If you'll be attending Cardiff University this fall, one of the things you've probably considered is where you'll live. There are many opportunities for student accommodation in Cardiff, including living on campus in the halls of residence or a shared student apartment. Alternatively, taking a larger step into the open world and living off campus in a privately let apartment is always an option too.

Deciding where you want to live can be slightly stressful, especially if you are used to the comforts of your own home. Moving away to a new city is a daunting task and so new students tend to live within the university grounds for the first year. After this time they usually move on to privately let locations within the city centre and share with friends they have met.

Each option has its own benefits and downfalls, but one factor generally rules the decision - the price. Living in the halls of residence provides a quick and easy access to many of the services available on campus, and Cardiff's halls are some of the best to be found within the UK. Many of these halls include bathrooms within the suites and just a quick walk to the laundrette and other local amenities. With Cardiff's student placement program, if you apply within the correct time frame, you're almost 100% guaranteed a place on campus.

Although living on campus means one monthly payment for accommodation and bills, it can work out to be slightly more expensive than living away from the university. When off campus, you are in control of the costs in your apartment, including energy and internet access, so can source and use the cheapest supplier. This option is not available to you when living within the university grounds but it does mean one less issue to be concerned with.

Finally, there are larger private housing options available, such as Severn Point. In similar fashion to private housing options, Severn Point private bedrooms offer a bedroom with a study, shower, toilet and wash basin, all which are private. The kitchen area is shared between a group of people. Severn Point is typical of a privately let apartment but with security and the facilities available when living on site. In short, this option takes the benefits of both to provide a new and unique accommodation choice.

In addition to being monitored 24 hours a day by security staff, most private rented facilities are gated by electronic entry systems, which require a card or key in order to access the building. Generally, privately rented spaces have their own laundry and living facilities which are shared between students. Many facilities include all utilities in the cost of rent and insurance for your belongings, so you only have one bill to pay, however it can be quite expensive.

It is recommended you live on campus for the first year to allow you time to get settled in a new city, find your way around and make new friends. From there you can move onto living in secure private housing or go one step further and locate your own apartment. Whatever choice you undertake, the university should be able to direct you and assist in answering any questions you may have.