Abertay University Student Accommodation Guide 2025
Best Halls & Housing Options

🎓 Introduction

Finding the right accommodation is one of the most important steps in your journey to Abertay University. Your choice will shape not only your budget but also your social life and overall student experience in Dundee. As Scotland’s fourth-largest city, Dundee offers affordable housing compared to bigger UK cities, while still providing modern student amenities, vibrant nightlife, and excellent transport links.

This guide explores the best halls of residence, private housing, and other options for Abertay University students in 2025. You’ll also find realistic cost breakdowns, pros and cons of each option, and top tips for budgeting while studying.

🏫 Abertay University Halls of Residence

Abertay manages several halls of residence in and around Dundee. These halls are popular among freshers for their convenience, safety, and built-in student community.

🛏️ Parker House

• Location: Seagate, 5 minutes’ walk from campus
• Room Types: En-suite cluster flats, studios
• Facilities: 24/7 security, on-site laundry, social spaces, Wi-Fi included
• Cost (2025): £160 – £200 per week

👉 Best for: Students who want modern en-suite rooms and social facilities within walking distance of lectures.

🛏️ Meadowside Court

• Location: Right next to campus and the city centre
• Room Types: Shared flats with standard rooms
• Facilities: Fully furnished, on-site maintenance, bills included
• Cost (2025): £130 – £150 per week

👉 Best for: Budget-conscious students who still want to live in university-managed halls.

🛏️ Lyon Street Halls

• Location: Near Dundee city centre, 10 minutes’ walk to campus
• Room Types: Standard rooms with shared kitchens and bathrooms
• Facilities: Laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, bills included
• Cost (2025): £110 – £130 per week

👉 Best for: Students who want the cheapest halls option and don’t mind sharing.

🏘️ Private Student Accommodation in Dundee

If you’re looking for more independence or different facilities, private student halls are a great alternative. These are managed by third-party providers but designed specifically for students.

⚡ iQ Parker House (Private Sector)

• Offers en-suite rooms and studios
• High-speed Wi-Fi, study areas, gym access
• Weekly rent in 2025: £175 – £220

⚡ Marketgait Apartments

• Modern studios and cluster flats
• Close to both Abertay and University of Dundee
• Weekly rent in 2025: £150 – £190

Private halls usually cost slightly more than Abertay-managed halls but often include premium amenities like gyms, cinemas, and larger social spaces.

🏡 Renting Private Flats & Houses

Many Abertay students, especially second and third years, move into private housing across Dundee. Popular student areas include:

• Hilltown – affordable flats, walking distance from campus
• West End – vibrant neighbourhood with cafes and bars, close to University of Dundee (10–15 minutes from Abertay)
• City Centre – best for nightlife and convenience

Average Costs in 2025:

• Shared flat/house: £350 – £500 per month (excluding bills)
• Bills (gas, electricity, Wi-Fi): £60 – £90 per month
• Council Tax: Students are exempt, but you’ll need to provide proof of full-time enrolment.

👉 Private housing offers independence and often works out cheaper long term, especially if you share with friends.

💸 Cost Breakdown for Accommodation in 2025

🌟 Pros & Cons of Different Options

✅ University Halls

Pros:

• Bills included (no budgeting stress)
• Social environment for meeting new people
• Close to campus and city centre

Cons:

• More expensive than private flats
• Less independence

✅ Private Student Halls

Pros:

• Modern facilities (gym, cinema rooms)
• Safe and secure environment
• Bills included

Cons:

• Higher rent compared to other options
• Sometimes less integrated with Abertay community

✅ Private Flats & Houses

Pros:

• Cheaper overall if sharing with friends
• More independence and flexibility
• Choice of location across Dundee

Cons:

• You pay bills separately (budgeting needed)
• Longer commute if outside city centre

🛒 Budgeting Tips for Students in Dundee

1. Book Early: Halls fill up quickly. Apply as soon as you accept your Abertay offer.
2. Consider All-Inclusive Bills: If budgeting is tough, halls or private student accommodation simplify payments.
3. Look Beyond Rent: Factor in groceries (£35 – £50 per week), transport (£15 – £25 per week), and leisure (£30 – £50 per week).
4. Use Student Discounts: TOTUM, UNiDAYS, and local discounts help reduce costs on food, travel, and entertainment.
5. Flatshare for Savings: Living with friends in private flats can save £100–£150 monthly compared to en-suite halls.

🌍 Living in Dundee as a Student

Dundee is one of the UK’s most affordable and student-friendly cities. With over 20% of its population being students, the city is vibrant yet compact. Most accommodation options are within walking or cycling distance of campus.

• Transport: Student bus passes cost around £55/month in 2025. Cycling is popular due to Dundee’s size.
• Entertainment: From bars on Perth Road to the V&A Dundee museum, there’s plenty to explore.
• Safety: Dundee is considered safe, and student areas are well-served with security and lighting.

📌 How to Apply for Abertay Accommodation

1. Firmly accept your Abertay offer.
2. Apply online through the Abertay University accommodation portal.
3. Rank your preferences (Parker House, Meadowside Court, Lyon Street, etc.).
4. Pay deposit to secure your room.
5. Get your contract and move-in details well before the start of term.

🎯 Conclusion

Accommodation plays a huge role in shaping your university life at Abertay. Whether you prefer the convenience of university-managed halls, the premium facilities of private halls, or the independence of renting your own flat, Dundee offers affordable and student-friendly options in 2025.

• Budget-conscious? Choose Lyon Street or a private flatshare.
• Want convenience & community? Parker House and Meadowside Court are great.
• Prefer independence? Private flats or studios are ideal.

By planning early and understanding your options, you’ll find the perfect home base for your studies and student life at Abertay University.