How applications work when apply to return to Halls

FAQ’s 

Who is eligible to apply to return to halls? 

Any current University of Southampton students can apply to return to live in University halls for their subsequent years of study. 

When are applications open for returner applications? 

Applications for returner applications will open in February 2026. 

How do I apply? 

Applications can be made via the accommodation portal in February 2026. Once open ordinarily the application window for returners will remain open for 2-3 weeks.

How do applications work? 

When applying, returning students can submit a minimum of 5 or maximum of 7 preferences.  

You also have the option to apply as a group and the ability to select a variety of lifestyle preferences. 

How will I know if I have been successful or not? 

In the event that applications exceed the number of available rooms, a ballot will be held.  

We will notify any one who's application has been successful. Those who are not successful will also be notified and will be added to a stand by list. 

Students with medical conditions or disabilities which present difficulties in finding suitable alternative accommodation will be prioritised, as will students requiring accommodation for part of the year due to placements or Study Abroad.

If a ballot is required how will this managed?

If applications within the application window exceed the supply of rooms, a ballot will be held to determine which students shall receive an offer. Students supported by Student Disability and Inclusion will automatically be offered a place in halls. The remaining students will be assigned a number, and a random number generator will be used to identify the students who will receive an offer. If a student is part of a group, that whole group will automatically be selected.

Are there any application fees or costs involved? 

There are no application fees or prepayments required.

Additionally, if for whatever reason, you do not return to University, we will not hold you to your contract.

Accommodation fees for 2026/27, once confirmed, will be advertised on the university website and application portal. 

Where can I find information on the halls? 

As well as on the accommodation portal you can also find details of our halls on the accommodation website. Please note not all accommodation options are available to returning students. You can find a video playlist of halls tours for our halls site on our accommodation tours playlist and images of our rooms on the Halls Life site.