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Student housing: Off campus vs on campus

Photo by averie woodard on Unsplash
Photo by averie woodard on Unsplash

Choosing whether to stay on campus or off may be difficult as each option has its pros and cons. There are many factors to consider like costs, location, roommates and independence. Co-living or living off campus may be a feasible option for students and is currently preferred by many students living away from home for various reason.

On campus vs off campus

  1. Many students feel that they would be more comfortable studying in a place that is cosier and homelier. Dorm rooms are not that comfortable and are often dull and unexciting. Living away from campus allows for more social interaction with people outside of campus and allows you to attend functions and events with other people.
  2. Location is a key factor. You should decide if you are comfortable travelling. If you aren’t then dorm living may just be for you. However, that being said, there are many accommodations close to campuses, if you are willing to put in the extra effort of looking carefully.
  3. You need to consider the cost. Dorms are relatively inexpensive however, you can also find off campus accommodation that is affordable and offers you more amenities. Off campus (co-living) options do nor involve a contract so you are not tied down to any legal documents. Costs are split between all occupants and you may choose to leave whenever you want.
  4. Budget meals are important. On campus canteens offer students low priced meals every day so you don’t have to spend lots of money on food. Off campus meals are prepared by you and may seem like a chore to most millennials. However, it may be better as you are only cooking for one person, so it shouldn’t be that costly and you will know exactly what is going into your meals.
  5. The accommodation off campus is comfortable. You will need to share areas like the bathroom, toilet, kitchen and living room. Rooms are usually furnished and all you need to do is move in with your clothes. On campus living does not offer this luxury and students will have to move in with their beds, cupboards and any other appliances they may need.
  6. Another factor to consider is availability as most dorm rooms are taken early in the year and only a certain number is available. The process involves lots of paperwork and sometimes approval takes a period of up to 3 months. With off campus accommodation like co-living, you will not sign any contracts and are not bound by any legal documents. You can stay however long you want, and approval can be given immediately.

Which will you decide: On or off campus?

The decision is up to the student after considering the above information. On campus living is not for those free spirited and wanting to enjoy their campus experience. It may be cheaper and closer to campus but there are many other factors to consider like comfort, freedom and independence.

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Written by Nathaniel Fried

Co-founder of Fupping. Busy churning out content and building an empire.

One Comment

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  1. After living in the dorm and in the apartments, I came to the conclusion that it was worth trying both in your college years. The first two years I lived in a dorm room, made lots of friends, and was just surrounded by all that college culture. But now I’m both working and studying, and I’m more comfortable living in an apartment and have a closer commute to work (but a longer commute to campus). There are pros and cons to both options, and it’s also mentioned in more detail in the infographic: https://ruth-kinloch.medium.com/on-vs-off-campus-infographic-b616ff7b2089 I understand that it may not be financially affordable for everyone, but I recommend living in a dorm in the start and renting your own place in your final years.

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