The International Student’s Guide to Accommodation in Glasgow
Published: 31 October 2025
MSc Business Analytics student, Ana Bonilla from the United States, shares her top tips for finding accommodation and creating a comfortable home while studying at the University of Glasgow's Adam Smith Business School. Her guide is a must-read for international students preparing for their move to Glasgow.
Author: Ana Bonilla, MSc Business Analytics student
If you’re a prospective student looking to study at the University of Glasgow Adam Smith Business School, one of the first things on your mind is probably choosing the place you’ll be living during your next 12 months. As an international student, thinking about finding a place to live in a new city can feel daunting. Luckily, there are a lot of places to explore and consider during your search. Continue reading to explore a helpful guide to accommodation made for international students in Glasgow. Learn about student accommodation and discover excellent homeware shops for everything you’ll need to feel right at home!
Where Can I Find Accommodation in Glasgow?
There are plenty of housing options for students in Glasgow. While the Adam Smith Business School is located in the city’s West End, students can choose from various living possibilities spread throughout the city. In addition to being a highly walkable city, Glasgow also boasts various transportation systems, such as buses and the subway. This helps students get around quickly, making plenty of accommodation options around the city accessible for those studying in the West End.
The University of Glasgow offers many accommodation options for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Each residence has its own set of characteristics, including available catered options, ensuite rooms, and more. This provides a lot of flexibility for all kinds of living preferences and needs. Learn more about the university’s available residences on the Accommodation Services page!
Another option for your upcoming living needs is to rent a flat outside of university accommodation. There are many room options to explore throughout the city, including the West End, City Centre, and beyond. You can find available rooms or flats to rent using websites such as the SRC Flatshare, SpareRoom, Rightmove, and more.
Where Can I Shop for Homeware in Glasgow?
Once you’ve arrived in Glasgow and made your way to your new place, it’s time to stock up on all your essentials. If you choose to stay in student accommodation, you’re provided with a bed, desk, and basic room needs. Now you’re ready to make your new place your own, and there is no shortage of places to look within the vibrant city of Glasgow.
Get Your Cookware Staples at the Eco-Hub!
The university’s Eco-Hub provides a great option for those in need of cookware, clothes, and more. They provide affordable options for students, with a goal of sustainability. They offer free homeware and low-cost clothing items. If you’re looking to get rid of some of your old clothes, you can participate in their clothing swap program, which lets you exchange things from your closet for available clothing items.
The Eco-Hub is conveniently located right on the Gilmorehill campus in the Boyd Orr building, and is open for students on weekdays from 09:30 am-05:00 pm.
Find Homeware, Bedding, and More in Glasgow
There are also plenty of options throughout the city to explore on your hunt for the perfect room setup. The IKEA near Braehead Shopping Centre is a vital destination for those looking for cookware, furniture, and more. In fact, several student societies run IKEA trips at the beginning of the semester to help incoming students get their essentials together. Make sure to check out university events when you arrive in Glasgow to make the journey in a group! IKEA is a convenient place to shop for:
- Pots and Pans
- Utensils
- Glassware
- Storage Boxes
- Bedding
- Blankets
- Lighting
- And More.
Other great shopping destinations to consider include the Braehead Shopping Centre and St. Enoch Square, which are also home to quality shops. The City Centre hosts a wide array of store options, such as M&S, Primark, TK Maxx, and more. These shopping centres are great places to explore when you’re on your search for items such as:
- Bedding
- Towels
- Storage Options
- Laundry Baskets
- Clothes
Enjoy Your Studies at the Adam Smith Business School!
Are you ready to settle down in your new home for the next year? Browse your available accommodation options to find the right fit for you, and be sure to explore the many shops based throughout the city. We can’t wait to welcome you to the University of Glasgow Adam Smith Business School soon!
First published: 31 October 2025