Opting for off-campus student housing is a growing trend as more and more international students rent apartments rather than live in their university dorms.
However, finding a good apartment and going through the process of renting can be a daunting task, especially if you are an international student. Unfamiliarity with local policies, regulations and customs can make the experience more challenging.
So, to make things easier and help students through the process, here’s a quick guide on renting accommodation for international students. In this article, we answer the question, “What do international students need to rent accommodation?” and discuss student accommodation requirements for foreigners.
Valid passport and study permit or student visa
Almost everywhere across the globe, landlords require proof that the tenant is a resident of the country or is legally allowed to reside in the country.
For international students looking to rent apartments, this means providing the landlord with a valid passport and a student visa. These documents are used to verify that the student tenant has a legal residency status and is allowed to rent accommodation for an extended period.
Proof of enrolment
Apartments with preferred tenants as students, be it private landlords or even purpose-built student accommodations, usually offer housing that is near reputable universities and similar institutions.
To verify the student status of a tenant, they might ask for enrolment proof from an academic institution along with a student visa.
A letter of acceptance from the university or enrolment confirmation is usually accepted as proof of enrolment for international students.
Guarantor or co-signer
Students usually don’t have any local credit history. This is even more true with international students
So, when it comes to international student housing, landlords might request a guarantor or co-signer on the lease. This can be a parent, guardian or a close relative who agrees to cover the rent in case the student defaults on the payment.
The requirements for the rent guarantor or co-signer are usually evidence of stable income, good credit scores and proof of local residence.
Bond/deposit and advance rent
In many countries, it is a standard practice to pay a bond (security deposit), which is the equivalent of four weeks’ rent. Additionally, landlords may often request two weeks’ rent in advance.
Students need to be aware of such customs and rules while deciding their student accommodation budget to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
The bond is made under a government body and is returned when the tenancy ends if there are no damages that need to be repaired or rent that’s still due.
References
To secure a good potential tenant, many landlords ask for local references during the renting process.
Since international students usually don’t have local references, character references from previous landlords or other reliable individuals can be enough for the process of verification.
In case the international student doesn’t have any previous rental experience, they can also provide tenancy references from their academic advisors, teachers or close family friends who can vouch for their character as a tenant.
Proof of financial stability
One of the biggest concerns that landlords come across is the possibility of their tenants defaulting, especially if they are international students. To make sure the student can pay their rent on time, landlords might ask for proof of financial stability.
This could include statements of their student bank account, proof of scholarship funds or even references from part-time employers. A steady income source can reassure the landlord that the tenant is financially stable and increase the student’s chances of qualifying for the tenancy.
Conclusion
Finding a home away from home may be a challenge for many international students, especially if it’s their first time living away.
However, by researching and following renting tips for international students, they can prepare for renting out an apartment beforehand, to ensure a smoother and more convenient process.
How can amber help students?
amber helps students secure accommodation of their choice on their study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), amber is a one-stop shop for all student accommodation needs. Download the amber app from the Google Play Store or App Storeto help students book an affordable home for their adventure.
