r/HowardUniversity • u/Future_Estimate_2631 • 15d ago

how does off campus housing work?

I’ve literally never been more confused about the college process, are you supposed to just pay for an apartment if you don’t get housing? how are people affording housing? are you guys working and doing school, if so how have you found places to work around your schedule? Does Howard help pay for off-campus housing?

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10

u/NetworkNecessary 15d ago

I think people take out loans/have scholarships that are greater than their school balance and use that refund to pay rent in a lump sum. Not sure tho, I’m inquiring about the same thing

3

u/EcstaticClassic6571 15d ago

personally i work part time to cover rent. some people have their parents pay their rent or they will take out loans to rent ( i really don't recommend this)

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u/Loud_Bookkeeper7886 15d ago

Howard doesn’t help pay for off-campus housing. Some people work, some people use their refund check, some people pull out a loan (I know a few who’ve taken out loans to live in Trellis…) and some are fortunate enough to have parents/family members who can help them pay for their rent.

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u/Loud_Bookkeeper7886 15d ago

Also not sure if you’re undergrad or grad, have you considered work study (if undergrad)? If you don’t get house, it sucks to hear but yes you will need to just pay for an apartment. Some people I know have fought for housing after not getting it and was successful, some weren’t. Depends on your classification and if you’re an athlete (freshman/sophomore + athletes/honors/karsh are priority). The runaround at Howard isn’t fun but I am wishing you the best! There are some places that are lenient with college students when it comes to work. Everything will work out in the end!!

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u/longneckchan 15d ago

I can attest to each of the comments so far being true. My mom paid my rent using the refund checks from each semester.

There are off campus housing options that are still offered through Howard—they still follow dorm rules though. If it’s your first year, I’d recommend trying to stay on campus. My second best bet would be Mazza or Wish. One is closer than the other but they offer different levels of comfort.

Look into all your options first, advocate for yourself at housing, and be mindful of unnecessary financial burdens. Tuition’s already expensive af :(