Finding Your Home Away From Home

Studying abroad is certainly one of the most exciting and thrilling parts of a student’s life. But it comes with its own challenges! 

Home is where one feels comfortable, safe, and emotionally attached. That’s what the famous proverb “home is where the heart is” summarises. But, what happens if you are trying to find somewhere to stay during university, in an entirely distinct city and country?

If you are a first-year university student, the odds are that your university will require you to stay at their university-owned halls of residence, which is a great choice for first-year students. However, a recent study shows that the percentage of full-time students opting for off-campus student accommodation has gone up from 22% to 30%. 

Wondering why search for off-campus accommodation has increased? Firstly, let us understand what off-campus accommodations are. 

WHAT IS OFF-CAMPUS ACCOMMODATION?

Off-campus accommodation refers to privately owned accommodations located close to the university campuses and the city centre. Managed by private developers and individuals, off-campus accommodations like Purpose Built Student Accommodations often constitute an entire building with student rooms that offer a host of additional services and support. 

PBSA rooms types include:

• Independent studio apartments and ensuite flats that include a private kitchen and shared living areas. 
• Private halls of residence (shared apartment) that include ensuite bedrooms with shared dining, kitchen, and living facilities.
• Also, the communal areas of the large student housing buildings usually come with bonus facilities and amenities including study rooms, TV, on-site laundry facilities, large lounge areas, games room, on-site gym, and much more. 

 

WHY DO STUDENTS CHOOSE OFF-CAMPUS ACCOMMODATIONS?

1. The degree of independence is much more in off-campus accommodations as compared to on-campus university accommodation.
2. The average cost of off-campus accommodation is cheaper as compared to that of university accommodation.
3. The rent of most off-campus student accommodation properties is inclusive of the utility bills, which include electricity, water, and gas bills. 
4. All the rooms at the off-campus accommodation are fully furnished and well-structured.
5. You can choose from different room types. For example- if you want to enjoy social life while living in a perfectly comfortable accommodation then you could opt for a shared apartment, or if you are someone who wants to have utmost privacy, then studio apartments are your best option.
6. Move-in date and tenancy duration are totally up to you. So, whether you are in the city for a summer internship or if you are looking for short term accommodation, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the city’s off-campus accommodation.

TIPS TO FIND IDEAL ACCOMMODATION ABROAD:

Apply early:

You might have heard of the famous proverb “Early Bird Catches The Worm”? The longer you wait, the harder it might get for you to find your ideal accommodation. The student accommodation market can be very competitive, especially during the peak seasons. Therefore, it is advisable that you start your accommodation hunt at least 1-3 months prior to your arrival date. 

Plan your budget:

Many students usually tend to take “Budget Planning” lightly. Preparing a budget is a very crucial task if you are someone who is going to spend their time in a completely new city and country. Start your budget planning by listing down all your needs and wants along with your monthly income, savings, estimated expense, and parent allowance (if any), room preferences, etc. While at it also consider your “fun” expenses which might include once in a month gaming plan or camping, and generic day-to-day expenses like college supplies, personal care essentials, meal, transport, and laundry, etc. while setting up your monthly budget. Settle on a budget and avoid spending anything more than decided.

Find the perfect location:

The location of the accommodation plays a crucial role in the student experience. So before zeroing in on a particular accommodation always consider their LOCATION. 
Things to consider:

• Check out the neighbourhood of the property to ensure its safe and secure
• Determine how close it is to your university
• Calculate the total travelling cost
• Get an idea of all the available transportation options. 
• Map out the local amenities

Know what all is included in the rent:

Before signing up your tenancy agreement, always be sure to verify and understand as to what all are covered in the total cost of accommodation. Will the rent include utility bills coverage? Will the accommodation provide you with free parking facilities, pet policies, bedding pack, kitchen equipment, etc.? Remember that detail is key here. You should try to get a precise and definite idea about the deal.

Breathe! You can always ask for help:

As appealing as the new life and new city would feel, finding a budget-friendly perfect accommodation in an entirely new city can be a daunting experience. After all, this is likely your first time alone. The entire process might seem boring and intimidating, but you do not have to do it all alone. You can always ask for assistance from your university accommodation office, classmates, or book a one-on-one session with established student housing providers. 

One such reputed student housing provider is AmberStudent, which offers pocket-friendly student housing options in the UK, US, and Australia. All you have to do is place a request on their website with your preference and budget, and they will shortlist and provide you with the best available accommodation options. Plus, all of their services are free of charge. 

Plan ahead of time, be clear of doubts and queries. We wish you a happy stay!