How to Get Accommodation as an International Student?

Studying abroad is perhaps the most thrilling choice you’ll ever make. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a foreign culture, develop new friends for life, and attain a world-class education. But first, there’s one very crucial item to tick off your to-do list: accommodation.

For international students, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the housing market in a foreign country. With strange rental systems, various accommodation types, and maybe language or cultural barriers, it’s no wonder you might get lost. Don’t worry, though — this guide will lead you through finding accommodation as an international student, step by step.

Step 1: Start Early

This is the golden rule. Begin searching for accommodation the moment you get your offer letter or university confirmation of admission. Most universities have limited on-campus accommodation, and off-campus places tend to be grabbed quickly — particularly in big cities or student towns.

Why begin early?

  • You’ll have more options
  • You can shop around for prices
  • You’ll not have to worry at the last minute
  • You may get better rates by reserving in advance

Most student housing websites and university halls of residence take bookings a few months ahead of the academic year. Get on their list as early as possible.

Step 2: Choose What Kind of Housing You Want

It’s worth knowing the various kinds of accommodation that are available to you before you begin looking. Here are the most popular types:

  1. University Halls of Residence

These are on-campus or university-managed rooms reserved for students. They are usually fully furnished, near the academic buildings, and have the utilities factored into the rent.

Pros:

  • Easy to get used to
  • Social atmosphere
  • Safe and controlled

Cons:

  • Tends to be pricier
  • Less privacy
  • Scarce availability
  1. Private Student Housing

These are purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs) operated by private businesses but made available for student living.

Pros:

  • High-tech amenities (gym, study areas, laundry)
  • Student-centric atmosphere
  • Secure and professionally run

Cons:

  • Can be pricey in city centres
  • Can be competitive to reserve
  1. Shared Apartments (Flat shares)

Renting a room in a shared house or apartment with other students or tenants.

Pros:

  • More economical
  • Can live like a local
  • Freedom of choice over flatmates

Cons:

  • Less supervision
  • Responsibility for maintenance and bills
  • Quality varies greatly
  1. Homestays

Living with a local family, usually a spare room in their home.

Pros:

  • Total immersion in culture
  • Meals may be included in the price
  • Supportive and welcoming environment

Cons:

  • Less independent
  • Not suitable for those who prefer their privacy

Step 3: Set a Budget

When budgeting for accommodation, don’t just consider the rent. There are usually additional costs that can quickly mount up.

Important costs to include:

  • Rent (weekly or monthly)
  • Security deposit
  • Utilities (water, electricity, gas, internet)
  • Transport (how far is the accommodation from campus?)
  • Furnishings (if you’re renting an unfurnished property)

Do your research based on your destination city. For example, student housing in central London or Sydney can be twice as expensive as in smaller towns.

Step 4: Use Trusted Platforms and University Resources

There are dozens of websites and apps that specialize in student accommodation. Make sure to use verified and trusted sources to avoid scams or misleading listings.

Useful platforms:

  • University housing office: Always your first stop. They often provide official housing or recommendations.
  • Student.com – One of the largest student accommodation marketplaces.
  • Unilodgers, Amberstudent, and HousingAnywhere – Student-focused rental platforms.
  • Facebook Groups – Great for finding flatmates, sublets, or short-term stays.
  • Spareroom or Craigslist – Popular in places like the UK or US but always verify listings.

Before committing, always check:

  • Reviews from previous tenants
  • Pictures and virtual tours
  • Distance to campus
  • What’s included in the rent
  • Cancellation policies

Step 5: Be Wary of Scams

Regrettably, global students can also be victims of online rental cons. The only way to evade getting caught in the act is to remain on guard and request questions.

Indicators to take heed of:

  • Too-good-to-be-true prices
  • Dashes to remit money beforehand
  • Landlords who refuse talking over the telephone or video chatting
  • Payment in cash apps or cryptocurrency
  • Empty or unclear picture listings

Pro Tip: Never pay someone you’ve never met or for a property you haven’t confirmed. Utilize escrow services or reputable booking platforms whenever you can.

Step 6: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

Rent laws are country and region-dependent, and you need to know what you’re signing up for.

Know the answers to these:

  • What’s the notice period if you need to move out?
  • Can the deposit be refunded?
  • Are you permitted to have guests or overnight stay-in guests?
  • Who pays for repairs or maintenance?
  • Are you signing a joint or individual lease?

Carefully read the lease agreement. If necessary, have someone from your university assist you in reviewing it — such as a student advisor or legal support officer.

Step 7: Think Temporary Accommodation First

If you can’t arrange permanent accommodation before you fly, don’t worry. Booking temporary accommodation for the initial weeks is a good idea.

Choices are:

  • Hostels
  • Budget hotels
  • Airbnb
  • Short-term rentals through university partners

This provides you with the opportunity to check out neighbourhoods in person, get to know other students, and see apartments prior to making a long-term commitment.

Step 8: Think About the Neighbourhood

Where you live is as crucial as the housing. Consider beyond cost and your lifestyle.

Think about:

  • Proximity to campus and public transportation
  • Night lighting and safety
  • Accessibility of shops, cafes, libraries
  • Levels of noise
  • Student-oriented neighbourhoods

Occasionally going 10–15 minutes farther away from campus might save you a lot on rent without giving up too much in terms of convenience.

Step 9: Ask the Right Questions Before You Sign

When you’ve found a place that suits you, get the landlord or housing provider to answer you a few basic questions:

  • Is the room furnished?
  • Are bills included?
  • What is the move-in date and length of the contract?
  • Is there Wi-Fi and how quick is it?
  • Is there a security deposit? How is it refunded?
  • Are there any house rules (e.g., quiet hours, smoking, pets)?

Don’t be afraid to ask — this is your home for the next year (or longer), and you should feel comfortable with the situation.

Step 10: Get Ready to Move

Once you’ve secured your accommodation, the last step is getting ready to move in. Pack wisely, particularly if you’re traveling halfway around the world.

Things to pack:

  • Bedding (or purchase locally)
  • Documents (passport, visa, rental contract, student ID)
  • Minimal toiletries and clothing
  • Chargers and adapters
  • Personal items to make the area homey

It’s a good idea also to join any WhatsApp or Facebook groups related to housing your accommodation provider provides — an excellent way to meet housemates and learn tips.

International Student Bonus Tips

We approached a few previous international students for what they wished they had known:

????️ “Always check the length of the contract. I ended up being tied to a 12-month lease when I needed only 9.” — Maria, Spain

????️ “I was too afraid to live with strangers, but it ended up being the best method to become friends.” — Ahmed, Egypt

????️ “Record when you move in and out — it helps secure your deposit.” — Grace, USA

Securing accommodation as a foreign student may appear challenging, but it’s perfectly manageable with the correct strategy. Begin early, remain informed, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Where you live will contribute considerably toward your general experience, so spend time making the right decision.

A safe, comfortable home makes all the difference when you’re adjusting to a new country and academic life. And once you’re settled, you can turn your attention to the more exciting parts of studying abroad — making new friends, exploring the city, and focusing on your studies.

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