How to Find Affordable Accommodation While Studying Abroad

Moving to a new country for your education is an exciting journey, but one of the first and biggest challenges students face is finding a place to stay. Accommodation can make or break your experience abroad. It’s not just about having a roof over your head—it’s about finding a safe, budget-friendly space where you can live, study, and thrive. 

If you’re worried about how to secure affordable housing while studying abroad, you’re not alone. Many international students face this hurdle, especially in expensive cities like London, Toronto, or Sydney. But here’s the good news: with the right information and smart strategies, you can find accommodation that doesn’t burn through your budget. Let’s take a deep look into how you can make that happen.

1. Start Your Search Early

One of the biggest mistakes students make is waiting too long to search for housing. Once your admission is confirmed, start looking for accommodation immediately. The best and most affordable places usually get snatched up first, especially in popular student cities.

Universities often provide useful resources or housing platforms for international students. Contact the school’s accommodation office or check their website for trusted listings and recommendations. Early planning also gives you time to compare prices and options without rushing into a decision.

2. Consider On-Campus Housing First

Living in university dorms or hostels is one of the most convenient options for new international students. These accommodations are often furnished and located close to lecture halls, libraries, and cafeterias. While not always the cheapest option, on-campus housing usually includes utilities and internet in the rent, which can save you money in the long run. It also allows you to meet other students easily and get used to the environment quickly.

3. Look Into Shared Apartments or Flatshares

If on-campus housing is full or expensive, shared apartments are the next best thing. Sharing an apartment with other students helps you split rent and utility bills, making it much more affordable. Websites like SpareRoom, Roomster, and Facebook housing groups for international students often have listings for rooms in shared flats. This option also gives you more independence than dorms and can still be social if your housemates are also students.

4. Research Local Neighborhoods

Living in the city center might sound exciting, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. Instead, consider living in neighborhoods a little farther from your campus or downtown area. These areas usually have lower rents, and public transportation can easily connect you to your school. Before deciding, research the safety, transport options, and student population in those neighborhoods. Reading student forums or joining local social media groups can help you gather real-life opinions from current residents.

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5. Use Student Housing Platforms

There are platforms built specifically to help international students find safe and affordable housing. Some reliable websites include:

• Uniplaces
• Student.com
• AmberStudent
• HousingAnywhere

These platforms allow you to compare options, read reviews, and even book rooms before you arrive in the country. While some of them charge a small service fee, the convenience and peace of mind they offer are often worth it.

6. Consider Homestays

Homestays involve living with a local family. It might not be every student’s dream setup, but it has its perks. Homestays are often cheaper than renting an apartment, and they may include meals, laundry, and utilities. This setup also helps you improve your language skills and adapt to local customs faster. Many international students who chose homestays say they felt less homesick and adjusted quicker to their new environment.

7. Look for Short-Term Options First

If you’re unsure about where to live permanently, consider booking a hostel, Airbnb, or temporary room for the first few weeks. This gives you time to visit different neighborhoods, talk to other students, and make a more informed decision about long-term housing. This method helps you avoid scams and ensures you don’t commit to a year-long lease for a place you haven’t seen in person.

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8. Be Careful with Scams

Unfortunately, the rise in demand for student housing has also increased the number of scams targeting international students. Never send money to a landlord or agent you haven’t met in person or without seeing the property. Watch out for deals that seem too good to be true. Always ask for a video tour if you can’t visit in person, and read through rental contracts carefully before signing. Trusted websites and school-recommended agents are your safest bet.

9. Join International Student Forums and Groups

Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Many students find accommodation through WhatsApp groups, Facebook groups, or school communities for international students. These groups often have real-time updates about available rooms and can connect you with trustworthy landlords or roommates. Some students even sublet their rooms for a few months while they travel or go on exchange programs, creating short-term options for newcomers like you.

10. Compare Hidden Costs

Cheap rent doesn’t always mean cheap living. Some places may have low monthly rent but exclude important costs like water, heating, internet, or garbage fees. Others may require upfront deposits, agent fees, or cleaning charges. Before finalizing a place, calculate the total monthly cost, including all bills. That way, you won’t get surprised by extra expenses later on.

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