Finding the perfect student accommodation is a vital part of the university experience. But, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. This overview will help you understand student housing options and what to consider before you arrive in Canada. From setting your budget to choosing the right location these smart tips will help you discover the right housing.
Whether you’re looking for a dorm room, shared apartment, or private rental, our guide gives you information and resources to help you choose. We also highlight factors such as safety, amenities, and proximity to campus.
Contents
- Tips to Find Affordable Student Accommodation
- Why is it Important to Find the Perfect Student Accommodation?
- Factors to Consider When Choosing Student Accommodation
- What’s Your Housing Budget?
- How Much is Student Housing in Canada?
- Is the Location Convenient and Safe?
- What Type of Student Accommodation Do You Need?
- Questions to Ask When Viewing Student Accommodation
Tips to Find Affordable Student Accommodation
Finding affordable student accommodation can be a challenge but these smart tips can help:
1. Start Your Search Early:
Searching for student housing takes time, especially if you want to find the perfect spot. It’s best to search for housing about two months in advance to browse the market and sign a lease.
2. Check Rental Sites Often:
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Rental sites post new rental listings daily. You can start your search for off-campus student accommodation at Rentals for Newcomers.
3. Consider Sharing Accommodation:
Discover how to find shared accommodation with Sparrow and manage your student accommodation costs.
4. Be Ready to Compromise:
You may find it difficult to find exactly what you want at a price that fits your budget. A good way to move forward is to list things you’re willing to compromise.
5. Look for Student-specific Housing Options:
You may find budget-friendly student housing in neighbourhoods close to colleges and universities. Search for rentals that offer incentives, discounts, and gift cards for students. Engage with the school’s off-campus housing office for landlords that they recommend.
6. Present Yourself as a Reliable Tenant
When searching for housing provide details about your student status, finances, and rental needs. This can help overcome challenges like a lack of credit history.
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Why is it Important to Find the Perfect Student Accommodation?
Choosing the right student accommodation is more than finding a place to live. It is about creating a safe and comfortable environment that will allow you to thrive. Your student accommodation will be your home for the next few years, so choose a place that meets all your needs.
Housing suitable for studying can make a huge difference in your grades. A comfortable space can help you focus on your studies. Living close to campus and social amenities can make it easy to join extracurricular activities and make new friends.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Student Accommodation
Choosing the right housing can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Consider these factors when choosing student accommodation:
What’s Your Housing Budget?
The first step to help you find suitable student accommodation is to consider your monthly budget. Once you know how much you can afford, you can start searching. Consider your living expenses, including rent, utilities, groceries, entertainment, and transit. Remember to budget for all costs to manage financial stress and focus on your studies.
If you plan to work part-time in Canada, you can earn extra income to cover our housing costs. International students can work up to 24 hours without a work permit if:
- Your study permit allows it
- You have a Social Insurance Number, and
- You meet other eligibility requirements.
| Is the Cost of Student Accommodation Important to You? |
|---|
| ✓ Yes, I need the cheapest accommodation I can find |
| ✓ No, I can afford a more expensive place |
| ✓ I have some extra money, but I have to be careful |
| ✓ I’d rather pay a bit more for a nice place to live |
How Much is Student Housing in Canada?
Student housing costs depend on the city, neighbourhood, type of housing, on-campus versus off-campus housing, etc. Sharing accommodation is likely the most affordable option. Generally, you can expect to rent a room for $500 – $1,000 monthly if you share accommodation. However, if you attend school in a large city such as Toronto or Vancouver, you can expect to pay more. Student housing in smaller cities or suburbs around major cities like Toronto is often more affordable.
Is the Location Convenient and Safe?
Consider your location when choosing student accommodation. Living close to campus can be convenient, especially if you have early classes.
The travel distance to school may be a deciding factor. Or, you may want lower-cost student housing that is further from school. Take advantage of public transit and look for housing near transit hubs to save costs. Check local public transit schedules and routes to ensure travel time and cost are within reason.
