The Student Affairs Department provides students with resources and useful information to make the process of finding housing easier.

Overview

American Homestay Network is designed to promote a deep, personal cultural exchange between the host families and the international students. Students can stay with host family for several weeks up to several school years. Some of the benefits for both student and the host are:

  • Offers more flexibility
  • Better cultural immersion
  • More support
  • Increased safety

To learn more about the benefits of staying with American Homestay Network, please visit: https://www.homestaynetwork.com/about-us/why-homestay/

Process

Students who are interested in staying with a host family must complete the following steps:

  1. Complete an extensive protocol.
  2. Pay a one-time matching fee of $300.00
  3. American Homestay Network matches the student with a family. American Homestay generates an invoice and provides the student with information about the host family.
  4. Students can request host family to provide transportation to and from school but this would be at an additional cost.

Sign-up

To sign up with American Homestay Network, please visit this link: https://www.homestaynetwork.com/

For students who prefer to rent an apartment, it can be done individually or as a group (making sure to abide by the rules/regulations of the apartment complex). Please remember that you will be renting the apartment independently and you will sign a lease directly with the property owner. Remember that the lease is a legally binding document.

Fairfax University of America will not be involved in this process in any way. Fairfax University of America is not responsible for any problems or circumstances that students may have when renting properties.

General Information

Most apartments will rent to you if you submit a copy of your passport, I-20, and U.S. bank account information or some type of income proof (this can be sponsorship from your country). Some apartments may also ask you to pay an additional one-month’ worth of rent as deposit. Some extra fees may be required to process an application at an apartment. Fees and documents will vary from company to company. Please bear in mind that not all apartment complexes will rent to F-1 visa holders. They may require sponsorship from US Citizen or Permanent Resident who has a good credit history.

  • Rental Rate: $1,200-$2,000 per month (varies greatly)
  • Security Deposit: Almost always required
  • Distance from FXUA: Varies
  • Bus Access: depends on location

Apartments Near FXUA

Below is a list of apartments near FXUA. When you rent an apartment individually, it is up to you to determine what apartment is best for you. FXUA does not endorse one apartment complex over another one.

Remember, most apartments are not furnished, and you have to pay utilities (electric, gas, water and trash) along with your monthly rental expense. If you want cable or Wi-Fi, you would also have to pay monthly for this. These items are usually not included in the rent.

Ellipse Apartments
http://www.ellipsefairfaxcorner.com/
0.6 miles (2 minutes driving; 8 minutes walking from FXUA)

Fairchase Apartments
http://www.equityapartments.com/northern-virginia/fairfax-corner/fairchase-apartments
1.2 miles (3 minutes driving; 24 minutes walking from FXUA)

Lincoln at Fair Oaks Apartments
http://www.lincolnatfairoaks.com/
1.8 miles (4 minutes driving; 32 minutes walking from FXUA)

Ridgewood Windsor Apartments
http://www.ridgewoodbywindsor.com/
0.5 miles (2 minutes driving; 10 minutes walking from FXUA)

The Court at Fair Oaks Apartments
http://www.wm-courtsatfairoaks.com/
1.7 miles (4 minutes driving; 26 minutes walking from FXUA)

The Reserve at Fairfax Corner Apartments
http://www.equityapartments.com/northern-virginia/fairfax-corner/the-reserve-at-fairfax-corner-apartments
0.8 miles (3 minutes driving; 15 minutes walking from FXUA)

Wheelhouse Apartments
http://wheelhousefairoaks.com/
1.7 miles (6 minutes driving; 35 minutes walking from FXUA)
Apartment rental information is also available upon request from the Office of Student Affairs.

CORT

CORT provides furniture rental packages and housing information for students living off-campus.

CORT’s ApartmentSearch.com helps students locate the right apartment in the right location at the right price point.

CORT Furniture Rental assists students to have what they need without having to purchase furniture

Apartment Links

Below are various websites that you may explore when looking for apartment options in the local community.

Fairfax University of America is not responsible for any problems or circumstances that you may face when renting properties listed from above websites.

A good link for both first-time and experienced renters is Rent Lingo. The site addresses questions regarding how to sublease a rental, how cosigning works, how to deal with noisy neighbors, and what to look for and ask during an apartment tour.

Information About Leases

  • A security deposit is generally required at the time of signing your lease. The security deposit cannot be more than two months’ worth of rent and it may be used by the landlord/manager to pay for back rent or damages that are not reasonable were and tear. It is advisable that you are present during the move-out inspection.
  • The landlord/manager has to inform the tenant if they intend to use the security deposit for back rent or damages before the date of usage. A list of itemized expenses should also be provided to the tenant.
  • Please keep in mind that the lease you are signing is a legally binding document for both parties. Make sure to read the lease thoroughly and understand the document. If you have any questions about the lease, make sure to ask another person who might know a bit more about the topic before signing the lease.
  • The payment of rent should be stated in the lease contract. The details on how to pay and to whom to pay should also be covered. Anything that you and the landlord/manager talked about should be included in the lease contract. A thorough inspection of the property is advised so you are aware of any existing damages or problems.
  • Pay attention to any legal restrictions stated in the lease, because breaking the restriction could post a violation of the lease and may cause the landlord to take legal action to terminate the lease.
  • Make sure you are aware of the terms and conditions in breaking a lease. A find can be imposed on you if you do not follow the terms and conditions.

