Student Accommodation
Glasgow is a city of charm and towering architecture with a youthful blend of sophistication, style and fun that pairs perfectly with three world-class universities. It’s a city that expresses itself in many ways, whether it’s through its renowned music scene, art galleries and major cultural institutions or its delicious restaurants and nightlife. But the city also has a unique, edgy flavour that’s unmatched by any other in the UK, and it makes it the perfect student destination.
Among students, Glasgow has a reputation for being one of the most accessible cities in the UK. As a result, it’s no surprise that the city is a popular choice for students who have disabiliti. While some student accommodation is more accessible than others, there are a wide variety of options available for disabled students in Glasgow.
Finding suitable Glasgow student accommodation can be difficult for all students, and this is particularly true for people with disabiliti. Many universities offer extra funding to help students with the cost of their accommodation, and applicants with disabilities are often prioritised. But even with this financial support, many disabled students still find it hard to get access to a home that meets their needs.
Some unis have their own off-campus properties or quality agreements with local private landlords, which can make it easier to find a house share or flat that’s suitable for disabled students. And independent private landlords are required by law to make reasonable adjustments for disabled tenants.
Student Accommodation – What You Need to Know
In contrast, some of Scotland’s more traditional university halls can be less well-suited to people with disabilities. These are usually older buildings with fewer adaptations, and they can be difficult to navigate for people with limited mobility. Some universities are now converting their older halls to more modern, adaptable designs, but it’s not yet the case that all student accommodation is accessible for everyone.
Many students with disabilities report that their relationships with their Glasgow student accommodation providers have been positive. But a few of the students interviewed for this study had some concerns. For example, one of them lived in private PBSA and was required to pay a fee to use a guarantor service, which she felt was discriminatory because she was estranged from her parents. Other students described a lack of clear signage and visual fire alarms in their rooms, which could pose difficulties for those with sight or hearing impairments.
the evolution of student accommodation has brought about numerous improvements that contribute to the overall university experience. From creating comfortable living spaces to fostering a sense of community, leveraging technology, promoting sustainability, prioritizing safety and security, and offering comprehensive support services, student accommodation plays a vital role in enhancing students’ learning journey. By providing a supportive and engaging environment, student accommodation sets the stage for students to thrive academically, develop lifelong skills, and forge meaningful connections.
If you have a condition that affects your ability to manage your own living arrangements, you should apply for accommodation with the Glasgow School of Art as early as possible, in order to be able to book in advance. You can apply for accommodation at GSA even if you have a ‘Conditional’ offer of study, but you will not be able to move into your room until your offer becomes unconditional. This policy is intended to ensure that all students are given an equal opportunity when applying for student housing at GSA. We will do our best to accommodate you once we have a good idea of what type of accommodation you require.