Life in London can start as soon as you can

We know some of you will be with us sooner rather than later, whether that is because you're on a pre-sessional course or your circumstances mean you get here a little earlier than you wanted - options are available to accommodate you!

Early arrival requests

If you know that you’ll be arriving earlier than your official accommodation move-in date, LSE offers the ability to request an early arrival at your accommodation. However, this is subject to availability and approval (and what date you can arrive will change):

• How to make a request: You can submit an early arrival request via the LSE Accommodation Portal. It’s recommended that you do this as soon as you know your arrival date, as spaces are limited and granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Approval and confirmation: If your request is approved, you’ll receive confirmation from the LSE Accommodation Office. Make sure to check your email regularly for updates. Without confirmation, you won’t be able to access your room earlier than the official start date or have a separate room available for your early arrival. It's more than likely you will be given a different room so be prepared for that scenario!

What to do while you wait

Arriving early will give you extra time to settle into London and there are plenty of fun ways you can spend it: 

• Meet your halls team: Why not have a look around your communal areas and get a feel of your new home? It's also a great chance to speak to your halls team at reception! They will be more than happy to answer any lingering questions.
• Decorate your room: Turning that blank slate into a space that you feel comfortable in is an important job! So why not start it sooner rather than later? Then when things really kick into gear, your room will be ready to support you.
• Check out your local area: Your hall is surrounded by plenty of shops, restaurants, bars and more! We have guides for each hall if you're struggling with where to start and we're always updating our Instagram with vlogs that recommend new spots.
  
• Explore the campus: Use this time to familiarise yourself with your campus. Take a walk around, find your way to key buildings, or visit the student union to get a feel for your new environment.
  
• Discover London: There are literally endless things to see and do in London! Start by visiting iconic landmarks like the British Museum, the Tate Modern, or simply take a stroll along the Thames. Exploring the city early on can help you feel more at home once your studies begin.
  
• Meet new people: You won't be the only one arriving early, use the opportunity to meet other students in the same situation and make new friends.

Preparing for your official arrival

Once your early arrival is sorted, or you’ve made arrangements for temporary accommodation, use this time to prepare for your official move-in:

• Check your documentation: Ensure all your paperwork, including your accommodation contract and student ID, is in order - you can never be too safe!
• Plan your move: Think about how you’ll transport your belongings from your temporary accommodation to your LSE room. If you have heavy luggage, it might be worth booking a private taxi in advance.

By understanding your options and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth transition into your new home. For more information on your options for arriving early, you can read the official source straight from LSE.