Savanna Hoffman
As an international student, finding an apartment can be challenging due to financial constraints and a lack of rental history. However, there are several strategies that can help you secure an affordable place to live. Firstly, it is recommended to start your housing search early and be proactive in exploring both on-campus and off-campus options. On-campus housing, such as dormitories or apartments, can be convenient and may be included in some scholarship programmes. Off-campus, international students often choose to rent individual rooms, share apartments with roommates, or participate in homestays. When dealing with landlords, it is beneficial to maintain open communication and provide necessary documentation, such as proof of funds or a co-signer if required. Building a positive rental history is essential, and some housing complexes near universities may cater specifically to international students, offering flexible requirements. Additionally, consider budgeting for utilities and other living expenses, and explore financial assistance options provided by your university or external organisations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Start searching | Well in advance |
| Prepare documentation | Proof of funds, I-20 document, foreign bank account statements, passport/visa, acceptance letter, letter of employment, rental application, proof of income |
| Communicate with landlords | Be transparent about your situation, follow up with emails |
| Housing options | On-campus, off-campus, roommate, subletting, homestays, international student housing |
| Co-signer | Close relative or family member |
| Guarantor | Pay a higher security deposit upfront |
| Rental history | Pay rent on time, maintain the apartment, follow lease terms |
| Budgeting | Consider utilities, student loans, part-time jobs |
| Decorating | Posters, window treatments, second-hand furniture |
| Socialising | Attend campus events, connect with fellow students |
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What You'll Learn
On-campus vs off-campus
There are several on-campus and off-campus housing options for international students. The right choice for you will depend on your budget, personal preferences, and what you want from your study abroad experience.
On-campus housing is often the most convenient option for international students, as it means you don't have to commute to your college. It can also be a great way to immerse yourself in the "campus experience" and is ideal in terms of location. On-campus housing typically comes furnished with basic necessities such as a bed, desk, and chair, and living expenses are usually accounted for. However, schools charge a hefty price for on-campus living, and you may have less privacy as you'll likely be sharing rooms and common areas.
Off-campus housing allows you to learn to live independently and gives you the freedom to choose where you live based on your space requirements. It can also be cheaper than getting a school dorm, especially if you choose to share with roommates. However, off-campus housing may be further from school, which can be inconvenient and add commuting costs to your budget. You'll also need to take full responsibility for meals, cleanliness, maintenance, safety, and monthly bills.
When it comes to finding the right accommodation, it's important to do your research and consider all your options. Speak to a student advisor, browse online resources, and connect with fellow students to find out about shared spaces and roommate requests.
On-Campus Housing
- Dormitories: These are the most popular on-campus housing option, with single or shared rooms and shared bathrooms and showers.
- Apartments or Suite-Style Housing: These typically include a common area, separate bedrooms, and a kitchen or kitchenette for small groups of students.
- Graduate or Professional Student Housing: This can include anything from dormitories to apartment-style housing and is specifically for graduate students.
- International Student Housing: Some colleges have buildings or floors dedicated to international students, and others may allow you to request to live with another international student.
Off-Campus Housing
- Apartments: Off-campus apartments typically provide more independence and privacy than college dorms. They may also offer more amenities like a full kitchen, living room, and private bathroom.
- Houses: Many students choose to live in a house off-campus, which usually has several bedrooms, a shared living space, and one or more kitchens.
- Room Rentals: Also known as "shared housing," this involves renting a single room in someone else's apartment or house, which can be a cost-effective option.
- Homestays: With a homestay arrangement, an international student lives with a local family during their time in school.
Remember to carefully consider your budget and any legal and financial constraints when deciding between on-campus and off-campus housing. Compare the costs of living on-campus versus off-campus in your particular area, and don't forget to factor in any additional costs such as furniture, appliances, and commuting expenses.
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Budgeting for utilities
Understanding the Basics
Firstly, it's important to understand what constitutes essential utilities. These typically include electricity, gas, water, trash removal, sewer, and internet access. Cable and phone services can also be considered utilities, but they may not be essential for everyone.
Determining Average Costs
The average cost of utilities varies depending on several factors, including your location, the season, and your usage. According to Move.org, the average monthly cost for essential utilities is around $290.79. This includes electricity ($136.84), natural gas ($69.38), water ($47), garbage and recycling ($62.50), broadband internet ($77), and streaming services ($59). Keep in mind that these are averages, and your actual costs may differ based on your specific circumstances.
Budgeting Techniques
To effectively budget for utilities, consider the following techniques:
- Calculate the total cost of your utility bills over the past 12 months and divide that amount by 12. This gives you an average monthly cost that you can set aside in a separate checking account, as suggested by financial educator Kari Lorz.
- As a general guideline, your utility costs should ideally not exceed 8-10% of your monthly income.
- Be mindful of factors that can influence your utility costs, such as working from home, the number of people in your household, and the average temperatures during different seasons.
