iQ Penworks House is located at 5 Moland St, Birmingham, B4 7AS, United Kingdom. This student accommodation in Birmingham offers a mix of ensuite & studios, giving students the choice between privacy & community living. Students will also appreciate its proximity to top universities, including ONCAMPUS Coventry, which is just a 4-minute drive away, & Aston University, which is a 5-minute drive away from iQ Penworks House Birmingham.
Birmingham, England, is one of the UK’s most dynamic student cities, home to more than 80,000 students across its universities. The cost of living in Birmingham averages around £900-£1,000 per month, which is lower compared to cities like London or Edinburgh. The city’s employment rate sits at around 75%, offering plenty of part-time work opportunities for students & strong prospects for graduates. With a safety index score of 56, Birmingham provides a secure backdrop for young people moving away from home for the first time. Beyond the numbers, it’s a place known for its cultural mix, food scene, music, & festivals, qualities that make it a lively yet student-friendly destination. What sets Penworks House apart is its location & design. Sitting in one of the best places to live in Birmingham, iQ Penworks House combines accessibility with a sense of community. You’re close to campus, shops, & social spots, yet the building itself offers a calm base where you can focus on studies & unwind after busy days. For students searching for Birmingham student accommodation that strikes the right balance, Penworks House iQ stands out as a strong choice.
Penworks House provides a variety of apartments from the Bronze En Suite to the Copper Studio, catering to different budgets & living preferences. Every apartment at iQ Penworks House is fitted with the essentials to make life comfortable, like a small double bed that makes early lectures a little easier to face, a TV in your bedroom for relaxing evenings, & a study desk with a chair to keep work sessions focused. Storage is well thought out, with a wardrobe, bookshelf, & mirror helping you keep everything organised. Each space also comes with a kitchenette, complete with a hob, combination microwave, fridge, & sink, giving you the freedom to prepare anything from quick snacks to full meals. And for the moments when you want to recharge, there’s a sofa & dining area with table & chairs where you can socialise or simply enjoy your food in comfort.
Penworks House iQ Student Accommodation Birmingham is designed to enhance student life beyond your private space. Mornings are often kicked off around the breakfast bar, while evenings can be spent in the lounge or games room, both perfect for socialising. When coursework needs attention, the communal study areas offer a quieter environment, & if you prefer fresh air, the courtyard is a welcome escape. Everyday essentials are covered too, thanks to on-site laundry facilities, social spaces & secure bicycle storage. The location itself keeps you well-connected, with great public transport links right on your doorstep. To keep things simple, all bills are included in your rent, covering Wi-Fi, water, heating, electricity, & even contents insurance, so you don’t have to juggle separate payments. The property rules, such as no pets & no smoking inside, help maintain a comfortable environment for everyone. Safety is prioritised as well, with CCTV surveillance giving you added peace of mind.
Living at Penworks House iQ Student Accommodation Birmingham, puts you in the middle of the city’s student energy. You’re close to BPP University Birmingham (5 minutes away), Birmingham City University (7 minutes away), & the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (6 minutes away), universities. With so many institutions clustered nearby, the neighbourhood naturally caters to students with affordable food, lively nightlife, & great study spots. When it comes to daily living, you won’t be short of choices. Cafés like Café Tierra & Perch are nearby favourites for grabbing a coffee or catching up with friends. For something more substantial, Ba Delicacies & Smash Wheels offer meals that hit the spot without draining your student budget. Pubs such as The Bull & The Queens Head add character to the evenings, while the best clubs in Birmingham, like Coded Birmingham & Cave, give you places to let loose after exams. For quieter downtime, green spaces such as One Colmore Row & Eastside City Park provide a welcome breather from city life. If retail therapy is more your style, the Grand Central Shopping Centre is close enough for both everyday needs & splurges.