Your Responsibility as a Tenant

  • Pay your rent on or by the date established in the lease. Set-up a checking account at a local bank so you can pay by check if you prefer.
  • Keep your apartment neat and clean. Problems with cleanliness can result in the unwelcome addition of cockroaches and mice. If you have problems such as these, contact your landlord as soon as possible to let him/her know. You can face a fine if there is any roaches or bed bug invasion after moving in.
  • Be respectful of your neighbors. Keep noise levels down, especially between 10pm and 7am. Apartment walls thin. As a result, noise can easily travel between apartment units.
  • Get permission from your landlord before painting or making any other serious changes to your apartment. If you paint your walls, you will most likely be required to pain them back to their original color before you leave.
  • Dispose of your garbage properly. Put all of your garbage (non-recyclables) in a large trash bag. TIGHTLY tie the bag closed, and put it on the curb or in a designated trash area. Remember to throw out your garbage only on garbage day.
  • Be aware of legal drinking laws. The legal age for drinking alcohol in this country is 21. You will need to show form of identification, usually a driver’s license, in order to purchase alcohol. Please do not buy alcohol for anyone under 21, as this is also breaking the law. Driving under the influence of drug or alcohol leads to immediate deportation to your home country.

Renters Insurance

Renters Insurance is a property insurance that covers policyholders’ belongings and liability within a rented property. Renters insurance is for person’s rending or sub renting a single-family house, apartment, duplex, condominium, studio, loft or townhouse.

Renters Insurance Providers Information
State Farm Phone: +1 (800) 782-8332
Website: https://www.statefarm.com/insurance/home-and-property/renters
Alliance Insurance Group Phone: +1 (615) 356-3704
Website: http://allianceinsurancegrp.com/products/renters-insurance/
Elephant Phone: +1 (844) 937-5359
Website: https://www.elephant.com/renters-insurance
eRenterPlan Phone: +1 (888) 512-4204
Website: https://erenterplan.com/
Geico Phone: +1 (800) 207-7847
Website: https://www.geico.com/renters-insurance/
AllState Phone: +1 (877) 810-2920
Website: https://www.allstate.com/renters-insurance.aspx
Clements Worldwide Phone: +1 (800) 872-0067
Website: https://www.clements.com/
They provide auto insurance, property and liability insurance

Dominion Power, Washington Gas and Cable/Wi-Fi

Dominion Power – Electric Utility Company

Address: 1901 Reddy Drive, Woodbridge, VA 22191
Phone: +1 (866) 366-4357
Website: https://www.dominionenergy.com/

Washington Gas – Public Utility Holding Company

Address: 101 Constitution Ave NW, Annandale, VA 22003
Phone: +1 (703) 750-1400
Website: https://www.washingtongas.com/

Cox cable

Address: 11044 Lee Hwy #10, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: +1 (703) 480-2830
Website: https://www.cox.com/residential/tv.html

International Property Insurance

Clements Worldwide offers Property & Liability Insurance. Please click here for more information or go to: https://www.clements.com/intl-property

We understand some students may need temporary accommodation while looking for a long-term place to live. FXUA has partnered with local hotels to offer special rates to students and their visiting families and friends.

Below are hotels located less than a mile away from the university and they offer fully furnished rooms equipped with refrigerators and cooking supplies, free high-speed Internet, free parking, and business and fitness centers.

Please mention Fairfax University of America when booking a room to receive the special rates!

Comfort Inn University Center

11180 Fairfax Boulevard, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (703) 591-5900
Fax: (703) 591-3507
Distance from FXUA: 0.5-1.3 miles
Special Services & Amenities: Free hot deluxe breakfast, kitchenette, indoor heated pool, game room, shuttle services
Room Rate: $72.00 per night
Room Rate 15+ nights: $69.00 per night
How to make a reservation online.

Holiday Inn Express - Fairfax

1037 Fairfax Boulevard, Fairfax, VA  22030
Phone: (703) 359-2888
Fax: (703) 385-9186
Distance from FXUA: 2.69 miles
Special Services & Amenities: Free parking, hot breakfast bar, on-site fitness center, WiFi throughout the hotel
Rate: $79.99 per night
Click here to make a reservation online.

Candlewood Suites Washington - Fairfax

11400 Random Hills Road, Fairfax, VA  22030
Phone: (703) 359-4490
Fax: (703) 359-4492
Distance from FXUA: 0.8-1.0 miles
Special Services & Amenities: Fully equipped and renovated kitchens, free laundry
How to make a reservation.

