Once your course offer becomes Unconditional Firm, that is once you have been offered a place on a course, met the conditions (passed your exams) and you have formally accepted the offer, your status on the University system changes and an Orientation Pack is sent out automatically from our Registry department.
A Residences Newsletter will be included within this pack detailing which residences will be available for the coming year along with general descriptions.
Once you have accepted an unconditional offer, you can log onto OASIS (the university portal), where you should find a link which invites you to apply for accommodation online. The online application system will be available from the end of April. Contact the Residences Office if you have any difficulties.
I don't have internet access, how can I apply for accommodation room in University Residences?
Please phone the Residences Office on +44 (0)1382 308059 or email residences@abertay.ac.uk and let us know. We'll then send you an accommodation form and information by post. Please note that the paper application will only be available once the online application is open.
When will I know that I have secured accommodation?
You will receive an email from the Residences Office once your application has been received. You will then receive another email within seven days confirming availability and details of any offer. Keep an eye on your OASIS account in the meantime for any update. If you have any concerns, please email residences@abertay.ac.uk or call +44 (0)1382 308059 to speak to an Accommodation Officer.
What other information is needed to process applications?
We need to know that you will definitely be studying at the University of Abertay Dundee before we can offer you accommodation. For new students, this confirmation is provided to us directly by UCAS. Postgraduates and visiting undergraduates are asked to indicate in their application whether their place at Abertay is conditional or unconditional, and it is their responsibility to send confirmation of their unconditional place.
I will be a new student, am I guaranteed accommodation?
Unfortunately not. However, we always consider students who are new to Dundee to be our top priority and we will also do our best to accommodate them. Please contact the Residences Office if you have any concerns.
Where can I find my username and password?
Username = your student number (7 digits)
Password = your date of birth in 6 digits with no punctuation, i.e.050811
If your password doesn't work click 'Forgotten Password' and follow the instructions
We're afraid not, you will have to make 5 choices in order to move through the application. We ask you to make 5 choices as we cannot guarantee that we will be able to offer you your first choice. If you only want your first choice and nothing else please details this in the 'Special Needs/Further Information' box.
Can I stay for 1 semester only?
Yes if you are studying a one semester course. When completing the Residences Application in OASIS tell us in the 'Special Needs/Further Information' box that you are studying for one semester only and which semester this will be.
Accommodation offer
What date can I get into my residence?
Keys for your room can be collected on either Saturday 8th or Sunday 9th September 2012 depending on where you will be staying.
Where can I find a summary of the terms and conditions applying to my accommodation/tenancy?
Does it matter if I don't reply to my offer of accommodation immediately?
Yes, it might! Generally, you only have 14 days from the date of offer in which to finally accept or decline your offer of accommodation. Places are limited and in great demand, particularly at the start of the academic year in September, which is why we can only give you a limited amount of time in which to accept.
If you don't accept within the specified time, the accommodation is very likely to be offered to another applicant, with no guarantee that you will receive another offer from us.
What do I need to do to accept my accommodation offer?
You will be asked to accept your offer online and all instructions on how to do this will be made clear at the time you receive the offer. Please note that you will need to make a rent prepayment (in pounds sterling) at the time of accepting the offer. The exact amount to be paid will be detailed in the offer. This can be paid by either bank transfer, online through the University OASIS system or over the phone by calling +44 (0)1382 308027
What if I don't like what I have been offered?
We prefer students to give the accommodation they have been offered a reasonable trial. A transfer to other accommodation is usually possible once the semester is underway (from around late October), subject to availability of suitable places.
However, we find in the vast majority of cases that once students have been in their accommodation for a few weeks and got to know their neighbours or flatmates, they actually prefer to stay where they are.
Can I be released from my lease after a few weeks?
No, the lease is legally binding for the 38, 42 (Opal 1 only) or 51 week period (as applicable), which covers the Christmas and Easter breaks. However, if a student terminates their course, then the lease will also be terminated (a charge may be incurred when course termination/withdrawal occurs).
