Can international students rent apartments in the US

Yes, international students can rent apartments in the US. It is legal, allowed, and very common. The process is just harder because landlords usually want documents students often don’t have, but there are clear ways to handle that.

What landlords usually ask for

• Proof of identity: Passport and your I-20 or DS-2019. These show who you are and that you are legally in the US as a student.
• Proof of income: US landlords want to see pay stubs or a job contract. Most international students do not have this, so the landlord might ask for alternatives.
• Credit history: A US credit score shows if someone pays bills on time. New students do not have this yet, so landlords often ask for an extra deposit or a co-signer.
• Bank statements: These show you have enough money to pay rent, even if you have no US credit or job.

Common ways international students get approved

• Using a co-signer or guarantor: This is someone with US income and credit who promises to pay if you cannot. Many students use relatives or a paid guarantor service.
• Paying a larger security deposit: Some landlords accept this instead of a credit score.
• Paying rent upfront: Occasionally landlords allow several months of rent in advance, but this must be done carefully and only with legitimate companies to avoid scams.
• Renting in student-friendly buildings: Some apartments near universities regularly rent to international students and ask for fewer documents.
• Living in university-affiliated housing: Easier approval and fewer documents, but spaces fill quickly and can cost more.

Important things to watch for

• Never send money before seeing the place or verifying the landlord. Rental scams often target newcomers.
• Check the lease terms clearly: Length of contract, rules on breaking the lease, and what utilities are included.
• Understand move-in costs: First month’s rent, security deposit, application fees, and possibly a co-signer fee.
• Know that credit checks do not affect your immigration status. Housing decisions are separate from visas.

In short, renting as an international student is absolutely possible, but expect extra paperwork and some alternatives to meet standard requirements. With the right documents and careful checks, most students secure housing without major problems.