Study in Canada | Santa Monica Study Abroad Pvt Ltd

The most affordable and convenient accommodation and transportation options for overseas students who study in Canada ; a blog from Santa Monica Abroad Pvt. Ltd

Canada is a popular destination for overseas students who want to pursue their academic goals and experience a diverse and multicultural society. However, studying in Canada  under the consultants , Santamonica Study Abroad also comes with some challenges, such as finding suitable and affordable accommodation also good and transportation. In this blog post, we will explore some of the options available for international students who want to study in Canada and provide some tips and resources to help them make the best decision.

 Accommodation options

There are two main types of accommodation options for overseas students in Canada: on-campus and off-campus. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the student’s preferences, budget, and location. 

On-campus accommodation 

On-campus accommodation refers to living in dormitories or residences that are owned and managed by the educational institution. This option is usually convenient, as it allows students to be close to their classes and access the campus facilities and services. It is also a great way to meet other students and participate in the campus community and activities. 

On-campus accommodation usually consists of single or shared rooms that are furnished with basic amenities, such as a bed, a desk, a chair, and a closet. Some rooms may also have a private or shared bathroom, a kitchenette, or a living area. The cost of on-campus accommodation varies depending on the institution, the location, the type of room, and the services included, such as utilities, internet, laundry, and meals. According to EduCanada, the average cost of on-campus accommodation in Canada ranges from $3,000 to $7,500 per academic year. 

Some of the benefits of on-campus accommodation are: 

• Convenience: Students can save time and money on transportation as they are within walking distance of their classes and campus amenities. 
• Security: Students can enjoy a safe and secure environment, as most campuses have security staff, cameras, and access control systems. 
• Support: Students can access various support services, such as academic advising, counselling, health care, and peer mentoring, that are offered by the institution. 
• Socialisation: Students can make friends and network with other students from different backgrounds, cultures, and programmes, and join various clubs, societies, and events. 

Some of the drawbacks of on-campus accommodation are: 

• Availability: On-campus accommodation may be limited or competitive, especially for first-year or international students, and may require an early application and deposit. 
• Privacy: Students may have to share their room, bathroom, or kitchen with one or more roommates, which may affect their privacy, comfort, or personal space. 
• Rules: Students may have to follow certain rules and regulations, such as curfews, noise restrictions, or guest policies, that are imposed by the institution or the residence staff. Flexibility: Students may have to commit to a fixed term of residence, usually from September to April, and may not be able to change or cancel their contract easily. 

Off-campus accommodation 

Off-campus accommodation refers to living in a house, an apartment, or a condominium that is rented from a private landlord or a rental agency. This option is usually more flexible, as it allows students to choose their location, size, and style of accommodation and to customise their living space according to their needs and preferences. 

Off-campus accommodation usually consists of single or shared rooms that are unfurnished or partially furnished and may include a private or shared bathroom, a kitchen, a living area, and a balcony. The cost of off-campus accommodation depends on the city, the neighbourhood, the type of accommodation, and the amenities included, such as utilities, internet, parking, and laundry. According to CanadaVisa, the average cost of off-campus accommodation in Canada ranges from $500 to $1,500 per month.

 Some of the benefits of off-campus accommodation are: 

• Privacy: Students can have their own room, bathroom, or kitchen and enjoy more privacy, comfort, and personal space. 
• Independence: Students can have more freedom and control over their living arrangements, such as choosing their roommates, setting their own rules, and decorating their space. Diversity: Students can explore different neighbourhoods and communities and experience the local culture and lifestyle. 
• Savings: Students can save money by sharing the rent and the expenses with their roommates or by choosing a cheaper or smaller accommodation.

Some of the drawbacks of off-campus accommodation are: 

• Transportation: Students may have to commute to and from campus, which may take more time and money and may depend on the availability and reliability of public transportation. Responsibility: Students may have to deal with various issues, such as finding and contacting a landlord, signing a lease, paying a deposit, and maintaining the property. 
• Quality: Students may have to compromise on the quality or safety of their accommodation, as some landlords or agencies may not provide adequate or honest information or may charge hidden fees or increase the rent. 
• Isolation: Students may have fewer opportunities to interact and socialise with other students and may feel lonely or disconnected from the campus community and activities.

Transportation options 

There are various transportation options for overseas students  who Study in Canada, depending on their location, budget, and preference. Some of the most unusual alternatives are: 

• Public transportation: Public transportation includes buses, subways, trains, light rail, and ferries that are operated by the city or region. Public transportation is usually the cheapest and most convenient option for students, as it covers most areas and destinations and offers frequent and reliable service. Most educational institutions also provide discounted or free public transportation passes to their students, which can be used for unlimited travel within a certain zone or period. According to Numbeo, the average cost of a monthly public transportation pass in Canada is $91.08. 
• Cycling: Cycling is another affordable and eco-friendly option for students, as it allows them to exercise, enjoy the scenery, and avoid traffic congestion. Many cities in Canada have dedicated bike lanes, bike racks, and bike-sharing programmes that make cycling safe and accessible. However, cycling may not be suitable for long distances, harsh weather, or hilly terrain. According to Numbeo, the average cost of a bicycle in Canada is $378.33. 
• Driving: Driving is a more flexible and comfortable option for students, as it allows them to travel at their own pace and schedule and to access remote or rural areas. However, driving is also the most expensive and least environmentally friendly option, as it involves various costs, such as buying or renting a car, paying for gas, insurance, parking, and maintenance, and obtaining a driver’s license. According to Numbeo, the average cost of owning and operating a car in Canada is $0.66 per kilometer. 
• Walking: Walking is the simplest and healthiest option for students, as it does not require any cost, equipment, or skill and can improve their physical and mental well-being. Walking is ideal for short distances, pleasant weather, and safe and walkable areas. However, walking may not be feasible for long distances, extreme weather, or busy and dangerous roads.             

Tips and Resources

Finding accommodation and transportation in Canada can be challenging, but not impossible, for overseas students. Here are some tips and resources to help them with their search and decision: 

• Start early: Students should start looking for accommodation and transportation options as soon as they receive their acceptance letter and study permit, as the demand and availability may vary depending on the season, the location, and the institution. 
• Do your research. Students should do their research and compare different options, prices, and features, and check the reviews, ratings, and feedback from other students or tenants. They should also consult the institution’s website, handbook, or staff for guidance and recommendations. 
• Be flexible: Students should be flexible and realistic about their expectations and preferences and be willing to compromise or adjust to different situations. They should also be prepared to face some challenges or difficulties and seek help or support when needed. 
• Be careful: Students should be careful and cautious about their safety and security and avoid any scams, frauds, or illegal activities. They should also read and understand the terms and conditions of any contract or agreement and keep a copy of any document or receipt. 

Here are some useful websites and apps that can help students find accommodations and transportation in while study in Canada, also seek the help of cosultants like, Santamonica Study Abroad Pv. Ltd.: 

• EduCanada: A website that provides information and resources on studying in Canada, including on-campus and off-campus accommodation options and costs. 
• CanadaVisa: A website that provides information and services on immigration and settlement in Canada, including off-campus accommodation options and costs.
• Numbeo is a website that provides information and statistics on the cost of living and quality of life in various cities and countries, including transportation options and costs. 
• PadMapper is a website and app that helps users find apartments, condos, and houses for rent in various cities and neighbourhoods in Canada. 
• Kijiji is a website and app that allows users to buy, sell, or trade various goods and services, including housing and transportation, in various cities and regions of Canada. 
• Transit: An app that provides real-time information and directions on public transportation, bike-sharing, car-sharing, and ride-hailing in various cities and countries, including Canada.