The city also has a rich cultural side that’s easy to explore from iQ Penworks House. Museums such as the West Midlands Police Museum & the Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum bring history & innovation to life. Attractions like the National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham & St. Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park ensure weekends never get boring. If studying calls, both the Aston University Library & Curzon Library are nearby from student accommodation near ONCAMPUS Coventry, giving you access to resources & quiet corners. Healthcare is also convenient with the Ultiman Pharmacy & City Health Campus hospital close to hand. And for entertainment, the ODEON Birmingham New Street cinema keeps you up to date with the latest films. It’s this blend of academic focus, cultural richness, & convenience that consistently earns strong iQ Penworks House reviews from students.
Birmingham is a city that’s easy to get around, & living at iQ Penworks House makes commuting simple. Two bus stops, like Bagot Street (just 436 ft away) & Aston University (0.1 mile away), are practically on your doorstep. For rail travel, both Birmingham Snow Hill (0.9 miles) & Birmingham Moor Street (0.8 miles) are within walking distance. If you prefer trams, you’ve got St Chad's & Bull Street stations (0.6 miles each) nearby, making short hops around the city quick & efficient. And for longer journeys or trips home, Birmingham Airport (7.6 miles away) is close enough to keep travel stress-free.
Each site is covered by CCTV and has onsite security staff, with staff present 24 hours a day. There is also a digital entry system at each building. You should not allow people to ‘tailgate’ – that is, hold the door open for people behind you as you enter.
Management does not accept parental responsibility for occupiers under the age of 18.
They require that all tenants living at one of their properties in England and Wales to be over the age of 17 during the academic year booked to live at management, and tenants living in their Scottish properties to be age 16 or over.
Exceptions to this rule are available in selected cases through prior arrangement. If in doubt, please contact your preferred management site and the team will be able to advise you.
If you want to bring a TV, check that your room has a TV point and don’t bring one larger than 21”. You can’t mount your TV on the wall, so make sure it’s free-standing. While all TVs provided by management in communal areas accessed by all residents are covered by a TV Licence, you will need to buy your own licence if you bring your own TV or if there is one already in your room or shared kitchen & living area. If you’re unsure, please check with your site team.
For details of licensing requirements regarding catch-up TV and online streaming, please refer to your resident handbook, ask your site team or contact TV Licensing.
Yes – most sites have a secure bike store that is free to use for all residents. You will need to register and tag your bike with the site team when you arrive.
Some of the sites have limited parking, including in some cases disabled parking bays. However, as the locations are generally close to universities and local amenities, a car shouldn't really be necessary. If you do want to arrange parking, speak to the site team as soon as possible - any spaces available are likely to be reserved very quickly.
Sadly, they do not allow pets at sites. However, they make an exception for residents who require the assistance of a trained and registered Service Dog or Assistance Dog.
Any requests for emotional support animals that are prescribed by a licensed mental health professional are assessed on a case by case basis.
Yes, you can specify where you would like your room to be – from those which are still available – at the time you book.
The online booking system will show the gender of those who have already booked a room in your chosen flat, if this information is available.
If you want to make a group booking with people you already know, for more information you can be in touch with amber agent.
Yes. If you’d like to share with friends, you can find and select rooms in the same flat on the booking portal. Alternatively, please speak to a member of the amber team and they will be happy to help you.
Yes, they can often arrange this. Please contact our amber team to see if they have availability to see it is possible to book your room for an early move in.
They offer free dual occupancy across a limited number of their studios where both residents are students.
You'll see the dual occupancy symbol next to the room number if it is available when you select the room via the floorplan. They'll ask for your partner's details during the booking stages. Both you and your partner must sign their tenancy agreement and have student status for the duration of the booking.
If your partner is not a full time student as well then unfortunately they cannot live with them.
No, accommodation is non-smoking. You may smoke outside in designated smoking areas. Please do not smoke anywhere near other residents’ windows, as the unwelcome smell of smoke can drift into their rooms.
Yes, they can arrange temporary storage for possessions you don’t want to take home with you. Just ask your Reception team for details.
No, it’s up to you when you come in. If returning late at night, please respect your fellow residents and keep noise to a minimum between 11pm and 7am.
Yes, the vast majority of their sites have a laundry room where you can wash and dry your clothes. These are operated by an independent provider, Circuit Laundry or Miele. You will need to pay to use the machines via a top-up card or their mobile app.
