Rent guarantor scheme
The University of Sheffield has partnered with Housing Hand to support students who need a UK guarantor.
What is a rent guarantor?
When you rent in the private sector, most accommodation providers, including landlords and letting agents, will ask you to provide a guarantor. A guarantor is essentially someone who agrees to pay your rent or damages if you cannot make a payment.
We understand that it can be difficult to find a guarantor, especially for international students, as many accommodation providers require them to be UK-based. In shared houses, students are likely to be asked for one guarantor for each individual. Your agent or landlord should let you know about the guarantor requirements before you sign the contract.
Housing Hand
The University of Sheffield has partnered with Housing Hand, a rent guarantor service who can act as a UK guarantor. They charge a fee that is calculated according to your rent amount. For students from the University of Sheffield, the fee is 5% of annual rent for upfront payment and 5.5% for monthly installments.
To find out more about the service, visit the Housing Hand website.
The University will cover the fees for students who are care leavers or estranged and in receipt of the University enhanced bursary.
Financial support for care leavers
Financial support for estranged students
How does it work?
1. Apply
Apply using Housing Hand’s step-by-step process. Find help and advice by visiting the web page below:
Housing Hand - help and advice
When you complete the application, you will be asked to pay a £20 onboarding fee. This covers the cost of ID checks for both you and your co-signer. After this, no further payment is required until you move into your accommodation (unless you choose to pay upfront).
If you are a care leaver or estranged student in receipt of the University enhanced bursary, email financialhelp@sheffield.ac.uk so that we can send you a link to apply.
For all other students, use the link below to apply.
2. Approval
Housing Hand verify your details internally and communicate directly with your accommodation provider and co-signer.
3. Move in
Once approved, you're ready to secure your property and move in.
Help and advice
If you would like to discuss your housing or financial situation with someone, contact the Student Advice Centre in the Students’ Union.