When you plan to study abroad, one of the biggest concerns—apart from admissions and visas—is finding the right student housing. Where you live during your study abroad journey can make or break your experience. It’s not just about affordability; it’s about safety, convenience, and creating a home away from home.
This guide will help you navigate the world of international student accommodation, giving you practical tips to find safe, affordable, and comfortable housing abroad.
🌍 Why Housing Matters for International Students
Student housing isn’t just a roof over your head—it directly impacts your well-being, academic performance, and overall experience.
Good housing provides:
- Safety: Peace of mind so you can focus on studies.
- Convenience: Easy access to your university, public transport, and essential services.
- Community: Opportunities to make friends and network with fellow students.
- Affordability: Keeping costs low while balancing quality of life.
✅ Step 1: Research Housing Options Early
Start your housing search as soon as you receive your admission letter. Student accommodation fills up quickly, especially in popular study destinations.
Main housing options abroad include:
- University Dormitories (On-Campus Housing)
- Convenient and safe
- Includes utilities (electricity, Wi-Fi, water)
- Often comes with meal plans or communal kitchens
- Great for first-year students adjusting to life abroad
- Private Student Residences
- Independent but student-focused
- May include gyms, study rooms, and social spaces
- Slightly more expensive than dorms
- Shared Apartments (Flats)
- Popular among upper-year students
- Allows for independence and sharing costs
- Choose carefully to ensure safe neighborhoods
- Homestays
- Living with a local family
- Includes meals and cultural immersion
- Ideal for younger students or those seeking a cultural experience
- Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb, Hostels)
- Useful for temporary accommodation until you secure long-term housing
✅ Step 2: Set Your Budget
Living costs vary by country and city. Apart from rent, include:
- Security deposit
- Utilities (if not included)
- Internet charges
- Transport costs (living further away may mean higher travel costs)
👉 Example: In London, student housing can range from £500 to £1,200 per month, while in Berlin, it may be closer to €300 to €700.
✅ Step 3: Prioritize Safety
Safety should be your top priority. Look for:
- Housing near well-lit, busy streets
- Secure entry systems (CCTV, key cards, security staff)
- Positive reviews from other international students
- Proximity to your university and public transport
👉 Tip: Always check crime rates in the neighborhood before signing a contract.
✅ Step 4: Use Trusted Platforms
Avoid scams by sticking to trusted student housing platforms such as:
- University housing office (first choice for most students)
- Student.com
- HousingAnywhere
- Uniplaces
- AmberStudent
👉 Warning: Never send money to landlords before visiting or verifying the property.
✅ Step 5: Balance Location and Price
Affordable housing far from campus may cost more in transport and time. Similarly, living close to campus may be pricier but could save money on commuting.
👉 Rule of thumb: Always calculate the total cost of living, not just rent.
✅ Step 6: Understand the Lease Agreement
Before signing any rental contract, make sure you know:
- Length of the lease (6 months, 1 year, etc.)
- Refund rules for deposits
- Whether utilities are included
- Policies for subletting or early termination
👉 If unsure, ask your university’s international office to review the agreement.
✅ Step 7: Join Student Groups and Forums
Other international students are your best resource. Join:
- Facebook housing groups
- WhatsApp groups for incoming students
- Reddit forums (r/StudyAbroad, r/InternationalStudents)
- Local student unions
👉 These communities often share genuine reviews, affordable housing leads, and safety tips.
✅ Step 8: Consider Homestays or Short-Term Options Initially
If you’re unsure about committing to long-term housing, book short-term accommodation for your first few weeks. This gives you time to:
- Explore neighborhoods
- Meet fellow students
- Visit housing in person before deciding
✅ Step 9: Watch Out for Scams
Housing scams are unfortunately common. Be cautious if:
- Rent is too cheap compared to market rates
- Landlords ask for money via Western Union or MoneyGram
- You’re pressured to make fast payments without seeing the property
👉 Rule: If it feels too good to be true, it probably is.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Finding safe and affordable student housing abroad may feel stressful, but with research and planning, it’s very manageable. Start early, use trusted sources, prioritize safety, and never rush into a deal.
Remember, where you live during your study abroad experience will shape your memories, friendships, and lifestyle. Choose wisely—and make it a place you can proudly call your second home.
🚀 Call to Action
Need help securing safe and affordable housing abroad?
👉 Apply now with Westside University: https://wesuni.com/apply
We support students with admissions, scholarships, visas, accommodation, and settling abroad.
📞 Contact us today: +44 7537 127938
🌐 Visit: https://wesuni.com
