Study Abroad: Top tips to find student accommodation in September

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you find suitable student housing, ensuring a smooth transition into your academic year.

Step 1: Determine your budget

The first step in your accommodation search is to determine your budget. Knowing how much you can afford will help you narrow down your options and make faster decisions.

Start by calculating your total monthly income, including any financial aid, or scholarships. Then, consider your monthly expenses such as food, transportation, and utilities. This will give you a clear idea of how much you can realistically spend on rent.

Having a defined budget will allow you to filter out accommodations that are too expensive and focus on those within your price range. This can save you valuable time and prevent you from falling in love with a place that’s out of your reach.

Step 2: Consider location and proximity to campus

Given the urgency of securing accommodation, prioritising the location and proximity to your campus is essential. Finding a place close to your university can save you time and reduce daily commuting stress.

Start by identifying neighborhoods that are within walking or biking distance to your classes. If that’s not possible, look for areas with reliable public transportation links to your university. Also consider the availability of essential amenities nearby, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and cafes.

By focusing on the location and proximity to campus, you will be able to quickly identify the most suitable options, all while working within the tight timeline.

Step 3: Utilise university resources and listings

Your university is a great place to start when you are looking for student accommodation. Most universities have a housing office specifically for student housing. These listings are vetted by the university, ensuring they meet certain standards and are safe for students.

Begin by checking the university’s housing portal for available options. These portals often include detailed information about each listing, such as rent prices, amenities, and proximity to campus.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to the housing office with any questions or concerns you may have. They are there to help you, and utilising these resources can save you a lot of time and effort.

Step 4: Use student accommodation platforms

Since it’s already September, finding student accommodation can feel a bit rushed. In this scenario, you can use online student accommodation platforms to make your search for student accommodation much more efficient.

You can filter results based on your budget, preferred location, and amenities, which helps you quickly narrow down your choices. These platforms also often provide detailed descriptions of the property, photos, and reviews from other students, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect.

Given the urgency of the situation, using specialised student accommodation platforms is a smart move.

Step 5: Check reviews and ask for recommendations

With time running short, one of the best ways to ensure you choose a suitable accommodation is to check reviews and ask for recommendations.

Start by reading online reviews on platforms such as Google, Yelp, or student accommodation websites. Pay attention to comments about the property’s condition, the property manager’s responsiveness, and the overall living experience. Personal recommendations often come with honest feedback that can help you make a more confident decision. By quickly gathering reviews and recommendations, you will be able to narrow down your choices, especially when you need to act fast.

Finding the right student accommodation in September can feel like a race against time. But by tackling the process with a clear plan, you are setting yourself up for a great start to the semester in accommodation that suits your needs.

(The author is CBO & Co-Founder of Amber)