International Student at UIC? Here’s Why Furnished Apartments Make Moving Easy

Introduction: New City. New School. Big Move.

As an international student attending the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), moving can be daunting and exhausting. Imagine arriving at your new apartment already fitted out with a bed, desk, and kitchen supplies, plus utilities would even be included, so all that was left was showing up and getting down to study.

Furnished apartments designed specifically for students can take away many of the hassles and worries associated with the "first move". These enable you to focus on classes, making new friends, and settling in more quickly. In this post, we explain what "furnished" actually means as well as what to consider when searching for such an accommodation that offers comfort, convenience, and peace of mind for international students.

What Exactly Makes an Apartment “Furnished” for International Students

"Furnished" can be an ambiguous term when you’re coming from abroad. Here is what "furnished" should signify:

• Private bedroom with a bed (often full-size or twin/full), mattress, bedding, lamp, closet/hanging space, and side table.
• Bathroom facilities vary based on room type. There may be shared or private facilities available.
• Full kitchen: refrigerator, stovetop, microwave oven, pots/pans, and basic utensils.
• Living area furniture: sofa, dining table/chairs, and TV or entertainment center (sometimes).
• Essentials include: Utilities (electricity, heat/AC, and water), high-speed internet, and sometimes cleaning of common spaces.

UIC off-campus housing options reveal many furnished listings equipped with W/Ds (washers/dryers), utilities bundled, and short lease terms that often meet international students' requirements.

How Furnished Apartments Reduce Stress for International Students

Here are several reasons furnished student apartments may often be the more sensible solution:

What to Consider Before Signing a Lease Agreement

Make sure that you ask and verify:

• Does my rent cover everything (furniture, internet, and utilities)?
• What are your lease length options? Can we arrange 3-month, 6-month, or semester leases?
• Where is my apartment close to UIC (campus/ public transportation)?
• Do roommate-matching services exist, or can I select my roommates myself?
• What is the cancellation or early move-out policy?
• Are there reviews from current or past tenants, especially international ones?
• What amenities can be found? Are there study lounges, common kitchens, or social events to meet our needs?

Real Costs and Data for Students Near UIC

Here are numbers you can trust:

• UIC's Off-Campus Housing listings indicate that furnished apartments near UIC typically range in price between $1000 and $1,700/month, depending on size, location, and amenities.
• Addams Coliving offers private bedrooms in shared 2- to 4-bedroom units starting at around $1,160/month (one room of a larger shared unit).
• UIC on-campus housing options (dorms and shared suites) for 2025-2026 range between approximately $10K to $17K/year, depending upon room style and whether meals are included.

Furnished off-campus housing might cost more than basic dorming options. However, furnished off-campus accommodations often provide greater flexibility, greater privacy, and fewer hidden costs associated with them.

Addams Coliving: An Effective Option for International Students

Addams Coliving stands out among UIC housing options as an outstanding place for international students who prioritize furniture, convenience, and amenities from day one. What sets it apart:

Key Details:Location:

• Location: (1407) W 15th Street in Chicago is about one mile (five minutes by transit) away from the UIC Campus.
• Room Types: Private bedrooms in 2- to 4-bedroom shared apartments.
• Price: Units in shared settings start from around $1,160/month, with some going beyond this figure depending on size and amenities included.

What Is Included/Amenities:

• Fully furnished units feature kitchens, living areas, private bedrooms, and some units even come equipped with their own baths.
• High-speed internet and utilities bundled (or small fees).
• Shared spaces include coworking space, movie room, rooftop terrace, fitness center, yoga studio, community kitchen and lounges.
• Flexible lease options: Short-term (3 months or more) and by-the-bed leasing (you rent your room within shared spaces), ideal for semester stays.

Perks for internationals

• Enjoy a hassle-free move-in: no need to purchase furniture or kitchenware before moving.
• All-inclusive billing: fewer surprises and easier budgeting.
• Social atmosphere: shared spaces and events provide the ideal setting to meet new people.
• Transit Close: Your location provides access to campus, public transportation, hospitals, groceries, and dining.

Comparing On-Campus vs Furnished Off-Campus

Tips for International Students Looking to Rent Furnished Apartments

1. Bring Proof of Funds/Bank Statements: Proof of funds/bank statements will be needed as security for deposit agreements in cases with no U.S. credit history.
2. Visas & Leases: When signing a lease agreement, read it thoroughly, as some policies expect the full year's rent even if you leave early.
3. Inspect Virtually: If necessary, use virtual tours if you are still abroad to inspect a unit. Or ask for photos that depict the actual unit, not just a staged model.
4. Communicate Early: Ask about utilities, internet speed, and appliance condition before making decisions.
5. Neighborhood Safety & Transit Access: Review crime data as well as how long it takes to access UIC public transport.
6. Booking Early: Fall semester and international intake enrollment usually experience an upswing in demand during the summer.

Outcomes: What Students Suggest and Why It Is Crucial

From student reviews and forums:

• "Moving was easy, as everything from my bed and kitchenware was already at my new apartment when I arrived in Chicago. Once there, the apartment felt like home!"
• "Addams Coliving allowed me to lease for six months instead of having to commit for an entire year—something which proved helpful during my internship experience.

These stories demonstrate how furnished, coliving-style apartments can reduce stress, help settle more quickly, and allow residents to focus on what matters—such as schoolwork, friendships, and new experiences.

Final Word: Make Your First Year Easier

As an international student, you must quickly adapt. By selecting furnished and well-located apartments like Addams Coliving for their comfort and location, international students can buy themselves space to learn, grow, and reduce additional stressors.

If you're heading to UIC, be aware of all-inclusive apartments that are move-in ready and all-inclusive that can accommodate students from across the globe. With some careful planning (check what's included, lease terms, and location), moving needn't be stressful but instead be an exciting adventure.