Please note the lease will not be cancelled if you reside in Opal 1 until another student is found to take over your lease.
Can I move to other university accommodation if I don't get on with my neighbours/flatmates?
Transfers are allowed once the session is underway and everyone has been found accommodation, subject to availability. However, transfers are not possible between Opal 1 and our other residences as the lease for Opal 1 is with a private landlord.
Is anything else included in the rent?
Hot water, heating, lighting, internet, Portable Appliance Testing and Insurance are all included free of charge within your rent.
Is there any chance of a vacancy in university accommodation after the start of the academic session?
We usually have one or two vacancies arise once the term has started, e.g. where a student has pulled out of the course. You should keep in touch with the Residences Office if you would like to be put onto a waiting list for accommodation. (Please note that it is not possible to transfer between Opal 1 and another Abertay residences.)
What happens if my application is unsuccessful?
We try to place as many students as possible and keep a waiting list if our residences are full. If you are unsuccessful we can provide information about local letting agents for private accommodation.
If I don't like what I have been offered and reject it, will I get another offer?
If you reject your first offer you will be placed at the end of the waiting list and may not receive another offer. No guarantee can be given. If the reason you are rejecting your offer is because you have a special need which does not allow you to accept the offer, then you should contact the Residences Office.
Rent/deposit
How much is the deposit?
There is no deposit to be paid but you will have to make a pre-payment of rent at the time of accepting your offer.
How much is the pre-payment of rent?
This depends on the halls you will be staying in and the length of time you will be staying with us. The exact amount will be detailed in your Occupancy Agreement.
When does the pre-payment of rent have to be paid?
This will have to be paid at the same time as you accept your offer of accommodation. All information on how much, how to and when to pay will be detailed in your offer.
How much discount will I get if I pay my rent in full?
2% will be discounted. The rent must be paid at the time of accepting the lease terms for the discount to apply. Payments made in full on arrival will not benefit from the 2% discount.
How much is the rent?
Please look in our Costs section for our full rent lists.
How do I pay the rent?
Rent can be paid using either of the following methods: Direct Debit, BACS bank transfer, credit or debit card or online. You can also pay upfront and in full and gain a 2% discount if you make the payment when you accept the lease. (Term and conditions may apply. Opal 1 rent terms vary.)
How can I pay my initial rent pre-payment?
The initial rent pre-payment can be paid by any of the following methods:
Credit/debit card by calling the cash desk or online through OASIS or by bank transfer (BACS). Setting up a Direct Debit will not pay the initial rent pre-payment - the date of the first Direct Debit payment is 9th October 2012.
How do I set up a Direct Debit?
The Direct Debit must be set up through OASIS by clicking on 'Create Direct Debit mandate'. If you set up a payment plan direct with your bank this is not a Direct Debit but a Standing Order/bank transfer(BACS).
Can I pay through my bank?
Yes. This is called a bank transfer/Standing Order. Give our bank details (link to bank details in media library) to your bank to set up the payment plan. Please remember that Standing Orders/BACS can take up to 10 banking days to reach the destination - please ensure your payment will reach us in time.
Can my parents/sponsor pay my rent online?
Yes through our online shop by clicking on 'Accommodation' then follow the instructions from there.
I'm paying in full on arrival. Do I still need to pay the initial rent pre-payment?
Yes the initial rent payment must still be paid within the 14 day offer period. The amount to pay on arrival will be the total amount minus the initial rent payment - these amounts are listed under section 2 of your Occupancy Agreement.
Residences information
Is the first-year accommodation single sex or mixed sex?
The flats in Alloway and Opal 1 are either all-male or all-female and generally for students between the ages of 16-19. The flats in the other university residences, for second, third and fourth year students - and first-year students 20 years or over - can be mixed sex.
What is en-suite accommodation?
A bedroom with private shower-room facilities: each en-suite room has its own shower, wash hand basin and WC. Around 40% of the rooms we have are en-suite.
How many people share the bathroom facilities in the standard (i.e. non-en-suite) halls?
