Your Complete Guide to Student Accommodation as an International Student

Moving to a new city is always exciting, especially as an international student venturing into a wider world. But where you live can impact your international student experience significantly. The right student accommodation isn’t just about having somewhere to sleep. It’s about setting up a space that lets you focus on your studies and enjoy the whole experience with minimal stress and hassle.

 

Sorting your accommodation early makes everything easier and much less stressful. From finding the perfect spot to saving money like a pro, we’ve got the tips you need. Let’s settle you down into your new home away from home and start this exciting chapter right!

The opportunity to study abroad after 12th grade is your chance to focus on your studies while soaking in the unique experience of living abroad. And your choice of student accommodation can shape your entire study-abroad experience. It’s not just about location or cost - you need to find a place that supports your academic success and personal growth. The right place to live can mean:

Staying close to your college or university means you spend less time commuting and more time focusing on what matters—your studies. It is easier to participate in on-campus events, join study groups, or access campus facilities like libraries and gyms. It can also be a pocket-friendly way to keep your transport costs low.

The right accommodation offers a quiet and comfortable space that meets your needs, helping you stay productive. Features like private study desks, high-speed internet, and designated study areas can make all the difference when preparing for exams or working on assignments.

Living in student housing can mean a lot of interaction with people from diverse backgrounds. Shared spaces and community events create friendships and networking opportunities. These are invaluable for personal growth and adapting to a new culture.

Most student accommodation include added safety measures like CCTV, secure entry systems, and 24/7 support. These ensure peace of mind so that you can focus on your studies without worrying about your belongings or personal safety.

Student accommodation can often include utilities like water, electricity, and internet in the rent. This can help you manage your budget better. Plus, being close to campus reduces transportation costs, making it a more economical choice compared to other housing options. Keep in mind that not all student accommodation will lump your utility bills together with rent – be very clear on the cost breakdown before you sign any paperwork for housing.

There are several types of student accommodation to consider, varying depending on the university, city, country, and of course, your needs and preferences. Broadly, accommodation will fall under either: 

⦁ On-Campus student accommodation, or

⦁ Off-Campus student accommodation

Living in on-campus accommodation is an excellent way to settle into student life, especially for an international student after 12th grade. Most universities offer dorms or halls of residence on or close to campus, which makes it easier to get to classes and access university facilities. This kind of accommodation is a popular choice for first-year international students because it provides a smooth transition into university life with a supportive environment.

 

⦁ Living on campus is convenient and helps you make friends, network, and develop a sense of community. 

⦁ You will typically have the choice of a private or shared room, with common areas like kitchens or lounges where you can hang out with fellow students.

⦁ On-campus housing tends to encourage socializing, making it easy to meet people, join clubs, and participate in campus activities. 

⦁ Since the dorms are close to your classes, you’ll save time commuting and can easily pop into campus facilities like libraries, gyms, and student support services.

 

⦁ You may have to share bathrooms and common spaces with others, which means less privacy. 

⦁ The rooms are usually smaller than private rentals. Though perfect for students who prioritize convenience and being close to the action, your living spaces may have limited facilities, like kitchen space.

The cost of on-campus student accommodation depends on the location and type of room you choose. 

 

Country	University	Accommodation Type	Cost Range (Per week)
United Kingdom	Exeter University	Standard Dorm Room	£120-£250
	Coventry University	Shared Room	£100-£200
United States	University of Arizona	Shared/ Private Room	$150-$350
	Xavier University	Traditional Dorm Room	$200-$400
Australia	Griffith University	Shared/ Private Room	AUD 200- AUD 400
	Monash University	On-Campus Apartment	AUD 220- AUD 500
Canada	Yorkville University	Shared/ Private Room	CAD 150- CAD 300
	Vancouver Island University	Residence Hall	CAD 175- CAD 400

 

To be eligible for on-campus accommodation, you typically need to:

 

⦁ Be a registered student, with first-year and/or international students usually receiving priority consideration.

⦁ Apply for student accommodation as early as possible. Many universities, like Monash University and the University of Southern Queensland, require you to apply for accommodation as soon as you receive your admission offer.

⦁ Some universities ask for a deposit, ranging from AUD 200 to 500 or more, to secure your accommodation.

Private student housing is another popular choice for student accommodation. These options are typically run by private companies, not the university. Nonetheless, they still cater specifically to students. Private student housing is a bit more flexible than on-campus dorms. It's a good choice if you want more control over your living situation and don’t mind paying a bit more or living a little farther from campus.

 

⦁ Private student housing can offer more privacy in comparison to university dorms. You can have your room with an en-suite bathroom, which is perfect if you prefer your own space. 

