Your department secretary may also have suggestions for temporary housing. Ask about temporary housing early, because staying in a hotel or motel can be very expensive. Deciding where to live There will be many housing opportunities both on campus in student housing, as well as off campus in private dormitories, apartment houses, rooms, or with families. You will find more opportunities to meet American students and practice English in dormitories, but private apartments or rooms may be quieter. Some campuses have limited housing in residence halls, and often the more inexpensive off-campus rooms and apartments are in short supply, so it's best to start your search for housing several months before you plan to begin your studies.
Location Look for a place close to campus or near bus lines.
Also consider how close shopping for food is, and whether laundry facilities are in the building If you have children, look for a place that allows children, has other children, and places to safely play. Some campuses have special housing for families and married couples. Furnishings Halls of residence usually provide a bed, desk, chair, storage for clothes, and some limited storage space. Apartments, married student housing, and private housing may or may not be furnished, and the monthly cost will be higher where furnished. Cooking Most halls of residence do not allow cooking in the rooms, but do provide a cafeteria where American meals are prepared for you as part of a meal plan.