How to find an affordable student housing facility abroad

Choosing the right accommodation forms a major part of your study abroad experience.

There are several things to consider when you decide to study abroad, and finding affordable student housing can be challenging for many students.

This is due to the increase in the number of students going to study abroad every year.

Finding comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation is important as you will be spending a lot of your time there.

If you are a student looking to pursue higher studies abroad and want to know how to find an affordable student housing facility abroad, read more to know the ways to find one.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• The different types of student housing facilities abroad
• How to find student housing abroad within your budget
• Other factors to consider when choosing a student accommodation

This article aims to provide you with information about the types of student accommodation abroad and the ways to find one.

First, we’ll look at the different types of student housing options abroad for international students. Then, we’ll look at the ways to find and select suitable student housing.

Let's get started.

Types of student housing abroad

When you study abroad, there are several accommodation options to choose from depending on your preferences and budget. Here are the various types of student housing abroad:

1. Homestays
2. University student housing/halls
3. Private apartments
4. Shared apartments

1. Homestays

Living with a host family or landlord in your study abroad destination is called a homestay. It differs from the typical student accommodations in many ways.

Students have their private rooms and may share common spaces with the host. By staying with a host family, students can learn the local language, be involved in cultural activities, and share their meals. Homestays give a sense of comfort and security.

Additionally, homestays tend to be cheaper than other stay options. These make the homestay option a good choice for students looking for a homely feeling during their studies abroad.

2. University student housing/halls

Many students often stay at student housing or halls provided by the university during the initial stages of their study. These can be either shared halls, rooms, or dormitories shared by many students.

These are typically located on or near the university campus and can include shared rooms, kitchens, and study areas. University student housing provides proximity to academic facilities, thus making it an ideal choice for students starting their studies abroad.

University housing options have their set of benefits as well. Since they are shared facilities, they can be cost-effective for students. Staying in shared rooms will allow you to meet students from different classes and departments.

Also read: How to redecorate your university room on a budget

3. Private apartments

Private apartments are a good choice for students who study abroad and seek independence and a more personalised way of living. Students can choose from several options when choosing private apartments.

These apartments can either be a regular apartment or a studio apartment depending on the size. These accommodations are often situated off-campus. The cost of the apartment can vary depending on the location, size, and amenities.

While private apartments offer privacy, they are more expensive than other options since they often have rental agreements and additional costs for utilities such as electricity and water.

4. Shared apartments

Another popular option for students housing abroad is the shared apartment. Shared apartments include students from different backgrounds living together in a single apartment.

Shared apartments can also help distribute living costs, making them more affordable when compared to renting private apartments. The rent and utility costs are distributed among the students, thereby reducing individual expenses.

Not only that, shared apartments also help international students to make friends from various parts of the world. While shared apartments can be a budget-friendly choice, students need to adapt to different cultures and living habits, as they can stay with people from any part of the world. 

You might also like

• Student accommodation in the UK
• Student accommodation in the US
• Student accommodation in Canada
• Student accommodation in Ireland

Steps for getting a student housing facility abroad

Here are some important considerations you should remember when searching for a student housing facility abroad:

1. Plan according to your budget
2. Start searching early
3. Choose your student housing type
4. Get in touch with the landlord and the residents
5. Know your stay location
6. Beware of student housing scams

Excited to begin your study abroad journey? Apply for the upcoming intake today!

1. Plan according to your budget

Thoroughly research the cost of living in your chosen destination. As an international student, you must manage your living expenses and studies. Hence, it's crucial to determine your budget which includes the rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and other living expenses.

Websites like Numbeo provide the cost of living for countries across the globe. Check if any additional costs are associated with using the utilities and facilities in the accommodation. This will make your housing search a lot easier.

You can also see if your university provides any student housing support services. Many institutions have dedicated housing offices that help international students find suitable and budget-friendly accommodation.

2. Start searching early 

Student housing, especially on-campus options, often come with limited availability. By starting your search early, you can increase your chances of getting accommodation abroad. This is crucial for popular destinations and institutions where the demand for student housing is high.

By starting your search early, you not only increase your chances of securing affordable housing but also get time to focus on other crucial aspects of your study abroad journey. It is recommended to start looking for accommodation at least three to six months in advance.

