Students usually sign a contract during the study period for their stay in school accommodation. The pros are that students will not be charged for rent during the vacation period and there are many activities all year-round to build leadership skills as well as better interaction with the locals.
On-campus accommodation is more expensive compared to off-campus accommodation. However, essentials such as internet and laundry services will be provided for students. Furthermore, there are usually in-house tutors and other support services to ensure an easy transition as an International Student in a foreign country.
Many students choose to stay together in a house after their first year of studies.
Being their first taste of freedom, they get to choose between many different types of accommodation (studio/multi-room apartment, student accommodations, apartments with shared facilities). Student accommodations still provide the same facilities as staying on-campus.
However, moving out into a rental apartment requires students to be highly independent. This includes apartment search, paying bills (utilities/internet/rent), buying furniture (if unfurnished), moving house and many others. Furthermore, students will have to pay rent throughout the year, regardless of vacation breaks.
In AUG, we have a dedicated Accommodations team in each country to provide advice on on-campus and off-campus options in your desired study destination that suits your needs.