Lori Meadows
Finding accommodation as an international student can be challenging, especially when moving abroad for the first time. There are several factors to consider, such as budget, location, and accommodation type. International students have various options, including on-campus housing, off-campus apartments, homestays, or private rentals. While universities often provide support and resources, it is generally the student's responsibility to find suitable accommodation. Safety and security, as well as proximity to campus, are essential considerations, and students must also navigate financial aspects like rental fees, deposits, and utility costs. Additionally, visa requirements, such as providing proof of accommodation, may influence accommodation choices for international students.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Responsibility | Generally, international students are responsible for finding their own accommodation, but educational institutions often offer help or support, especially with university accommodation. |
| Accommodation options | On-campus, off-campus, university housing, private sector, homestays, apartments, dormitories, student halls, private suites, residence halls. |
| Considerations | Budget, proximity to campus, safety and security, social life, amenities, privacy, personal preference. |
| Resources | Student notice boards, local newspapers, online platforms (e.g. Nestpick, Digsconnect, AmberStudent, Erasmusu), real estate rental agents, university websites. |
| Additional factors | International students may need to provide proof of accommodation for their visa application and consider the cost of utilities, water, and internet services. |
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What You'll Learn
On-campus vs off-campus
As an international student, choosing your accommodation is a major decision. Your accommodation will be where you relax, study, and socialise. It may be the first time you have lived on your own or managed your own costs.
There are a variety of options available for international students, from university housing to the private sector. The choice between on-campus and off-campus accommodation depends on various factors, including cost, facilities, convenience, and personal preference.
On-campus accommodation is usually located within or near the campus and is managed by the university or a third-party provider. It offers convenience, easy access to university facilities, and opportunities to socialise with other students. Living on-campus means shorter commutes to classes, saving time and money on transportation. It also provides a chance to integrate into campus life and engage in extracurricular activities, although this may come at a higher cost. On-campus housing may also mean sharing a room or living space, reducing your privacy.
Off-campus accommodation offers more privacy and independence, allowing students to experience life in the broader community. It can be more cost-effective, especially if you share an apartment or rent a room in a shared house. However, off-campus housing may require a longer commute and might not have the same level of amenities as on-campus residences. The facilities available will depend on the specific accommodation chosen, and students may have access to facilities in the surrounding area, such as gyms, shops, and recreational spaces.
When deciding between on-campus and off-campus accommodation, it is important to research and compare the options available at your chosen university or college. Consider factors such as cost, privacy, convenience, and your personal preferences. Reach out to the institution's housing office or international student services for detailed information on both options.
Remember, there is no definitive answer to which option is better. The best choice is the one that matches your criteria and enhances your study abroad experience.
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University support
University-run accommodation, or campus accommodation, is usually situated within the confines of the university. This type of accommodation offers short commutes to classes, a unique university lifestyle, and better access to university resources. On-campus housing often includes amenities such as common areas, TVs, kitchens, laundry facilities, basic furnishings, and restrooms. It also tends to be more expensive than off-campus alternatives.
The availability and type of student housing options can vary between universities and states. Some on-campus housing options may exclude international students, so it is important to reach out to the university and inquire about special options for international students. Universities may also have connections with various housing organizations and may be able to find accommodation for students experiencing difficulty.
When considering university support, international students should also be aware of the requirements for their visa. If living off-campus, a signed lease agreement may be necessary to provide proof of accommodation. Additionally, some countries offer temporary stay visas, allowing students to visit their chosen university and physically search for accommodation before beginning their studies.
To make an informed decision, international students can create a shortlist of potential university accommodation options, considering factors such as housing type, affordability, proximity to campus, and personal appeal. They can then compare the pros and cons of each option and reach out to the relevant contacts to gather more information. This proactive approach, combined with the support provided by the university, can help international students secure suitable accommodation.
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Budgeting
Accommodation Costs
The type of accommodation you choose will significantly impact your budget. On-campus accommodation, also known as university housing, is usually available, and while it may be convenient for access to classes and social life, it can be more expensive than off-campus options. Shared rooms off-campus can be a more affordable choice, but consider the distance to the university and any commuting costs. Renting a room in a shared apartment or house can reduce costs, and websites like Nestpick, Digsconnect, and AmberStudent can help you find international student accommodation or roommates.
Living Costs
Living costs can vary depending on your location. Urban areas and big cities tend to be more expensive than smaller towns. The Midwest region in the US, for example, has lower living costs than the East and Northeast. Groceries can cost between 400-600 USD per month, so shopping at cheaper supermarkets like Walmart or Costco can help. On-campus meal plans can also be a more affordable option, costing around 250 USD per month. Eating out can quickly increase expenses, so cooking at home is a more budget-friendly alternative.
