With accommodation such a crucial component of your study abroad experience, we know you have questions. Understanding your options and what to expect can help you feel more confident and relaxed when preparing to move to study abroad. We’ve researched and discovered the most frequently asked questions your fellow students have about accommodation. In this guide, we cover everything from food to security.
What things should all students do when moving in?
Moving abroad is a big adjustment. You’re getting used to a different culture, meeting new people and settling into your home environment. It’s easy to overlook some crucial actions you should take when arriving for the first time. However, ticking these off helps start your stay on a positive note.
Firstly, it’s a good idea to conduct an audit and inventory of your space. This is the case for on-campus, off-campus and homestay accommodation. Note what has been provided to you in the room and the condition.
Check for any damage or areas of the room that are not in the expected state. Make sure to note this down and take a picture if necessary. Many accommodation options require you to pay a deposit, which can be used for any damage or loss occurring during your stay. By checking everything when you arrive you’ll have an excellent chance of getting this deposit back.
Secondly, you should check what additional things you need for your room, such as linen, bathroom goods and kitchen utensils (for self-catered accommodation). You should buy these materials at your destination as they are heavy and bulky, making travelling and packing challenging. You’ll save more money buying them abroad than for the extra luggage charge.
Finally, exploring your campus and the local area is important. Get to know what amenities, facilities and entertainment options you have. You can also take the time to discover transport routes you have, especially if you live off campus. Critically, find out where you can get food and supplies from.
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What makes the location of student accommodation important?
Before travelling to your study destination, it’s useful to check your student accommodation location and research the local area. There are a few reasons why this is important:
- Making sure the area and accommodation are safe and secure. Most campus accommodation will come with security and clear protocols. This may include guards and restricted entrance.
- Ensuring that you have good transport links and options to and from campus. You want to spend your time effectively, so proximity to campus or facilities is always a good move.
- Checking that you have access to amenities and entertainment options. You probably don’t want to be in a very quiet neighbourhood with no fellow students.
It may not always be possible to secure your preferred location, so ensuring you have a second and third option is a good idea. Always start your accommodation search and application as early as you can.
Read more on choosing student accommodation.
How is a sense of community created amongst students?
There are many ways that a university attempts to help students living together bond and get to know one another. It can vary between destinations, but you’ll likely come across some or all of the following:
- Residence hall societies organise activities and events for new students. These can include movie nights, barbecues, sporting events, parties and trips.
- The international office connects students and facilitates activities.
- University clubs and societies allow you to pursue your interests or passions.
- Schools and departments hold orientation and events for students.
- The university organises an orientation and welcome week for all new students.
The key to feeling part of a student community is to try new things, meet different people and take advantage of the opportunities available.
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How is student accommodation made safe and secure?
Universities will have different protocols in place and are subject to specific country laws and legislation. However, wherever you study, the university must provide a safe and secure environment for you to live in. For university accommodation, the following is usually in place:
- Restricted access based on identification. This can be a card or biometric entry.
- Rules and regulations relating to visitors.
- Safety protocols and inspections for fire, water, electricity and gas.
- Security personnel situated in or outside buildings.
- Panic buttons, communication stations and emergency numbers.
- Services to escort students to and from residences.
If you are unsure what security is offered, you can contact your prospective university’s accommodation office or international office. You may even be able to take a virtual tour or speak to current students at an open day.
Get more information on student travel insurance.
What about utilities and services?
You should always check what services and utilities are included in your accommodation. You don’t want to be surprised by additional costs once you arrive. On-campus or homestay accommodation will likely be all-inclusive, but for off-campus accommodation options, you may need to find additional money for utilities and services, including:
- WiFi
- Water and electricity
- Gas
- Waste removal and cleaning
- Rates and taxes
- Food and catering
When it comes to food, some on-campus residences offer fully catered options, while others offer cooking facilities. Verify what is available and inform your university of any dietary requirements you may have.
Discover our ultimate study abroad checklist.
What do students always forget to bring?
You might be surprised by the answer to this question. It’s key documents. Easy to forget and overlook, but these are important when you’re moving abroad and checking into your new accommodation. Make sure you have a folder with the relevant information, including:
- Identity document or passport
- Visa
- Proof of payment of deposit or fees
- Acceptance letter
- Bank statements
- Medical records
While you may not require all these for your accommodation, you will need some. Always check what documents you will need and when to avoid delays and frustration.
There you have it. Those are some of the most frequently asked questions about accommodation. Now that you have the answers, we can help you further with guides to key questions to ask about accommodation, the hidden costs of studying abroad and eight accommodation essentials for students.
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