Savanna Hoffman
Whether or not international students can stay in their dorms during winter break depends on the college. Some colleges close their dorms during winter break, while others allow students to stay for an additional fee. Students who are unable to return home may be able to find a local family to host them, and international students are often invited to live with local families in the spirit of cultural exchange. It is important for international students to plan ahead and check with their college's residential services or housing office to see if they can stay in the dorm during winter break or if there are any alternative housing options available.
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What You'll Learn
Approval processes for staying on campus during winter break
Colleges that do allow students to stay on campus during winter breaks usually have an approval process in place. Students must apply for winter break housing before receiving approval to remain on campus. Students should check with their college's residential services for the specific approval process and any associated fees. For example, the University of Denver (DU) requires students to apply for winter break housing in their Housing Portal, and charges a flat fee of $1820 for Winter Break Housing. Similarly, the University at Buffalo (UB) requires students to request break housing and be approved by the appropriate deadline.
Some colleges, such as Harvard, have a list of approved reasons for residency during winter break, including financial need, special circumstances, and in-season athletes. Other colleges may not have specific criteria but will still require approval from the appropriate department, such as residential services or student affairs.
It is important to note that even if approved to stay on campus during winter break, students may be moved to another dorm, and certain campus amenities may not be available. Additionally, students may be charged a prorated fee for the duration of their stay.
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Access to campus facilities during winter break
Policies differ across colleges, but generally, students are not allowed to stay in their dorms during winter break. Typically, everyone is expected to leave the campus, which will likely be closed, meaning no access to regular facilities and transportation. Some colleges, however, do have approval processes for students who need to stay on campus due to special circumstances. For example, Harvard has a list of approved reasons for residency, including financial need, special circumstances, and in-season athletes. If you are approved, your college may move you to another dorm for the break, so be prepared to move your belongings. Campuses that remain open may not offer regular amenities such as dining halls, libraries, or facilities access. Students who cannot return home may be able to find a local family to host them. International students are often invited to stay with local families in the spirit of cultural exchange.
If staying on campus during the school breaks is a necessity for you, you should check with your college. Some schools will have special provisions for students who cannot return home, but they may charge an extra fee. If you cannot stay on campus, you could consider subletting an off-campus apartment from a fellow student for the break.
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Off-campus housing options
International students typically have two main housing options: on-campus and off-campus. While on-campus housing is convenient, some students may prefer to live off-campus for reasons such as cost, neighbourhood, environment, or independence.
- University-managed off-campus housing – Some universities offer off-campus housing options that are managed by the university itself. These options may include apartments or dorm-style accommodations located near the campus. Students can contact their university's housing office or refer to the university website to explore these options.
- Private rentals – International students can also choose to rent an apartment or house in the private market. This option may offer more independence and flexibility but can come with additional challenges, such as higher costs, the need for a co-signer, and upfront deposits. Websites like Nestpick, Digsconnect, and AmberStudent can help students find private rentals that are open to renting to international students.
- Homestays – International students can consider staying with a local host family. This option can provide a friendly and welcoming environment, supporting the student's transition to a new country. Homestays can also offer a unique cultural exchange experience.
- Shared rentals – Another option is to find a roommate and share a rental property. This can help reduce costs and provide companionship. Students can connect with potential roommates through their university networks, social media, or dedicated websites.
When considering off-campus housing options, international students should carefully evaluate factors such as budget, location, safety, amenities, and the duration of their stay. Additionally, it is important to review the requirements for their student visa and ensure that their accommodation meets any necessary criteria.
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On-campus housing options during shorter breaks
During shorter breaks, such as Fall break or Thanksgiving break, dorms typically remain open and students are usually allowed to stay. However, it's important to note that policies can vary between different colleges, so it's always a good idea to check with your specific institution. Some colleges may have specific approval processes or requirements for students who wish to remain on campus during these shorter breaks.
In contrast, during the winter break, most colleges tend to close down completely, and all students are expected to vacate the dorms. However, there may be exceptions for students with special circumstances. Some colleges might offer an approval process for those who need to stay on campus, which could include international students who cannot return home. In such cases, students may be moved to a different dorm for the break and should be prepared for limited access to regular campus amenities and facilities.
If you are an international student or have special circumstances that require you to stay on campus during the winter break, it is recommended to reach out to your college's residential services or the relevant department as early as possible. They can provide specific information regarding their policies and procedures for such situations. Additionally, they may be able to assist in finding alternative arrangements, such as connecting you with local families who are often happy to host international students during the break.
It is worth noting that some colleges may charge an additional fee for students who need to remain on campus during the winter break. This is something to consider and discuss with the relevant department to understand the financial implications. Planning ahead and gathering information is crucial to making informed decisions and ensuring a smooth process during the break period.
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International student hosting programmes
Typically, students are not allowed to stay in their dorms during winter break, and colleges will usually expect everyone to leave. However, some colleges do have an approval process for students who need to remain on campus due to special circumstances. These include financial need, being an in-season athlete, or other reasons. If you are an international student who needs to stay on campus during the winter break, you should check with your college's residential services to see if they can accommodate you.
If you are unable to stay on campus, you may be able to find a local family to host you. There are several organisations that can help with this, such as EF, AFS-USA, and International Student Exchange (ISE). These organisations work to unite exchange students with host families and facilitate intercultural exchange.
EF has been connecting international students with host families since 1979 and works alongside the US Department of State to promote public diplomacy through its program. They offer short-term and long-term hosting options, and host families can choose students from 13 different countries. EF provides support through local, regional, and full-time coordinators, who are there to help resolve any issues that may arise.
AFS-USA has over 75 years of experience in international high school exchange and a network of almost 3,000 volunteers across the US. They offer year-long and semester-long programs, as well as the opportunity to be a welcome family, hosting a student for 6-12 weeks while they find a permanent home. AFS-USA conducts criminal background checks for all host family members aged 18 and older, and local coordinators provide support throughout the student's stay.
ISE has over 40 regional offices and host families in all 50 states, bringing exchange students from all over the world to the US. Host families are expected to cooperate with program regulations and guidelines, including regular progress reports and home visits. ISE also requires host families to pass a background check and home check to ensure the safety of the students.
By participating in international student hosting programs, families can build lifelong connections and gain the opportunity to experience and share different cultures. It is a rewarding way to welcome a student into your home and provide them with a supportive environment during their studies.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the college. Some colleges close down completely during the winter break and expect everyone to leave. However, some colleges have approval processes for students who need to stay on campus.
You can look into subletting off-campus apartments from fellow students. International students are also often invited to live with local families in the spirit of cultural exchange.
Check with your college’s residential services to see if they have an approval process for winter break residency. If they do, they may move you to another dorm for the break, so be prepared to move your belongings.
Your college may be completely closed, with no shuttle, dining hall, library, or facilities access. However, if you have access to a car, many colleges and universities do not enforce parking while closed.
Check with your college’s residential services or transportation department website. You can also check with prospective colleges before you apply to see how easy or complicated it will be to live in the dorms during the breaks.
