University of Essex Students – Your Complete Move-In Guide

Everything You Need to Prepare for Student Life at the University of Essex



Starting at the University of Essex means joining a university renowned for world-leading research, academic excellence and one of the UK's most diverse student communities. Whether you're moving into on-campus accommodation in Colchester or Southend or renting privately later in your degree, preparing before move-in day will help you settle in quickly and make the most of student life.

The University is particularly well known for politics, economics, law, computer science, psychology, business, sociology and data science. With modern campuses, outstanding student facilities and a strong international community, your accommodation quickly becomes the place where you'll study, relax and build lifelong friendships.

This guide covers everything you need to know before moving to the University of Essex, including accommodation advice, packing tips and the everyday essentials that will help you feel at home.

University of Essex at a Glance

📍 Locations: Colchester, Southend and Loughton (East 15 Acting School)

🎓 Student Population: Around 19,000 students

🏠 Popular Accommodation: Colchester accommodation includes The Meadows Flats, The Meadows Townhouses, The Pastures, University Quays, Athlete Village, South Courts, North Towers, South Towers, The Copse and Wolfson Court. Southend students can stay at University Square. From 2025 onwards, eligible new students at the Colchester and Southend campuses can benefit from guaranteed accommodation for the duration of their course.

🛒 Nearby Shopping: Colchester city centre, Lion Walk Shopping Centre, Southend city centre, Tesco, Aldi, Lidl and Sainsbury's

🚆 Transport: Colchester and Southend campuses both have excellent rail connections to London and the South East, with local bus services linking campuses and accommodation.

Student Accommodation at the University of Essex

The University of Essex offers a wide variety of modern accommodation, with most students living on or very close to campus. At Colchester, you'll find a choice of en-suite rooms, shared flats and townhouses in residences including The Meadows, University Quays, Athlete Village, South Courts, North Towers, South Towers, The Copse and Wolfson Court. Utility bills, Wi-Fi, contents insurance and cleaning of communal areas are included in the rent, while Colchester residents also receive an Essex Sport Silver gym membership.

Students studying at the Southend Campus can live at University Square, while students based at the Loughton Campus (East 15 Acting School) arrange private accommodation, as the University does not manage halls there.

One of Essex's biggest advantages is its accommodation guarantee. Since 2025, all eligible new undergraduate and postgraduate students studying at the Colchester or Southend campuses can secure University accommodation for the duration of their course, provided they apply before the annual accommodation deadline.

Many returning students continue living on campus, while others choose private accommodation in Wivenhoe, Hythe, Colchester town centre and Southend-on-Sea.

Before buying everything, check your accommodation inventory 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 Essex students balance lectures with seminars, research, placements, laboratory work and independent study. Creating a comfortable workspace helps you stay productive throughout the academic year.

Useful items include:

  • Desk organiser
  • Adjustable desk lamp
  • Extension lead
  • Laptop accessories
  • Cable organisers
  • Storage for textbooks and coursework
  • Notebooks and stationery

Experience Student Life at Essex

The Colchester Campus is one of the UK's largest campus universities, set within beautiful parkland at Wivenhoe Park. Students enjoy everything they need within walking distance, including accommodation, teaching buildings, cafés, sports facilities, shops and social spaces.

The Southend Campus offers a smaller city-centre experience close to the seafront, while both campuses provide excellent employability support, active student societies and strong international communities.

After a busy day of lectures, society events or exploring Essex, it's always good to return to a room that's organised, comfortable and feels like home.

Popular with University of Essex students include:

All Loomz products are selected with student accommodation in mind, making them ideal for furnished student 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 halls, studios 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:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is accommodation guaranteed at the University of Essex?

Yes. Eligible new undergraduate and postgraduate students studying at the Colchester or Southend campuses can receive guaranteed University accommodation for the duration of their course, provided they apply before the published accommodation deadline. The guarantee does not apply to the Loughton Campus.

Where do University of Essex students live?

Many students at the Colchester campus live in The Meadows, University Quays, South Courts, The Copse or Wolfson Court. Southend students typically stay at University Square, while Loughton students arrange private accommodation.

Can I personalise my student room?

Yes. Most students personalise their rooms with bedding, lighting, storage and decorative accessories. Always follow your accommodation provider's guidance and avoid making permanent alterations to walls or furniture.

What should I buy before moving to the University of Essex?

Most students need bedding, towels, kitchen equipment, study accessories and practical storage 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 Essex?

Moving to the University of Essex means joining a university recognised for academic excellence, diversity and one of the UK's strongest accommodation guarantees. By preparing your accommodation before you arrive, you'll be ready to settle in quickly, focus on your studies and enjoy everything Essex 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 Essex.

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