Decoding Student Housing: Why purpose-built accommodations matter for international students

The number of Indian students studying abroad is on the rise due to multiple factors. 

According to the Indian Student Mobility Report 2023–24, over 1 million Indian students studied abroad in 2019. 

This number grew by 3% to around 1.1 million in 2022. If the current growth rate of 8% continues, this number is expected to grow to around 1.5 million by 2025.

Increase in student mobility has a direct impact on the demand in student housing across locations worldwide. 

International students are now exploring options that offer tailored living experiences than mere stay options. This changing student outlook has paved way for purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA).

An increasingly preferred choice these days among international student community, PBSAs, available both On- & Off- campus, are specifically designed for students, and offer modern amenities, security, and a sense of community living. 

Unlike traditional housing options such as private rentals or dormitories, PBSAs are tailored to students' lifestyles and needs.

Both on- & off- campus can consist of studio apartments, en-suite beds and non en-suite beds. On-campus PBSAs are managed by university but may or may not be owned by the university. 

These may range from private to shared accommodations, offering private rooms with bathrooms, kitchens, recreation zones, to sometimes their own catering services.

Off-campus PBSAs on the contrary are managed and owned by privately held providers, and can range between standard, luxury or mixed-use apartments with state-of-the-art amenities, living rooms, shared kitchens and more aimed at delivering more comfort to the residing students.

While the traditional housing often requires students to furnish their own rooms and manage utilities, PBSAs offer fully equipped rooms, high-speed internet, and recreational facilities, ensuring comfort and convenience. 

Like Harrison Street in US offer Fitness areas, social areas, Similarly, United Students in UK is providing 24x7 assistance, ultrafast Internet etc. To make the living experience for students a safe one.

Security remains top priority in a PBSA and includes comprehensive measures such as CCTV surveillance and secure access. 

Additionally, PBSAs additional services, such as cleaning and maintenance, that traditional housing typically lacks maker it a hassle-free experience for students.

Source : https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/study/decoding-student-housing-why-purpose-built-accommodations-matter-for-international-students/articleshow/112465258.cms