No, so please bring your own sheets, duvet, pillows, towels etc when you move in – or you may prefer to buy them locally on arrival.
No, drugs are not permitted and prohibited items will be confiscated. The tenancy agreement gives management the right to confiscate substances, including ‘legal highs’ without the consent of the resident.
Your post will be delivered to a lockable post box for your flat. Larger items or those that require a signature on delivery will be retained by Reception. You will be notified if Reception receive an item for you, and you should collect it as soon as possible.
To qualify as a resident for management you must confirm that you are a student at a higher education establishment in the UK.
Their sites are home to an international community of students, often studying at a variety of different institutions, and it’s this diversity which can make living with them such a rewarding experience.
They organise regular social events where you can get to know your fellow residents. You will find posters on site telling you what’s coming up soon – or just ask at Reception.
The safety and security of their residents is their number one priority. All of their sites are fully compliant with current safety standards. Their accommodation has fire alarm systems in place as well as fire prevention equipment, and they carry out regular testing and evacuation drills. Their buildings are also regularly audited by external, independent consultants.
Management has a full-time, highly qualified, Health and Safety team who visit sites regularly. They also use accredited national providers to service and maintain life safety systems. Additionally, all sites have staff present 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
They are continually reviewing their programme of security, fire and safety standards. If you would like further information about their ongoing fire safety programme please read their fire safety update.
Their sites don’t have restaurants or cafeterias, but most sites provide vending machines where you can buy chocolate, crisps, drinks, ice cream and other snacks.
Yes, all their sites are equipped with WiFi, accessible throughout the building at no extra charge. This service is provided by their internet partners, ASK4. If you have any issues with connecting, you can find their contact details in the welcome pack you will receive on arrival.
Your resident handbook contains a list of prohibited items. This includes many items prohibited for fire safety reasons, such as candles, oil burners, gas appliances and fan heaters. Please see the full list below. If you need further guidance on whether an item is permitted or not, please ask your site team before you move in.
No weapons or drugs (including ‘legal highs’) are permitted under any circumstances.
They don’t allow: Candles, fireworks, Chinese lanterns, incense, incense burners, kerosene, petrol, LPG gas and LPG gas appliances, compressed gas and compressed gas appliances, rice cookers (unless CE marked), shisha pipes, gas burners, oil burners, tea lamps, halogen heaters, exposed element heaters, fan heaters, real Christmas trees, mains voltage Christmas lights, portable cooking stoves.
You can see what’s included in your room on the room details page for your management site. Among the things you will need, or may want, to bring are bedding, towels, toiletries, toilet paper, basic kitchen equipment, hangers, and a computer or laptop.
They have compiled a checklist of things you may want to bring - or buy when you arrive.
No, that’s down to you and your flatmates. They’ll keep the common areas of the building, like the social spaces, reception and laundry, clean and tidy.
Many residents put a rota together so each person in the flat does their bit to keep it clean.
Management Student Accommodation is a member of the National Codes of Standards. These are schemes designed to provide a minimum set of professional standards for larger student accommodation providers regarding their accommodation management. This offers residents peace of mind in knowing that they follow professional standards of service.
The codes ensure that residents receive good standards of housing management. Disputes and misunderstandings are reduced, and where problems do occur they are resolved quickly.
For further information, please visit the National Code website.
All management sites have rooms suitable for students with disabilities, including rooms that are fully wheelchair accessible. To check what is available at your child’s chosen site, it’s best to contact that site directly.
They understand that university can be a stressful time for students, and that those living away from home for the first time may encounter difficulties.
Universities undertake the main role in respect of pastoral care, however their site staff are trained to provide an initial level of unobtrusive care and support. Their teams have good relationships with university pastoral care and welfare support services, and will refer students who need additional assistance.
Their online maintenance portal allows students to log a fault at any time and is accessible via their management App or by logging into their management Account.
Unlike many providers, all their maintenance teams are based on site, so they fix most issues within 24 hours. For those they can’t fix ourselves, they use only trusted contractors who go through a vigorous approval process.