Transportation Costs
Transportation costs should also be factored in. Monthly public transportation passes can range from 45-100 USD, with some universities offering student discounts. Alternatively, buying a bicycle is a one-time expense that can provide an economical way to get around.
Additional Tips
- Part-time work can supplement your income and is allowed for students on visas in some countries, like Australia.
- Take advantage of student discounts for entertainment, travel, and groceries.
- Plan and track monthly expenses to stay within your budget.
- Keep an eye out for cheap alternatives, such as restaurants with student deals.
- Have a yearly budget for unexpected expenses, with 2,000 USD being a good starting point.
- Some universities offer financial assistance or scholarships, so be sure to explore these options.
- Consider the cost of studying when creating your budget, as this can vary by university and country.
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Online resources
There are also a plethora of websites that can help international students find accommodation. These include Nestpick, which offers thousands of furnished and unfurnished housing options, and Spotahome, which offers an exhaustive list of apartments, rooms, studios, and student residences in 100 cities across Europe. Spotahome offers virtual tours, photos, and videos of the homes and neighbourhoods, as well as floor plans and detailed descriptions. Study Abroad Apartments is another great option, offering dorms, complete apartments, and shared flats, with the added benefit of local representatives in the listed cities. 4stay is another website with over 100,000 listings in cities across the globe, and Homelike offers monthly rentals of furnished apartments in 500+ cities.
If you are looking for a roommate, Room4Talk is a platform that enables students to seek roommates by filtering potential options by their spoken languages and intended city. Roomster is another platform where landlords can list properties, and tenants can search for accommodation or find other students to cohabitate with.
Finally, if you are looking for a homestay option, where you live with a local family, you can ask your international student adviser for guidance, or use a platform like Homestay, which allows you to filter your search results to find the best host family fit.
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Safety and security
University Support
Many universities offer assistance with accommodation, and this is often the best place to start. On-campus accommodation is usually within the confines of the university, so safety is more likely to be taken care of by the university, with secure entries and sometimes security guards. University-recommended options often provide a level of security and convenience, especially for international students unfamiliar with the local housing market. Some universities may also offer to arrange temporary accommodation for you, so you can look around and make an informed decision when you arrive.
Research
Before beginning your study abroad experience, it is important to conduct some research. Look into the neighbourhoods and areas near your university, including crime rates, reviews, and general safety statistics. Websites, forums, and social media groups can provide valuable insights from current and former students. It is also a good idea to read online reviews from previous tenants to get a better understanding of the safety and living conditions of the accommodation.
Lease Agreements
If you are renting accommodation, carefully read and understand the lease agreement. Look for any clauses related to security, maintenance, and the responsibilities of the landlord. This document will outline the terms of your stay and what to expect from the property management. If something feels off about a particular accommodation option, don’t be afraid to keep searching.
Security Measures
When evaluating potential accommodations, inquire about the security measures in place. Are there surveillance cameras, secure entry points, and adequate lighting? These features contribute to a safer living environment. A well-maintained property not only indicates safety but also reflects the landlord’s commitment to their tenants’ well-being.
Location
Consider the location of your accommodation and balance proximity to your university with other factors like public transportation access, safety, and proximity to essential amenities such as grocery stores, cafes, and hospitals. Living closer to campus can save you time and transportation costs, but it is important to find the right balance and choose a safe area.
Roommates
If you’ll be sharing accommodation with roommates, ensure you’re comfortable with their backgrounds and habits. Open communication and mutual respect contribute to a more secure and harmonious living environment.
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Frequently asked questions
The options available to international students depend on the country and university in question. In the US, for example, international students can choose between on-campus and off-campus accommodation. On-campus housing includes dormitories, private suites, apartments and residence halls. Off-campus options include apartments and homestays. In other countries, international students might live in university housing or find somewhere in the private sector.
Your university may offer support with finding accommodation, especially when it comes to university accommodation. They often have connections with housing organisations and may be able to find you a place. You can also check student notice boards, both online and offline, and local newspapers, which often advertise rooms, apartments and houses for rent. There are also websites that work as international apartment finders, such as Nestpick, Digsconnect and AmberStudent.
There are several factors to consider when choosing your student accommodation. Firstly, you should prioritise safety and security. Consider the neighbourhood's crime rate, its overall reputation, and the accommodation's security measures. You should also think about the location of the accommodation in relation to the university campus. Living close to campus can save you time and money on travel, and make it easier to attend classes, use campus resources and get involved in extracurricular activities. You should also make sure that basic amenities, such as grocery stores and pharmacies, are easily accessible. Finally, it's important to consider your budget. On-campus accommodation in the US, for example, costs between $9,500 and $15,000 per year, whereas off-campus options tend to be cheaper, at between $6,000 and $9,000. Remember to budget for additional costs such as utilities, water and internet service.
