Student accommodation abroad: choosing well and avoiding rental scams
Compare university halls, homestays and shared houses, check contracts and deposits, and learn the warning signs of rental scams targeting international students.
Book temporary housing first, compare total cost, travel time and contract terms, and never pay a deposit before verifying the property and landlord.
Types of student accommodation
Many students book university or temporary housing for their first weeks, then look for longer-term rooms after arriving.
What to compare
- Total weekly or monthly cost, including bills, internet and furniture.
- Travel time and cost to your campus and possible workplaces.
- Contract length and what happens if you leave early.
- Deposit or bond: how much, and how it is protected.
- Safety of the area, especially if you travel late at night.
- House rules on guests, cooking and quiet hours.
How to spot rental scams
International students are common targets because they book from overseas and cannot inspect rooms in person.
- Prices far below the local average for the same area.
- Landlords who are “abroad” and cannot show the property.
- Pressure to pay quickly before someone else takes it.
- Requests for payment by money transfer apps, gift cards or cryptocurrency.
- No written agreement, or an agreement with a different name and address.
Ask for a live video viewing, check the address on a map, and use university housing services or well-known platforms.
Deposits, contracts and your rights
- In many places, bonds or deposits must be held by an official scheme, such as state bond authorities in Australia or tenancy deposit protection schemes in England.
- Take dated photos of the room when you move in, and keep them.
- Read the whole agreement before signing and keep a copy.
- Ask your university’s student support or accommodation office if you have problems.
Plan your first weeks with our pre-departure checklist and student budgeting guide.
Questions students ask
Should I stay with friends or relatives at first?
It can help, but agree on dates and costs in advance so you do not lose a friendship over housing.
Is homestay a good choice?
Homestay suits students who want support settling in, meals included and practice speaking English, though it offers less independence.
When should I book?
Book temporary accommodation once your visa is approved, and before you buy your flight if possible.
Talk to a Shrey Education counsellor.
We can review your documents, course choice and budget before you apply.
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