International Support

Off-Campus Housing provides information, resources and services to support international students throughout their off-campus housing journey. Whether students need help finding a rental, understanding local housing practices or preparing for their move to London, support is available throughout the process.

Students searching for off-campus housing who are unable to visit London in person may be eligible for property viewing support. This service is available to international and out-of-province students who are not currently living in London.

Property viewing support includes:

An Off-Campus Advisor (OCA) can visit potential rental properties on a student’s behalf and provide photos and information to help students better understand the space before making a decision.

Advisors can also answer questions about:

• The rental property and neighbourhood
• Local amenities and services
• The housing search process
• Living in London as a student

Book an Appointment
 

Off-Campus Housing Services provides resources and tips to help international students feel confident finding housing and preparing for their transition to Western.
 

Rental Scam Information

The office has been notified of fraudulent rental listings posted on platforms such as Facebook and Kijiji. These scams may involve properties that do not exist or requests for deposits before a viewing takes place.

To reduce risk, students are encouraged to:

• Search for housing through our official rental listings website.
• Avoid sending money before confirming the property and rental agreement details.
• Book an appointment to use our Property Viewing Support service if you are unable to view a property in person.

Paying Deposits from Abroad

Students are encouraged to view a property and have their lease reviewed before paying a deposit or signing a rental agreement.

Helpful tips:

• Avoid paying cash without receiving a receipt.
• Confirm payment options with the landlord before sending funds internationally.
• Be aware that some international payment services may charge transaction fees.
   

Common Housing Terms

Furnished: A rental unit that includes furniture for tenant use. Both furnished and unfurnished rentals are common in London.

Room, Apartment or House to Share: Single or shared accommodation in a private home where individuals in an apartment or house are looking for roommates. May include furniture, kitchen and/or laundry facilities. The bathroom is usually shared.

Apartment: A self-contained unit with its own kitchen and bathroom facilities. Apartments may be located in a larger building or within a private home.

Bachelor or Studio Apartment: A small self-contained unit where the bedroom, living space and kitchen are combined into one area.

House or Townhouse: A self-contained residential unit located on its own property or connected to similar units.

Sublet: An arrangement where a tenant rents their unit or room to another person for a period when they are away. Students should review their lease and obtain landlord approval if required before subletting.
 

Western International

Western’s International Student Services provides additional information and resources for international and exchange students looking for off-campus housing.