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Written by: Peter Minkoff
Today’s college students deal with many challenges. From packed schedules and difficult courses to handling the burden of student loans, various factors can affect the overall university experience. On top of these factors, choosing the right accommodation can be even more stressful, especially if you’re an international pupil. To simplify this process and help you make the best decision for your needs, here are some considerations you should keep in mind when looking into student housing in the US:
Financial Aid Opportunities
Before you begin searching for accommodation, it’s best to evaluate your financial situation. Higher education is fairly expensive in the US, with the tuition being enough of a burden for many students. Budgeting for housing and general living expenses on top of that can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are many ways to finance your college career and ensure a pleasant experience at university. Private student loans are a common option for American students, but you could also apply for Federal Student Aid, as long as you meet the required conditions. Some education institutions will also provide financial help of their own, with schools such as Ferris State offering incentives to pupils who choose to live on campus.
University Dormitories
Like most other countries around the work, the USA has student dormitories as well. Located on campus, these buildings come with numerous rooms for sleeping and living, often with several individuals (of the same gender) staying in one room. In these buildings, large bathrooms are usually shared among roommates, too. Many American universities provide dedicated dormitory space for local and international students alike, being a popular choice among first-years. Due to their proximity to the school, cafeteria, and other educational and social establishments, along with an affordable cost, dormitories are quite convenient. However, their lack of privacy and the inability to choose roommates are big drawbacks.
Other On-Campus Options
Traditional university dormitories aren’t the only option on campus. If you’re located in Texas, for instance, you could live and study at the University of Houston Clear Lake by choosing an on-campus apartment. Whether you opt for a studio or a shared condo, this type of student housing represents the best of both worlds. It offers higher privacy, shared communal areas for socializing, and high-end amenities such as pools, sports areas, and laundry facilities, all while still being located near the school and coming with all the benefits of on-campus living. This is a great way to improve your overall university experience.
Off-Campus Apartments
Some schools in the USA don’t provide on-campus accommodation, or only reserve it for local students. In those cases, leasing an apartment off-campus is the most common housing solution, especially among students searching for more privacy and independence. The process of finding a rental condo in the US is the same as anywhere else – you could ask available student services for help or go through traditional channels such as rental websites, real estate agents, and recommendations from friends. Before deciding on an apartment, it’s recommended to research the neighborhood and property owner thoroughly and learn how to understand lease agreements to help you avoid any uncomfortable situations down the line.
Homestay Arrangements
For international students, homestays are also a feasible option. This is especially true for individuals under 18 or those apprehensive about leaving their homes and studying in a foreign country. Within a homestay arrangement, pupils are placed with a local American family that lives 20 to 45 minutes away from their university. Students get their own rooms, and daily meals are provided as well. Living with a local family will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself fully in American culture when you adapt to the everyday life of the family you are placed with. You can benefit from the comfort and security of a homey life even when you are far away from your country.
Utilities and Expenses
If you decide on off-campus housing, keep in mind that across the US, utilities, services, and similar expenses are often not included in the monthly rent. From water and electricity to TV, internet, and phone plans, these bills can quickly add up. Make sure to keep these costs in mind when searching for affordable rental units. Another thing to be mindful of is transportation. While cities such as San Francisco and New York City may have great cable car and subway lines, the USA isn’t exactly known for having an expensive and efficient public transportation network. In many cases, you will need to purchase or rent a vehicle, which comes with additional fuel and maintenance expenses.
In conclusion, there’s no definitive answer in terms of the best student accommodation. As long as you keep safety and comfort in mind, the right housing option for you will be the one that aligns with your personal needs, budget, lifestyle, and educational goals.