Living on campus can be an exciting experience for college students. It’s a chance to be independent, make new friends and many more. But like everything, it has its ups and downs. While some students enjoy the convenience and social aspects of on-campus living, others find it challenging. They need more space and privacy.
This blog will help you understand the pros and cons of living on campus, so you can make your best decision. Let’s get into the blog without further ado.
Table of contents
What is On-Campus Accommodation?
On-campus accommodation refers to housing provided by a university or college, located within or very close to the campus grounds. It typically includes dormitories, residence halls, or shared student apartments, designed to cater specifically to student needs. These accommodations often come fully furnished and include access to essential facilities like Wi-Fi, laundry, common rooms, and sometimes meal plans.
Living on campus offers convenience, a strong sense of community, and easy access to classes, libraries, and student services—all of which can be especially helpful for international students adjusting to a new environment.
Pros of Living on Campus
Living on campus has many advantages that can make your college life enjoyable from being close to classes to having a social life, on-campus student accommodation offers many benefits. Let’s explore some of the top pros of staying on campus.
- You are close to your classes, libraries, and other campus facilities so no need for long commutes.
- It’s easy to make friends and join student groups. You’ll always have people around to hang out with.
- You will have free access to gyms, study rooms, and computer labs. Everything you need is right there.
- Campus security is usually good, and there are often emergency services available.
- Many campuses offer meal plans, so you don’t have to worry about cooking.
- There are always events, workshops, and activities happening on campus. You’ll never be bored.
- Living on campus helps you meet people who can become lifelong friends.
- You will have easy access to academic advisors, health services, and counselling.
- You don’t have to worry about paying for utilities or rent separately. It’s all included in your housing fees.
Cons of Living on Campus
While living on campus has many benefits, it also comes with some challenges from limited privacy to higher costs, there are several factors. Let’s take a look at some of the main cons of staying on campus.
- Living on campus can be more expensive than living off campus, especially with meal plans.
- Sharing rooms and bathrooms can be uncomfortable and noisy. Sometimes, students opt for coed dorms, which can be more uncomfortable for some.
- Campus housing has strict rules, such as no pets or limited visiting hours.
- Dorm rooms are often small and cramped. There isn’t much room for personal belongings.
- It can be hard to find a quiet place to study with so many people around.
- You might have to wait to use the bathroom or kitchen, and cleanliness depends on your roommates.
- If you don’t like the campus food, you’re stuck with it if you have a meal plan.
- Living on campus can feel like an extension of high school, with less freedom to do what you want.
- If you have a car, finding parking on campus can be difficult and expensive.
Key Considerations Before Choosing
Choosing where to live while studying abroad is a big decision, and on-campus accommodation is a popular option for many international students. While it offers convenience and a built-in community, it’s important to weigh your personal needs and preferences before committing. Here are five key factors to consider before making your choice.
Budget: Evaluate all associated costs—including rent, meal plans, and utilities—to ensure they fit your financial plan.
Lifestyle Fit: Consider whether the social, communal atmosphere aligns with your personal preferences for independence or engagement.
Proximity and Accessibility: Check how close it is to classes, libraries, and other campus facilities to ease daily commutes.
Amenities & Policies: Review the available facilities (e.g., laundry, Wi-Fi) and rules (e.g., curfews, guest policies) to see if they match your needs.
Duration & Flexibility: Think about how the accommodation fits your study duration and future plans, ensuring the contract and options are flexible.
FAQs on the Pros and Cons of Living on Campus
Not always. While some on-campus options can be pricey, they often include utilities, internet, and sometimes meal plans, which can balance out the cost.
Yes, most universities offer on-campus housing to international students, but availability may be limited—early application is recommended.
Typically includes a furnished room, shared or private bathrooms, internet access, laundry facilities, and sometimes meal plans or kitchen access.
On the contrary, it’s often easier! You’ll be living with fellow students, attending campus events, and sharing communal spaces, which helps build friendships quickly.
Some universities allow you to request a roommate or fill out a lifestyle questionnaire to match you with someone compatible. Others assign randomly.
Yes, most on-campus housing comes with rules—like quiet hours, visitor restrictions, or alcohol bans. These vary by institution and country.
Generally very safe. Universities prioritize student security, with measures like 24/7 security staff, keycard access, and emergency response systems.
Not necessarily. Many students start on-campus for convenience and transition to off-campus housing later as they become more familiar with the area.
Most campuses have residential advisors (RAs) or housing offices that handle maintenance issues, conflicts, or emergencies.
It depends. You’ll experience university life and meet students from all over the world, but may miss deeper immersion in local neighborhoods and lifestyles.
Thank you for reading our blog. This blog is all about the Pros and Cons of Living on Campus. Hope you liked it. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
