Finding a comfortable place to live is an important part of your experience in Canada. Fanshawe offers several accommodation options to support international students, whether you are studying for one semester on exchange or completing a full-time program.  

Your ideal housing option will depend on factors such as your length of stay, budget, lifestyle preferences, and the level of independence you want during your time in London, Ontario.  

Living in London, Ontario

London is a vibrant, welcoming city with a population of over 500,000 and more than 45,000 college and university students. It offers a mix of urban amenities and green space, reliable public transit, and a strong student community.  

Whether you choose to live on campus, with a host family (homestay), or in private housing, most students find London affordable and easy to navigate.  

 

Learn more about Living in London

Accommodation options:

International students at Fanshawe typically choose from three main housing options: on-campus residence, homestay, or off-campus housing. 

On-campus Residence:

Fanshawe’s on-campus residence offers a convenient and community-focused living experience, located just steps from classes, services, and campus activities.  

Residence is a popular choice for students who want:  

  • A furnished space  
  • Built-in community and social opportunities  
  • Easy access to campus supports  
  • Short commute times (5 to 10 minutes to anywhere on campus)

For exchange students

A limited number of residence rooms are reserved for exchange students each semester. Exchange students are only committed to residence for the term they are at Fanshawe (typically one semester) and costs are adjusted accordingly.  

Students interested in residence will receive a residence application form along with their Letter of Admission. Spaces are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so early application is strongly recommended.  

 

Learn more about Residence

Homestay accommodation:

Fanshawe partners with Canada Homestay Network (CHN) to connect international students with screened host families in the London area. Homestay is a great option for students who want to experience Canadian culture and daily life while living with a local host family. It is especially well suited for students studying for a short period of time or who want a more supported living environment.  

For students under 18 who are not staying with a family friend or relative acting as their custodian, Canada Homestay Network also manages Fanshawe’s Homestay and Custodianship Program, providing both accommodation and the custodianship documentation required for a Canadian study permit. This is an excellent option for students who want to live off campus with more independence, while still receiving the supervision and support needed to study in Canada.

  • Homestay may include:  
  • A private furnished bedroom  
  • Daily meals (depending on plan selected)  
  • Utilities and internet included  
  • Ongoing support from Canada Homestay Network  

 

Learn more about Homestay

Off-campus housing/rentals:

Some international students choose to arrange their own housing in private rentals, such as student apartment buildings, shared houses with other students, private rooms, or bachelor apartments.  

This option offers the most independence but also requires more responsibility and planning.  

When searching for off-campus housing, consider:  

  • Lease length (many landlords require 12-month leases)  
  • Whether the unit is furnished or unfurnished  
  • What is included (utilities, internet, laundry)  
  • Distance to campus and public transit  

Off-campus housing is best for students who are:  

  • Staying for longer periods  
  • Comfortable navigating rental processes  
  • Looking to live with friends or independently  

 

Learn more about Off-Campus Housing

Special information for exchange students

Exchange students have unique housing needs, as most are only in Canada for one semester.  

  • When choosing accommodation, exchange students should prioritize:  
  • Short-term flexibility (4–5 months)  
  • Furnished spaces  
  • Minimal setup and contracts  
  • Proximity to campus  

Recommended options for exchange students:

For most exchange students, the easiest and most popular options are:  

  • On-campus residence – best for convenience, community and short-term stays  
  • Homestay – best for cultural immersion and built-in support  

Off-campus rentals can be more challenging for exchange students due to longer lease requirements and setup costs.  

 

Choosing the right option

There is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best accommodation choice depends on your personal preferences and priorities.  

Ask yourself:  

  • Do I want independence or built-in support?  
  • Am I staying for one semester or multiple years?  
  • Do I want meals included?  
  • Do I prefer living on campus or in the city?  

Fanshawe’s international team and housing partners are here to support you in finding a safe and comfortable place to call home while you study in Canada.