Cost-Saving Strategies
To keep your utility costs under control, consider implementing the following strategies:
- Check your hot water heater settings. Lowering the temperature to 120 degrees from the default 140 degrees can reduce your energy consumption.
- Promptly repair leaky faucets, toilets, and pipes to prevent water wastage.
- Run your appliances at night to reduce heat buildup during the day and minimize the strain on your air conditioning system.
- Replace air filters every 2-3 months to maintain the efficiency of your AC system.
- Opt for a microwave, stovetop, or counter-top convection oven instead of using the traditional oven whenever possible, as smaller appliances consume less energy.
By following these tips and staying mindful of your utility usage, you can effectively budget for and manage your utility costs as an international student.
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Scholarships and financial aid
- University Scholarships and Aid: Many universities offer financial incentives for international students, especially at the graduate level. These can include assistantships, fellowships, and merit-based scholarships. Consult your university to learn about any scholarships based on academic performance, artistic or athletic abilities, or financial need.
- Work-Study Programs: These programs allow students to work while studying, providing valuable experience and extra funds.
- Online Scholarship Databases: Websites like internationalstudent.com and IEFA offer comprehensive scholarship databases for international students. These tools allow filtering by field of study, location, and origin, helping you find relevant opportunities. Some databases charge a fee, but free alternatives provide similar information.
- Student Loans: International students can often access student loans to fund their education and living expenses. Comparison tools are available to help you find suitable lenders and loan programs.
- Financial Documentation: When applying for apartments, international students may be asked for proof of funds. Financial documentation can include foreign bank account statements, proof of scholarships or loans, or letters from family members providing financial support.
- Co-signers and Guarantors: If you cannot demonstrate sufficient income, consider finding a co-signer or guarantor. A close relative or family member can co-sign, agreeing to pay rent if you default. Alternatively, offering a higher security deposit may compensate for the lack of a financial history or guarantor.
Remember to start your housing search early, maintain good communication with landlords, and consider student-friendly housing options near your school. Building a positive rental history by paying rent on time and maintaining the apartment in good condition will also make it easier to secure future accommodations.
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Guarantors and security deposits
International students often need a guarantor to rent an apartment in a new country. A guarantor is a person, organisation, or company that acts as a safety net and accounts for your responsibility when renting an apartment. Usually, the guarantor is a creditworthy third party like a parent or trusted friend who can vouch for your good rental profile. They may also be required to pay your rent if you are unable to.
Finding a guarantor in a foreign country can be challenging. In this case, you can approach third-party companies to act as your guarantor. Guarantor insurance, for example, will be responsible for your rent in the event that you are unable to pay. There may be a fee involved in using a guarantor company, which will depend on your monthly income. Some universities also have partnerships with guarantor services, so it is worth exploring your university's student support for guidance.
Another option is to pay a higher security deposit to cover the risk associated with not having a financial history or a guarantor. Landlords may be open to this alternative if you can demonstrate financial stability. Security deposits can also be used to recover damages made by the tenant during their stay. If the total amount of damages exceeds the deposit, the remaining sum will have to be paid by the tenant.
If you are unable to find a guarantor or pay a higher security deposit, it is recommended to ask a close relative or family member to co-sign for you. This means they will be liable to pay your rent if you fail to do so.
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Roommates and subletting
As an international student, you may find it challenging to afford an apartment due to the lack of a financial background or credit history. One effective strategy to overcome this challenge is to consider having roommates or subletting.
Sharing an apartment with roommates can significantly reduce your financial burden. You can split the rent and utility costs, such as water, gas, electricity, and internet, making it more manageable. Additionally, you can save money by buying second-hand furniture or decorating your space affordably.
To find roommates, you can utilize various online platforms and websites, such as international roommate finders or student platforms like Erasmusu and Roomster. These platforms allow you to connect with other students worldwide and create listings to find compatible roommates in your country of study.
Subletting is another option to consider. Subletting means renting from a current tenant, and it may require less stringent income verification. You can explore subletting opportunities by checking online platforms, university accommodation offices, or even reaching out to current tenants in your desired area.
Remember to be proactive in your housing search, maintain good communication with landlords or property managers, and be aware of the requirements and documentation needed, such as proof of funds or a co-signer.
By considering roommates or subletting, you can make renting an apartment as an international student more affordable and accessible. It allows you to share costs, build a positive rental history, and potentially find like-minded individuals to share your living space during your studies.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways international students can afford apartments, including:
- Taking out student loans
- Receiving scholarships
- Getting financial help from parents
- Sharing an apartment with a roommate to reduce individual financial burdens
- On-campus living to avoid commuting costs
International students may need to provide the following documents to rent an apartment:
- Proof of funds or a co-signer
- Passport/Visa
- Acceptance letter from a college/university
- Letter of employment
- Bank account statements
- I-20 document (for US)
International students should also:
- Be proactive in their housing search and start well in advance
- Maintain good communication with landlords or property managers
- Consider housing options near their school, as these may be more familiar with student circumstances
- Build a positive rental history by paying rent on time and maintaining the apartment in good condition
