Everything You Need to Prepare for Student Life at the University of the Highlands and Islands

Starting at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) means joining one of the UK's most unique universities. Rather than being based on a single campus, UHI is a partnership of colleges and specialist centres spread across the Highlands, Islands and Moray, offering students an incredible opportunity to study in some of Scotland's most spectacular locations.

Whether you're studying in Inverness, Perth, Fort William, Dornoch, Shetland, Orkney, the Outer Hebrides or another UHI location, preparing before move-in day will help you settle in quickly and make the most of student life.

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

University of the Highlands and Islands at a Glance

📍 Locations: Multiple campuses across the Highlands and Islands of Scotland

🎓 Student Population: Around 40,000 students (including further and higher education learners)

🏠 Popular Accommodation: UHI offers student accommodation at several locations including UHI Inverness, UHI Perth, UHI North, West and Hebrides (Fort William and Dornoch), UHI Shetland, SAMS and Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, alongside approved private accommodation in areas where University residences are not available.

🛒 Nearby Shopping: Varies by campus, with supermarkets, local shops and town centres located close to most student residences.

🚆 Transport: Each campus has different transport links, with many students walking or cycling locally while others use buses, ferries or rail services depending on location.

Student Accommodation at the University of the Highlands and Islands

Because UHI operates across multiple campuses, accommodation varies depending on where you study. The University provides purpose-built student residences at several campuses while also helping students find suitable private accommodation where University housing is unavailable.

Campuses with dedicated student accommodation include:

• UHI Inverness
• UHI Perth
• UHI North, West and Hebrides – Fort William
• UHI North, West and Hebrides – Dornoch
• UHI Shetland
• SAMS
• Sabhal Mòr Ostaig

Accommodation typically includes:

• Fully furnished bedrooms
• En-suite rooms at many residences
• Shared kitchens and living areas
• High-speed Wi-Fi
• Utility bills included
• Laundry facilities
• Secure access
• Student support services.

Applying for Accommodation

Applications for accommodation are open to new students who have accepted either a conditional or unconditional offer from UHI. Rooms are generally allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, although certain applicants—including international students, care-experienced students and those with additional support needs—receive priority if they apply before the published priority deadline.

Unlike many universities, UHI does not guarantee accommodation for every student. Accommodation is allocated subject to availability, and if no room is available, eligible applicants are placed on a waiting list. The University aims to match accommodation preferences wherever possible, but this cannot be guaranteed.

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

UHI students often combine lectures with practical learning, fieldwork, laboratory sessions, placements and independent study. Creating a comfortable workspace from day one helps you stay organised throughout the academic year.

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 at UHI

Few universities offer such a distinctive student experience. Depending on your campus, you could be studying beside Loch Ness, in the Scottish Highlands, on the Isle of Skye, in the Outer Hebrides, on Orkney, in Shetland, or in one of Scotland's historic cities.

Small class sizes, close-knit student communities and breathtaking landscapes make UHI a very different experience from a traditional city university. Outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and wildlife watching are all part of everyday life for many students.

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

Popular with UHI 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 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, flats 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

Where do University of the Highlands and Islands students live?

Accommodation depends on which UHI campus you attend. Student residences are available at locations including Inverness, Perth, Fort William, Dornoch, Shetland, SAMS and Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, while students at other campuses may stay in approved private accommodation.

Is accommodation guaranteed?

No. Accommodation is allocated subject to availability. Rooms are normally allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to certain groups of applicants. If no rooms remain available, eligible students are placed on a waiting list.

Are bills included?

Yes. Most University-managed accommodation includes utility bills, Wi-Fi and fully furnished rooms, although facilities vary slightly between campuses.

What should I buy before moving to UHI?

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 the Highlands and Islands?

Moving to the University of the Highlands and Islands means joining one of the UK's most distinctive universities, with campuses set in some of Scotland's most inspiring locations. By preparing your accommodation before you arrive, you'll be ready to settle in quickly, focus on your studies and enjoy an unforgettable university experience.

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 the Highlands and Islands.

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