This guide provides international students with practical resources and advice for securing off-campus housing. It includes apartment rental websites, homestay options, and tips for navigating the U.S. rental process.
Finding a place to live is an important step when moving to the Chicago area for your studies. Below, you will find useful information, resources, and tips on how to search for housing, understand rental agreements, and provide the necessary documentation as an international student.
Note: Midwestern Career College (MCC) does not endorse any third-party housing providers. Students are responsible for securing their own housing arrangements.
Where to Look for Housing
There are several ways to find housing options in Chicago or the surrounding suburbs:
1. Student Housing Providers
There are several student housing companies in Chicago that rent specifically to students.
Offers an independent lifestyle and the opportunity to live alongside American and international students.
Location: 28 E. Jackson Blvd., Chicago IL 60604 (15 minutes walking from MCC)
The studio, one, two, three, and four bedroom apartments at INFINITE combine classic features with on-trend details to create living spaces that are truly inspiring. Each apartment is fully furnished in a smart, contemporary style, with the perk of an in-home washer and dryer and a large-screen living room TV.
Infinite Chicago offers leases per Academic Year (Winter/Fall), per Term (Spring) and per Month (Summer).
All housing options are based upon availability. Students will be renting an individual bedroom within a shared space. The shared space will include a living room, kitchen, shared bathrooms within the unit, and bedrooms occupied by additional tenants unless it is a 1-bedroom or studio.
All apartment units are fully furnished. Each apartment building will include a separate area with washer and dryers where students can do their laundry (washers and dryers are not located inside the student’s unit).
Consider homestay programs where students can live with local families. This can offer a rich cultural experience and a smoother transition. Platforms like Homestay.com and various international student housing services are good starting points.
When searching for an apartment, keep the following tips in mind:
Start Early: Housing in big cities like Chicago can be competitive. Begin searching at least 1–2 months before your planned move-in date.
Budget Wisely: Rent prices vary by location. Expect to pay between $1,000 and $1,500 per month for a studio or shared apartment.
Visit the Place (If Possible): If you’re already in Chicago, tour apartments in person to avoid scams. If renting remotely, request a virtual tour.
Understand the Lease Terms: Read the lease carefully, especially details about rent, deposits, lease length, and penalties for early termination.
Consider Public Transportation: If you don’t have a car, choose housing near CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) train or bus lines, or Metra for suburbs.
Beware of Scams: Never send money before signing a lease and confirming the legitimacy of the landlord or agent.
Documents Needed to Rent an Apartment (Without SSN or Credit Score)
Most landlords in the U.S. request a Social Security Number (SSN) or a credit score to approve a lease. Since many F-1 international students do not have these, the following documents can help:
✔ Proof of Enrollment: A letter from your school confirming your student status.
✔ Bank Statements or Proof of Funds: Demonstrates you have the financial means to pay rent.
✔ Visa & Passport Copy: Verifies your identity and legal status in the U.S.
✔ Co-Signer or Guarantor: A U.S.-based individual who agrees to cover rent if you’re unable to pay.
✔ Higher Security Deposit: Some landlords may accept 2–3 months of rent upfront in lieu of credit history.
