Accommodation

Studying abroad can be an exciting and rewarding experience that greatly enriches your academic, personal, and professional growth. Yet, finding suitable accommodation is one of the most crucial and challenging aspects of studying abroad. You’ll want to find an affordable, safe, comfortable, and convenient place while also meeting your needs and preferences. International students have several options: on-campus housing, off-campus housing, homestays, and hostels. All of these options fall into two categories: on-campus or off-campus. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, and you’ll need to consider various factors before deciding.

On-Campus Housing

On-campus housing is a type of accommodation where you live in a dormitory or residence hall within the university campus. This is a popular option for student accommodation because it offers many benefits, such as:

It is close to your classes, facilities, and services, which saves you time and transportation costs.
It provides a safe and secure environment, on-site staff, and a security system.
It helps you to meet and interact with other students from different backgrounds and cultures, enhancing your social life and academic support.
It allows you to participate in various campus activities, events, clubs, and organizations, which can enrich your student experience.

However, on-campus housing also has some drawbacks, such as:

It may be more expensive than other types of accommodation, depending on the room’s location, size, and quality.
It may have limited availability or high demand, especially in popular destinations.
It may have strict rules or contracts, such as curfews, meal plans or roommates.
It may offer less privacy or independence than other types of accommodation.

Off-Campus Housing

Off-campus housing is a type of study abroad housing where you live in a student apartment or a house outside the university campus. This is another standard option for international students because it offers more freedom and flexibility than on-campus housing. Some of the benefits of choosing off-campus housing are:

It gives you more choices and control over your living space, such as the location, size, facilities, amenities and style of the apartment or house.
It allows you to live with your friends or find new roommates who share your interests and preferences.
It enables you to experience the local culture and lifestyle more authentically than living on campus.
It may be cheaper than on-campus housing if you share rent and utilities with your roommates.

However, off-campus housing also has some challenges, such as:

It may be far from your campus or public transportation, which can increase your travel time and costs.
It may require you to do deals with landlords, contracts, bills, maintenance issues and other responsibilities from renting a house or apartment.
It may not provide you with the same level of safety or support as on-campus housing.
It may be harder to find or book than on-campus housing if you are unfamiliar with local norms.

Some other types of Student Accommodation

Homestays

Homestays are an accommodation where you live with a local family in their home. This is a great option if you want to experience the culture and lifestyle of the country where you are studying. You will have your own room and share meals and activities with your host family. You will also get the opportunity to practice your language skills and make new friends.

Private Student Housing

Private student housing is a popular choice among international students. Companies like Amberstudent, unilodgers and others offer a range of purpose-built student accommodations that cater to students’ specific needs.

Tips for Choosing the Best Accommodation for Study Abroad

To help you choose the best accommodation for your study abroad, here are some tips that you can follow:

1. Plan Ahead:

Begin your accommodation search well in advance, preferably several months before your planned move-in date. This allows you to explore various options and make informed decisions.
Be aware of application deadlines for various accommodations, especially for on-campus housing or competitive off-campus apartments. Missing deadlines can limit your choices.

2. Budget Wisely:

Create a comprehensive budget that includes rent and utilities (water, electricity, gas), groceries, transportation, internet, and any other recurring expenses. Don’t forget to account for occasional costs like textbooks and entertainment.
If you’re an international student, factor in currency exchange rates, as they can affect the cost of living in your host country.

3. Consider location:

Choose accommodation that minimizes your commute to university. This not only saves time but also reduces transportation expenses.
Evaluate the accessibility of grocery stores, healthcare facilities, public transportation, and other essential services from your chosen location.

4. Safety First:

Investigate the safety of the neighbourhood where your potential accommodation is located. Look at crime rates, safety measures in the building (e.g., security cameras, access control), and local community feedback.
Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and contacts, such as local emergency numbers and the nearest hospitals.

5. Ask Questions:

Reach out to your university’s accommodation office or housing services for assistance. They can provide information about available on-campus options and advice on finding off-campus housing.
If you’re renting privately, ask landlords or property managers about lease terms, such as lease duration, security deposits, maintenance responsibilities, and any included utilities. Seek clarification on policies regarding lease renewal and notice periods for moving out.
Ask about the amenities and furnishings included in the accommodation, such as kitchen appliances, laundry facilities, and internet access. Clarify whether there are any additional fees or restrictions related to these amenities.

How can Collegepond Assist you?

Finding a suitable home away from home can be daunting for students. We have partnered with expert agencies that assist students in finding student accommodation across leading study abroad destinations, including USA, Canada, UK and more. They can make the process more convenient, hassle-free, and without any worries about cumbersome paperwork. Let us help you find your perfect home away from home.