Choosing the right accommodation during your studies in the USA is an important factor to ensure a good start to your college life. Whether you want to live on campus in your first year or decide early on for off-campus housing depends on various factors, such as your budget, personality, and preferences. This guide is intended to help you make the right choice and understand the registration process for student housing.
Your place of residence can have a significant impact on your study experience and personal success. Especially in the early days of your studies, it is important to have a stress-free and structured environment. That's why we at Smarthlete advise our athletes to use the so-called on-campus housing in the first year - that is, to live directly on the university campus. This is even provided for by most universities. It facilitates the adjustment, as you are in close proximity to your courses, training and other important facilities.
Over time, when you have settled in better and know the campus and surroundings, it may be worthwhile to look for accommodation off-campus from the second or third year of study. This decision offers you more freedom and flexibility and allows you to find a more cost-effective or individualized living situation.
As a new student at an American university, living on campus is an excellent choice. Here are the advantages it offers:
Direct access to university resources: Living on campus means you can quickly get to your classes, libraries, sports facilities and other important facilities.
Easier social integration: In the dormitories, you will meet many other students who are new to the university, like you. This makes it easier for you to quickly make friends and integrate into the college community.
Less organizational effort: The universities offer a variety of housing options, from single rooms to shared apartments. Many universities also offer meal options, which simplifies the planning of daily meals.
Safety and support: The dormitories provide a safe environment, often with security services and on-site supervisors who can help with questions or problems.
To register for the student dormitory, you have to go through the respective registration process of the university. This may vary slightly depending on the college, but usually follows these steps:
a) Explore the housing options
Visit your university's website: Go to the university's housing section. There you will find all the relevant information about the available dormitories, room options, housing rules and rental prices.
Read the conditions carefully: Pay attention to what types of accommodations are available (e.g. single rooms, double rooms, shared apartments) and what amenities the dormitories offer (e.g. communal kitchens, fitness rooms or leisure activities).
b) Apply for housing
Fill out the application form: Most universities offer online registration. Look for the form for first-year students and follow the instructions.
Indicate your preferences: You will often be asked to indicate your housing preferences (single room, double room, etc.) and possibly specify specific requests, such as living in a certain dormitory or sharing a room with another athlete.
Communicate with your coach: It can be advantageous if you speak to your coach in advance and ask him to place you in a room with another athlete. This can help you connect with the team more easily and have motivating training partners right by your side.
c) Pay the housing deposit
What is a housing deposit?: A housing deposit is a security deposit that you must pay in advance to secure your place in the dormitory. This fee will either be deducted from the total housing costs or held as collateral in case you do not comply with the housing conditions or cause damage to the room.
Amount of the deposit: The amount varies depending on the university, but is usually between $100 and $500.
Observe the payment deadline: Most universities set a deadline for paying the deposit. Make sure you meet this deadline to avoid losing your housing spot.
d) Receive confirmation of registration
Wait for the confirmation: Once you have submitted the application form and paid the deposit, you will receive a confirmation by email. This confirmation usually contains additional information, such as your dormitory access, the move-in schedule, and possibly your future roommate.
If you have already spent a year on campus and feel comfortable in the environment, you can consider moving off-campus in your second or third year of study. This offers you more freedom and flexibility in terms of lifestyle and costs.
What to consider when looking for an apartment:
Budgeting: Carefully consider how much rent you can afford. Don't forget that additional costs such as electricity, water, internet and transportation may also arise.
Location and safety: Make sure the apartment is in a safe area and has good connections to the campus.
Finding roommates: Students often share an apartment to reduce rental costs. It's a good idea to look for other athletes or classmates to create a trustful and supportive community.
Q: Do I have to register for on-campus housing before I travel to the USA?
A: Yes, you should complete the registration process early, ideally before traveling to the USA. Many universities have deadlines that you must absolutely meet to secure a spot in the dormitory.
Q: Do I have to stay in the dormitory for a year, or can I move off-campus right away?
A: This depends on the policies of your university. Some colleges require first-year students to use the on-campus housing, while others allow students to live off-campus immediately. However, we recommend staying in the dormitory for the first year to get accustomed more quickly.
Q: What happens if I decide later to move off-campus?
A: As a general rule, you can move into an off-campus apartment from the second year onwards without any problems. However, keep in mind that you may have to observe a notice period if you have already registered for another year in the dormitory.
Spend the first year on campus: This will help you get accustomed to the new environment and make contacts.
Talk to your coach: Try to get placed with other athletes to achieve a better balance between sports and studies.
Register early: Don't wait until the last minute, as dormitory spots can fill up quickly.
Pay the deposit on time: Don't forget to pay the housing deposit within the specified deadline.
Review the contract terms: Read the conditions carefully to avoid misunderstandings later on.
If you have any questions about housing options or need support in choosing the best accommodation, feel free to contact us anytime. We'll be happy to help you get well prepared for the start of your studies.