Moving into accommodation

Front door

Congratulations on receiving a place to study at ARU. We're really excited for you to move into your new home.

Arriving early

You can move into your room from the start date on your tenancy agreement.

If you’re arriving before this date, you’ll need to arrange a place to stay. Our short-term accommodation listings for Cambridge and short-term accommodation listings for Chelmsford have details of places to stay – or you can search online for other options.

Moving day

One of the most exciting days in your university life! You’ll be able to move in to your room from the start date on your tenancy agreement.

When you come to collect your keys, please bring a form of photo identification (ID) such as a passport or driving licence. We can’t issue keys unless you have this.

You'll need to book an arrival slot beforehand so we can get your keys ready and reserve a parking space for you. We'll send you an email explaining how to do this about a month before your contract starts. (If you're moving into The Railyard you'll be contacted separately.)

If you’re running a bit late and think you’ll miss your arrival time slot don’t worry, but if you’re going to be arriving late in the evening and we’ll be closed, please call your accommodation to let them know.

We’ll only be able to offer parking for a short time for you unload, but there are public car parks close to our campuses in Cambridge and Chelmsford. Car parking is available to students living in Writtle halls only. Vehicles must be registered, display a permit and use designated student parking spaces (disabled parking bays are available). You can register and obtain a permit when you enrol as a student at Writtle. Currently there is no charge for parking on campus.

Our campus pages have more information about travelling to Cambridge, travelling to Chelmsford and travelling to Writtle, along with campus maps.

International students

We know flight times sometimes mean international and EU students may arrive outside of office hours – don’t worry, if none of the arrival time slots on the induction work for you we’ll make sure you can get into your room after a long journey. If you’re living in accommodation managed by ARU please email us with your full name and expected arrival time and date. If you’re living in partner accommodation, the contact details you need are here.

Our International Office organises an Orientation Programme for international students coming to ARU for the first time. It includes campus and city tours, and useful information about living in the UK.

Any questions?

Have a safe journey; we look forward to meeting you.