How do I book?
Once you have decided to stay at QAH please fill out and send through the completed application form 2023/2024 to info@queenalex.com or feel free to call us on 020 7589 1120 and we can help.
Who can apply?
Any female who is enrolled in full time study within the Estate of the 1851 Commission such as Royal College of Music, Royal College of Art, Imperial College.
Can I choose a certain room?
You may request an ‘Premium Double’, ‘Large’, ‘Medium’ or ‘Small’; size room. We will always try to allocate your first preference.
How much do I need to pay to secure my booking?
Once you have been accepted into QAH we will ask for a £500 deposit, which is separate from your fees. Details can be found here. It is refundable at the end of your stay with us as long as there are no damages, your room is left clean and there is no outstanding rent.
What form of payment do you take?
QAH accepts payments by bank transfer. In exceptional circumstances, we are able to accept payments made by cheque. Additional fees on bank/wire transfers will depend on your bank which you will be required to cover, please check with them beforehand. We do not accept any payments made in cash.
If you are an overseas student, the easiest way to pay is by BACS bank transfer.
I don’t live in the UK and I don’t have a UK Bank account – what do I need to do?
You are able to pay your accommodation fees by BACS bank transfer, once you have arrived in the UK we advise that you should open up a UK Bank account.
When will I know that I have been accepted to stay at QAH?
Once your application form has been submitted your application will be reviewed and a room allocated subject to availability, you will then receive an Acceptance Letter and Licence Agreement.
When are the Accommodation Fees due for 2023/2024?
Your accommodation fees are split up into 3 instalments throughout the year:
Autumn Term – due on or before 14 July 2023
Spring Term – due on or before 17 November 2023
Summer Term – due on or before 01 March 2024
However, if you wish to pay upfront then please let us know and we can arrange for an invoice to be sent to you showing the full amount.
What is included in my accommodation fees?
Your accommodation fees cover use of communal facilities, all utility bills such as heating, water, electricity, Wi-Fi and as a catered residence, meals are provided as per below:
Monday – Friday – Breakfast and Dinner
Saturday – Sunday Breakfast and Lunch
What if I change my mind, what is the cancellation policy?
The cancellation policy for 2023/2024 is outlined in the 2023/2024 License Agreement.
Do I have to pay council tax?
Residents /students at QAH are exempt from council tax as we are Charity.
What happens if I can’t afford my rent?
If you find yourself in financial difficulties, you should speak to your site team as soon possible. Likewise, if the dates your rent instalments are due do not align with the dates you receive your student loan, please let us know and we will try to come to a solution.
Do I need to bring my own bed linen?
Yes, residents will need to provide their own bed linen and towels (Pillows & Pillow Covers, Duvet and Duvet Cover and Fitted sheet, Bath, Hand & Face Towel) We ask residents to launder their linen.
Do I need a TV licence, and can I bring a TV?
Yes, if you wish to view and bring your own TV then you will require your own TV Licence. You will need to 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.
Can I have overnight Guests in my room?
QAH does not allow guests to stay in your room beyond Midnight. There is a guest room and a guest apartment where visitors can be accommodated this is at a charge. Any enquiries please see reception who will be happy to help. You are responsible for the behaviour of any guests you bring to QAH.
Will my room be cleaned?
You are required to clean and tidy your room during your stay at QAH.
Is there laundry on site?
Yes, there is a laundry onsite at QAH, where you can wash / dry your clothes. There are also ironing boards and irons available too. The washing / drying machines are operated by an independent provider, Circuit Laundry, you will need to pay to use the machines via a top-up card which will be provided to you upon check in.
How do I collect my post?
Your post will be delivered to the pigeonholes at reception – any larger items or those that require a signature on delivery will be kept at reception. Reception will let you know if you have a delivery. Please note that QAH is not responsible for any mail that is sent and received.
Can I bring Pets?
