Booking & Eligibility
Do I need a guarantor?
To pay in instalments largely in line with UK student finance payments; July, Aug, Sept, Jan and April, you need a UK based Guarantor or use an approved Guarantor service
Without a Guarantor, shorter instalments are available: July, Aug, Oct, Dec and Feb. Otherwise you can choose to pay in full.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
We require a holding deposit to confirm your booking which is then deducted from your first rental payment.
Can I choose my room and who I live with, such as friends or partner?
Yes, when booking, you can usually select your preferred room type and location (subject to availability).
If you have a specific request, just let our team know and we'll do our best to accommodate it. Contact us from here.
If you want to live with your friends or your partner, you can all book together, you can request to live in the same flat. Make sure to include each other's names in your booking requests so we can try to allocate you together.
Please check the specific room details or ask us before booking. Some of our studios are suitable for double occupancy, suitable for couples.
We may also have offers and deals on group bookings. Check here to see if we have any offers.
Can I book if I'm under 18?
Yes, we accept bookings from students who are 17 at the start of their tenancy, but you'll need a guarantor and additional paperwork.
Our team will guide you through the process. Contact us here.
Do you offer flexible tenancies or semester stays?
Yes, some of our properties offer shorter or flexible tenancy options, depending on availability and the time of year.
Please contact us here to directly to discuss your requirements.
How do I book as a returning student?
We'd love to have you stay with us again!
Returning students can log in to their existing Downing Students portal and select their preferred room for the next academic year.
You can often rebook early to secure your current room or choose a new one before general bookings open.
We also offer loyalty incentives for existing residents.
If you are not sure, contact us here to discuss.
Can I book a viewing?
Absolutely! You can book a viewing through the Downing Students website or by contacting us directly here.
We also offer virtual tours if you can't visit in person.
What if I have additional needs?
We're committed to making sure every student has a comfortable and accessible living experience.
If you have any additional requirements or accessibility needs, please let us know as early as possible so we can discuss suitable accommodation options and support arrangements.
Contact us here.
Payments, Pricing & Cancellations
How do I make a payment?
You can make payments easily through your Downing Students online portal.
We accept most major debit and credit cards, and you can also pay via bank transfer if you prefer.
When are my payment instalments due?
Payment dates are outlined in your tenancy agreement. Typically, your first instalment payments are due before you move in around July.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
Yes, if you book between 1st October and 31st July for the next academic year starting 1st September, you have 48 hours (2 days) after completing your tenancy agreement to cancel.
You must do so by contacting Downing Students via email within the 48-hour period.
You can also cancel if your circumstances change and you do not get your place at university or your study visa. You must contact us as soon as possible with supportive documentation to demonstrate these scenarios.
What if I book and don't get my university grades?
Don't worry, if you don't get your grades and are unable to attend your chosen university, you can cancel your booking without penalty.
Just provide official proof within the required timeframe.
Before you Move In
What do I need to do before moving in?
Before moving in, make sure you have
- Signed your tenancy agreement
- Paid your deposit and any rent due before arrival
- Completed all online check-in steps through your Downing Students portal
You'll receive a welcome email with full move-in instructions, including what to bring, directions, and your check-in time.
When can I arrive?
Your tenancy start date will be listed in your contract.
You can usually arrive any time from that date during office hours. If you need to arrive outside of these hours, please contact your property team in advance so they can make arrangements for you.
Can I move in early or send deliveries before my tenancy starts?
If your room is ready and available, early check-in may be possible. Contact your property team in advance to discuss available options around early student move-in.
Please note we cannot accept parcels before your tenancy start date, as storage space is limited.
What can and can't I bring with me?
You can bring all the essentials to make your room feel like home, bedding, kitchenware (including rice cooker), towels, and personal items.
However, for safety reasons, certain items are not allowed, including
- Candles or incense
- Portable heaters
- Deep fat fryers
- Barbecues or open flames
- Pets
If you're unsure about a specific item, please check with your property team before bringing it.
