You want to find the perfect place to call home while studying in Canada, where you can be comfortable and close to your school. However, the search for accommodations can be daunting. Here, our panel physicians in Ottawa and Orleans offer advice on finding student accommodations in Canada.
How can international students find accommodation in Canada?
The first step in finding accommodation is determining what student accommodation will work best for you. Some students want to live on campus. This is great for international students who may be a little worried about moving to a new city in a new country and want to live close to their classes – at least to begin with.
Some students may choose to live off-campus, especially international students wishing to experience the city and Canadian culture. Off-campus housing is often more affordable, making it a good choice for students looking to save on accommodation expenses.
On-Campus Student Accommodations in Canada
Many universities and colleges in Canada provide housing for students, especially those starting their first year. Living on campus can be a convenient option for international students as it simplifies the process of arranging accommodation from abroad. On-campus student housing is typically furnished, providing a ready-made home upon your arrival. Rent is often more affordable than other options, and the residences are usually located conveniently, allowing you to make it to your 8:30 a.m. class on time (or at least that's the goal).
Typically, on-campus housing consists of single- or shared-occupancy 'dorm rooms' (short for 'dormitory') with communal areas like lounges, game rooms, or kitchens. Many on-campus residences have dining facilities, and the rent may cover a meal plan. Apart from these general characteristics, the features of these types of residences can vary widely between – and even within – institutions, providing diverse options to accommodate different lifestyles. Each institution's website will provide an overview of their residences, including photos and often virtual tours and student testimonials, so there is ample information available to help you make a decision.
The Cost of Living On-Campus
The costs for student accommodation vary widely based on several factors, including location (Toronto and Vancouver tend to be more expensive, for example, while Ottawa student housing is regarded as affordable overall), amenities (accommodation with meal plans tends to be more expensive), and the school you choose to study at.
Monthly accommodation costs at smaller universities or in smaller towns can start at $1,000, while in larger cities it can reach $2,000. Meal plans range from $2,000 to $3,500 per semester or $4,000 to $7,000 per year. Additional costs apply for summer break accommodation. International students also have off-campus housing options.
Renting a Property in Canada
In Canada, rental markets in cities are usually busy, and new listings appear regularly. The supply and demand for rental properties often change with the seasons, with greater demand typically seen in the summer. Smaller towns may have a more limited rental market, but if you’re living in a university or college town, even a small one, it's likely that student rentals will become available as other students leave or graduate. Most universities and colleges offer advice for students and may have internal listings of their own, so if you have any questions, contact the student housing or welfare office.
Subletting Student Accommodations
Subletting occurs when a tenant temporarily allows another person to take over their lease. This is common among students, especially when they graduate or leave their rental while the original lease is still in effect. Although subletting leases exist, these arrangements are often informal.
Sharing Accommodations With Roommates
Students in Canada often end up renting with roommates at some point. It's cheaper to split rent and bills and can be a lot of fun. Just make sure to discuss your lifestyle, habits, and pet peeves with potential roommates before moving in together – remember, as with any relationship, communication is key.
When searching for an apartment in Canada before you arrive, keep in mind that most rentals are handled by private landlords. This can be tricky from abroad, so you may want to consider temporary accommodation to give yourself time to find an apartment once you arrive.
Homestays in Canada
International students in Canada may also have the option to arrange homestays with local host families. This provides a warm and welcoming environment and allows students to fully experience the language and culture of Canada. They can find or set up these arrangements through organizations such as the Canada Homestay Network.
The Cost of Living Off-Campus in Canada
The cost of off-campus accommodation can vary based on your lifestyle and preferences. Some students opt to share a bedroom or apartment with another student, which can reduce rental costs to $500 to $1000 per month, depending on your location. Alternatively, others may choose to rent an apartment, basement suite, or other property, which can increase costs to $2000 or more per month.
Off-campus food costs can vary, and it's usually more cost-effective to shop for groceries and cook at home, so eating on campus can be a good compromise.
Tips for International Students Looking For Accommodation in Canada
- Start early: Start searching for student accommodations at least three months before your planned arrival in Canada. Housing in universities, colleges, or big cities can be competitive, so starting early improves your chances of finding suitable housing.
- On-campus housing: Make sure to check if your chosen school offers Housing Services or homestay programs for international students. They might have on-campus accommodation or partnerships with families or property owners. On-campus housing is convenient and offers a sense of community. However, availability may be limited, so it's important to contact the International Student Department to explore options that fit your timeline and budget.
- Explore off-campus options: Off-campus housing provides more freedom and may be cheaper than on-campus options. Consider using platforms like Craigslist, Kijiji, or Facebook Marketplace, but be cautious of scams.
- Consider short-term options: If finding long-term housing is difficult, consider short-term options like Airbnb, hostels, or homestays while you keep looking.
- Budget wisely: Allocate around 30% of your income for rent, but this may need to be higher in bigger cities. Plan your budget carefully to include rent, utilities, transportation, and other living costs.
- Find a roommate: Consider shared accommodation to save money if rent is burdensome. Many universities provide platforms to connect with fellow students seeking roommates. Discuss expectations and responsibilities openly before committing to avoid future problems.
- Safety and location: Before choosing a place to stay, it's important to research the neighbourhood. Speak with local residents to ensure that it is safe and easy to get around. Consider its proximity to essential amenities such as public transportation, grocery stores, medical facilities, and other services that you may need on a daily basis.
- Be flexible: It's quite possible that the perfect place you're envisioning doesn't exist, or if it does, it might be out of your price range at the moment. Stay open-minded and be willing to compromise, especially when it comes to factors like location and amenities. Even if it means making some sacrifices, your main focus should be finding a place that meets your requirements, timeframe, and budget.
Thinking of making the move to Canada permanent?
As you spend more time in Canada, you might consider making it your permanent home after finishing school. When applying for residency, you will need to follow specific guidelines and meet eligibility requirements, which can vary based on the application method. You will likely need to provide evidence of a job offer, demonstrate financial stability, and undergo an immigration medical exam.
