Top Tips for Finding Accommodation in Canada for International Students

Top Tips for Finding Accommodation in Canada for International Students

Edited By Jasmine | Updated on Jul 05, 2025 04:29 PM IST

What are some of the tips for finding student accommodation in Canada? Finding an accommodation to live as an international student in Canada includes planning and researching well in advance. Ideally, you should start looking for accommodation in Canada about 3 to 6 months before you arrive. As Canada welcomes thousands of international students each year due to its high-quality education and diverse culture, finding safe and affordable housing is important. Students have a range of options to consider, from on-campus dorms to shared apartments or even homestays, depending on what suits their needs and budgets. Students can explore university housing resources, online platforms, and social media groups for better research. On average, a single person's monthly living expenses without rent in Canada are around CAD 1,460, which is approximately INR ₹91,615. As the cost of accommodation in Canada varies, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally costs about CAD1,840 (approximately INR 1,15,460). While sharing an apartment can be an affordable option to share the rent. Read the article to find more tips for finding student accommodation in Canada.

Top Tips for Finding Accommodation in Canada for International Students
Top Tips for Finding Accommodation in Canada for International Students

Top Tips to Find Accommodation in Canada for International Students

Studying in Canada is an exciting opportunity. The place you choose to live while studying can have a huge impact on your overall experience. To make your search for student accommodations in Canada a bit easier, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind.

Start Early

One of the most important tips for finding student accommodation in Canada is to start your search early. It is advisable to start looking about 3 to 6 months before you plan to arrive in Canada. This is especially important if you are aiming to live in big cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, where housing options tend to disappear fast. By planning early, you will have a broader range of choices and a better chance of finding accommodation within your budget. You will also get enough time to understand the Canadian rental laws and regulations.

Explore Accommodation Options

Canada offers a diverse range of student housing, each with its unique advantages and disadvantages. Explore the different types of accommodation options and decide which one best suits your style and budget.

Advantages and Disadvantages of On-Campus Housing

When it comes to on-campus living, there are dormitories and townhouses that the university owns and manages. Here are some of the advantages:

  • Convenience: On-campus housing is convenient as they are close to the campus.

  • Inclusive: Many of these places cover utilities, internet, and sometimes even meal plans, making it easier to manage your budget.

  • Social Network: It is a great way to meet fellow students, dive into university life, and create a sense of community. Plus, many residences host student support and social events.

  • Security: Generally, these areas are quite safe, due to dedicated campus security.

Study in USA

Universities inviting applications | Get expert guidance

Study in Australia

Shortlist best ranked universities & get expert guidance

However, there are some disadvantages of living on campus:

  • High Cost: It can be more expensive than some off-campus options.

  • Limited Privacy: You might have to share a room, or if you get a private one, it could be on the smaller side.

  • Strict Rules & Regulations: There are residence policies to follow, like quiet hours and guest rules.

  • Limited Availability: There are limited spots in the on-campus accommodation.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Off-Campus Housing

Off-campus housing includes shared apartments, homestays, rental apartments etc. The advantages include :

  • Affordable: Living off-campus can often be a more budget-friendly option, especially if you are sharing rent and utilities with roommates.

  • Independence: It usually gives you more space and a sense of independence compared to dorm life.

  • Immerse Experience: If you choose to stay in a homestay, then staying with a local Canadian family can enhance your cultural experience. Many host families also include meals, which can help cut down on your food costs.

However, there are some disadvantages of off-campus accommodation in Canada.

  • Additional Costs: Living off campus includes additional costs like utilities, meals, groceries, transportation etc. This can add up to your monthly budget.

  • Adjustment Issues: You will need to put in more effort to find the right roommates and keep track of shared expenses. In the case of homestays, finding a compatible host family is crucial for a positive experience.

Also Read:

Create a Budget for Accommodations

Accommodation is going to be one of your biggest expenses in Canada. It is advisable to understand the average cost of living in the Canadian city you have picked so you can set a realistic budget. Note that you will be required to pay the security deposit as well. Here are some key factors to keep in mind while creating a budget for student accommodation in Canada.

