Yes, studying abroad and living away from home is a big change and decision for study abroad students. Housing is a very important part of studying abroad, but in the midst of application preparations, visa application, and university and program plans, it is also the part that some study abroad students tend to postpone until the last minute. A wise thing to do is to plan ahead.
So, after getting accepted into your study abroad dreams program, the next important step is finding a study abroad student accommodation. But of course, searching for a place to stay in a new place in a new country is not as easy. There’s no need to panic, though, as we have created this article to help you choose a place that suits your needs and will help you make the most of your study abroad time.
Campus accommodation is university-based accommodation, and it is usually located within the university confines. This is the most beneficial Study Abroad accommodation choice for international students.
You are likely to be close to other university buildings, and safety is likely to be taken care of by the university – with secure entries and perhaps even security guards on work.
There are also social benefits – you will be living amongst many other students, both local and from other countries.
A study abroad homestay can often be the best place for cultural and language immersion, which will provide you with the warmth of a community.
Study Abroad Student dormitories can lead to truly meaningful study abroad experiences. Not all universities will offer this type of study abroad accommodation to students.
But it’s worth inquiring with your provider because dorms are an easy way to make new local connections!
Dorms vary, but it’s possible you would have a private room with a private bath, or you may have a roommate, or have a shared bathroom as part of a dorm. There will generally be common areas such as study places or a kitchen, which gives great gathering spots for you and your classmates.
However, dorm rooms sometimes come with steep prices, so it’s worthwhile to weigh your options. Also, if you are considering having friends or family visit you while studying abroad, it’s possible that your dorm will not allow your guest to spend overnight so this might also be your decision-making factor
Renting a whole apartment to yourself will allow you to enjoy independence and the privacy that you don’t necessarily have in dorms or homestays. You also get to choose the location so that it’s most convenient for your lifestyle. However, private accommodation can come with a pretty expensive price tag. Apart from the rent, you’ll also have to manage the bills, utilities, wifi, and stock your own fridge!
Some owners of the apartment might ask you to pay a security deposit before renting, which will be returned to you once you move out, pending any deductions taken because of damage. So if you are renting your own apartment, make sure you take care of the location and place as well!
It’s also worthy to note that while a private apartment might give you independence, it also can cut you off from meaningful cultural experiences and relationships with local connections.
Shared apartments tend to be the most convenient and affordable type of accommodation for students. It can also be a lot of fun! You will live with a roommate who perhaps is another study abroad student, a local student, or even a young professional from the area. Shared apartments are ideal for making friends and creating close connections.
The setup will depend on the apartment, but typically you will have a private room and shared common areas. Unlike homestays and dorms, you won’t have any rules and regulations you have to follow.
Private rental halls are almost similar to university dorms but they are generally off-campus and sometimes come with more amenities. Options will include shared rooms, private rooms in a suite. The price will also generally include all utilities, so what you see is what you pay in this case.
Many of these buildings are much more modern than university dorms and are equipped with high-speed internet, athletic facilities, cinema rooms, game rooms, and much more. The building may also organize events throughout the year to facilitate community networks!
1) Finances-The first consideration you can take to reduce living costs is to share a room with someone. While this may not seem like your dream of independence, the reality is that you probably won’t be spending too much time at home anyway.