While in Oxford, we can arrange for you to live in college or in a local homestay. Both options have advantages and the best choice for you will depend on your own particular circumstances – as well as the availability.
Living in college
Many students prefer to live in one of the St. Clare’s residences – it’s probably the best way to make the most of the international experience. There are 4 large residential houses at the International College exclusively for students aged 18+, located within 15 minutes of the college on foot or by bus.
There are four accommodation options according to your needs and availability: single superior, twin superior, single standard or twin standard.
The advantages of living in college are:
- the opportunity to live together with other students as part of the St. Clare’s international community
- a choice of room options: shared room or a single room, a shared or a private bathroom, according to availability (Please note: the provision may vary from house to house)
- sheets, duvets and towels are provided as well as access to a launderette
- supervision by a resident House Manager according to the House Rules, which protect your privacy, security and welfare
- a choice of meal plans: full board option (during the summer courses only) or self-catering in our residences
- you can meet your friends for lunch in the college dining room
In these many ways, living in a residence helps you to become more independent in a safe environment.
Living with a local homestay
Some students prefer to live in a private home with one of our experienced homestay providers – it’s often the best way to learn about life in Oxford.
There are two options according to needs and availability:
- single standard includes breakfast and dinner 7 days a week, or
- single superior includes breakfast and dinner 7 days a week.
The advantages of living with a homestay provider are:
- full immersion into the English way of life and a chance to learn about the country from people who live here
- a single room with your own private space in a private home
- an opportunity to practise your language skills in everyday social situations and interact with local people as you travel to and from college every day by bus, by bike or on foot
- a taste of home cooking in the evenings and a moment to sit together in the evenings and chat about your day
- you can meet your friends for lunch in the college dining room
Meals at St. Clare’s
Most students who live in college during the summer choose the full-board package. This includes:
- Breakfast and dinner 7 days a week
- Lunch on weekdays
Some students prefer to cater for themselves using the facilities in college houses. (Please note: the provision of kitchen facilities varies from house to house.)
Please note: Students who live in a local homestay have breakfast and evening meal as part of the package. Lunch is available in the college dining room on weekdays throughout the summer and students are encouraged to join their friends for a selection of healthy, nutritional meals at lunchtime.