Make a budget to determine what type of housing you can afford. If you're going to live in a residence hall, you must pay for both the fall and spring semesters individually. An apartment requires you to pay rent each month. Cost of living in an area dictates apartment prices, and dorm costs vary from one school to another and from dorm to dorm.
Find a roommate if you don't want to live alone or want to split the financial burden with someone. Many times students rent a house close to school and split the costs evenly for each roommate. This gives each student more space than living in a dorm, while keeping costs lower for rent, heat and electricity.
Organize your belongings. If moving into a small room or shared space, you may not be able to fit everything you own in the space you will have. Decide what is important to bring with you and what is better left stored in the attic or basement. If you have a roommate or roommates, consult with them on common items such as televisions, refrigerators and microwaves.
Find a job. You need to pay for your housing expenses, but also take into account gas or public transit costs, money for fun and clothes, school supplies, food and household items such as garbage bags and toilet paper. If you get financial aid, budget it out on a monthly basis to ensure you have enough for all expenses. Many times you can get a job on campus in the library or computer lab that works around your schedule.
Investigate transportation options. Consider how you will get to work or school. If you are close to school or work, you may be able to walk. If you will travel some distance, you will need a car or a bike. If you have a roommate with a vehicle, consider splitting gas and carpooling if possible.