Living in a safe neighbourhood is vital for your well-being. Consider the location of your student housing to transit, social amenities, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities.
| Is Being Near Campus a Deal Breaker for You? |
|---|
| ✓ Yes, I prefer to live on campus so I don’t have to wake up too early for classes |
| ✓ No, I want to get off campus when I’m not studying |
| ✓ Definitely, it might be unsafe to live off-campus |
| ✓ I want to live where other students live |
What Type of Student Accommodation Do You Need?
Different types of student accommodation are available, including dormitories (dorms), shared apartments, and private rentals. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages. Consider your lifestyle and preferences when choosing accommodation that suits you best.
Student Accommodation Options
Here are some common student housing options in Canada:
On-Campus Housing (Residence or Dorms)
Living on-campus in a dorm can provide private or shared rooms.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Limited privacy |
| Convenient location | Noisy and disruptive living environment |
| Access to campus amenities (library, fitness centre, etc.) | Restrictive rules and regulations |
| More opportunities to participate in campus life | Limited space |
Off-Campus Student Housing (Private Rentals)
Private rentals are another option for students that can offer more privacy and independence. They are also more flexible with fewer rules and regulations than living in a dorm.
Apartments are often the first choice when it comes to private rentals. However, you can explore other types of housing such as homes, townhouses, and basement apartments.
You can search for rentals in student-friendly neighbourhoods close to colleges and universities. Look for rental listings that show how close it is to campus and budget-friendly restaurants, cafes, and shopping.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| More privacy and independence | Expensive |
| More space | Additional expenses for furniture |
| Greater control over your living environment | Limited access to campus amenities |
Homestay
A homestay allows international students to live with local families. Homestay hosts can include couples, families, retirees, and individuals. While there are different homestay options, you can expect a private bedroom with room for your clothing, a quiet place to study, internet, laundry facilities, and meals.
Hosts provide safe accommodation and introduce their guests to life and culture in Canada. Universities can pair students with local homestay hosts.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Can be part of a family unit | Can be expensive |
| A supportive environment with home-cooked meals | Won’t be living on campus |
| Can immerse yourself in local culture | Must respect host family rules (cleanliness, guests, etc.) |
Sharing Student Accommodation
Sharing off-campus housing is a popular option for students. It allows you to live independently while having the support of roommates. Sharing accommodation can also create close relationships and foster a sense of community.
However, sharing a living space can be a challenge when you have to deal with conflict. Assess potential housemates to ensure they match your personality, study habits, and lifestyle.
| Do You Want to Live with Other Students? |
|---|
| ✓ For sure, I can’t wait for group movie nights and parties! |
| ✓ Having housemates is cool, but I want my own room |
| ✓ Absolutely not, I need my own space |
Related Posts:
Accommodation in Canada | Options and Solutions for Newcomers
Why a 2-Bedroom Apartment is a Smart Choice for Newcomers
Sharing Accommodation in Canada as a Newcomer
Discover Affordable Housing Rental Options in Canada
Questions to Ask When Viewing Student Accommodation
Ask the right questions when viewing a student apartment to ensure it meets your needs:
- What amenities are available? (i.e. onsite laundry, exercise room, swimming pool, security, etc)
- What are the lease terms?
- Is the building quiet?
- How safe is this neighbourhood?
- What’s included in the rent (i.e. cable, internet, heat, and water)? This can reduce your housing costs.
And, check all the appliances work. You don’t want to discover they don’t work after you move in.
Finding student accommodation that meets your needs is vital to your grades, social life, and well-being. So, consider what the right environment is for your success. From your budget to the location and type of student accommodation you select, making the right decision will enhance your university experience in Canada.
Corinna Frattini is the content marketing strategist at Prepare for Canada. She contributes articles to help newcomers achieve their goals in key areas related to living, working, and settling in Canada. With an extensive background in human resources and leadership development, her articles focus on what Canadian employers seek and how newcomers can continue their careers in Canada.
