The Tower, Ottawa

Ottawa student housing provides residents with lifestyles, atmosphere, and budgets as per their preferences. Whether you prefer social living spaces or the privacy of your studio, there’s something for everyone. Here's a quick guide to the room types available for student housing Ottawa:

1. Ensuite Rooms

Perfect for those craving a mix of privacy and social vibes, ensuite rooms when it comes to Ottawa housing options it offers a private bedroom and bathroom. Shared kitchen and living spaces add a dash of community spirit.

2. Non-Ensuite Rooms

A wallet-friendly option, these private bedrooms in Ottawa student apartments share the bathroom, kitchen, and lounge. Ideal for students cool with communal spaces but needing their personal retreat.

3. Studio Apartments

Your own world in one space! Studios in Ottawa offer a private setup with no shared areas; just you, your bedroom, bathroom, and mini kitchen.

4. 1-Bed or 2-Bed Apartments

These are roomy and perfect for one or two roommates. Separate bedrooms with shared common spaces bring a blend of privacy and chill roommate vibes.

5. Shared Apartments

A go-to for social butterflies, shared apartments in Ottawa combine private rooms with communal areas. It’s the best of both worlds for students who enjoy connecting with others.

6. Private Rooms

For those who like their space but still want shared amenities, private rooms provide a cozy corner to call your own while keeping the communal experience alive.

Thinking about studying in Ottawa? Understanding the living expenses in Ottawa for international students is important to plan a budget and enjoy student life without any financial stress. Ottawa offers an excellent quality of life, but it’s important to be prepared. On average, international students in Ottawa can expect to spend anywhere from CA$1,200 to CA$1,500 per month, excluding rent for Ottawa student housing. Here’s a breakdown of what your monthly expenses might look like:

1. Food & Groceries: CA$250 to CA$350/ month

2. Transportation: CA$100 to CA$120/ month

3. Utilities (including internet): CA$150 to CA$200/ month

4. Clothing: CA$50 to CA$100/ month

5. Sports & Leisure: CA$50 to CA$100/ month

Ottawa being one of the best cities in Canada for abroad studies; is incredible and student-friendly when it comes to getting around. Whether you're commuting to class, hanging out with friends, or checking popular spots, Ottawa has a smooth public transport system that makes it easy to navigate. Additionally, there are a bunch of options to keep travel costs low, with student discounts available for more affordability. Here's your ultimate guide to student travel in Ottawa:

1. Buses

Ottawa’s bus network is one of the most reliable and budget-friendly ways to get around the city. Operated by the OC Transpo system, buses serve all major neighborhoods, including Sandy Hill, Centretown, and Old Ottawa South. For students, the U-Pass offers a major discount and is available for just CA$45 per month, making it the most affordable option for full-time students. The bus network covers outlying areas like Kanata and Nepean, so no matter where you’re living, you’re likely near a bus stop.

2. Light Rail Transit (LRT)

Ottawa’s LRT is the fastest way to get around the city. The O-Train is efficient and connects major areas, including Rideau Centre and Ottawa University. The LRT also links to Tunney’s Pasture, Bayview, and Bells Corners, offering fast access to outlying areas. A single ride on the LRT costs around CA$3.60, but students can get a monthly pass for CA$116. The Confederation Line is the main LRT line, and its stations are spread across the city, with a major stop at Ottawa U (University of Ottawa), making it ideal for commuting to campus from their Canadian accommodation for students.

3. Cycling

Ottawa is an incredibly bike-friendly city, with hundreds of kilometers of bike lanes, paths, and scenic routes. BIXI Ottawa offers a flexible bike-sharing program that’s great for short trips across downtown and to nearby Ottawa student housing areas. A monthly membership with BIXI costs about CA$25, with the option to pay CA$3 per trip if you prefer not to commit to a membership.

4. Taxis & Ride-Sharing Services

For students who need more flexibility or have luggage, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a popular option. Starting fares are typically around CA$7 to CA$10 for short trips, with costs increasing depending on distance and time.

5. Ottawa River Ferry (Seasonal)

Ottawa River Ferry offers a seasonal route between Ottawa and Gatineau, providing stunning views of Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, and other key landmarks. A CA$3 fare each way is the standard cost for a one-way trip. The ferry operates seasonally, typically in the summer months, and connects the Ottawa downtown core to the Quebec side of the river.