This depends on the halls you are in. The mix varies between two to five students sharing.
Is bedding supplied in first-year university accommodation?
We don't supply you with bedding. You must bring your own duvet, pillow, sheets, duvet covers and any extra bedding you require. (This is the same for Opal 1.)
I can't cook. How and where will I get my meals if I'm in a flat?
There are lots of pubs, cafes and restaurants in the central area of Dundee including those in the Student Centre at the heart of the University campus in Bell Street, as well as shops where you can buy ready meals.
Most students living in flats also enjoy cooking together, at least occasionally. There are some really good student cookbooks to help you learn how to cook easily and cheaply. There are a wide range of supermarkets and more specialist food shops relatively close to all our accommodation.
Do all first-year bedrooms have internet access?
Yes, all residences have internet access.
What should I do if I lose my key?
You should phone Campus Security on +44 (0)1382 308008 for help. (You should note that non-emergency call-outs are chargeable.
Can I smoke in my residence?
No. Our residences are all strictly non-smoking. Any student caught smoking in any of the residences will be charged a fixed penalty and the cost of repair of any smoke damage.
Do any of the residences have IT facilities available?
Yes, all residences have IT facilities provided free of charge.
What if I live in a university residence and need help out of office hours?
You should phone our 24-hour Campus Security on +44 (0)1382 308008 for help.
What about laundry facilities for my personal laundry?
We can't do it for you... but there are laundry facilities (washers and dryers) in all university residences so you can do your own! You'll need to supply your own washing powder/liquid. There are washing machines which cost £2.20 per wash and tumble dryers which cost £1.00 per cycle.
What do the caretakers do?
Your caretaker is your first point of contact if you have any general issues with your accommodation. If they are unable to help, they will be able to pass you on to someone who can. They are also responsible for the cleaning services, general discipline and repairs within the residence.
What is the difference between each of the bedroom types in the Lyon Street Halls?
Economy Room = Small single bedroom with single bed. This room has less floor space than the Standard room
Standard Room = Single bedroom with single bed.
Bedsit = Self-contained flat with own bathroom, bedroom and kitchen
Premium/Double Room = Double bedroom with double bed.
Twin Room = Large bedroom with two single beds for 2 people to share.
Keys for all our Halls of Residences can be collected on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th September 2012 between 10am and 4pm each day. If you are not able to collect your keys during these times please e-mail residences@abertay.ac.uk to discuss other arrangements. Please note that keys cannot be collected prior to Saturday 8th September 2012 10am
Keys can be collected from the main University in Bell Street, Dundee except Opal 1.
What if I arrive before Saturday 8th September 2012?
There are many guest houses in the Dundee area that may be able to accommodate you if you are arriving before 8th September 2012.
Personal requirements
What facilities are available for disabled students?
We have a limited number of flats which have been adapted to suit students with restricted mobility and we will do our best to adapt to meet your needs. However, there is no single solution to suit everyone.
Please contact Student Services on advisory@abertay.ac.uk and a member of staff will be able to further inform you about how we can assist with your particular disability.
Do you have any services/facilities for students with mental health problems?
You should contact Student Services on advisory@abertay.ac.uk. They will be able to further inform you about how we can support you.
I have asthma. Can I be sure of having non-smoking accommodation?
Yes, all our residences are non-smoking.
What if I have a medical problem? Would I get priority then?
We would try to give some priority to your application, and would do our best to help you find suitable accommodation. However, we are unable to offer you a cast-iron guarantee of accommodation.
The University does have a number of rooms that are reserved for students who have additional support needs such as a medical condition or disability. You should Student Services on advisory@abertay.ac.uk for advice if necessary.
Miscellaneous
Can I bring a car with me to Abertay?
There is no restriction on bringing a car to Abertay. However, parking is not provided on campus and there is only limited parking available at Alloway Halls and Lyon Street. Parking is available at the council-run Bell Street multi-storey car park which is adjacent to the campus. Special arrangements will be made for disabled Blue Badge holders.
