Many international students live on campus the first year and move off campus once they know the area and have made friends to share with. Both have trade-offs.
| On campus | Off campus | |
|---|---|---|
| Lease | Academic year | Usually 12 months |
| Furnished | Usually | Sometimes |
| Utilities | Included | Often extra |
| Credit check | No | Often |
| Meal plan | Often required | No |
| Breaks | May need to move out | Stay year-round |
On campus
Easy to arrange before you arrive, close to classes and a fast way to meet people. It can cost more, and some dorms close during breaks.
Off campus
More independence and often cheaper when shared. You’ll handle leases, utilities, maybe a guarantor, and a longer commute.
