Is the question whether to use University Housing vs Residential? I think Uni Housing is cheaper and you won’t be charged for a maid or repair service. Without NPC roommates, you’ll miss out on free food and some autonomous behaviors (most of which can be annoying).
I don’t enjoy playing more than 3 or 4 sims at uni, so 8 would be a drag, IMO. If you really want to do that, you’re much better off living off campus because then they will actually get to their classes on time without you having to be vigilant. I don’t know if you usually play with 8 sims in a house but it’s even harder at uni with all the homework, papers and presentations to juggle. You’re going to have a bad time if you do that. I’d split them up into two groups of 4, and that’s what I’ve got going on in my game right now.