Living on campus is convenient when it comes to being near your classes, but moving off campus can be a difficult transition. Off-campus apartments can also be expensive—which is why we want to help make it easier for you, and get you the off-campus apartment of your dreams!
✔ Budgeting
Budgeting for your move off campus should start ASAP. Usually, most students look to move in between july and august. Try to find a job before the summer starts to save up enough money to make first months rent and security deposit.
Usually, most students start looking for apartments around July or August. However, you should begin your search as soon as possible. Ideally, before Summer starts, we highly encourage students to find at least a part-time job to save enough money for first month’s rent and security deposit.
Typically, students plan on using FAFSA for off-campus housing, but it usually gets deposited too late to apply for housing in the Fall.
That’s why, if you’re working part-time or full-time as a student, EDUrain offers a 0%-interest loan for students looking to move off campus!
✔ Schedule a Tour
Make sure to walk through the apartment at least once before signing your lease. Don’t get scammed by landlords who will refuse to return a security deposit due to damage you didn't cause. Also be sure to take pictures of any damage you may have spotted.
✔ Find the Best Renters Insurance
Most places require you to get renters insurance, so you want to make sure that you get the best rate on the market. We've partnered with local companies to help students find the best price for their renters insurance.
✔ Find Good Roommates
Make sure your roommates are people you trust. Remember, you’ll have all of your belongings there, and you don’t want the person you’re living with to be a kleptomaniac! It’s also very important to find out if you and your potential roommates have similar dynamics (when it comes to things like studying and cleanliness).
We recommend that you print out a roommate contract as an easy way to set some ground rules. You can easily find various templates for roommate contracts on the internet, or RA’s can usually provide one upon request.
No matter what you decide to do, EDUrain is here to support you by providing you with the tools to make your move off campus easier. Our 0%-interest loans, apartment finding tool, and easy access to finding renters insurance are all in one place. Check it out now!