Introduction
Doing a course in Canada is a huge, adventure-filled move for many Indian students. One major and integral part of their journey to Canada would definitely be searching for accommodation. Canada offers a wide range of housing options suiting the various needs and budgets of international students.
Knowing these options will help students choose the best place to stay and thus make their lives more comfortable in Canada. In this text, we will discuss the most common types of places an Indian student can stay while studying in Canada.
On-Campus Dormitories
Convenience: On-campus dormitories are close to the university, so it’s easy to get to classes, libraries, and other campus spots. This means students save time and money because they don’t have to travel far.
Community: Dormitories are great for making new friends since students live close to each other. This setup helps create a sense of community and gives many chances to join in campus activities.
Amenities: Dormitories usually have important things like internet, laundry rooms, and meal plans, making life easier for students. Some dorms even have gyms, study rooms, and fun areas to relax.
Safety: The dorms are very safe, and the security is always there. There are guards posted with cameras to help keep a student safe.
Cost: While on-campus housing is generally more expensive than other off-campus accommodation options, it is an all-in-one package that is easier to budget for. Many students can justify this extra cost by virtue of its convenience and the safety it affords.
Off-Campus Shared Apartments
Independence: Students are relatively more free while living in an off-campus shared apartment. They can run their life according to their time and can live their lives the way they want to. Independence has to be one of the most important parts of the college experience.
Cost-Effective: Among the many benefits, sharing an apartment with roommates saves a lot of money. They share the rent and bills, making it less expensive for each one.
Flexibility: They can select where they would like to live and what kind of apartment they would like. They are free to choose a place nearer to work, social activities, or a particular liking toward the neighborhood.
Real-Life Experience: Living off-campus helps students learn how to take care of a home. They get practice paying bills, shopping for groceries, and cooking.
Considerations: Living off-campus means students need to plan for utilities, internet, and transportation. They also need to be ready to handle any problems with the apartment by themselves.
Homestays
Cultural Immersion: Living with a host family allows one to experience life as part of a Canadian household. Another is that they can take part in that country’s culture and traditions, which makes their stay in Canada more unique.
Supportive Environment: Many homestay families are supportive of their students, contributing greatly to the ease of acclimatization to a new country. They can help with everyday matters and explain the local customs.
Inclusions: The board is usually provided with accommodation in a homestay, and utility bills are embedded into the rent. The latter means it will be much easier to budget out a weekly allowance and that students get regular, home-cooked meals.
Comfort: Homestays provide a very home-like feeling that can be comforting for students coming into the country for the first time and who are away from family.
Drawbacks: Homestays might have house rules and less privacy than other options. Students need to adapt to the host family’s way of living and routines.
Private Rentals
Variety: Private rentals have many choices, like small studios or bigger apartments with many bedrooms. This means students can find a place that fits their needs and budget.
Privacy: Private rentals give the most privacy and independence. You don’t have to share spaces unless you have roommates.
Flexibility: Students can pick where they want to live, maybe closer to work or fun activities. They have full control over their living space.
Costs: Private rentals can be pricey, especially in big cities like Toronto and Vancouver. But students can find places that match their budget.
Responsibility: Renting a place privately means handling leases, paying for utilities, and sometimes buying furniture. This teaches responsibility but also takes time and effort.
Student Residences
Student-Focused: Student residences are made just for students and are often close to universities. They offer a good mix of independence and living with others.
Amenities: These places usually have study rooms, common areas, and gyms, which make them good for both studying and having fun.
Community: Living in student residences helps students make friends and join in campus activities through organized events.
Security: Student residences often have security and support services to keep students safe.
Cost: Student residences are usually mid-range in cost, which makes them a good balance between affordability and convenience.
Co-Living Spaces
Modern Concept: Co-living spaces are a new way of life in which students have their own rooms but share areas like kitchens and lounges.
Community Vibe: These places encourage making friends with organized events and activities, helping residents get to know each other.
All-Inclusive: Rent in co-living spaces often covers utilities, internet, and cleaning services, making it easier for students to budget.
Flexibility: Co-living spaces offer short-term leases, which is great for students who need to stay for different lengths of time.
Considerations: Co-living spaces can cost more than regular shared apartments, but they offer extra benefits and convenience that some students might find worth it.
Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a comfortable and enriching study experience in Canada. Each option has its own set of benefits and challenges, and students should consider their personal preferences, budget, and lifestyle needs when making their decision.
With a variety of housing options available, Indian students can find the perfect living arrangement to support their academic and personal growth in Canada.
Want to find your perfect home in Canada? Let HelloUni guide you! Our expert team helps Indian students secure the best accommodation to suit their needs and budget. Explore your options with us today and make your transition to Canadian life smooth and hassle-free. Contact HelloUni now to start your journey!
FAQs
How to find accommodation in Canada for Indian students?
Your university or college may have a housing office that helps students find housing.
Where do most Indian students live in Canada?
Toronto and Alberta are the best cities in Canada for Indian students. In addition to having top-ranked universities, these cities offer a high standard of living, low crime rates, student communities, and world-class healthcare services.
How do you pay for a homestay?
You pay your host the balance of the price of stay on arrival or as stated by your host on their profile and agreed by you on booking. Each host should inform you how they would like to be paid, for instance, by cash, bank transfer, PayPal, or another payment method.
Does homestay include meals?
Hosts generally provide meals, and each of our hosts will offer different plans.