⦁ You can find options with lease terms that fit your schedule, whether you need short-term or long-term stays.

⦁ These accommodations often come fully furnished, so you don’t have to worry about buying furniture. 

⦁ Private accommodations can also offer a range of amenities, like gyms, lounges, and community events. These amenities help you connect with others and enjoy your time abroad even more.

⦁ The environment can still be social despite being off-campus, but you’ll have a bit more independence and privacy. 

 

⦁ Can be more expensive than university accommodation, with additional fees for utilities, internet, and amenities.

⦁ Can be in high demand, especially in high-cost, popular student cities, making it harder to secure a place.

⦁ Lacks the on-site assistance that university accommodation offers, meaning you might need to handle maintenance and other issues yourself.

⦁ You’ll be fully responsible for managing your living space, paying bills, and addressing arising issues.

The costs vary depending on the location and the accommodation type you choose. 

 

⦁ The UK: Private student housing in cities like London typically costs between £150 and £350 per week. London tends to be on the higher end of the scale due to its popularity and demand. More affordable cities like Birmingham may offer more cost-effective options.

 

⦁ Australia: Sydney and Melbourne, being major student cities and metropolises, have higher rental prices, ranging between AUD 250 to AUD 600 per week. Brisbane is a bit more affordable while still offering excellent student amenities and locations.

 

⦁ Canada: Vancouver and Toronto, two of Canada's most sought-after cities, generally have higher accommodation prices. The cost is usually between CAD 150 and CAD 400 per week. Montreal tends to be more affordable for students, reflecting its lower costs of living.

 

⦁ The USA: In cities like New York, you can expect to pay between USD 200 and 500 per week. Chicago offers slightly more budget-friendly options for students, without compromising on opportunities and city life.

Shared apartments are a great option for international students who want more independence while still keeping things affordable. This type of accommodation gives you the chance to live with other students. Sharing the rent and utilities is a good way to save money.

 

⦁ More independence in comparison to dorms.

⦁ Flexibility to choose roommates and manage your living space.

⦁ Splitting costs can make it more affordable than renting a private apartment.

⦁ Opportunity to experience life outside campus and explore the local area.

⦁ Social environment where you can meet other students and make friends.

 

⦁ Shared spaces like the kitchen and bathroom may cause some inconvenience.

⦁ Less structure in comparison to university accommodation.

⦁ You need to handle responsibilities like paying bills and cleaning with your flatmates.

⦁ Possible disagreements with roommates about house rules and chores.

 

⦁ Proof of enrollment at a university or college (usually necessary for student tenants).

⦁ Some landlords may ask for references or a background check.

⦁ A lease agreement is necessary, and you may need a guarantor and proof of income in some cases.

⦁ You may need to pay a deposit, usually between one to two months' rent.

 

The cost of shared apartments for students varies by city for the best countries to study abroad. Utilities (Wi-Fi, electricity, water, etc.) can add up to around $30 to $70 per month to your rent.

 

⦁ Australia (Sydney, Adelaide, Perth): In Sydney, rent typically ranges from AUD 250 to 400 per week. Adelaide offers more affordable options, around AUD 180 to 250 per week, while Perth costs around AUD 200 to 300 per week.

 

⦁ United Kingdom (London, Birmingham, Glasgow): Rent in London can range from £180 to £300 per week, while Birmingham and Glasgow are more affordable, costing between £120 and £200 per week.

 

⦁ United States (Los Angeles, Boston, Austin): Rent in Los Angeles is around $250 to $400 per week. In Boston, it ranges from $200 to $350 per week, while Austin offers cheaper options, ranging from $150 to $250 per week.

 

⦁ Canada (Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal): Rent in Toronto can be between CAD 250 and 400 per week. Vancouver is similar at CAD 250 to 375, while Montreal offers more budget-friendly options starting at CAD 180 to 250 per week.

If you want to plunge into the local culture, choosing a homestay for your student accommodation is the ticket to a unique and authentic experience. Homestays offer a secure, family-like environment to live with a host family. It also provides a glimpse into the daily life of the locals.

 

⦁ You’ll get to experience local traditions, food, and lifestyle.

⦁ It’s an excellent way to improve your language skills by living with native speakers.

⦁ Many homestays offer daily meals, helping you save money and eat like a local.

⦁ The host family can provide guidance and help you adjust to the new culture.

 

⦁ You’ll be sharing the house with your host family, so there’s less personal space.

⦁ You’ll need to follow the family’s house rules, which might be different from what you’re familiar with.

⦁ If you are an introvert, you might find living with a family a bit restrictive compared to other accommodation options.

