Some information for newcomers and old friends in the USA

In this issue of our E-Newsletter we would like to provide information related to your life in a new place. We hope to clarify these issues a beat, and assist in making the right decisions while living here as an international student.

1. Housing: On Campus or Off Campus
2. Lease Agreements
3. Owning and operating a car

Housing: On-Campus or Off-Campus?

Finding the right place to live is much relevant to your successful educational experience. On-campus housing is usually your best choice, although many colleges and universities mostly located in large cities, do not offer on-campus housing. On-campus housing is usually less expensive and more convenient and safe than off-campus options. Living on-campus grants you easy access to library, computer center, student center, sports and recreation facilities, cafeterias and class-rooms. The typical residence hall or dormitory offers more than just a place to sleep. It also offers a variety of academic and social activities. Some universities offer special living arrangements for students who share interests or geographical backgrounds. You may choose to join a ‘fraternity’ or ‘sorority’ (social clubs for men and women, respectively) or live in an ‘international house’.

Many international students, particularly graduate students, prefer the independence of living off-campus. Sometimes this option is more affordable, because it allows for sharing the costs of rent, utilities etc…. Some colleges and universities maintain a list of available apartments and provide students with names of other students who seek roommates. It is always a good idea to check with the office of your international student advisor first.

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Lease Agreements

If you decided to seek off-campus housing, you will be required to sign a lease agreement. A "lease" is a binding legal contract between you and the property owner, the landlord. When you sign the lease you are obligated to pay the landlord monthly rent for the duration of the lease. Most leases are for a fixed period of time, and it is usually difficult to break the lease. Therefore, before you sign you should be sure that you could live with your decision for the duration of the lease. In case you decide to break out of the lease, talk to your landlord or management company. They might allow you to ‘sublease’ – to find a tenant to take over your lease for the remaining of the contract. In case you are subleasing your apartment to another tenant, you will probably remain responsible for their actions. Make sure all conditions are clear to both sides of the contract and get it all in writing. Sign the lease only when you are in full understanding of all the terms of the lease, and do not sign it unless you are completely satisfied with the apartment and surrounding property.

Upon signature you will be required to pay a ‘security deposit’, mostly one month rent, in addition to the rent of the first month. The security deposit will be refunded when you move out, provided you left the apartment in good condition.

Most apartments come equipped with appliances, such as stove and refrigerator, but you may need to purchase some of the furniture and other equipment. In most cases you will be responsible for paying the cost of your telephone service, electricity and gas. These service providers may ask you to pay a deposit before service is activated. The deposits will be refunded or credited to your account upon termination of your service, provided you have no payments due. It is also useful to know that most buildings have a "super," a person who’s paid to make sure the building is running smoothly. If you have any problems in your apartment such as plumbing or electricity, the super should fix it free of charge.

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Owning and Operating an Automobile

You must have a valid driver's license to drive a car. Each state in the US issues its own driver's license. Not every state will recognize your country's driver's license or an international driver's license. Most states require car owners to purchase and maintain automobile insurance. Even if the state in which you will live does not require it, you should purchase insurance if you plan to own a vehicle.

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