University of Cambridge Students – Your Complete Move-In Guide
Everything You Need to Prepare for Student Life at the University of Cambridge
Starting at the University of Cambridge means joining one of the world's most prestigious universities. Founded in 1209, Cambridge combines centuries of academic tradition with world-leading research and an exceptional student experience. Whether you're beginning an undergraduate degree or postgraduate study, preparing before move-in day will help you settle in quickly and make the most of university life.
Unlike most UK universities, accommodation at Cambridge is organised through its individual Colleges, each with its own community, traditions, facilities and accommodation. Your College quickly becomes the centre of your academic and social life, making your room much more than simply a place to sleep.
This guide covers everything you need to know before moving to the University of Cambridge, including accommodation advice, packing tips and the everyday essentials that will help you feel at home.
University of Cambridge at a Glance
📍 Location: Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
🎓 Student Population: Around 25,000 students
🏠 Popular Accommodation: Undergraduate students live in accommodation provided by one of Cambridge's 29 undergraduate Colleges, including King's College, Trinity College, St John's College, Pembroke College, Jesus College, Emmanuel College, Fitzwilliam College, Churchill College and many more. Undergraduate students are typically guaranteed College accommodation for three or four years, depending on their course.
🛒 Nearby Shopping: Grand Arcade, Grafton Centre, Cambridge Market Square, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Aldi and the city centre
🚆 Transport: Cambridge railway station offers direct services to London, Birmingham and Norwich, while cycling is by far the most popular way to travel around the city.
Student Accommodation at the University of Cambridge
Cambridge has a unique collegiate system. Rather than applying for a central university hall of residence, you'll become a member of one of the University's Colleges, each with its own accommodation, dining hall, library, social spaces and student support.
Some of the best-known Colleges include:
- King's College
- Trinity College
- St John's College
- Pembroke College
- Jesus College
- Emmanuel College
- Churchill College
- Fitzwilliam College
- Queens' College
- Corpus Christi College
Most undergraduate students live in College-owned accommodation for at least their first three years, with many Colleges providing accommodation for the full duration of a standard undergraduate course. Rooms may be located within the main College, nearby College-owned houses or purpose-built accommodation elsewhere in Cambridge.
Accommodation generally includes:
- Utility bills
- High-speed internet
- Heating and electricity
- Cleaning of communal areas
- Access to College libraries and facilities
- Student welfare and pastoral support
Unlike many universities, you do not submit a separate accommodation application. If you're offered a place by your College, undergraduate accommodation is arranged automatically.
Postgraduate accommodation varies between Colleges. Many Colleges provide accommodation for new postgraduate students, while others work with the University's Accommodation Service to help students find private housing if required.
Before buying everything, check your College's accommodation information so you know exactly what's already provided.
What Should You Pack?
Preparing before move-in day makes settling into university life much easier.
Bedroom Essentials
Make your room comfortable with:
- Duvet and pillows
- Bedding sets
- Mattress protector
- Clothes hangers
- Laundry basket
- Storage boxes
- Soft lighting
Kitchen Essentials
If you'll be sharing a kitchen, don't forget:
- Plates and bowls
- Cutlery
- Pots and pans
- Cooking utensils
- Food storage containers
- Tea towels
- Washing-up supplies
Bathroom Essentials
Pack your everyday necessities, including:
- Towels
- Toiletries
- Shower caddy
- Cleaning products
Study Essentials
University of Cambridge students spend much of their time balancing lectures, supervisions, laboratory work, independent reading and research. Creating a comfortable workspace from day one can make studying much easier.
Useful items include:
- Desk organiser
- Adjustable desk lamp
- Extension lead
- Laptop accessories
- Cable organisers
- Storage for books and coursework
- Notebooks and stationery
Experience Student Life in Cambridge
Cambridge offers one of the most distinctive student experiences anywhere in the world. Historic Colleges sit alongside modern research facilities, while cobbled streets, riverside walks and green spaces create a unique environment for study.
Cycling is the preferred way to travel between Colleges, faculties and the city centre, while traditions such as Formal Hall, May Week celebrations and College societies help create a close-knit student community. Beyond academics, you'll find hundreds of clubs, sports teams, music groups and societies across the University.
After a busy day of lectures, supervisions or exploring the city, it's always good to return to a room that's organised, comfortable and feels like home.
Popular with University of Cambridge students include:
- Comfortable bedding and mattress accessories
- Soft lighting for a cosy atmosphere
- Space-saving storage solutions
- Desk organisers for studying
- Kitchen essentials for shared accommodation
- Practical everyday accessories that make student life easier
All Loomz products are selected with student accommodation in mind, making them ideal for College rooms where permanent alterations aren't permitted.
Why Students Choose Loomz
Students across the UK choose Loomz because we understand what makes student accommodation feel like home.
✔ Designed specifically for student accommodation
✔ Affordable essentials for every student budget
✔ Perfect for College rooms, halls and shared houses
✔ Free UK delivery
✔ Practical products that make everyday student life easier
Helpful Student Guides
Planning your move? Explore our other useful resources:
- UK University Packing Checklist
- Student Accommodation Guides
- University Move-In Checklist
- Bedroom Essentials Guide
- Kitchen Essentials Guide
- Bathroom Essentials Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Is accommodation guaranteed at the University of Cambridge?
Yes. Undergraduate students are generally guaranteed College accommodation for three or four years, depending on their course. You do not normally need to submit a separate accommodation application because accommodation is arranged through your College.
Where do University of Cambridge students live?
Most undergraduate students live in accommodation owned by their individual College. Rooms may be on the main College site or in nearby College-owned buildings within Cambridge.
Do Cambridge students live in halls?
Not in the traditional sense. Cambridge uses a College system, where each College manages its own accommodation, dining facilities and student community rather than having central University halls.
What should I buy before moving to the University of Cambridge?
Most students need bedding, towels, study accessories, practical storage and everyday essentials before arriving. Preparing your room before move-in day helps you settle in quickly and stay organised throughout the academic year.
Ready for the University of Cambridge?
Moving to the University of Cambridge means joining one of the world's greatest universities while becoming part of a close-knit College community with centuries of history. By preparing your accommodation before you arrive, you'll be ready to settle in quickly, focus on your studies and enjoy everything Cambridge has to offer.
Browse Loomz's collection of student essentials to find everything you need for your bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and study space before beginning your journey at the University of Cambridge.