No, pets are not allowed at Queen Alexandra’s House, so please do not bring any animals of any sort. This is with the exception of assistance / therapy dogs, by prior arrangements.
Do I have to be home by a certain time each night?
No, it’s up to you when you decide to come in, all we ask is that if you are returning home late at night, please be respectful of your fellow residents and keep noise to a minimum.
Is there internet access on site?
Yes, we have Wifi available for all residents in their rooms and throughout the building. This service is provided by our internet partners, Glide. If you have any issues connecting, all details will be provided in the residential handbook.
Are my possessions insured in my room?
All residents are required to arrange their own contents cover during their stay at QAH.
How do I get to know people at QAH?
QAH is home to an international community, with many residents studying within the arts and sciences. QAH is known for being a house full of music with our residents putting on concerts for you to enjoy.
At QAH we organise regular social events for you to enjoy and get to meet new friends. We also have staff and floor representatives onsite to make sure you’re settling in and making the most of the diverse community and make your time at QAH and in London such a rewarding experience.
What do I need to bring?
There are many items which you may wish to bring with you, so to help you out we have provided a checklist to help you!
What can’t I bring?
There are many items which are prohibited items, this is for our resident’s health and safety, such as candles, oil burners and gas heaters. If you are unsure then please email reception@queenalex.com who will be able to help you.
No weapons or drugs (including ‘legal hights’) are permitted under any circumstances on site at QAH and if items are found the appropriate local authorities with be notified.
We do not allow the following:
Drugs, weapons, candles, fireworks, oil and gas burners, tea lamps, joss sticks, Chinese lanterns, kerosene, petrol, LPG gas and LPG gas appliances, fan heaters and exposed element heaters, portable cooking stoves, shisha pipes, mains voltage Christmas tree lights and real Christmas trees.
When can I move in?
Check In opens on Saturday 2 September 2023 from 2pm for 2023 / 2024 academic year.
Check out is at 10am at the end of each term.
QAH has staff on duty 24/7, so you can move in any time after we re-open each term.
Do I need to move out over the Christmas and Easter holidays?
For academic year 2023 / 2024
You will need to check out by 10am on Saturday 16 December 2023, Saturday 23 March 2024 and Saturday 13 July 2024 but you may leave your belongings in your room during the Christmas and Easter House closures.
Can I vary the Licence Agreement?
The Licence Agreement is set for 41 weeks, you cannot shorten the licence period.
Can I sublet my room to someone else?
No, so please do not try. The Licence Agreements prevents you from subletting your room. If you are considering leaving early, please speak to reception.
Can I cancel my Licence Agreement?
Please see relevant cancellation policy withing the Licence Agreement.
Do I need to clean my room at the end of my Licence Agreement?
Yes, please make sure that you clean your room before you depart, to avoid any cleaning charges. A member of staff will carryout a room inspection when you depart.
What happens in the event of a Fire, is the accommodation safe?
The safety and security of our residents and staff is our top priority. QAH is fully compliant with current safety standards and all staff are trained accordingly. QAH has Fire Alarm Systems in place as well as fire prevention equipment, we also have staff present on site 24/7 should there be an emergency.
QAH ensure that we carry out regular fire alarm tests and evacuation drills, our building is regularly audited by an external, independent consultant. We follow government guidance, and proactively liaise with local Fire and Rescue Services. Fire Safety is our top priority to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both residents and staff.
Can I smoke in my room?
No, QAH is a non-smoking building. Please do not smoke anywhere onsite this includes out of bedroom windows and in fire escapes.
Is Queen Alexandra’s House secure?
Yes, QAH has CCTV, onsite staff and a night receptionist, meaning that there are staff on duty 24 hours a day. Plus, there is always a designated member of staff on call. There is also a digital entry system. You should not allow people to ‘tailgate’ – that is hold the door open for people behind you as you enter.
Can I burn candles?
No, due to fire safety reasons the use of candles is prohibited, this also includes joss sticks and oil burners.