Room Type 1-6 Nights 7-29 Nights 30+ Nights
Studio $89.00 $79.00 $60.00
Note:

·         Rates do not include 12% tax

·         After 30 consecutive nights, rate is exempt of County Taxes/after 90, exempt all taxes

·         All rates are subject to change without notice. Please inform a hotel if you would like to check in after 6 PM.

Extended Stay America Washington DC - Fairfax Fair Oaks

12104 Monument Drive, Fairfax, VA  22033
Phone: (703) 273-3444
Distance from FXUA: 1.6 miles

Special Services & Amenities: Fully equipped kitchen with refrigerator, stovetop, microwave, coffee maker, cooking utensils, dishes, and cutlery, wireless internet access available in all rooms, on-premise coin-operated laundry facility open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, free grab-and-go breakfast, and pet-friendly rooms available.

Rates: All rates below are based on single room unless otherwise designated.
For stays of 1-6 consecutive nights:        $84/night plus tax
For stays of 7-15 consecutive nights:      $75/night plus tax
For stays of 16-29 consecutive nights:      $69/night plus tax
For stays of 30+ consecutive nights:       $55/night plus tax
For stays of 30+ consecutive nights (doubles): $65/night plus tax

To make reservations and get the FXUA discount do the following:

  • Go to http://www.extendedstayamerica.com/
  • Put in Fairfax, VA (at location) and the dates you will need the hotel
  • Under special rates click on “Corporate”
  • The code to put in is: EAFXUA

Extended Stay America Washington DC - Fairfax

3997 Fair Ridge Drive, Fairfax, VA 22033
Phone: (703) 267-6770
Distance from FXUA: 2.7 miles

Special Services & Amenities: Fully equipped kitchen with refrigerator, stovetop, microwave, coffee maker, cooking utensils, dishes, and cutlery, wireless internet access available in all rooms, on-premise coin-operated laundry facility open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, free grab-and-go breakfast, and pet-friendly rooms available.

Rates: All rates below are based on single room unless otherwise designated.
For stays of 1-6 consecutive nights:        $88/night plus tax
For stays of 7-15 consecutive nights:      $79/night plus tax
For stays of 16-29 consecutive nights:    $76/night plus tax
For stays of 30+ consecutive nights:       $62/night plus tax
For stays of 30+ consecutive nights (doubles): $72/night plus tax

To make reservations and get the FXUA discount do the following:

  • Go to http://www.extendedstayamerica.com/
  • Put in Fairfax, VA (at location) and the dates you will need the hotel
  • Under special rates click on “Corporate”
  • The code to put in is: EAFXUA

How can I find housing?

There are many different ways to find housing in the communities surrounding FXUA. If you would like assistance from FXUA’s Housing Department, please email . You may also want to review the information on our website.

When should I start looking for accommodation?

It is best to begin looking for accommodation as soon as you have received your I-20. This will provide you with sufficient time to explore multiple housing options before classes begin. For students looking to secure housing before they arrive in the United States, please note: Not all housing providers will allow you to make arrangements prior to your arrival in the US.

Will temporary housing be available to me while I am searching for accommodations?

Temporary accommodation will not be available on campus while you are searching for a place to stay. However, there are several hotels within walking distance of FXUA that are affordable. Many of these hotels offer special rates to FXUA students. If you wish to book a reservation with the discounted FXUA rate, please visit our page about hotels near FXUA.

How much does housing cost in the Fairfax area?

Please be aware that the cost of living in the US is expensive. The typical student here pays around $500.00 per month to rent a shared apartment. Rental rates depend on the type of housing you choose and vary depending on the quality of the property, the neighborhood, and inclusion or exclusion of furniture and additional expenses in the rental price. To find information about FXUA apartment options, please visit this page.

How far from campus are most housing options?

There are apartments within a 10-20 minute walk from the university. Some students may also choose to live farther away. These students commute to the university by car, train, or bus.There are buses and trains which connect much of the DC/Metro area and the surrounding regions. If you search for a place to live in the areas of Fairfax, Oakton, Annandale, Seven Corners, and Merrifield, Virginia you can take a bus to FXUA. There are several bus lines that you can take which will drop you off within a 10 minute walk of FXUA. The bus routes that you should take include:

1c (Inova Fair Oaks Hospital – Ballston Station)
1Z (Inova Fair Oaks Hospital – Ballston Station)
2G (Fair Oaks Hospital – Ballston Station)
City of Fairfax CUE Bus (Gold Line)

For bus route schedules and timetables, please visit www.wmata.com.There are that are walking distance from the university.

Learn more about the Metro
Learn more about bus service areas

What additional costs should I expect when renting a room or an apartment?

On top of your regular rent, you should anticipate expenses for internet, phone, and utilities. The term “utilities” refers to expenses such as water, gas, and heat. There are some apartments that include heat and water expenses in the price of rent. In other apartments, it is your responsibility to pay for all utilities. You may also be responsible for purchasing furnishings for your room (such as a bed or couch).