Whenever you get selected for an abroad college, the next thing you think about is the student accommodation. There are many options available and thus the students get overwhelmed with the choices. The most confusing thing is to choose between on-campus and off-campus accommodation. One thing which you need to consider is that both of the choices come with their advantages and drawbacks. It does not matter whether you are a first-year student or a second-year student, this blog will help you to make the right choice.
Which is better: On-campus or Off-campus?
When you are planning to stay abroad, it is important to choose between on-campus accommodation and off-campus student accommodation in College Park. It is best to consider the following factors to make the right choice.
Cost of Living
The accommodation cost generally depends on the country and the university you are getting admission to. In some places, the fee for on-campus living is much cheaper than the off-campus one. Therefore, you should consider the cost and compare them. While calculating the cost, it is best to keep in mind the amenities provided, the travel cost, and the cost of the food.
Amenities offered
When you select on-campus student apartment in College Park, basic amenities are already included such as electricity, water, internet facilities, and maintenance. However, when living off-campus, you need to pay extra for all these. But these days PBSAs are a hit amongst the students where you can find all-inclusive bills.
Privacy
When living on campus, there is limited privacy as you need to share your room with other students and you will be supervised by the resident assistant. Moreover, you need to share the common bathrooms. There will be extra noise and you have to follow dorm rules and curfew. When you stay off-campus, you can choose what you want to share and what not to. And the off-campus accommodations are more private and quieter.
Commuting
If you are staying on campus, then the students do not have to worry about the transportation costs. The classrooms are generally located within walking distance from the dorm rooms. Some of the universities offer shuttle services to and from self-owned residence halls in case they are far from the university. While living on campus, you can reach your lecture on time and don’t have to spend any money. If you stay at off-campus student housing in College Park, then you need to pay for commuting.
Food
When you stay within the campus, you can enjoy meals inside. The students have access to microwaves and hot plates. When you are provided with meals you can be tension-free, but again, you have to eat the same kind of food every day. However, if you know how to cook, then living in an off-campus accommodation gives you a provision of a fully equipped kitchen where you can easily cook your own meals.
Roommates
When selecting student rooms in College Park, you have to stay with the roommates. You do not get to select your roommate while staying on-campus living. When you stay off-campus, you have the choice to choose your roommates.