average of £816 each month, which is £37 more than in 2018.</li></ol><ol start="4" type="1"><li>Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States together host 36% of all foreign students worldwide, which means that they’re the 3 top university student countries on a global scale. This figure indicates that these countries excel at the great student study experiences, ease of admission process, effective student-teacher interactions, world-class quality of programmes, students diversity, quality of students life, increasing career development, campus infrastructure, and manageable cost of living.</li></ol><ol start="5" type="1"><li>The number of students who study abroad is still on the rise on a yearly basis, as it rises by 10% annually. The largest share of international students in the United States is from China. This year marked an increase of 1.7 per cent in the number of Chinese students attending US universities, approximately, 369,548 students enrolled.</li></ol>

Infographic: 5 New Stats About International Students

Check our infographic showing some interesting stats about international students.

Finding somewhere to live as a student studying abroad can be challenging. Various points are to be considered when choosing your room. What are the student room types available is one of the most basic yet critical questions, and knowing which one suits your personality best is not to be taken lightly either. Deciding on which facilities to share and which ones to remain private is a cornerstone to your university life. Are you fine with sharing your kitchen and bathroom with flatmates, or is it too much to handle? Do you prefer living in a spacious room to stretch out, or you find it cosy to be living in a petite room?Each room type in a student home usually grants you a different benefit. Weighing the pros and cons of each room type is no crime; on the contrary, it will make it easier for you to decide and not have second thoughts. Thinking this over and over is totally fine, but cancellation might not be an option. If you might be stuck in a room for a year till you can change it, you might want to think twice if not thrice about it. To get to the chase, we might need to evaluate why international students, just studying abroad as you do, care about room types?<h2>1. They are a Good Place to Communicate with Others</h2>When it comes to choosing your student room, social bees search for a place to communicate and bond with other like-minded students rather than a place to study and spend the night at. Luckily, there are two room types suitable for you if you’re one of these social and interactive students: a single room and an en-suite room. They’re both the perfect choice for you if you are into socialising with others. Your communal kitchen will always be full of memories, and funny situations will always be your thing after your long university day. These rooms are typically located within a large flat with two bedrooms or more, and the kitchen and living area are shared in both types. The single room comes with a shared bathroom and kitchen facilities. It is typically booked by a group of friends wanting to share the same flat.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/26112019083059AM-students-communicating-in-their-student-room.jpg" style="width: 450px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="students communicating in their student room" fr-original-style="width: 450px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"> <h2>2. They Provide a Chance to Depend on Yourself</h2>Your student room can be a place where you can enjoy your quiet time and learn to depend on yourself. While living abroad alone is enough for you to feel independent, the responsibilities you have to handle in certain room types are definitely more of a challenge than others. If you choose to live a year in a studio or a flat, you will most likely have more opportunities to feel independent. You will have to calculate your home essentials alone, manage your budget, clean, organize, and even cook. Flats and studios are both self-contained and mainly accept single occupancy only. Some might have double occupancy as well; however, that is the maximum number of tenants for these room types. Flats are generally fully-furnished apartments with plenty of space, a separate bathroom, and a kitchen while Studios are usually fully-furnished rooms, slightly larger than the standard rooms, with a private bathroom and an open-plan kitchen. <img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/26112019083145AM-independent-student-in-her-student-room.jpg" style="width: 450px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="independent student in her student room" fr-original-style="width: 450px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"> <h2>3. They Help You Create Irreplaceable Memories </h2>Sharing a living area with strangers is not the only available option; you could also share your room with your friends or your couple. Your student room could be the place where you form an unbreakable bond with your friend and have fun till dawn. If you and your friend are ready to jump on the plane together, booking a twin student room together is the best choice. Twin rooms usually have two beds, workspaces, and a double wardrobe to fit your clothes.On the other hand, If you are travelling with a group of friends, it might be better to check out a more affordable option like a quadruple or a triple room where you can all share a room with three or four beds. You could even try sharing a triple room with new students if you wish to form a strong bond with a roommate from a different culture. Whoever you end up with at this student room, you are bound to share a lot and grow closer by the end of the year. If you are open-minded and willing to challenge yourself to a higher level of communication than just day to day communication, these room types are for you.Another option you could check is the double room. Shared with only one person and one bed, double rooms are a perfect choice for couples travelling together. It is where you can enjoy a journey that is unlike any other with your significant other. It could even be a trial of how you both could manage to live together in the future. Double rooms are generally affordable with a double bed, a workspace, or two, and a wardrobe.In conclusion, choosing the best room type depends on two important factors, understanding the different room types available and understanding your personality and your preferences. It might benefit you to understand the terminologies you come across in the process of looking for your student room. Try reading <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/whats-allinclusive-bills" target="_blank">What is All-Inclusive Bills?</a> and <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/student-accommodation-terminology" target="_blank">Student Accommodation Terminology</a> blogs to learn more about the student accommodation world.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/26112019083301AM-students-studying-together-in-their-student-accommodation.jpg" style="width: 450px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="students studying together in a shared room" fr-original-style="width: 450px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil">

Why Students Care About Room Types?

