Planning to Study Abroad? 5 Tips for Choosing Your Accommodation

According to ISMR, an estimated 15 Lakh Indian students are expected to opt for higher education in the world by 2025 and spend about $17 billion USD on accommodation alone.

Indian Higher Education System consists of 41 mn students. According to ISMR, an estimated 15 Lakh Indian students are expected to opt for higher education in the world by 2025 and spend about $17 billion USD on accommodation alone. This makes it crucial to find the accommodation that is not just your safe space during the stay period in a foreign country, but also aligns with planned expenses and cost of living of the chosen destination. Here are five tips to help you find your preferred accommodation to stay while studying abroad.

Book Your Accommodation Early

According to University Living, an international student housing marketplace, students should start planning their study abroad journey 12 to 18 months before departure. This includes booking accommodation and flights early, which can lead to a 20-30% discount. Planning ahead is crucial when moving abroad, as subpar and overpriced accommodations can negatively impact both your experience and budget. The adage "the early bird gets the worm" holds true; early booking provides a wider range of options, avoids last-minute stress, and secures better prices and more suitable accommodations.

Know your accommodation options: Take the time to research different accommodation types to make informed choices, considering their distance from the university. Options include purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), homestays, and traditional options like House of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs) and private or shared flats. PBSA often offers electronic equipment, study areas, and common rooms, while homestays provide more cultural experiences.

Match your accommodation checklist: When choosing accommodation, proximity to your university or institute is crucial. Consider the cost of living in nearby areas and explore regular commuting options, such as public transportation. Ensure the neighbourhood is safe and provides essential services like markets, hospitals, and parks. Although a central location may come with higher rent, the convenience and accessibility can often justify the additional expense.

Financial Intelligence: Financial planning is important when choosing a place to live. Use a tool like the Cost-of-Living Calculator to estimate your total costs, including rent, utilities, and other additional costs. Make sure you understand all the costs involved to avoid any surprises. It's important to balance affordability with comfort and convenience to ensure the venue you choose fits your budget without sacrificing quality.

Student accommodation in Canada generally costs between 1,200 and 2,700 CAD per month, with the average rental fee being 1,200 to 1,500 CAD. The average cost of living is an additional $800 to $1,000 CAD per month.

Housing costs in the United States vary by location but typically range from $1,100 to $4,300, with total monthly costs ranging from $900 to $1,200.

In the UK, student aid in London ranges from £750 to £2,100, while student aid in the rest of the UK ranges from £900 to £1,300. Monthly living expenses, including food, transport, books and personal items, can range from £600 to £1,100.

Security

Stay Informed: Regularly check travel advisories and local news to stay aware of potential risks in the host country.

Exercise Caution Around Strangers: Trust your instincts, stay alert, and avoid distractions. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, and be cautious about sharing personal details. Try to travel in groups, use trusted transportation, and avoid accepting rides or drinks from strangers.

Register with Your Embassy: Registering with your home country's embassy or consulate ensures you receive important alerts and have support during emergencies.

Stay Connected with Community: Maintain regular contact with friends, family, and fellow students to create a support network.

Practice Situational Awareness: Be mindful of your surroundings, avoid risky areas, especially at night, and keep belongings secure.

Respect Local Laws and Customs: Familiarize yourself with local laws and cultural norms to avoid legal or social issues.

Plan for Emergencies: Have a plan in place with local emergency contacts, including hospitals, police stations, university support services, and embassy details. Keep your emergency contact informed about your plans.

Learn the local lingo, embrace the culture, and join university clubs to meet people. Befriend local students to gain deeper cultural insights and appreciate the differences. Stay curious, step out of your comfort zone, and keep up with local news.

To have a successful and enjoyable study abroad experience, it is important to choose the right place to live. With thorough research of options, considering location, budget and safety in account, one can make informed decisions that will extend your time abroad.

By- Saurabh Arora, Founder & CEO, University Living

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