Sign in to Your Account Done
Forgot account info?

Don't have an Account?

Register Now!

International Student
Study In:

The International Student Blog

Living Abroad 101

Posted on October 17th, 2013 by Bryanna Davis

In preparation for next semester, international students are taking the necessary steps to relocate to a foreign college or university. Of these steps, making proper housing arrangements is one of high priority. Tips below help make the house hunting process a little easier for international students.

Keep in mind personal location preferences—When living abroad select a building that will be conducive to your lifestyle and provide for your needs, whether that be a quiet study space or a relaxing getaway to hang out with friends and classmates after class and on weekends.

Arrange a tour—Coordinate a tour to gain a better feel for the unit and building you are considering. When touring, remember to come prepared with a list of appropriate questions to ask your tour guide or realtor, such as building codes and regulations, cost of utilities and specific details on leasing agreements. If an in-person tour is not possible, request a virtual tour via Skype.

Factor in transportation needs –For renters with their own cars, check to see if the facility offers complimentary parking services. If not, factor in the price of parking into your monthly rent to determine the overall price of your living situation. For renters without their own vehicles, inquire about public transportation routes nearby and estimate how long it will take to walk to your classes during the school week.

Take advantage of furniture rental—For unfurnished apartments, furniture rental offers a quick and convenient solution. CORT’s customized student packages can be viewed online and delivered “on demand,” allowing students who are living abroad to select and coordinate their perfect home setup before even arriving at their destination. CORT also provides flexible leasing options to suit both short-term and long-term study abroad programs.

Attending school abroad can be intimidating, but by being proactive and planning ahead, your transition can be seamless!

Written by Bryanna Davis

Bryanna joined EIC in 2011 after returning to the United States from teaching English in China. Her interest in international education, sparked initially by her own study abroad experience in Wales, led her to the company. Bryanna is originally from Missouri and is a graduate from the University of Central Missouri.

Other posts by

One Response to “Living Abroad 101”

  1. Ronald C. Herd II Says:

    10/17/2013
    Thanks for posting this…I think if one has the good fortune of living abroad as a student that one should get lost or submerse one’s self totally into the culture and the ways of their temporary adoptive country…

Leave a Reply

Get the International Student newsletter!