This allows you to explore various options, compare prices, and find a suitable place to live before the start of the intake. You can also explore multiple websites online or Facebook groups to find the best housing options by comparing their prices, facilities, and agreement terms.

Also Read: UK cities with cheap accommodation

3. Choose your student housing type

Know about the differences between the types of student housing abroad and your personal preferences when searching for student accommodation abroad. Each accommodation option comes with its pros and cons.

If you need proximity to the university campus, the university student housing might be suitable. On the other hand, if you want a more personalised living experience, renting a private or shared apartment may be suitable.

Keep in mind the size of the apartment, the amenities, and the rental agreement terms to decide which option suits you best. You should also consider your length of stay. Depending on your course duration and possible work opportunities, you can calculate your stay period and choose the accommodation that suits your needs.

4. Get in touch with the landlord and the residents

Before finalising your student housing abroad, try reaching out to the landlord via email or phone to inquire about the property, rental agreement terms, and any specific requirements. Clarify doubts regarding the rent, utilities, and maintenance.

You can also reach out to current or previous residents or students through social media, forums, or events at the university. Ask about their experiences, the location, and any challenges they may have faced. 

Always visit the new property if you plan to change your accommodation after staying at a particular student housing. This helps to make a more informed decision about whether the student housing aligns with your preferences and requirements.

5. Know your stay location

The location of your accommodation is crucial. Consider its proximity to your university and the accessibility of public transportation options.

Living closer to campus can save you time and money on commuting. Additionally, check for nearby amenities like grocery stores, restaurants and pharmacies. You could also see if there are any recreational facilities nearby that align with your lifestyle and preferences.

You can also check the safety when choosing the location of your student housing. Speak with local and exchange students, and explore online forums to gather insights into the safety of different locations.

6. Beware of student housing scams

To avoid being scammed, conduct a thorough research about your accommodation. Common scams include fake listings, non-existent properties, or landlords requesting payments in advance. Try to arrange for face-to-face interactions or video tours before finalising any agreements.

Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. The internet is full of both genuine and manipulated reviews. Look for reviews that include specific details about the property, the location, and the landlord.

Genuine reviews often mention both positive and negative views. Beware of overly positive reviews that lack specific details or sound too promotional. Also, check if the property has several reviews within a short timeframe.

Conclusion

Finding a suitable student accommodation requires careful evaluation of several aspects. Whether you choose on-campus housing, private or shared apartments, factors such as location, budget, facilities, lease terms, and additional services should be taken into account. Choosing the right accommodation forms a major portion of your study abroad experience.

Want to know more about studying abroad in your dream destination? Talk to our friendly counsellors to know everything about studying abroad! 

At Edvoy, we pride ourselves on simplifying the study-abroad process for students. With comprehensive guidance, we'll assist with:

• Finding the ideal study abroad programs
• Selecting universities with connections to global industries
• Navigating the application process for both studies and internships
• Overcoming challenges like visa requirements and language barriers
• Maximising the learning, cultural immersion, and long-term career benefits

Explore your options with Edvoy.

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Frequently asked questions

How to find accommodation as an international student?

1. Plan according to your budget
2. Choose your preferred student housing type
3. Start searching early
4. Know your stay location
5. Get in touch with the landlord and the residents
6. Beware of scams

Which country has the best accommodation for students?

Each country has its type of accommodations for students. Countries like the UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Ireland have some of the best student accommodations.

How to save money on accommodation rent as an international student?

Sharing your living spaces can help reduce living costs, making it more affordable when compared to renting private apartments. The rent and utility costs are distributed among the students, thereby reducing individual expenses. You can also use foreign exchange to pay for student housing to keep track of your expenses and avoid any extra transfer fees.

How can I get information about student housing abroad?

Use social media like Facebook groups, university forums, and networking events to connect with local students or alumni. They can provide valuable information about the location, property, the landlord, and more.

You can also explore multiple websites online to find the best housing options, by comparing their prices, facilities, and agreement terms.

You can also see if your university provides any student housing support services. Many institutions have dedicated housing offices that help international students find suitable and budget-friendly accommodation.

What is the average annual cost of living for an Indian student abroad?

The average annual costs of living for an Indian student in various countries are as follows: