British Columbia, known for its diverse culture and plethora of opportunities, is a highly sought-after destination for students from around the world. One of the most important tasks for international students arriving in British Columbia is finding suitable housing. This can be daunting, especially if you're unfamiliar with the local housing market.
When studying abroad in Canada, it's essential for students to consider various factors such as tuition fees, living expenses, and accommodation options. This guide covers the different ways to find accommodation in Canada for international students. It's important to note that on-campus housing may be limited, so students may need to search for options near or off campus. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how to find suitable student housing in Canada, including all the important details to keep in mind during the search process.
To make it easier, this article will provide an overview of four options for accommodation for international students studying in British Columbia, Canada, and guide you on how to start your search for the perfect place. These options include on-campus housing, off-campus housing, homestay, and private rentals. Each option has its own set of pros and cons and it's important to weigh these factors before making a decision.
Additionally, It's advisable to start your search well in advance to have enough time to compare different options and make an informed decision. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how to find suitable student housing in Canada, including all the important details to keep in mind during the search process.
Types of Student Accommodation
On-Campus
Living in on-campus housing can be a cost-effective option for students as expenses are typically lower compared to off-campus options. However, this is not always the case, as some on-campus accommodations may come at a higher cost due to access to certain facilities and services provided by the institution.
On average, on-campus housing in Canada can cost between CAD 3000 and CAD 7500 per year, depending on the location of the school. Additionally, students have the option to purchase a meal plan which allows them to eat at on-campus dining halls, thus saving time on cooking and allowing them to focus more on their studies.
These on-campus living alternatives are:
Dormitories
By contacting the office for foreign students at their institution or university, prospective students can conduct research and acquire information about on-campus living choices, such as dormitories. They can also check the school's website. Making an informed choice on where to reside can be aided by this.
Commonly, dorms in Canadian cities can run between CAD 550 and CAD 600 per month. However, when comparing on-campus versus off-campus housing alternatives, it's crucial for students to take into account aspects like pricing and amenities and make a choice that best meets their needs and budget.
Residences
Residence housing is a popular option among International students studying in Canada. These are accommodations provided by universities or colleges and are usually located close to the campus. Living in residence can be beneficial for students who are planning to study in Canada for a short period of time, such as one or two semesters. Residence rooms typically come furnished with a bed, bookcase, and desk, and often include the option to purchase a meal plan.
Additionally, living on-campus offers benefits such as easy access to the campus and library and can ease the transition to student life. However, it's important to note that off-campus shared accommodation can cost around CAD 400 to CAD 700 per month.
Off-Campus
If you prefer privacy and don't want to share common areas with a large number of students, then living off-campus might be a more suitable option for you. The location of your off-campus housing will depend on the university you're attending. It's important to choose a location that's close enough to the university, so you don't spend a lot of time commuting.
One example of an off-campus housing option is Point Grey, a well-established neighborhood that's near the University of British Columbia and offers a comfortable lifestyle. It's accessible by public transportation, with a 5 to 10-minute bus ride to the university. If you're looking for off-campus housing in the area, Point Grey is a great choice.
These off-campus living alternatives are:
Apartment Sharing
Depending on a student's individual needs, off-campus accommodation can cost anywhere between CAD 700 and CAD 1,000 per month. Townhouses, which resemble communal living and allow students to live alone or in a room-sharing arrangement, are one choice for off-campus housing. Each person gets their own private room, but communal spaces including the living room, kitchen, bathroom, and eating area are shared by all inhabitants. It's crucial to keep in mind that not all Canadian institutions offer support for locating off-campus housing.
Homestay
Homestay is an option for students who want to experience living with a Canadian family. They will have a private room, be provided with three meals a day, and have the opportunity to learn about Canadian culture. Homestay can be a safer option as the host family can provide assistance if needed.
On average, the cost of homestay accommodation in Canada is between CAD 400 and CAD 800 per month. Most colleges and universities in Canada are located in rural areas, so commuting time to and from campus can take between 30 to 50 minutes daily.
5 Ways to Find Student Accommodation in British Columbia
Search and Filter your Options
It is advisable to start looking for accommodation well in advance of your move to Canada, as it may take some time to find a suitable option. Familiarize yourself with the different types of accommodation available, such as on-campus housing, off-campus housing, homestay, and private rentals, and the pros and cons of each.
Consider your Budget
When planning your budget for studying in Canada, it is important to factor in the cost of accommodation. On-campus housing is generally cheaper than off-campus options, but the cost can vary depending on several factors.
The location of the university or college can affect the cost of on-campus housing. For example, accommodation in big cities like Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver may be more expensive than accommodation in smaller towns or rural areas. Additionally, the type of accommodation offered by the university or college can also affect the cost. For example, a single room with a private bathroom may be more expensive than a shared room with communal bathroom facilities.
Suitable Surrounding
When choosing a suitable environment for accommodation, it is important to consider the student's personal preferences and lifestyle.
If a student prefers a younger and more vibrant neighborhood, they may want to consider areas near the university or college campus, where there is a higher concentration of students and a lively atmosphere. These areas may have a variety of restaurants, cafes, shops, and entertainment options catering to the student population.
On the other hand, if a student prefers a more family-oriented environment, they may want to consider areas further away from the campus, where there are more families and a quieter atmosphere. These areas may have more parks, playgrounds, and community centers and can be a good fit for students who want a more peaceful and settled environment.
Living solo can offer the opportunity for an independent lifestyle, students will have more freedom in decorating and managing their own space. They will also have more privacy and will be able to invite friends or family over whenever they want.
On the other hand, living with a family in a homestay can provide the student with a sense of security and support, as they will have someone to turn to in case of any emergency or unexpected situation. They will also have the opportunity to learn about Canadian culture and customs and practice their language skills.
Application Process
When applying for student accommodation in Canada, it's important to understand the application process, including the documentation required and any deadlines. The application process can vary depending on the type of accommodation and the university or college.
Most universities and colleges have an online application process for on-campus housing. You will typically need to provide personal information, proof of enrollment, and a deposit. Some universities or colleges may require additional documentation such as a copy of your passport or a financial statement. Deadlines for on-campus housing applications are usually set by the university or college and are typically in the months leading up to the start of the academic year.
The application process for off-campus housing can vary depending on the landlord or property management company. In most cases, you will need to provide personal information and proof of income, and you may also be required to pay a deposit or the first month's rent. Some landlords may require a co-signer or a credit check. Deadlines for off-campus housing applications will vary depending on the availability of the property, so it's important to apply as soon as possible.
Visit the Place
Visiting the place before making a final decision on student accommodation can be very beneficial in ensuring that it meets your expectations and needs. It can give you a chance to see the accommodation in person, check out the facilities and amenities, and get a sense of the neighborhood and surrounding area.
When visiting the accommodation, you can check the condition of the property, the size of the rooms, and the quality of the furniture. You can also look for any potential issues such as mold, pests, or poor insulation that might affect your comfort or health.
You can also take the opportunity to check the location of the accommodation, the distance from the university or college, the transportation options, and the availability of nearby amenities such as supermarkets, cafes, parks, etc. this will give you an idea of your daily routine and how comfortable you will be in that area.
