Off-Campus Housing

Our office will do our best to help you navigate off-campus housing, but are not responsible for finding off-campus housing for you during your time at UNI. Please keep in mind that off-campus housing normally comes unfurnished (meaning that there is no furniture, cooking utensils, etc) unless otherwise noted.

We highly encourage student to check for off campus housing on Apartments.com or Zillow.com. Both of these sites allow users to search for apartments, houses, or other lodgings for rent in the area. These sites also allow users to look into different price ranges, locations, and amenities included.

If you have any questions about finding housing for your time at UNI, reach out to us at international@uni.edu and we will support you to the best of our ability.

Tips for Off-Campus Housing

When deciding to live off-campus, there are several factors to consider:

Location: Choose a location that is convenient to your campus, amenities, and possibly your workplace if you have one. Consider factors like transportation options and safety.
Budget: Calculate all potential costs including rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and any additional expenses like internet and furniture. Make sure you have a realistic budget and consider if living off-campus is financially feasible for you.
Amenities and Facilities: Assess what amenities are available in the area such as grocery stores, laundromats, gyms, and restaurants. Also, consider the facilities provided by the accommodation, such as parking space, laundry facilities, and security.
Roommates: Decide whether you want to live alone or with roommates. Living with roommates can help reduce costs, but it's important to choose compatible individuals with similar living habits.
Lease Terms: Understand the terms of the lease agreement, including the duration of the lease, security deposit, and any additional fees or penalties.

Extra costs you may incur when living off-campus include:

Rent: This is likely the largest expense. Rent prices vary depending on location, the size of the apartment, and the number of roommates.
Utilities: You'll typically need to pay for utilities such as electricity, water, gas, trash removal, and sometimes internet and cable TV. You can ask the building manager to give you average monthly costs.
Transportation: If you live farther from campus, you may need to budget for transportation costs such as gas, public transportation fares, or parking fees.
Furniture and Household Items: Unlike on-campus housing, off-campus apartments may not come fully furnished. You may need to purchase furniture, kitchen appliances, and other household items.
Food: If you're no longer on a meal plan, you'll need to budget for groceries and dining out.

Tips for making the most of living off-campus:

Create a Budget: Stick to a budget to ensure you can cover all expenses without overspending.
Stay Organized: Keep track of rent payments, bills, and other financial obligations to avoid late fees or missed payments.
Get Involved: Even though you're living off-campus, stay involved in campus activities and clubs for example (International Student Promoters-ISP) to maintain a sense of community and connection with your school.
Maintain Communication: If you have roommates, establish clear communication channels and discuss expectations regarding chores, shared expenses, and guests.
Take Advantage of Amenities: Make use of the amenities and facilities available in your area, such as study spaces, parks, or recreational facilities.
Stay Safe: Be mindful of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety, especially if you're living in an unfamiliar area.