In this variety, normally 4-6 students share a flat – like space with individual bedrooms and common living and kitchen areas. This is a good way of making friends, getting to be part of the student community, share chores and exchange cultural tips,
while still being able to have one’s own individual space while studying, writing and sleeping. Gender specific floors or dormitories may be specifically asked for if a student so requires.
Many Canadian families enjoy renting out their extra rooms to international students after their own families have moved out. The advantages of such homestays are many. The student gets to stay in a home-like
atmosphere and has the benefit of being part of a family. This is often essential for international students, especially the younger students and helps them adapt quicker. It also gives the student a chance
to improve their English or French. Typically the student has a room to her/him and shares meals with the host family. Since homestays are arranged by the school/college the student has enrolled in, every
effort is made to match the student profile with the host family to ensure safe and healthy adaptation. Prices will depend on the location, placement fee charged by the school/college and whether a meal
plan is included or not.
Renting is a popular system of accommodation. However, in this system, there are no set prices or set of amenities provided. Rents may vary vastly depending on location, the lists of amenities and utilities included. Rents are higher in the city centre
areas, especially in larger cities while the suburban accommodation may appear or actually be much cheaper. It is important for the student to make a thorough comparison and read the fine print before signing
a lease. The attending college/ institution may be able to provide a list of renting options within the vicinity. Though recommended by the institution, it is still important that the student makes a thorough
study to avoid problems later. Often an entire flat or house is too expensive for one student alone to rent out and so one can join a group who is renting by either checking out new students with similar
requirements, or keep a lookout on notice boards, newspapers and the like for any single rooms within a house being advertised. Landlords may take a damage deposit at the start with rent being payable monthly,
quarterly or as a lump sum.