Calgary

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Student Housing

Options available for students, including campus residences and private student accommodations.

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Comprehensive Guide to Student Housing in Calgary, Canada

Calgary, a vibrant city in Alberta, Canada, is home to several renowned educational institutions, including the University of Calgary (UCalgary), Mount Royal University (MRU), SAIT Polytechnic (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology), and others. As a student moving to Calgary, finding suitable housing is a critical step in ensuring a smooth transition to your academic life. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the housing options, costs, application procedures, and other considerations.

1. Types of Student Housing in Calgary

a. On-Campus Housing

Most universities and colleges in Calgary offer on-campus housing options, which are convenient for students who want to live close to their classes and campus facilities.

  • University of Calgary: Offers residence halls, apartments, and townhouses. Options include shared dormitories (single or double rooms) and self-contained apartments for upper-year or graduate students.
  • Mount Royal University: Provides apartment-style residences with fully furnished units, including kitchens and private bedrooms.
  • SAIT Polytechnic: Offers on-campus residence buildings with modern amenities, including private bedrooms in shared suites.

Pros:

  • Proximity to campus facilities (libraries, gyms, cafeterias).
  • Inclusive utilities (electricity, water, internet).
  • Opportunities to meet other students and participate in campus life.

Cons:

  • Limited availability; applications are competitive.
  • May be more expensive than off-campus options.

Estimated Costs:

  • Shared dormitory: CAD 600โ€“900/month.
  • Apartment-style residence: CAD 1,000โ€“1,500/month.

b. Off-Campus Housing

Many students choose to live off-campus in private rentals, shared apartments, or homestays. This option provides more independence and flexibility.

  1. Private Rentals:

    • Apartments, condos, or houses rented directly from landlords.
    • Can be rented individually or shared with roommates to reduce costs.

  2. Shared Housing:

    • Renting a room in a shared house or apartment with other students.
    • Common in neighborhoods near universities.

  3. Homestays:

    • Living with a local family, often including meals and utilities.
    • Ideal for international students seeking a cultural immersion experience.

Pros:

  • Greater variety of options and price ranges.
  • Opportunity to live in different neighborhoods and experience Calgaryโ€™s culture.

Cons:

  • Requires more effort to find and secure housing.
  • May involve additional costs for utilities and furniture.

Estimated Costs:

  • Private room in shared housing: CAD 500โ€“800/month.
  • One-bedroom apartment: CAD 1,200โ€“1,600/month.
  • Homestay: CAD 900โ€“1,200/month (including meals).

c. Temporary Housing

For students who need short-term accommodation while searching for permanent housing:

  • Hostels: CAD 30โ€“50/night.
  • Budget hotels: CAD 80โ€“120/night.
  • Airbnb: CAD 50โ€“100/night (depending on location and amenities).

2. How to Apply for Housing

a. On-Campus Housing

  1. Check Deadlines: Application deadlines for on-campus housing are often several months before the start of the academic term. Check your institutionโ€™s website for specific dates.
  2. Submit an Application: Complete the online application form on the universityโ€™s housing portal. You may need to pay a non-refundable application fee (CAD 50โ€“100).
  3. Room Preferences: Indicate your preferences for room type, meal plans, and roommates.
  4. Deposit: Pay a deposit to secure your spot (usually CAD 500โ€“1,000).
  5. Confirmation: Once approved, youโ€™ll receive a confirmation email with move-in details.

b. Off-Campus Housing

  1. Search Online: Use platforms like:
    • RentFaster.ca: Popular for Calgary rentals.
    • Kijiji Calgary: Listings for rooms, apartments, and houses.
    • Facebook Marketplace: Local rental groups.
  2. Contact Landlords: Schedule viewings and ask questions about the property, lease terms, and included utilities.
  3. Sign a Lease: Review the lease agreement carefully before signing. Ensure it includes details about rent, deposit, utilities, and rules.
  4. Pay Deposit: Typically, landlords require a security deposit (equal to one monthโ€™s rent).

c. Homestays

  1. Find a Host Family: Use services like Canada Homestay Network or your institutionโ€™s homestay program.
  2. Application: Submit an application detailing your preferences (e.g., dietary restrictions, pets, etc.).
  3. Interview: Some programs arrange interviews with potential host families.
  4. Payment: Pay the monthly fee directly to the host family or through the program.

3. Things to Consider When Choosing Accommodation

a. Proximity to Campus

  • Living close to your university can save time and money on commuting.
  • Popular neighborhoods for students:
    • University of Calgary: Brentwood, Varsity, Banff Trail.
    • Mount Royal University: Lincoln Park, Glamorgan, Killarney.
    • SAIT Polytechnic: Hillhurst, Sunnyside, Capitol Hill.

b. Public Transport

  • Calgaryโ€™s public transit system (Calgary Transit) includes buses and the CTrain (light rail).
  • Look for housing near CTrain stations or major bus routes for easy access to campus.
  • Monthly transit pass for students: CAD 112 (discounted UPass may be available through your institution).

c. Budget

  • Factor in rent, utilities (electricity, water, internet), and groceries.
  • Shared housing is often the most affordable option for students.

d. Amenities

  • Check for nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, gyms, and restaurants.
  • Consider access to green spaces and recreational facilities.

e. Safety

  • Research the safety of the neighborhood. Calgary is generally safe, but some areas may have higher crime rates.

f. Lease Terms

  • Understand the lease duration (e.g., 6 months, 1 year) and rules for breaking the lease.
  • Ensure the landlord provides a written agreement.

4. Tips for Students New to Calgary

  1. Start Early: Begin your housing search 3โ€“6 months before your move to secure the best options.
  2. Join Student Groups: Connect with other students through Facebook groups or university forums to find roommates or housing leads.
  3. Budget for Winter: Calgary winters can be harsh. Ensure your accommodation has proper heating and insulation.
  4. Furnishing: Many rentals are unfurnished. Consider buying second-hand furniture from stores like IKEA, Walmart, or thrift shops.
  5. Utilities: Clarify whether utilities (electricity, water, internet) are included in the rent. If not, budget an additional CAD 100โ€“200/month.
  6. Tenant Rights: Familiarize yourself with Albertaโ€™s landlord-tenant laws to understand your rights and responsibilities.

5. Useful Resources

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to find comfortable and affordable housing in Calgary, ensuring a smooth start to your academic journey.