Canada has much to offer international students, including excellent study opportunities. It's a country at the cutting edge of research and teaching practices, and one whose education system is recognised for its top quality international courses across the globe; by international academic institutions, employers and governments alike.
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Organising accommodation should be a main priority once you have received your offer letter. Many institutions will recommend residence in on-campus accommodation for the first year of study. You should make use of the accommodation advisers at your chosen institution, as they will be able to tell you about everything available to you and help you work out what is best for your needs.
Suitable accommodation is fundamental to your comfort and success. It will be where you spend your time, make your home, do your studies or perhaps even meet your friends. Where you live can really affect your overall experience, so taking time to research what is available to you is highly advised.
When researching your accommodation choices, you may wish to consider:
Below are some of the main types of accommodation available to students (all figures shown in CAD$):
On-campus/halls of residence
Approximate cost: $3,000-7,500 per academic year
On-campus accommodation comes in various forms, ranging from shared or private rooms to one bedroom flats, and can be catered or self-catered with private or shared bathrooms. The majority will have a kitchen, typically shared by four to eight students, though some accommodation is catered and food will be served in a dining hall. You may be able to choose to live in a single-sex residence.
On-campus accommodation is a popular choice for students as it is usually located near the institution and provides services such as shops and laundry. It’s also a great way to meet people and share your experience with other students. Basic facilities and bills will be included in your rent, which varies greatly according to location and room type. Students should apply for accommodation as early as possible to secure their preferred room type.
Host family
Approximate cost: $400-800 per month, plus placement fee (up to $200)
You may be offered the opportunity to live with a host family during your studies; this is the most common type of accommodation for language students. It’s a great way to practise speaking English (or possibly French) and learn about Canadian culture. You will be allocated your own private room and will be treated as a member of the family - sharing other facilities and being included in their activities. Students are also normally given morning and evening meals. You may be expected to help with household chores, and sometimes may also need to contribute financially to bills and other accommodation costs.
Private rental
Approximate cost: $250-700 per month (up to $1,500 if private apartment), plus bills
Alternatively you can rent a private apartment/flat, or room in a shared house; this usually entails your own private room with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. This option often suits those wanting independence. In most cases bills will not be included in the monthly rent; you will need to agree how you are going to share these, as well as the cleaning duties, with the other housemates.
You should be aware that there may be a minimum lease; often six to twelve months, and a deposit is usually required to cover possible damage, refundable when the tenancy ends. Students wishing to privately rent are advised to arrive in Canada a few weeks before their course starts in order to secure a place, as most landlords will not reserve accommodation without signing a contract. It is advisable to make sure you have seen the accommodation before handing over any money. Consult your institution’s accommodation office for advice about renting privately.
For more information about student accommodation in Canada, please visit the Study Canada website.
Last updated: 8 September 2011