They’ve arranged contents insurance for all students who have an management tenancy agreement at no extra cost to them.
Details on what is covered, the policy excess when you want to make a claim and how to make a claim and options to upgrade your cover can be found here.
They offer the following types of accommodation:
En suite rooms – these rooms have a bed, study area with good lighting, storage and an en suite shower room with shower, washbasin and WC. These rooms are located in shared flats, where students share a kitchen and living area with other residents.
These are equipped with an oven, hob, microwave, fridge and freezer, a dining area and lounge. These rooms are popular with new students and encourage social interaction with other residents. Studios – their studios are self-contained, with integrated kitchen facilities and a living area. All have a bed, study area with good lighting, storage and an en suite shower room with shower, washbasin and WC. Studios are popular with students seeking more privacy, but still enjoy the use of all the onsite facilities and social areas.
Apartments – some of their sites also offer self-contained apartments. These have all the facilities of their studios, but with separate bedroom(s) and more living space. These are popular with couples, and friends who want to share accommodation.
No, the sublet are not allowed.
It may be possible to swap or change your room once you have moved in, subject to availability. A room change fee will apply. To find out if it’s possible for you to change room, please speak to the site manager.
To learn more about the deposit requirement, please check the policy section above, or feel free to reach out to your amber agent.
For more details about guarantor requirements, refer to the policy section above or connect with your amber agent.
For more information on payment plans, refer to the policy section above, or contact your amber agent for assistance.
Yes, the property offers free dual occupancy in a limited number of its studios, provided both tenants are full-time students. The property will request details for both tenants during the booking process, and both must sign the tenancy agreement. If the second tenant is not a full-time student, they cannot live in the dual-occupancy studios.
Birmingham is the second large city in UK and it has a large student population of around 80,000 students. Finding ideal student accommodation in Birmingham, UK, such as studios, non-ensuites, private halls and en-suites can be a little difficult. Amber makes this difficult task easy by providing affordable options. One of the factors to consider while finding student accommodation Birmingham is its closeness to the renowned universities like the University of Birmingham, Aston University, and ACM Birmingham.
Amber provides budget-friendly Birmingham City student accommodation that is loaded with all the necessary facilities that one would require for a comfortable stay. If you are looking to book student accommodation in Birmingham, then don’t forget to check out these off-campus university accommodation options near the city centre campus, such as Calthorpe Court, Yugo Globe Works, and many more.
Birmingham was famous for its iron & steel industry, which made it a major player in the Industrial Revolution. Over the years, Birmingham has established itself as an educational hub. There are five universities in Birmingham, including the University of Birmingham and Aston University. Hence, it attracts a large number of students from all over the world. Another thing that makes Birmingham stand out amongst the rest is that the city proves to be a great place for cultural amalgamation. Studying in Birmingham provides many opportunities for part-time jobs for students. One can easily find people from different ethnicities and backgrounds coming together and living peacefully. Birmingham is close to major cities, such as Belmont, Coventry, Leicester, and Nottingham.
Birmingham is considered the second largest city in the United Kingdom. Students will get a good exposure and an amalgamation of different cultures & backgrounds in Birmingham. However, it’s important to find the perfect student accommodation in Birmingham on time. That’s when amber comes into the picture by helping students find their perfect stay in the city. These options near the city centre are all packed up with a great range of amenities & facilities that make the stay comfortable for students, just like student halls.
