If you’re about to study abroad and go off on an adventure, one of the first things on your mind might just be where exactly you’ll be staying. Whether you’re posting up for an entire year or just a summer session, where you hang your hat at the end of the day is a big part of your life experience, and therefore a big part of your study abroad experience. Even if your school or program can point you in the direction of housing, you might find yourself at a bit of a loss for what all of your options might be.
Everybody has different needs and priorities when it comes to where they want to live, and going abroad doesn’t change that fact. You need somewhere that works for your lifestyle, your needs and your budget. There are so many housing options out there for traveling students and study abroad programs. Here are just a few ways for you to find student housing abroad, no matter where you are.
On-Campus Housing
One of the primary options — and often the easiest for some students — is to go for on-campus housing or dormitory housing. Usually, the program or school where you’re studying will offer some degree of housing guidance to all of their students, including you. While this is a great way to be close to everything you need, it might also be a bit expensive and slightly detached from the city where you’re living — all things you might want to consider.
Subletting an Apartment
Subletting is a great way to get a feel for the local culture and experience by feeling immersed in the community. By renting a place for a few months, you can live like a local wherever you are. However, you can also find balance by living with other students, too. This can also be quite cost-effective, as you’d simply pay rent like any regular resident.
...Or Signing a Lease of Your Own
However, if you want to make things a bit more official, signing a lease could be a great idea in certain circumstances. While staying for a short period of time might not make it the best idea to commit to a lease, it could be a great option if you’re staying for a year or more, or if you think you might stay permanently after your study abroad experience wraps up. While for most people, signing a lease in a foreign place is more trouble than it’s worth, it could be the easiest option in the right situations. However, you’ll need to check on any rules and regulations for renting in a foreign place.
Homestays
Some schools can also set students up with homestays instead of traditional, independent housing. In a homestay, you’d stay with a family in your home country while you go to school. This is a great option for those doing a foreign exchange program or for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the culture.
Stick to Your Budget
One of the most important things to keep in mind when looking for a place to live is the budget. Ever since COVID, there has been a 68% increase in demand for budget-friendly private room options. That being said, even if school-arranged accommodations are easier, it will likely pay off in the long run to take a bit of a deeper look around.
Using Your Network
When it comes to looking around, one of the best ways to get started is by using your network, from friends and family to other students who have studied abroad and even professors you know, see if anyone has a friend who is looking for a roommate or tenant in the area you’re aiming to study. Even if you only have one contact, it can go a long way.
Facebook Groups
Another place you can look is local Facebook housing groups. Many cities have housing groups on Facebook for people of all kinds to post available rooms for sublet or rent. You can even post an ad yourself saying that you’re searching.
Housing Websites
If Facebook isn’t exactly your scene, you can also go for housing websites specifically for students. Websites like Nestpick and Uniplaces are great starting points to find connections with fellow students, so you can get truly involved with your academic community wherever you are. There are so many different housing websites to choose from, so you’ll have an array of options.
Hop On Opportunities Early
One of the most helpful tips on how to find student housing abroad is to hop on opportunities and start your search as early as you can. The sooner you have your affairs in order, the more relaxed the process will be.
Finding Accommodations Abroad
No matter where you’re studying abroad, there are so many ways you can find the best accommodations for you and your needs. Whether you’d rather stay in a dorm of find an apartment somewhere in the city, there are so many amazing places for you to explore.