As an international student, choosing a room type is a bit overwhelming. Here are some of the reasons why you should care about room types to decide.

Student Housing

One of the most important things to consider when moving to Australia is opening a bank account that will be used as your everyday bank account and can be used for international money transactions, paying your bills, and managing your<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia" target="_blank"> student accommodation in Australia</a>. Figuring out the best student bank accounts in Australia is easy peasy if you know exactly what to consider.Comparing student bank accounts, savings accounts, and credit cards features is exactly what you need to do, so here is a list of the banks that offer transactional accounts:<h2>1. Westpac - Westpac Choice Student  </h2>The Westpac Choice Student account suits full-time students looking for a fee-free account with a major bank.Benefits? You can open your account online up to 12 months before your arrival, transfer money from anywhere around the world, shop securely online by using a Debit Mastercard linked to your Choice account, and manage your money on-the-go with award-winning mobile banking services.You will also pay no withdrawal fee at any major bank ATM in Australia, like Westpac, Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, NAB, St.George, Bank of Melbourne and BankSA. You will enjoy unlimited free transactions online, over the phone, in-branch, or via BPAY.The overseas ATM access is with $0 account fee. However, if you want to withdraw money overseas, it will cost you a $5 ATM fee and 3% foreign exchange commission.<h2>2. ANZ - ANZ Student Access Advantage </h2>The <a href="https://www.anz.com.au/personal/bank-accounts/everyday-accounts/access-advantage/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ANZ Student Access Advantage</a> account keeps your money secure while being easily accessible for everyday spending. It is the best bank account for a teenager in Australia, as it comes with a $0 account fee. To be eligible, you’ll need to be a full-time student and present a valid student card to an ANZ agent at the beginning of each year.Your debit card could be used to make withdrawals at overseas ATMs, but consider that it costs $5 ATM fee and 3% foreign exchange commission.<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/19082020080337AM-sales_banner.jpg" style="width: 838px; height: 120px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="Student Housing in Australia" fr-original-style="width: 838px; height: 120px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"></a> <h2>3. Commonwealth Bank - Student Smart Access </h2>It is one of Australia's oldest and largest banks. It allows you to open an account if you are arriving in Australia within 3 months. <a href="https://www.commbank.com.au/banking/students.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Commonwealth Bank</a> has a $0 monthly fee, which makes it perfect for students who want to use a day-to-day transaction account. You can securely use your debit card to shop in stores or online with free access to exclusive offers and competitions.The bank grants a <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/are-you-eligible-for-free-healthcare-in-the-uk" target="_blank">free health check</a> that helps you figure out the best banking services that meet your needs. Also, you can track and organise your money from anywhere by using the <a href="https://www.commbank.com.au/digital-banking" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CommBank app</a> with the <a href="https://www.commbank.com.au/digital-banking" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spend Tracker</a> to monitor your student budget.<h2>4. NAB - NAB Classic Banking  </h2>The <a href="https://www.nab.com.au" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NAB Classic Banking</a> account is literally so: a classic everyday banking account. It has no monthly account fees, no overdrawn fees, and no direct ATM fees from any NAB or rediATMs. You can effortlessly access your account through the internet and phone banking services. At no extra cost, you can possess a VISA debit card to shop wherever Visa is accepted. It is noteworthy to mention that with the NAB classic account lets you do your ordinary banking from any Australia Post office. This NAB student account has the foreign exchange commission of 3% and an overseas ATM withdrawal fee of $5. It also comes with NAB Defence security promise, letting you know that your account is shielded against fraud. You could always just link to a NAB isaver and transfer cash over whenever you need it. It is one of the best student savings accounts.<a href="https://www.casita.com/student-accommodation/australia" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/19082020080744AM-sales_banner2.jpg" style="width: 838px; height: 120px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top;" alt="Student homes in Australia" fr-original-style="width: 838px; height: 120px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib"></a> <h2>5. Citibank - Citibank Plus Everyday Account</h2>It is one of the <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/best-student-banks-in-australia" target="_blank">best banks in Australia</a> with an extensive ATMs network across Australia. The Citi Plus account lets you enjoy fee-free banking in Australia with no monthly account fee and free ATM withdrawals within the Citi ATM network. Its Debit MasterCard is accepted anywhere MasterCard is accepted and it can be used for cash withdrawals at ATMs around the globe. Fee-free ATM withdrawals can be made in Australia through Citi, Westpac, St George, Bank of Melbourne, and Bank SA ATMs. This Citi Plus Transaction account lets you transfer money from anywhere in the world to any bank account worldwide for free or to an overseas Citi account instantly.Finally, here are some of the most common questions when it comes to student bank accounts in Australia<h2 dir="ltr" style="">FAQs:</h2><h2 style="font-weight: bold;">1. Can I open a bank account in Australia as a student?</h2>Yes, definitely. All you need is a passport, an active email address, and your arrival date in Australia (three months beforehand). You must complete the form on the bank's website and provide information such as your passport number and expiration date.<h3>2. When should I get a student bank account?</h3>Before you enter university, it is sensible to open a student account, especially if you plan to apply for student loans, as the funds will be deposited straight into your bank account.<h3>3. Why are student bank accounts good?</h3>The benefits of a student bank account include that it is created exclusively to meet their needs and to make the financial aspects of university life less difficult. It will also aid them in managing their finances and <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/reduce-your-cost-of-living-in-australia">reducing the cost of living in Australia</a>.There you have it! These are the best student banks in Australia that will help you manage your finances, your money, and your life in Australia!

