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Please be aware that many student only packages are only available in the run up to the start of the academic year - so at other times we display standard packages which can be arranged at any time. If you know you will be staying in the same accommodation for more than one year, some suppliers also offer 24 month contracts which can work out cheaper.
We list below the leading student broadband companies and discuss special products they have for students, or ones that might provide the flexibility students need.
We have listed the suppliers according to the cost over 9 months, but also display the cost for 12 and 24 month periods. This allows you to find the best package for your student home.
Prices shown are as at time of research but they are subject to change.
Most broadband packages have minimum contract terms. Generally the longer they are the cheaper they get - but it's really ideal to find one which allows you to walk away when you plan to leave the property.
We display above the costs over a variety of time periods - as, even if you are planning to stay in your property for only a year, it can be cheaper to get an 18 month contract. Do remember though, if you plan to go down that route, there will be a large bill to pay when you leave - so consider how you will fund that - otherwise the account holder could face a struggle in getting the last payment from housemates after they have left the property.
It's worth an honest discussion here - if you are in a house full of gamers or high definition NetFlix fans you will clearly need more capacity than a home full of FaceBookers.
Whichever way you go, make sure you have unlimited bandwidth - the idea of being unable to send a critical essay as a housemate has swallowed your allowance downloading Game of Thrones is not worth thinking about!
When it comes to speed consider...
A standard (non-fibre) package may well be perfectly fine in a house with up to three of you. As there is more competition in this market, prices tend to be the lowest - so you could be best off going down this route. If there are more than three of you, you will probably want a higher speed line.
Remember that the download speeds are average too - So at peak times (which may well be when you want to use the internet) speeds are likely to be slower - and at 6 a.m. faster!
This is just like picking the right mobile phone package - if you are a heavy video or music streamer you will need more than if it's just web browsing you use the net for. For instance you need 2Mbps per device watching standard definition TV through BBC iPlayer (3 Mbps for HD).
Fibre optic tends to be best for households with 4 or more in, or wanting really fast download speeds. This assumes that fibre is an option in your house - it still isn't everywhere. This options tends to have better reliability.
All the main providers offer packages which include TV packages. Again worth a discussion as to whether you want to add this to your broadband or fibre agreement. Phones, given the popularity of mobiles, are less critical.
No discussion here - wireless is a must have. Consider, though, whether you will also need booster units - which may be essential in larger homes, to reach every corner of the property. Some providers offer these options either free of charge or as an optional extra. Well worth it in older houses with thicker walls.
At the end of the day it's worth remembering that your broadband connection is likely to be one of the most important connections in your student house - so taking a little time out before you buy is always time well spent!
This content was last reviewed on 08/07/2024