Feel at home

Starting university is about so much more than just studying - it's about making lifelong friends, growing in independence, encountering new cultures, nationalities and experiences.

We know that for some of you, moving away from home may seem like a daunting prospect; after all this might be the first time you've lived away from your family. That's why at Essex we try our hardest to help you settle in, starting by guaranteeing accommodation for all our first-year students and all our undergraduate international students for the duration of their course (subject to conditions).

 

University Square

With all the amenities of the city on your doorstep, and all the perks of University accommodation, you get the best of both worlds at University Square.

Just off the High Street and minutes from the Gateway Building and The Forum, our bright and modern accommodation at University Square is unmissable (literally). There are over 560 student rooms arranged in flats, within seven houses situated around a central enclosed courtyard.

Included in your rent is wifi, heating, hot water, contents insurance, electricity and the cleaning of communal areas (such as kitchens) - so no need to argue about whose turn it is to hoover!

Rooms are normally let for the full academic year from late September to the end of June, which means that even if you're away from the University during the winter and spring vacations, you don't have to remove your things from your room.


University Square accommodation
Southend Campus aerial photo
Virtual Campus Tour

Explore our Southend campus facilities and get a feel for accommodation using our virtual tour tool.

Take a look around

Settling in

Residence Life is a campus service to help you gain a positive experience from living and learning.  The team is formed of student-staff called Residents’ Assistants (RA) who focus on community building, supporting students' transition to university life, and providing programs that enhance cultural competencies.  The Residents’ Assistants (RAs) are there to help you integrate into University life and will organise a range of social activities where you can get to know other students in your accommodation and familiarise yourself with the local area

Code of Student Conduct

You are required to maintain a standard of conduct within the accommodation that promotes a good order and the reputation of the University.

In accepting a place within our accommodation, you agree to be bound by the University's rules and regulations, which include the Code of Student Conduct (.pdf).

Students sitting outside University Square
"It felt like home right from the day I moved in. I made friends really easily and have grown to love the town."
Zsolt Gergely