Student housing industry supporting students in the time of uncertainty

The past year has been an eye-opener of sorts for the entire world, with students adapting to the new-normal of online lectures and social distancing. After everything the higher education landscape has been through, we understand that students across the globe have been caught in a year of upheaval and uncertainty.

When it comes to higher education, universities are no longer focused on providing education, rather an experience to students, especially those who are from a different country. Considering the current scenario where students’ needs are constantly evolving, the student housing sector has stepped up their A-game with their swift actions. 

Student housing, being an organized sector has been at the forefront of a student-first approach and in the recent past, it is even more evident in their actions and not just in their vision. Major players in the industry are coming up with different measures to support the students such as 

• Rent-free stays for a time period – upto 6 weeks
• Discounts on rent – upto 50%
• Flexible cancellation policy

A survey by Knight Frank reveals that around 70% of the students staying in private accommodation felt positive about their provider’s response to the pandemic, with the benefits of high-quality spaces at purpose-built student accommodations with (PBSA) centralised management coming to the fore. It underlines the importance that accommodation plays in terms of a student’s mental wellbeing and support. 

We are proud of the way we’ve overcome the hurdles during the past year and emerged stronger than before. And in all of this, we’ve come together in support of the students, keeping their safety and needs above all. The accommodation providers offered flexible tenancies, allowed early-check out and check-in procedures, virtual viewing of their properties – all of these made the entire experience seamless for the students. During the period of self-isolation, students were encouraged to stay connected virtually at all times – with events and sessions being hosted online. 

The recent crisis has shown that improving student wellbeing and creating a sense of community will go a long way in supporting retention and boosting awareness about the benefits of PBSAs. University Living believes that PBSAs will keep students at the core of their service offering and provide an even stronger and robust support system in times to come.