Where you live can shape your study away experience in big ways. It affects your daily routine, commute, social life, cultural immersion, independence, and overall comfort. Because Duke participants are required to live in program housing, it is important to spend time thinking about what type of living environment will help you feel supported and ready to make the most of your time away. 

There is no single “best” housing option. The right fit depends on your goals, personality, support needs, budget, and comfort level. Before you apply, review the housing information for each program and ask yourself what matters most to you:  

  • Do you want more structure or more independence?  
  • Do you want to live with local students, other study away students, a host family, or roommates?  
  • Would a single room, shared room, or apartment-style setting work best for you?  
  • Do you have a current housing accommodation at Duke that you’d like to apply on study away? 

Housing types, amenities, and cultural expectations vary widely by country and program. What feels standard at Duke or in the United States may look different abroad – and that is part of the experience. A little research now can help you choose a program that fits your academic, personal, and practical needs. 

Policy note: All Duke students are required to live in program housing. See the Housing Policy under "Program Preparation" on the GEO Policies webpage.

Types of Housing

A homestay can be one of the most meaningful ways to get to know a new place. Living with a host family gives you a window into everyday life, local routines, food, language, customs, and community. Many students build lasting connections with their host families and describe the experience as one of the most memorable parts of their time abroad. 

Want to hear what it is like? Check out reflections from Duke students who lived with host families while studying away. 

Residence halls – sometimes called dorms, student residences, or university housing – can be a great fit for students who want to be close to campus life. Depending on the program, residence halls may offer easy access to classes, dining options, libraries, study spaces, clubs, and other university resources. They can also make it easier to meet other students and get connected to the host campus community. 

Apartments usually offer more independence, along with more responsibility. Students may need to plan meals, grocery shop, clean shared spaces, manage roommate expectations, and commute to class or program activities. While apartments may feel less structured, they still come with rules set by the program, building, landlord, or neighborhood. Living independently can be exciting, but it works best when you are ready to communicate clearly, share responsibilities, and be respectful of the local community. 

Housing Looks Different Around the World 

Part of studying away is learning how daily life works somewhere new. Depending on the location, housing abroad may include: 

  • Smaller living spaces 
  • Shared bedrooms or bathrooms 
  • Longer commutes 
  • Different heating or air conditioning availability 
  • Different accessibility features 

Flexibility is key. You may not have every amenity you are used to, but understanding those differences ahead of time can help you adjust more smoothly once you arrive. 

Applying a Current SDAO/HRL Housing Accommodation to Study Away 

If you have an existing SDAO/HRL Housing Accommodation that you’d like to apply to your semester away, you should meet with GEO before you apply to discuss program options. Learn more about using your current housing accommodations abroad on our Accommodations on Study Away webpage. 

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