How do I apply for a parking space in Alloway?
Just see your caretaker on arrival and ask for a registration form.
Can I bring a bike with me to Abertay?
Yes. The University provides secure bike storage on campus and at some of the halls.
I'm in university accommodation. Do I have to clear my room at Christmas and Easter?
No! All residents in university accommodation have both the Christmas and spring vacations included within their tenancy agreement.
Can you view private accommodation for me?
Unfortunately, this is not one of the services that we are able to offer students. In any case, everyone has his or her own criteria for what makes a great flat, and you are far better to check out the options for yourself.
You should also be aware that we do not view any of the private flats which are advertised on our website and cannot therefore offer any specific recommendations as to suitability. Student Services have some information available and the Scotland Shelter website has good advice on finding private accommodation to rent.
Do I need a licence for a TV in my room?
Yes, you need a licence if you have a TV in your room. However, if you and your flatmates have one TV only in the communal area you need only pay for one licence. Also, if you use any other device to receive or record TV programmes (for example, a video, set-top box, DVD recorder or PC with a broadcast card) a licence is needed. Opal 1 residents will need to buy a licence for the television in the lounge area. For further information regarding TV licence please go to the TV Licensing website.
When do I need a TV Licence?
It doesn't matter what channel you choose - it could be terrestrial, cable or satellite. And it doesn't matter what equipment you use - traditional TV, games console, laptop or mobile phone. You still need to be covered by a licence if you are watching programmes at the same time as they are shown on TV. If you're found to be using TV without a licence, you may be prosecuted and fined up to £1,000.
This means that if you are watching or recording programmes via the BBC iPlayer at the same time as they are shown on TV, you need to be covered by a TV Licence. If you are only watching or downloading programmes that have already been broadcast using the iPlayer or other internet services, a licence is not required.
How will anyone know if I don't have a TV Licence?
TV Licensing's database lists addresses that don't have a TV Licence, including university accommodation and enquiry officers do visit unlicensed properties.
If you use television-receiving equipment without a valid TV Licence, you risk prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000, plus court costs, and you will need to buy a TV Licence if you still need one. A colour licence costs £145.50.
To find out more about whether you require a licence, contact TV Licensing on 0300 790 6090 or visit the TV Licensing website.
Can I share with a friend?
If you have a friend or sibling who is coming to University with you, let us know and we'll try to accommodate you together. Likewise, if you would prefer not to share with someone you know, just let us know!
Can I bring my pet with me?
There are no pets allowed in any of the university residences.
What are the dates of the International Welcome Events 2012?
For dates and other information about the International Welcome Week click on this page International Welcome Week.
Can I bring my own furniture?
No, I am afraid this is not possible
Can I get accommodation at Abertay during International Welcome Week?
Only if you have a booking with us for during the coming academic year 2012-13. You will be able to get into your room no earlier than Wednesday 5th September 2012.
If you don't have a booking with us our list of guest houses on our 'Other Accommodation Information' page will help.
Returning student information
Can I get university accommodation after my first year?
Although not always possible, we normally offer a percentage of our residences to returning students. Details will be publicised in March/April of the allocation policy for returning students for the coming academic year. Please email residences@abertay.ac.uk for information on current vacancies.
Do I get any priority for university accommodation after my first year?
No, unfortunately not. Although the Residences Office has approximately 700 bed spaces in University residences, we simply do not have a large enough housing stock to be able to promise University accommodation to non-first years.
Overseas students
How can I get a letter for visa purposes?
We have been assured by each of the British embassies that an accommodation confirmation letter is not needed for a visa application.
If they insist upon a letter, you should ask them to confirm this to us by fax on +44 (0)1382 308088, or email on residences@abertay.ac.uk (confirming their fax number). We would then respond directly to them by fax. We have been told that the course offer letter is sufficient for visa application purposes.
I am travelling from overseas. Will I be placed in a particular residence?
No, all nationalities are mixed in each of our residences. It's a great opportunity to meet people from around the world.