Homestay costs vary depending on location, what the family is offering, and whether meals are part of the deal. 

 

In Australia, costs range from AUD 250 to 400 per week. If meals are part of the homestay package, the cost can peak higher than this range. In the UK, the costs range from £150 to £250 per week, including meals. London tends to be at the top end of the price range.

 

If you study in Canada (Toronto, Vancouver, etc.), you can expect to pay between CAD 250 to 450 per week, with meals included at most homestays. For the USA (New York, Los Angeles), prices range from USD 300 to 600 per week, depending on the city and whether meals are part of the package.

 

 

⦁ Homestays are often ideal for students who are younger and pursuing study abroad after 12th grade pathways, as families provide extra care and support to help them adjust.

⦁ You’ll need to apply through a homestay agency or the university, who will match you with a suitable family.

⦁ You’ll need to follow the family’s house rules, including things like meal times, chores, and curfew.

⦁ Apply early, as homestay spots can be limited, especially during peak seasons.

Renting a private home or apartment as student accommodation is the best option if you want to be as independent as possible. Postgraduates or mature students are the ideal candidates for this option.

 

⦁ You can live on your terms with no strict rules or curfews, as long as you are mindful of the rental space and its guidelines.

⦁ With your own space, you can relax and study the way you like.

⦁ You can pick a location and setup that suits your preferences and budget.

 

⦁ Rent and utilities add up, especially in big cities.

⦁ You’ll need to handle bills, maintenance, and sometimes furniture, etc. by yourself.

⦁ If you live alone, it can feel isolating, especially when you’re far from home.

⦁ Affordable rentals may be far from campus.

 

Private rental costs vary depending on the location, size, and type of housing. 

 

⦁ Australia (Sydney, Melbourne): AUD 300–600 per week for a one-bedroom apartment. Sharing with roommates can lower costs to AUD 150–300 per person.

 

⦁ UK (London, Manchester): £800–£1,500 per month for a single flat in London. In Manchester, it’s £500–£800. Sharing can reduce costs to around £400–£700 per person.

 

⦁ Canada (Toronto, Vancouver): CAD 1,200–2,500 per month for an apartment. Sharing lowers costs to CAD 600–1,000 per person.

 

⦁ USA (New York, Los Angeles): $1,500–$3,500 per month for a single apartment. Sharing can cost $700–$1,500 per person.

 

⦁ Some landlords ask for references or proof of a guarantor.

⦁ Most rentals require a security deposit, usually equal to 4–6 weeks' rent.

⦁ You will need to sign a lease, typically for 6 or 12 months.

⦁ Landlords can ask for proof of financial stability, like bank statements or proof of income.

Finding the right student accommodation is a big step for international students. Planning well and following these tips will help you settle in comfortably so you can focus on your studies without worrying about accommodation issues:

 

⦁ Start early: Popular options fill up fast, especially with more students studying abroad in 2025. Apply as soon as you confirm your admission.

⦁ Choose the right location: Living close to campus or near public transport saves time and commuting costs.

⦁ Read contracts carefully: Understand your lease, including rules, cancellation policies, and deposit details. Don’t sign anything before understanding what you are agreeing to, and vet your options so you can avoid scams.

⦁ Set a realistic budget: Account for rent, utilities, internet, and other hidden costs. Look for shared housing or university accommodations if you're on a tight budget.

⦁ Check safety features: Ensure the area and building are secure, with CCTV, well-lit streets, and locked entries.

⦁ Consider meal plans: If you’re not confident about cooking and minding your own meals, look for accommodations with meal options or opt for homestays.

⦁ Think about community: Dorms or co-living spaces can help you make friends and adjust quickly.

⦁ Verify amenities: Confirm essentials like Wi-Fi, heating, cooling, and furnished rooms to avoid extra expenses.

⦁ Adapt to climate: Choose housing with proper insulation, heating, or cooling, depending on the local weather.

⦁ Seek advice: Ask senior students or alumni for recommendations through social media or university groups.

⦁ Check shared spaces: Ensure shared kitchens or bathrooms are adequate for the number of residents.

While you are heading abroad to study, where you stay can make a huge impact on the entire experience. Student accommodation is likely going to be where you spend the most time outside of classes, sleeping, studying, relaxing, and hanging out with friends. Whether you’re all about dorm life, cozy homestays, or solo living in private rentals, choosing smart sets the tone for your journey. Start early, know your needs, and lock in a space that feels like you. Don’t leave your choice for student accommodation up until the last minute – start looking early so you can grab the right spot as soon as your offer letters start coming through!