Best Student Banks in Australia

Having a student bank account is essential to manage your daily transactions while living abroad.

Student Finance

When booking your student room and starting your new aca`demic year or starting your whole university life experience, you usually have some expectations on how your life as an independent student studying abroad will look like, but the reality, as it turns out, is slightly different. Whether these expectations are ours, our parents’ or friends’, we still fall under the myth of having to control everything in our lives as students. We’re here to assure you that we’ve all been there, every student who moves to join university whether in an on-campus or off-campus student accommodation at least had experienced one the things listed below.<h2>I’ll clean my room every week</h2><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11112019024249PM-Expectation-3.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px 10px 5px 0px; display: inline-block; float: left; left: 5px;" alt="Cleaning with friends" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-fil fr-dii"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/19112019025739PM-Reality-2.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: inline-block; float: none;" alt="No need to clean" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-dii">We all think that we’ll be residing in amazing apartments for college students and cleaning will be the easiest thing to do when we live by ourselves since there will be no one else to clean after or to mess up our stuff. The reality hits when you realize that you leave everything as is because you still know where everything is. So why go through the hassle of cleaning then? To avoid procrastinating more than you should, try using this golden rule of ours: anything that takes less than 10 minutes do it now.<h2>I’ll pre-cook my meals every week</h2><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11112019024714PM-Expectation-2.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px 10px 5px 0px; display: inline-block; float: left; left: 5px;" alt="student cooking in the kitchen" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-fil fr-dii"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/19112019025041PM-Reality-3.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: inline-block; float: none;" alt="Students messing in the kitchen" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-dii">We get all excited about cooking and preparing our meals a week ahead. But that’s not as easy as it seems, it needs shopping on the weekend, and preparing the ingredients beforehand, whether they’re vegetables, protein, or fruits. If you’re one of the students who love to pre-cook their meals, it might be a good idea to book a self-contained studio or an en-suite where you have a private fridge/freezer. If this option is unavailable, make sure you talk to your flatmates about organizing the fridge’s shelves with your names on it so your food won’t get mixed with theirs. And of course, there will be times when you’ll have to grab-and-go your food to catch up with the bustling student life of yours, so don’t worry, we’ve all been there.<h2>I’ll rock it with laundry</h2><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11112019025131PM-Expectation-4.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px 10px 5px 0px; display: inline-block; float: left; left: 5px;" alt="Student doing his laundry regularly" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-fil fr-dii"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/19112019025011PM-Reality-4.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: inline-block; float: none;" alt="laundry piles up" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-dii">We all think that laundry is easy to handle until it’s our to-do task. It might be a good idea to separate your clothes throughout the week, meaning when you’re storing your unclean clothes, group dark colours together since they’ll be washed separately and have the light coloured clothes in a different laundry bag. So when it’s laundry day, you won’t struggle with grouping them. Get your own laundry basket as your room will not come with one. It’s better to buy it when you arrive at your student accommodation in the city you’re going to. If you need to know where to find these easily, ask your accommodation mates. <h2>I’ll have the best roommate/flatmate</h2><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/11112019025327PM-Expectation-1.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px 10px 5px 0px; display: inline-block; float: left; left: 5px;" alt="Flatmates sharing life" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-fil fr-dii"><img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/19112019025107PM-Reality-5.jpg" style="width: 380px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: auto; display: inline-block; float: none;" alt="flatmates fighting" fr-original-style="width: 380px;" fr-original-class="fr-dii">We all strive to make new friends and meet new people, but regardless of the fact that other students might not be at ease when it comes to socializing, some flatmates/roommates are not really that easy to deal/live with. You have to understand that we all come with different backgrounds and cultures, which certainly affects what we think of as friendly and what we think of as not. Feel free to read our <a href="https://www.casita.com/blog/6-types-of-roommates-youll-meet-in-college-" style="">6 Types of Roommates You’ll Meet in College</a> blog post to learn more.

