With this fall bringing some of the highest college enrollment rates in history, the demand for on-campus housing is at an all-time high. If you’re an incoming freshman feeling stressed and uncertain because you can’t secure a dorm room, you’re not alone. It’s a challenging situation, but plenty of options are available to ensure you find a comfortable and convenient place to live. We’ll explain how you can navigate this situation and find the perfect off-campus housing.
Exploring Your Options: Apartments for Students
When on-campus housing isn’t an option, it’s time to look into off-campus alternatives. The good news is that plenty of apartments for students are available, often offering more freedom and amenities than dorms.
How to Find Off-Campus Housing
Finding off-campus housing may seem daunting, but thousands of students find and live off-campus successfully every year, so plenty of resources and options are available.
- Online Apartment Locators: Websites like ApartmentSearch can help you find off-campus housing tailored to students’ needs.
- University Resources: Many colleges have resources or partnerships with local apartments to help students find housing and roommates.
- Social Media and Forums: Platforms like Facebook groups, Reddit, and Instagram are great for finding housing leads, finding a roommate, and reading reviews from other students.
Key Considerations When Looking For Off-Campus Housing
When you’re looking for off-campus housing, there are a few important things you need to consider, including:
- Proximity to Campus: Make sure your apartment is close enough to campus for easy commuting.
- Safety: Research the neighborhood to ensure it’s safe.
- Budget: Compare costs, including rent and utilities, to ensure it fits within your financial aid budget.
Does Financial Aid Cover Off-Campus Housing?
Sometimes, yes! Contact your financial aid office to understand how much of your aid can be used for off-campus housing. Some scholarships and loans may come as a lump sum that you can use for any school-related expenses!
Can You Live Off-Campus Freshman Year?
Many universities have policies regarding first-year students living off-campus, so check with your school. However, if your school has a record number of students enrolling and doesn’t have enough space in the dorms, they may give you the option to live off-campus your freshman year.
How Do I Find the Perfect Off-Campus Apartment?
Ready to look for the perfect apartment? Here’s how to find off-campus housing that meets your needs:
- Start Early: Begin your search as soon as possible to secure the best options.
- Visit Multiple Locations: Compare different apartments to find the best fit.
- Look for Student Amenities: Study rooms, gyms, and laundry facilities can enhance your living experience.
- Read Reviews: Feedback from other students can provide valuable insights into what living in a particular apartment is really like.
Furnishing Your First Off-Campus Apartment
Once you’ve secured your off-campus spot, it’s time to make it feel like home. Here’s where CORT comes in with convenient student packages covering all your college essentials.
What You Need:
- Furniture Necessities: Bed, desk, sofa, and lamps.
- Linens and Kitchenware: Basics like sheets, towels, and kitchen essentials.
- Decor: Personal touches like photos and plants to make your space cozy.
Pro Tip: Renting furniture from CORT can save you time and money, offering student packages that cover all your needs in a straightforward package.
Get Ready for Off-Campus Living
Whether you’re living off campus by choice or because your university ran out of housing, you need the perfect space near all of the campus action. With ApartmentSearch, you can narrow your choices with advanced filters!
When you’re ready to furnish your off-campus apartment, visit CORT for student furniture rental packages, including everything from furniture necessities to linens and kitchenware. Visit your local CORT showroom or browse online today.
