There is a range of accommodation options that students can choose from to make their stay more comfortable and affordable. They can choose from on-campus accommodation, apartment or flat rental, host family accommodation, and other shared accommodation.
On-campus accommodation/ Dorms
International Students can apply for on-campus accommodation at an added cost on fees paid which is far more affordable than private accommodation. They have access to personal or shared dormitories depending on the institution. University on-campus dormitories are however very limited and so they are given on a first-come-first-served basis.
Most Universities just like Catholic University have set up Housing Facilities for students in its satellite campuses in Douala and Yaoundé just to provide accommodation and ensure students have the best stay and study experience.
Universities offer Shared and Single Accommodations. Depending on the type and space of rooms, costs will range from CFA 25,000 going up. Payments can be made per Annum once-off or paid in installments upon an agreed engagement.
At the Catholic university students can decide whom to stay with but if a room in the accommodation is not occupied, the University will have it occupied by another student. It is encouraged to pair up with a friend in a room, as this can help reduce costs.
To secure accommodation, students can book a room online or on-site at the campus. Students will be required to complete an application form and sign the tenancy agreement.
Apartments/ shared flats
Students can rent a shared flat to share the cost of rentals. Shared flat costs roughly CFA102813 which is slightly cheaper than single accommodation. Students should take note of the town or city zones. Rentals are slightly cheaper outside of the city center while they are price inside the city centre. Rent for a single apartment inside the city center costs about CFA97 333 while it costs about CFA55 000 outside the city center.
Some, however, find it more convenient to live within the city center to access all the services they need in one place without having to get into public transport. Apartments can be booked and paid for online or on-site. It is convenient for students to book on time as the best places get occupied fast. Most apartments are furnished and features include a closet, shower, kitchen and some have a common room for students to relax.
Students who seek for privacy can opt to find external accommodation. There are many apartments for rentals close to the university. Apartments can range from a bachelor pad to 3 bedroomed apartments or a full flat. Students in this case can share and have the ability to decide whom they want to share with, which is more comfortable.
Homestays/ Host Families
Homestay programs arrange for international students to live with local host families for the duration of their studies. In the homestay program, students will have their room, but join the family for meals and take part in their daily routine. Some even share a room with the host family children. The student gets to partake in host family activities for fun like football, swimming, volleyball, board games, and other activities.
Host families often choose to offer homestays because it’s a great way to meet with international students and be exposed to different cultures and languages. Homestays are a cheaper accommodation option and students get to save. Host families can either do it for financial gain or non-financial gain.
Host family accommodation can be ideal for students as they get to stay with a family and they use all of the family’s resources but at their discretion. Hosts can offer a complimentary light breakfast, lunch, and supper at their discretion and depending on the agreement with the student. The student may decide to extend the duration of stay as per the arrangement with the host.
The guest will have to adhere to the internal policy from the host and all the rules the host has in place. To secure the rooms, the student must pay a fee as per the arrangement with the host. Some ask the student to pay at least 25% as security and the rest is paid upon arrival or is staggered depending on what is arranged.
Studios
Should the student choose to live by themselves, there are one-room studios available. These are built with one bedroom, a small living room space, and a fitted kitchen. These are fitted with everything from kitchen, stove, toilets, shower and tubs, closets, and may have a single couch. These are costly and very luxurious and can cost up to CFA60000 per month.