Student Rooms: Expectations vs Reality!

What do you expect when booking your student room? Here's a list of expectation vs reality funny facts about living in a student room.

Your initial struggles as a student usually start during your university years. Calculating each and every step and considering possible variables when making any big decision could wear your energy out if you don’t look at it from a positive angle. Being an international student studying and living away from home could make you either confused, puzzled and lost or excited, adventurous, and up to the challenge. Deciding on which one to adhere to is not an easy to task to many, as it may surprise you, some of your fellow students, if not you yourself, might hate it even.On one hand, university life comes with a set of changes that you should get accustomed to and learn how to make use of them during your university years. On the other hand, having clear objectives and goals during this critical time will determine and shape your future career prospects. To be able to view and experience it differently, think about the various benefits that university life give to you as an international student. <h2>1. It Gives You Freedom</h2>University life gives you freedom and independence to an extinct that boosts your self-confidence as you learn to be responsible for your actions and decisions. As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "With more freedom comes more responsibilities." From choosing your university major, schedules, and student accommodation, to managing your budget, laundry, and the sort. The process itself is capable of teaching you more and more about life as you grow as a student living abroad.<h2>2. It Helps You Acquire New Skills</h2>Acquiring new skills is aligned with changing your lifestyle, and that’s what happens in your university years. These skills are of a huge benefit when it comes to choosing a career path and landing a job. From interpersonal skills, critical and creative thinking ones, to organizational skills and problem-solving ones. Living in a culturally diverse community allows you to develop these skills without even being aware of it. Further, interacting with your university professors is completely different from interacting with high-school teachers, or your university classmates. Participating in student activities and presenting your ideas in group-projects are all various methods of learning more about who you truly are and by default, acquiring new skills.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/03112019054409PM-casita-student-blog-student-accommodation-university-life-(1).jpg" style="width: 457px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="Student studying" fr-original-style="width: 457px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>3. You Live in Student Residences</h2>During your university years, most probably you’ll be living in purpose-built <a href="https://www.casita.com/" target="_blank">student accommodation</a> with a close-knit community of students from different countries and distinct backgrounds. That gives you a great opportunity to interact with like-minded students, yet accept and tolerate their differences. Your flatmates in a student home are most likely foreigners from different parts of the world, which means you gain insight into their traditions and culture while living with them.<h2>4. You Join Student Societies</h2>University has a society for just about everything, societies that help you make friends, gain real-life experiences and broaden your network. Any activity you participate in during university is an excellent addition to your CV and will surely make you stand out, so pick it carefully. Also, Societies can help you land useful internships in the fields you wish to pursue after college. For example, if you’re into journal writing, join a society that’s closely related to this field, or one with fieldwork, photography and interviewing people.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/03112019054338PM-casita-student-blog-student-accommodation-university-life-(3).jpg" style="width: 535px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="Confident Students collaborating together" fr-original-style="width: 535px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>5. You Choose Your Courses </h2>One of the most important things in university that you get to choose what to study, even if it’s partially, it’s surely better than before. During school, you probably didn't have a choice in what you were studying, you just focused on your grades. But when you’re in a university, it’s more likely for you to seek your passion in a subject of your choice; you interact with people of similar interests, hobbies, and career plans. You also get to decide what courses you wish to take and drop the courses you don't like much. This really sums up some of the benefits we listed above, like freedom, responsibility and acquiring new skills.<h2>6. You Build a Solid Network</h2>One of the great benefits of university life, if not one of the main points of it all, is to build a solid network and have lots of connections. Your current colleagues are soon to become future business connections, whether in the same field or in other ones strongly related to yours. Also, your student home flatmates and professors will provide valuable assets to help you in your career and life journey after university.<h2>7. You Have Various Career Options</h2>In 2016, according to the Department of Education in the UK, the unemployment rate of non-graduates aged between 16 and 64 was 3% higher than graduates’. These statistics show that planning your future during your university years is the best idea there is. While there are ways to land a job without a university degree, there are limits to where you'd go in your career without a university degree.<h2>8. Making Extra Money</h2>Generally, as a university graduate with the right specs, the right experience and the right CV, you are bound to land a higher paid job than a normal high school graduate. University graduates on average earn about £23,000, in the UK, 4% more than what graduates earned in 2018. Studies in the current age show that various employers refer to real skills besides a degree, but a degree is always preferable.Tell us now; what do you like the most about university life so far? Share with us your thoughts.