Moving In & Check-in
When can I move in?
Your tenancy start date will be listed in your contract. You can usually arrive any time from that date during office hours.
If you need to arrive outside of these hours, please contact your property team in advance so they can make arrangements for you.
You'll receive all your move-in details and check-in instructions before you arrive.
How do I check in?
When you arrive, head to the reception at your property.
Our friendly team will verify your ID, provide your keys or key card, and give you a welcome pack.
You'll also receive information about your room, facilities, and safety procedures.
Living with Us
What is included in my rent?
Your rent includes all bills (electricity, water, heating, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Laundry not included), content insurance (full details here) as well as access to on-site facilities like gyms, games room, cinema room, private dining rooms, study spaces, and social areas (facilities vary across properties).
What facilities are included in my room?
Facilities vary by property, but most rooms include a comfortable bed, study desk and chair, wardrobe, plenty of storage, and an ensuite bathroom. Studios also feature private kitchenettes.
Can I have a TV in my room and do I need a TV licence?
Yes, you can have a TV in your student room.
Some rooms do already come with a TV, while others have a TV point so you can bring your own. Please check your specific room details when booking.
And yes, you need a TV licence if you watch or record live TV OR use BBC iPlayer, but not if you only watch programmes and films on demand via non-BBC streaming services like ITVX, YouTube and Netflix.
Students may not need their own TV licence depending on how they're watching, and may be eligible for a summer refund.
Is there bike storage or car parking?
While all our properties have dedicated bike storage areas, we do not offer car parking.
However, all our properties are centrally located within walking distance or short public transport ride away from university campuses and city centres.
Will my room get cleaned?
You're responsible for keeping your own room clean.
Communal areas are cleaned regularly by our on-site housekeeping team.
Some sites offer optional room cleaning services, ask your reception team for details.
Can I smoke or vape in the building?
No, smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited inside any Downing Students building.
Can I have guests stay overnight, including friends or family?
Yes, you're welcome to have guests stay overnight in your student accommodation for a short period, as long as it does not cause disruption to your flatmates.
Please let your property team know for safety and security reasons.
How do I connect to the internet?
All rooms come with free high-speed Wi-Fi.
You'll receive connection details when you move in, and if you need any help, our support team is available 24/7.
Can I bring rice cookers or heaters for my room?
Rice cookers are fine to use in shared kitchen areas, but portable heaters or any appliance that may pose a fire risk are not allowed in rooms.
Please check with your property team if you're unsure about a specific item.
Do you have an airport pick-up service?
We don't offer a direct airport pick-up service, but we're happy to provide travel advice and directions from your nearest airport.
What laundry facilities are available?
All properties have on-site laundry rooms with washers and dryers that you can access 24/7.
Payment is made via a laundry app.
How do post and parcel deliveries work?
Yes, parcels and letters can be delivered to your property, and your reception team will accept it on your behalf.
We have a dedicated app whereby you will receive automatic notifications when your post and parcel has been delivered and is available to collect at reception.
Please note we can't accept parcels before your tenancy start date, as storage space is limited.
What support is available during my stay?
Our friendly on-site team is here to help with anything you need from maintenance and parcel handling to wellbeing support and local advice.
You'll have access to our wellbeing app that provides expert advice and also have access to wellbeing events, resident activities, and student support resources throughout the year.
Safety, Security & Maintenance
How secure are your properties?
Very secure! All our buildings have 24/7 CCTV, secure key fob access, and on-site management or security teams.
What if I have an issue with my room?
If something's not working properly or you notice a maintenance issue, report it through your online portal or at reception.
Our maintenance team will arrange a prompt repair.
Tenancy Changes, Moving out & Early departures
What if I need to leave before my tenancy ends?
Your tenancy agreement is for a fixed term and you are fully responsible during this term.
Can I swap, transfer, or sublet my room?
Subletting your room is not allowed under the terms of your tenancy agreement.