top of page

Is It Better To Be Single At University?

  • Evie Howarth
  • Feb 8, 2022
  • 3 min read
Is It Better To Be Single At University? hero image

It's totally subjective. Here are two sides to the story of staying single at university.


With Valentine's Day coming up, you may be thinking about your relationship status, whether you're single or not.


It can seem like the grass is greener, which is totally normal and we're naturally curious as humans anyway. You may be wondering what's out there if you become single, or how different life would be if you have a significant other.


Here are the pros and cons of being single at university.


Why be single at university


You have more time


More you time means tons of things. More time to study, party, join clubs and societies.


Relationships take time and energy, which isn't a bad thing at all, but you may or may not be in the right place. So being single during your university years may sound more appealing.


You can see who you want


With no strings attached, you can date to your heart's content. No worries of having to let someone where you are, what you're doing, or having any real obligations. The single life works for lots of university students for this very reason.


You don't have to share


Fancy a whole meal to yourself without splitting? Bliss. And let's not forget splitting that single bed in your dorm room…


You can be more yourself


Partners can also bring out the best versions of ourselves, but what we mean by this is you can fully let go. Messy bedroom? Want to go out last minute? No one is going to question you.


You can discover who you are


Are you on the mission to find your passion? Hobbies? Actually learn to look after yourself? Having a partner may detract your attention from this.


Why you shouldn't be single at university


It's not always the same


Friends aren't always the same when you need cheering up, especially if said cheering up involves a longer than normal cuddle.


You may feel lonely


Say you didn't quite land many, if any friends, a partner would be good in times of loneliness and emotional support.


You may feel empty


It's all good and well being single and having fun with casual partners, you may feel quite empty when they leave.


Some people, without knowing it, are better off partnered up. If you're one of those that crave closeness, it could be a sign you want something more than just casual.


Why be in a relationship at university



It feels fantastic


Whether you're in a relationship already or about to enter a new one at university, it just feels nice knowing someone reciprocates your romantic feelings.


You'll have support


All adult relationships are conditional. And by that we mean equal effort must be put in from both sides. If you're with the right person for you too, you'll have the support you need to get through tough times.


You won't have to worry about dating


Dating is very hard. Too many options, too many apps, too many people that ghost. By being in a relationship already you won't have to worry about any of that.


You can grow together


University is a safe space in getting to know people. The wide-open world is a little more brutal and finding time to date can be tough. By being in a relationship at university, you can both grow together.


Why you shouldn't be in a relationship at university


They might attend a different university


Surviving a long distance relationship can be quite tough (though not impossible). But the matter of the fact is some people simply can't hack it. And that's okay.


You'll worry


Not always in a bad way, but you'll always have that person on your mind when you make plans. This can make spontaneity at university a little tough as you'll naturally want to consider the other person. If you're more independent than your partner, then this can be a challenge.


The breakup will be challenging


You'll likely see them on campus and it'll just be hella awkward. Save yourself the trouble if this sounds daunting to you.


The bottom line


We meant what we said about being single at university being a subjective topic. Others thrive, while some want companionship.


No matter what, there's no right or wrong answer. It's all about weighing up the pros, cons, your goals and ultimately how you feel.


Think you'll stay single at university? Let us know!

bottom of page