If your student is considering a move off campus, starting the process can be a daunting task! Sublets, leases, security deposits…where should a Mason student begin?
Off-Campus Student Programs and Services wants to make this transition easier and has multiple resources to help. Before students start looking they should set a reasonable budget and determine what is most important to them in a property. Is it cost? Location? Access to public transportation? Pet-friendly? Encourage you student to use our budgeting spreadsheet and think about what are non-negotiable things in their future home. Students can also find a pre-recorded webinar with other useful off-campus housing tips and tricks on our website as well.
After determining serach criteria, encourage your student to visit the official Mason Off-Campus Housing Locator at och.gmu.edu. This website allows students to search for apartments, condos, townhouses, and sublets with ease, giving added security because the locator is only open to Mason students, staff, and faculty. Students will need to register with their Mason log-in information. Once registered, students can look for housing, roommates, and furniture using an advanced search filter.
Finally, students can meet with property managers at our Off-Campus Housing Fair on Thursday, February 25, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Dewberry Hall on the ground floor of the Johnson Center. Properties can answer questions and give an in-depth look at what their apartment complexes offer. Roommate matching and transportation information will also be available at this event. We always tell students that it is never too early to start researching housing options for next year!
If you or your student has any questions regarding housing, please contact Off-Campus Student Programs and Services at offcamp1@gmu.edu or visit offcampus.gmu.edu.
Emilie Dubert
Associate Director
Off Campus Student Programs and Services