Securing Housing as an International College Student

Quick Highlights:

Securing housing is a significant challenge for international students, making it essential to find a safe and comfortable place to live for well-being and academic success.
On-campus housing offers convenience and security, but it can be more expensive and may have limited availability, while off-campus options provide more independence but come with their own set of challenges.
Researching housing options before arrival and considering factors like location, cost, and safety is crucial in making an informed decision about where to live.
Understanding the legal aspects of renting, such as lease terms and tenant rights, and considering rental insurance for belongings protection are vital steps before signing any rental agreement.

Moving to a new country for school is an exciting adventure, but it comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest challenges international students face is securing housing. The unfamiliar campus layout and complicated housing application process can make finding the right living situation seem like trying to find your way through a maze blindfolded. A safe and comfortable place to live is vital for your well-being and academic success, so it is worth taking the time to find the right housing. This article will help you understand your housing options, how to research them before you arrive, and what to consider when choosing your new home. We’ll also cover the legal aspects and safety tips to consider before you sign the dotted line.

Related:

Understanding the Different Housing Options

International students have a variety of housing options to choose from and the choices can seem a bit overwhelming. We’ll break down some popular options and discuss the pros and cons of each.

On-Campus Housing:

When most people think of on-campus housing, they think of traditional dormitories or residence halls. These “dorms” are usually shared with at least one other student and feature shared bathrooms and a common lounge space.

Pros: Living on campus means you’re close to your classes and university facilities, which can save you time and money on transportation. Dorms are like built-in communities that make it really easy to get involved in campus life. Some residence halls have these communities divided by wing or by floor, allowing like-minded students to live together. University housing also tends to have good security measures, giving you peace of mind.

Cons: On-campus housing can be more expensive than off-campus options. The university sets the price, so there isn’t the opportunity to shop around for a better deal. There might also be limited availability, especially if you apply late. It’s essential to weigh these factors when deciding where to live.

Off-Campus Housing

If on-campus housing isn’t for you, there are plenty of off-campus options to consider. Off campus housing can be challenging for international students to navigate, but some students do prefer the independence and autonomy they provide. Popular off-campus housing options include:

Apartments: These can be rented privately and offer more independence. Rent is usually charged “per bedroom” so they can also be quite affordable.
Shared Houses: Sharing a house with other students can be a cost-effective option.
Homestays: Living with a local family can provide a supportive environment and help you adjust to the new culture.

Pros and Cons: Each type of off-campus housing has its pros and cons. Since these living arrangements aren’t managed by the college, it can be difficult to navigate problems or disputes that can arise. You’ve also got to prepare your own meals and possibly pay for services like electricity or internet. Apartments offer privacy but living with multiple roommates can be challenging. Shared houses reduce costs and provide companionship but may lack privacy. Homestays offer a cultural experience but may come with house rules that you need to follow.

Researching Housing Before Arrival

You should begin your housing search before arriving. You can start by researching the options offered by the university. Their website should provide a wealth of information on residence halls, amenities, and costs. They also provide details on student rental companies in the area. If you are considering off-campus housing, websites like Zillow and Apartments.com can also be helpful.

Another great way to learn more information about the available housing options is to check with current students and the university housing office. The university housing office is another valuable resource, offering advice and sometimes even matching you with roommates. You can use Reddit to gain valuable insights from students on the best places to live. Popular threads offer advice on the best places to live and opinions about off-campus housing.

Important Considerations When Choosing Housing

Once you’ve figured out the type of housing you’re interested in, you can really focus on finding the right space. Things like location, cost, and safety should play a role in your decision making. We’ll take a look at some tips to consider when shopping for the perfect abode.

Location

Proximity to Campus and Essential Services: Living close to campus can save you time and money on commuting. Also, consider how far you want to live from grocery stores, hospitals, and public transportation. Do you want a quiet space far away from the hustle and bustle of campus or are you really wanting to an immersive college experience?

Neighborhood Safety and Accessibility: Research the safety of the neighborhood. Look for areas with low crime rates and good lighting. Websites like neighborhoodscout.com let you search for neighborhoods by zip code and then evaluate everything from crime rates to diversity and languages spoken. Accessibility is also important—make sure the area is easy to get to, especially if you don’t have a car.

Budget

Housing is likely going to be your largest expense as an international student, so setting a budget is important. Determine ahead of time how much you can afford to spend on housing. Don’t forget to add in costs like:

utilities like water, sewer, gas, electric, and trash pickup
parking/transportation
internet

Amenities and Facilities

You will also need to decide which amenities are important to you while living abroad. Do you need your place to be furnished? Renting a furnished apartment can save you the hassle and expense of buying furniture. College dorms usually provide furniture, so that may be something to consider. If personal fitness is important to you, you may want to find a space with a workout room or swimming pool. If you’re planning to have a car, you will need to make sure there is safe and secure parking options nearby.

Legal and Administrative Aspects

Before signing any rental agreement, make sure you understand the terms. Know the length of the lease, the amount of the deposit, and how to get it back after you move out. If you are going to have roommates, you’ll also need to know who is responsible for taking over their lease if they move out early.

As a tenant, you have rights and responsibilities. You are the responsible for keeping the apartment clean and free of damages. You also need to notify your property manager of any repairs needed. Make sure you review your rights as a tenant and follow the appropriate channels if you feel something is not right.

Something that is often overlooked in the rental experience is purchasing rental insurance. While the property owner is protected in case of fire or disaster, if you don’t have rental insurance, your belongings have no protection. Rental insurance can protect your belongings in case of theft, fire, or other disasters. It’s an added small expense but can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Safety Tips for International Students

Visiting the Property Before Signing Any Agreements: If you choose to rent something off campus, try to visit the property in person before signing any rental agreements. This allows you to check the condition of the property and the surrounding area. There are a lot of scams online, so seeing the property before signing anything or handing over any money can save you some grief.

Getting to Know the Landlord or Property Manager: It’s important to have a good relationship with your landlord or property manager. They can help address any issues that arise during your stay.

Joining Local Student Groups or Forums for Support and Advice: Local student groups and forums can be a great source of support and advice. Joining these groups can help you make friends and get tips on living in your new city.

Finding housing as an international student can be challenging, but it’s important to find a safe and comfortable place to live. By understanding your options and doing some research before you arrive, you can make an informed decision. Don’t forget the legal aspects and always prioritize your safety. Your university and fellow students are there to help, so don’t hesitate to reach out. With the right preparation and support, you can love your new space and have an amazing experience while studying abroad.

Securing Safe and Comfortable Housing as an International College Student