How to Find Student Accommodation Abroad

One of the most important choices when deciding to study abroad is where are you going to live? The most common options among international students are university dormitories, family homes, and private property rentals. Each of these has its advantages and disadvantages. But perhaps one of the most important questions would be: How to find my student accommodation in another country before leaving? There are some more secure and assertive ways to secure your space abroad!

First, know a little about each of the main accommodation options available abroad for international students:

1. Academic Dormitories: Normally located in or around the campus, the dormitories are accommodations offered and coordinated by the university itself. First-year students usually have priority for reserving campus accommodation. They can be individual rooms, furnished and un-furnished, with or without a meal plan, En-suite or shared bathroom, etc. This type of accommodation is usually inclusive of all bills as well. 

2. Homestay: In this type of student accommodation, the student usually lives in the home of a local family, with an exclusive room and bathroom. The biggest advantage of family homes is living with natives, practicing the language, and learning about local culture on a daily basis.

3. Private property: For those who prefer a more independent lifestyle, there is the possibility of renting a house or apartment both alone and with other people, mainly other students. The freedom, in this case, is much greater, but the tenant is responsible for everything from paying monthly bills to regular upkeep of the property. Some popular examples of such properties include Le Student 8 Melbourne, Atira Peel Street Melbourne and University Square Melbourne in Melbourne

Tips to find your accommodation abroad before arriving in the country

1. Get in touch with your university

Regardless of the type of accommodation you choose, your international university should always be your first point of contact and source of information. If you wish to stay in an academic dormitory, try to make your reservation as soon as possible through the Secretary of Housing of your institution, because the demand for this accommodation type is significantly high.

Even if you prefer family homes or the rental of private property, the university can direct you to trusted agencies or families previously evaluated, approved, and listed by it. This is important for you to make a safe decision, without running the risk of having problems.

2. Talk to students who are already living in the country

Personal recommendations are usually better than any propaganda. Try to get in touch with existing students at your university for advice and recommendations. It may even happen that you get to take over the property of someone who has finished their studies and are headed home.

With contacts in the country, in addition to receiving guidance from those who have already gone through the experience, you may visit any property of your interest and talk to the landlord personally.

3. Be proactive and start your research in advance

If you do not have anyone in the country who can physically visit the accommodations for you, it's time to be proactive! You must:

• Clarify each and every one of the doubts you have;

• Read the rental agreements up to the last line;

• Compare prices;

• Ask for pictures of the place from the owner or even a Skype tour;

• Research the area or neighbourhood;

• Read the rules of the condominiums, in case it is an apartment;

• Check if you have to make any deposit in advance to reserve the rent and if it will be refunded at the end of the contract;

• Find out how the rent should be paid;

• Ask for information about the security of the place - locks, keys, alarms, etc.; 

• Check if the property is furnished and what furniture you will have to get;

• If the property is shared among more people, find out the rules of the house and what your responsibilities will be, in addition to the fee of the rental value.

If you are interested in a family home, you should check for the following:

• Does the rent include meals? If so, how many?

• How many people live in the house?

• Will you have dinner with the family?

• Will you have a private room and bathroom?

• Does the house have pets?

• Does the rent include housekeeping?

• Are there curfews, or any other rules?

• Does the family allow you to entertain visitors at home?

• Will you have a key to the house?

This type of decision requires a lot of research and caution before making a choice. Ideally, start looking for a place at least three months before your move. 

4. Web pages and social networks

There are several sites and social networks specialized in the disclosure of vacancies and real estate for rent in any study destination.

Some examples:

· Craiglist; 

· Gumtree;

· Homestay.com

· Uniplaces

· University Living

College social networks and blogs are also excellent sources for finding vacancy announcements and housing discussions that can guide your research. The most important thing is to always value your security. Do not forget to clarify all your doubts, ask questions, question any doubtful information, and make sure of all the details before deciding. A thorough and well-done search is the best way to find your home away from home!