Is My Child Ready to Live Off-Campus?

On-campus or off-campus, college apartments are known for parties, disruption, roommate problems and all manner of stress. Many parents assume that living on campus is a better option simply because it’s university endorsed, but there are a lot of reasons why shopping off-campus might give your child a leg up, and be more likely to fulfill his or her needs.

Here’s our list of five benefits to living off-campus.

Roommate selectivity

Roommate drama can disrupt a student’s entire life—social and scholastic. Living off-campus allows your child to be more selective about their roommate. If they don’t know anyone that they would specifically choose as a roommate in a dorm, it’s often the luck of the draw, which can lead to some very uncomfortable situations.

A Taste of Independence

Living in an apartment or other off-campus housing will allow your child more independence—in the best possible way. Instead of staying out all night to avoid a curfew or wasting energy ducking other restrictions, your child will have to learn how to set their own limits. They’ll also be free to do their own cooking, and be responsible for an entire apartment worth of cleaning (not just their room!).

Personal Space

Apartments provide more personal space. Instead of being crammed on top of a roommate in a too-small space, your college student will be able to spread out and enjoy the available space. While that may sound luxurious, remember—the happier they are in their apartment, the less likely they are to start spending time in someone else’s.

Privacy

Off-campus apartments are more private by nature. There are fewer “hall parties” and loud noises to disrupt quiet hours when your child would rather be studying. There’s also no need to worry about inspections or other issues.

Adult-World Experience

Living in an off-campus apartment will give your college student experience with adult independence in a safer setting. They’ll need to pay bills, budget money for food, and handle other issues as they arise, just like they will when they’re out on their own. Still, since they’re in student housing, they’ll still be getting a true college experience.

What about you—what would you add to our list?