  • Rent

  • Security deposit

  • Utilities like electricity, heating, water, and internet

  • Food & Groceries

  • Transportation

  • Miscellaneous

Utilize Reliable Platforms and Resources

With Canada becoming increasingly popular amongst international students, the housing market can get pretty competitive. A great way to navigate this is by joining social media groups or forums created for international students. This can provide you with valuable insights about student housing options. You might even connect with potential roommates or gather tips from those already studying there. Here are some trusted platforms to explore:

  1. International Student Office: Your university usually has dedicated housing portals, lists of off-campus rentals, homestay programs, and sometimes even services to help you find a roommate.

  2. Popular Websites: There are popular websites that post general listings, including:

  • Kijiji

  • Facebook Marketplace

  • Craigslist

  • UniAcco

  • Student.com

  • AmberStudent

  • Places4Students

  • HousingAnywhere

  • Rentals.ca

  • Zumper

  • PadMapper

  • Realtor.ca

Consider Location in Canada

Location plays a huge role in shaping your student experience. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing where to live in Canada:

  • Commute Time: Consider the time it will take you to get to campus, accessibility of public transport

  • Amenities: Locate how close the important services like grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, and medical clinics are.

  • Safety: Take some time to investigate the safety of the neighborhood. If you can, chat with current residents, which will bring more clarity.

  • Atmosphere: Investigate the kind of atmosphere your accommodation has, whether it is quiet, lively, or student-centric

Conduct an In-depth Inquiry

After shortlisting a few student accommodations in Canada, conduct a thorough inspection before making any decisions. Start by asking detailed questions such as:

  1. What are the Services Included?

Some places come with utilities like electricity, hot water, and internet included in the rent. So, it is essential to inquire about these amenities.

  1. Whether the place come furnished or unfurnished?

Make sure you know what you will need to buy or ship over in terms of furniture.

  1. What are the lease terms?

Get a clear understanding of the lease duration, any policies of early termination, and the policies for having guests.

  1. Who is responsible for the maintenance?

Be sure to clarify who is in charge of repairs and maintenance.

Beware of the Rental Scams

Rental scams are becoming common in Canada these days. To keep yourself safe, it is important to spot the warning signs, such as:

  • Unrealistic Prices: If a deal is unrealistic or impractical, then it might be a scam. A place can have very low rent and offer multiple facilities, but make sure to check the details.

  • No In-Person Viewing or Virtual Tours: If a landlord keeps refusing or delaying the chance to show you the place or makes up excuses, it can be a fraud.

  • Pressure for Payments: Never send money through untraceable methods like Western Union or MoneyGram. Thoroughly conduct your inspection before you sign a proper lease.

  • No Lease Agreement: Always make sure to get a detailed written lease. Verbal agreements do not offer you any protection.

If you are an international student, you might not be able to visit the accommodation location yourself. Therefore, asking for a virtual tour is a must when it comes to finding a place to live in Canada. It can help you avoid scams or find places that are not right for you. Do not hesitate to ask for close-ups of any specific features or issues you might spot. Make sure to ask for a verification document from the landlord and use traceable payment methods.

Understand Canadian Tenant Rights

Before you start exploring your options for student accommodation in Canada, understand the rental laws and regulations in the city or province where you will be studying. Each area has its own set of rules about leases, deposits, and tenant rights. Here are a few things to keep in mind while searching for student accommodations in Canada:

  • Lease Agreements: Make sure you understand all the details, like notice periods, security deposits, and rent.

  • Tenant Rights: Familiarize yourself with the local laws to protect your rights as a tenant.

  • Subletting Rules: If you are thinking about sharing your room, check if your landlord allows it according to your lease.

  • Insurance: Consider getting renters' insurance to keep your belongings safe.

What are the Types of Accommodation in Canada for International Students?

Before planning to find student accommodation in Canada, it is essential to understand the different types of accommodation available.

On-Campus Housing

This type of housing is provided and managed by the university or college, usually situated on or near the college campus. It is a popular option amongst first-year students.

  • Dormitories: These are large buildings with numerous rooms, shared bathrooms, lounges, study spaces, and communal kitchens. You can find both single and shared rooms.