Amber has a list of purpose-built flats, studios, and budget-friendly apartments with modern facilities. Premium options such as studios and flats can range from £250 to £350 per week and often include additional services. If you want to stay in student apartments in Birmingham then amber's sorting features make it easy to choose neighbourhoods which are close to your university and will help you in saving your commuting time. Have a look at some of the best student apartments in Birmingham:
| Best student apartments in Birmingham | Nearby University | Top Amenities | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vita Student Pebble Mill, Birmingham | University of Birmingham | Gym, Cinema Room, Private Study Rooms, Free Grab & Go Breakfast, Superfast WiFi, Free Housekeeping | £343 / week |
| Beechenhurst House, Birmingham | University of Birmingham | Smart TV, Communal Lounge, Secure Key Fob Entry, Housekeeping, Laundry Facility | £320 / week |
| 800 Bristol Road, Birmingham | University of Birmingham | Gym, Study Space, Cinema Room, Communal Kitchen, Bike Storage, High-Speed Internet | £275 / week |
| Riverside House, Birmingham | University of Birmingham | Parking, Laundry, 24/7 Security, Bills Included, Transport Links | £258 / week |
| Vita Student Gough Street, Birmingham | University City Birmingham | Gym, Private Study Rooms, Free Weekday Breakfast, Basketball Court, Superfast WiFi | £257 / week |
There are different choices available for the cheap student accommodation in Birmingham include ensuite rooms, non-ensuite rooms, and studio apartments. This variety helps students find what best fits their lifestyles. Below are some of the cheap student housing options in Birmingham that you should consider:
| Affordable Student Accommodation In Birmingham | Nearby University | Top Amenities | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canvas The Old Fire Station, Birmingham | Aston University | Gym, Study Space, Social Space, Free Wi-Fi (100 MB/s), On-site Laundry, 24/7 Team | £119 / week |
| Collegiate Bagot Street, Birmingham | Aston University | On-site Gym, Cinema Room, Study Areas, Common Room, Bike Storage, Laundry Room | £119 / week |
| Canvas The Heights, Birmingham | Aston University | Gym, Cinema Room, Study Spaces, Social Spaces, Free Wi-Fi, Bike Storage | £119 / week |
| Lyttleton House, Birmingham | Birmingham City University | Smart TV, High-Speed Internet, Communal Kitchen, Living Area, Secure Entry Fob, CCTV | £125 / week |
| Calthorpe Court, Birmingham | University of Birmingham | Games Area, Study Room, Common Room, Bike Storage, CCTV, Laundry Room | £135 / week |
The total monthly living expenses for students, including rent and other costs, amounts to between £1400 and £1600. Here are some costs associated with living here, apart from the rent for your Birmingham student accommodation:
1. Food: £280 to £320 /monthly
2. Gas and electricity: £15 - £25 /week
3. Internet & mobile phone: £15 - £20 /week
4. Dinner at a restaurant: £10 - £15 /week
5. Laundry: £5 - £10 /week
6. Stationery and Textbooks: £10 - £15 /week
Birmingham has many student-friendly neighbourhoods. Each student area suits different lifestyles, and students can choose a neighbourhood according to what matters to them. You might want to be near universities, find affordable choices, or enjoy a lively social scene. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods to consider:
| Area | Best For | Highlights | Nearby Institutions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Selly Oak | Social & Community | The classic "Student Village"; high density of student bars, supermarkets, and affordable housing. | University of Birmingham (Walking distance) |
| Edgbaston | Peace & Greenery | Premium feel; quieter leafy streets, popular cafes, and larger Victorian-style houses. | UoB and BCU (City South) |
| City Centre | Urban Lifestyle | High-rise living; everything at your doorstep, including the Bullring and New Street Station. | Aston University, BCU (Main) |
| Digbeth | Creative & Alternative | The "Coolest Neighborhood"; famous for street art, indie markets, and nightlife. | UCB, BIMM, and BCU |
Birmingham has a wide range of student accommodation options which are designed to meet different needs and budgets. Whether you prefer privacy or a social life setup, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of the room types:
1. Ensuite Rooms - Ensuite apartments in Birmingham have a private bedroom and attached bathroom, while other areas are shared.
Privacy: A private bathroom.
Shared Living Areas: Kitchen and lounge are shared.
Ideal For: Students wanting privacy with the option to socialize.
2. Non-Ensuite Rooms - Non-ensuite rooms have a private bedroom with a shared bathroom, making them budget-friendly options.
Privacy: Bedroom remains personal, bathroom is shared with others.
Shared Living Areas: Kitchens and common areas are communal.
Ideal For: Students looking for affordable housing with community living.
3. Shared Apartments - These student flats in Birmingham have individual bedrooms while residents share bathrooms, kitchens, and lounges. A shared house in Birmingham typically costs about £93 per week.
