514.50 p (-2.00) 
Insight hub
Our research brings together evidence, analysis and insight.
We provide valuable insight into student accommodation and the wider student experience.
As a leader in the sector, our aim is to provide a better understanding of current issues affecting students as well as the wider implications for the purpose-built student accommodation in the UK.
Below are the latest key findings and reports.
Applicant Index
Want to know the thoughts of university applicants? Look no further than our Applicant Index – the only research each year which gives applicants a voice before they start university, providing a unique look at their needs.
2025 report
The 2025 Applicant Index explores how prospective students are thinking about university and accommodation choices in a changing economic and social context, including preparedness for independent living and expectations of the student experience. It provides insight into how attitudes and behaviours are evolving, and what this means for universities and accommodation providers.
2024 report
The 2024 Applicant Index examines applicant confidence, decision‑making and affordability considerations as students navigate rising costs and wider uncertainty. It highlights how accommodation, wellbeing and support continue to influence university choice.
2023 report
The 2023 Applicant Index looks at how applicants’ priorities shifted following the pandemic, including attitudes to living away from home, value for money and the role of accommodation in supporting a successful transition to university life.
2022 report
The 2022 Applicant Index provides insight into student expectations and concerns as cohorts returned to more traditional university experiences. It explores accommodation preferences, independence and the factors shaping early university decisions.
Living Black at University
Living Black at University is a landmark piece of sector research commissioned by Unite Students to better understand the experiences of Black students living in student accommodation across the UK. Based on extensive engagement with students, the research highlighted stark differences in experiences of safety, belonging and support, and revealed how racism, exclusion and structural barriers continue to affect Black students’ time at university.
The findings prompted a collective response across higher education, including the establishment of the Living Black at University Commission, bringing together universities, accommodation providers and sector bodies to turn insight into action.
Commission Report
Our Commission report shares practical tips and resources for improving Black students’ accommodation experience.
Living Black at University report
Living Black at University is a major new report into Black students’ experience in UK student accommodation, commissioned by Unite Students and carried out by Halpin Partnership. Since, we have launched a national commission in order to respond to the findings and recommendations at a national level.
Care & learning in Higher Education
Care and learning in Higher Education
Our commission report, by the Social Market Foundation, provides nine recommendations to improve support for care experienced and estranged students.
Students’ socioeconomic background
"A different world": The impact of socioeconomic background on student experience
How can you attract, retain and support disadvantaged students? Find out in our new report, created in collaboration with Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Leeds.
Neurodivergent students
Meeting the needs of neurodivergent students
Created in collaboration with a student-led organisation, 'An asset, not a problem: Meeting the needs of neurodivergent students' is a new report into the experience of students and applicants who are autistic and/or have ADHD.
With a focus on the transition to university and day-to-day living in student accommodation, the report uses the words of students from Bristol University Neurodiversity Society (BUNS) to articulate their needs and make recommendations about how they could be better supported at university.