8 Reasons You Shouldn't Hate University Life

University life is likeable to many, yet detestable to others. It can either be puzzling and confusing or adventurous and funny. So pick yours now!

Moving to a new place away from home is adventurous indeed, yet a bit confusing, to be honest. We've got you covered. Getting used to your new university life will happen, but gradually, so be patient. Whether you’ve chosen to live on a self-contained studio or an en-suite room in a shared flat, there are some things to consider NOT doing while living in a student room.<h2>1. Randomize Household Chores</h2>Living in a student room is quite different from living with your family. Keep in mind that your flatmate is as unsure as you are about what to do. Initiate an open conversation about who will be responsible for the essential chores, like cleaning, cooking, paying bills, buying groceries, and the sort. Creating a schedule for household chores is the best way to go! Also, deciding on timings for using shared facilities separately is recommended if your flatmate agrees. Even if you're in a private room and you live on your own, have a clear plan with the days you're doing laundry, cooking, and cleaning. Bonus Tips: Choose a building that has laundry as one of its many facilities to avoid the hassle of finding one. <img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/27102019055007PM-students-cleaning-casita.-studentblog-ukbloggers.jpg" style="width: 425px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; margin: 5px auto 5px 0px; display: block; float: none; vertical-align: top; left: 5px;" alt="House Chores must be organized" fr-original-style="width: 425px;" fr-original-class="fr-dib fr-fil"><h2>2. Ignore Creating a Budget</h2>Don't waste money on personal needs and transportations only. Always remember that your home has its essentials — cleaning tools, bedsheets, bedding and bathroom packs, hangers, toilet papers, etc. you must keep a separate budget for these things. Plan a student housing budget with your flatmates and divide the cost on the numbers of residents. If you're in a private studio, plan the budget over the weeks every month.<h2>3. Misunderstand Your Flatmates Culture</h2>One of the challenges you’re going to face is learning how to deal with all sorts of people who come from different countries and having different cultures altogether. Try to consider living in a student room as a new opportunity to come across different cultures. Most likely your flatmates won't be from the same country as you’re, so keep your mind open to their food, culture, traditions, and distinct ways of expressing themselves. Traditional cuisines create a misunderstanding when living in a student home, and to fix this, learn to cook their traditional meals or you all cook together. It might even be a good idea to celebrate their festivals as a way of showing tolerance and acceptance. Even if you're living in a private room, you'll still share the communal areas with your flatmates. Using the communal kitchen for group-cooking is a great approach to interact with like-minded students, have fun, and learn more about different cultures, cuisines and even languages. Respect the rights, beliefs, and opinions of others.<img src="https://www.casita.com/images/files/public/27102019055029PM-diverse-students-cooking-casita-ukbloggers.jpg" style="width: 393px; z-index: 3; position: relative; overflow: auto; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; float: left; margin: 5px 10px 5px 0px; left: 5px;" alt="Students cooking together" fr-original-style="width: 393px;" fr-original-class="fr-fil fr-dii"><h2> </h2> <h2>4. Invade Your Flatmate’s Personal Space</h2>It is a common blunder to forget about privacy while living with someone, especially if you grew a solid friendship. To avoid being annoying, try to keep your phone conversations private and if your flatmate is on the phone, give them their space. If you think about hosting someone or one of your friends is coming over, make sure to let your flatmate know beforehand. Always knock, do not steal their food or groceries from the fridge (use labels, if needed), and make sure you have your own towels, bedsheets and the sort. Make sure you're not giving up on your own personal space as well. It all comes down to knowing your duties, obligations, and limits.

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What NOT to Do in Your Student Room

Do you know what to do and what NOT to do in your student room whether it's shared or private?

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