Privacy: Bedrooms are private
Shared Living Areas: Strong focus on social living.
Ideal For: Students who enjoy community living and making friends.
4. Private Rooms - Private apartments have a full flat with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen solely for one person.
Privacy: Full privacy with no shared areas.
Shared Living Areas: None
Ideal For: Students who want full independence can opt for private rooms.
5. Studios - Studio apartments in Birmingham are independent spaces with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette in one unit.
Privacy: Complete independence with private facilities.
Shared Living Areas: No shared spaces inside the unit.
Ideal For: Students who prefer independence.
6. 1-Bed Apartments - 1-bedroom student flats in Birmingham provide a separate bedroom along with a private kitchen, bathroom, and living space.
Privacy: Full privacy with a separate bedroom and facilities.
Shared Living Areas: The entire space is private to the resident.
Ideal For: Students who want a home-like setting with more space.
Common modes of travel in Birmingham include buses, trains, trams, and cycling routes, which offer flexibility and convenience to residents. Students can reduce their travel costs by using the Swift card for discounted fares on buses and trams. Below is the breakdown of the options:
| Transport Mode | Key Details | Cost (Approx.) | Student Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | Mostly National Express West Midlands. Routes 61/63 serve Selly Oak; X1/X2 for Airport/east. | £2.00 single (Swift Go); £15-£18/week (Direct Debit) | 20% Student Discount on 4-week or monthly direct debit passes via University portals. |
| Train | West Midlands Railway connects New Street, University, and Moor Street stations. | £12-£25/week (Termly pass) | Termly Season Ticket offers up to 50% off; 16-25 Railcard gives 1/3 off individual tickets. |
| Tram | West Midlands Metro connects City Centre to Wolverhampton & Edgbaston. | £2.40-£4.50 (Single); £54.30/month (Student Direct Debit) | 38% Monthly Discount for students via Swift photocard; unlimited travel across all 4 zones. |
| Cycling | Extensive routes like the A38 blue lane. New operator (Lime) from April 2026. | £1 unlock + £0.15-£0.20/min | Long-term hire (£70/term). |
Birmingham is an excellent place for studying abroad; it has a great student culture, which is very lively. In Birmingham, you will always find lots of things to do, from the energetic nightlife to the great variety of restaurants. You can explore the powerful music and arts scene in Birmingham. Almost every other day, you can see first year students enjoying street food from the Digbeth Dining Club. For sports lovers, you can watch local teams at live sporting events at The Birmingham Stadium. If you are someone who is very much drawn to shopping, then shopping lovers can visit Grand Central Birmingham.
The Balti Triangle, which is found just south of the city centre, has the highest concentration of Balti Houses in the city, & delivers the finest (in terms of quality) curries in the UK. Birmingham is the birthplace of the Balti Curry, so as such, many of these restaurants are also amongst the best in the UK. Authentic Indian food at its best! If you want to eat Chinese food, you can find many places to eat, such as Dragon’s Wok or you can browse a smorgasbord in the Chinese Quarter.
Birmingham life is full of excitement, and you can visit Cadbury World for a fun-packed day from their student apartments in Birmingham. Birmingham offers a great range of tourist attractions and green spaces that students can easily visit from their student apartments in Birmingham. Some of the other best places to visit include the Art Gallery, University Station, Library of Birmingham, Birmingham Museum, Battery Retail Park, and Thinktank Science Museum.
Birmingham offers one of the best universities in the city, which attracts a lot of students from across the world to study every year. Some of the best universities that are easily accessible from your student accommodation in Birmingham are:
| University Name | Core Courses | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Aston University | Business, Engineering, Pharmacy | Triple Gold TEF rating; New "Power Skills" (AI) in all degrees. |
| Birmingham City UNiversity (BCU) | Media, Law, Creative Arts | Top 10% for Sustainability; £500m city-center campus. |
| BIMM University | Music, Production, Songwriting | Industry-active tutors; 2026 relaunch focused on Music AI. |
| Ulster University (Birmingham) | Business, Computing, Health | THE University of the Year; 94% graduate employment rate. |