  • Townhouses: Some universities also have apartment-style residences or townhouses on campus, offering more independence compared to traditional dorms. These typically come with private bedrooms, shared living spaces, and kitchens.

Off-Campus Housing

If you want to live outside the university campus, some great privately owned options give you more independence.

  • Shared Apartments: This is a popular and often affordable choice. Here, students rent a room in a house or apartment and share common spaces like the kitchen, living room, and bathrooms with one or more roommates.

  • Homestay: This option enables you to live with a local Canadian family in their home. You usually get a private room, and meals are often included.

  • Private Student Residences: These are specially designed apartment buildings or complexes just for students. These are not owned by any university as they are privately owned and operated.

Read More:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How to find accommodation in Canada for international students?

You can join social media groups or forums specifically for international students to gain information on the current listings and slots. These platforms can offer you some great insights into student housing options as well. You might even find potential roommates or pick up helpful tips from those who are already studying there.

2. How much does accommodation cost in Canada for international students?

As per Numbeo, the rent in Canada is as follows:

Type of Accommodation 

Average Monthly Rent (in CAD)

Average Monthly Rent (in INR)

Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre

1,840

1,15,460

Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre

1,615

1,01,450

Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre

2,920

1,83,425

Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre

2,535

1,59,240

3. How much do international students pay for a homestay in Canada?

Homestay prices in Canada can differ based on where you are and the utilities included. Generally, you can expect to pay between CAD 1,200 and CAD 1,450 per month for a homestay. This typically includes a furnished room, utilities, and meals like breakfast and dinner.

4. Can a student on a student visa buy an apartment in Canada?

An international student can purchase a residential property in Canada if they meet a few requirements. These include having a valid study permit, having lived in Canada for at least five calendar years, and being physically present in Canada for a minimum of 244 days during each of those five years.

5. Where do most students live in Canada?

Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Ottawa are the most common student cities in Canada and have the highest number of students.

Articles

Questions related to

Have a question related to ?

After completing a BSc in Biochemistry, you can pursue various courses in Canada such as MSc in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or Clinical Research. These programs offer advanced knowledge and open opportunities in research, healthcare, and industry.

Hello,

Yes, you can pursue MD in Radiology in Canada after completing a B.Sc. in Radiology, but you need to complete a recognized medical degree (like MBBS) first. After that, you must pass the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) and complete a residency in radiology. Alternatively, you can explore postgraduate diploma or master’s programs in medical imaging or radiology if you wish to specialize without an MD.

Hope this helps you,

Thank you

https://www.careers360.com/courses/md-radiology



hi ,

yes , you can pursue undergraduate degree in AI ML in Canada with 65% in 12th grade , bit your options may be limited since many top universities require a minimum of 75-70% , however with some colleges or universities with flexible admission requirements may accept you .

eligibility criteria for AI /ML in Canada

academic requirement - Most top universities require 70-80% in 12th PCM for direct admission.Some colleges/universities accept students with 60-70% in 12th PCM.

English proficiency test -

(if your schooling was in English, some institutions may waive this)

  • IELTS: 6.0 – 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL: 80 – 90 (iBT)
  • PTE: 50+

mathematics requirement

Since AI & ML are math-heavy, having good grades in Math (especially Calculus) will strengthen your application.


hope this helps


Hi Madhvi,

With 42% in 12th, admission to universities in Canada can be challenging, as most require at least 50-60%. However, you still have options:

  1. Diploma Programs – Some colleges like Seneca, Humber, or Centennial offer diploma courses with flexible entry requirements.

  2. Foundation Programs – You can take a pathway course in Canada to improve your academic profile before entering a degree program.

  3. Private Colleges – Some private institutions accept lower percentages, but research them well before applying.

  4. Improve Academics – Consider reappearing for 12th exams or taking additional certification courses to boost your profile.

Also, ensure you meet the IELTS/TOEFL score requirements for student visas.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.

After completing a BBA in Finance, top programs in Canada include MBA (Finance), Master of Finance, Master in Financial Analytics, CFA certification, or PG diplomas in Financial Planning, Investment Banking, and Risk Management. Choose based on career goals, budget, and university reputation.

View All
Back to top