Summary of key student accommodation market characteristics:
- There are approximately 2.4 million students in the UK, representing an increase of 27% since 1999.
- The UK student population is forecast to surpass 3.0 million by 2014.
- Student applications are up 10.1% for the 2009/10 academic year (source: UCAS as at 20 August 2009).
- With a preference for modern, secure and well located accommodation, the key growth segments are:
- Non-EU students (11% growth per year since 1999)
- Post-graduate students (5% growth per year since 1999)
- Female students (5% growth per year since 1999)
- Government target maintained at 50% of all 18-30 year olds entering Higher Education compared to a current rate of 43%
| Continuing lack of quality accommodation supply - University provision only accommodates approximately 22% of students living away from home.
- Private landlords are constrained by the UK’s housing shortage and must now adhere to more stringent standards and a licensing regime under the 2004 Housing Act.
|