6. Electric Scooters (Seasonal)

During warmer months, electric scooters are available through services like Lime and Bird. These scooters are perfect for short-distance travel around downtown or between student housing in Ottawa and local hotspots. It’s a fun, quick, and eco-friendly way to zip around the city. CA$1 to unlock, plus CA$0.40 per minute of riding.

Ottawa is not just the capital of Canada; it’s a city that offers students an exciting experience of culture, green spaces, and adventurous activities. With its famous history, aesthetic arts scene, and an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, Ottawa is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you want to enjoy the local food scene, explore museums or galleries, you’ll find a whole lot to do in this precious city.

1. Dining & Nightlife

Ottawa is known for its food scene that serves all tastes, from local Canadian flavors to international cuisines. Don't miss out on trying the famous BeaverTails, a sweet Canadian pastry available in the market. For a cozy atmosphere, Elgin Street offers plenty of clubs and pubs for a night out with friends. If you’re into live music, The Manx and Mercury Lounge are popular spots that showcase indie performances.

2. Cultural Events & Festivals

Ottawa is a city that thrives on festivals and cultural events throughout the year. Winterlude, held every winter, is a celebration of all things snowy, including ice sculptures, skating on the Rideau Canal, and winter games. If you're a fan of cinema, the Ottawa International Film Festival showcases both Canadian and international films. For lovers of the arts, the National Arts Centre (NAC) regularly hosts performances ranging from ballet to musical concerts and theater productions.

3. Adventure and Green Spaces

For students who love outdoor adventures, Ottawa offers green spaces and recreational activities. Gatineau Park is a vast natural area where students can go hiking, cycling, and even cross-country skiing in winter. Ottawa offers boating, cycling, and kayaking during the warmer months. Jacques-Cartier Park and the many green spaces along the Ottawa River are perfect spots for picnics and relaxation.

4. Shopping

Ottawa offers a mix of traditional retail shopping and local boutique finds. For a more mainstream shopping experience, the Rideau Centre is home to major brands like Apple, H&M, and Zara, making it a popular destination for students looking to shop in the heart of the city. For something a little more offbeat, the Westboro Village area is known for its independent boutiques, local cafes, and art galleries.

5. Museums & Art Galleries

Ottawa is rich in cultural institutions, and for students with an interest in art, history, and culture, the city offers plenty of options. The National Gallery of Canada is one of the country's most prestigious galleries. The Canadian War Museum is another key cultural institution, providing insight into Canada’s military history through detailed exhibits on WWI, WWII, and modern conflicts. For a more natural experience, the Canadian Museum of Nature offers exhibits on wildlife, dinosaurs, and the country’s natural history.

6. Sports & Recreation

Ottawa is an ideal city for sports lovers, with numerous opportunities to stay active throughout the year. During the winter months, the Ottawa Senators hockey team plays at the Canadian Tire Centre, where you can catch an exciting NHL game. For those interested in more casual sports, Ottawa has tennis courts and soccer fields scattered throughout the city, including at Laurier Park and Ottawa Athletic Club.

Ottawa is home to some of Canada’s top-ranked universities, offering exceptional academic opportunities and a wonderful student experience. Whether you're looking for innovative programs, research excellence, or a strong campus culture, Ottawa has it all. Here’s a look at the top universities in the city that attract students from around the world:

1. University of Ottawa

The University of Ottawa (QS Rank #238) is one of Canada's leading bilingual institutions, offering programs in both English and French. Ranked #238 globally in the QS World University Rankings, it is known for its research opportunities and strong academic reputation. The university offers over 450 programs, making it a popular choice for international students. Its location in the downtown area provides easy access to student housing Ottawa options such as Envie Little Italy 1, with places like Sandy Hill being within walking distance.

2. Carleton University

Carleton University, ranked between #601-650 globally by QS, is renowned for its research-driven programs and strong ties to both government and industry. It is a prime destination for students pursuing careers in public administration, engineering, and social sciences. Carleton is also known for its teaching and research facilities, especially in fields like aerospace engineering and international affairs. For nearest Ottawa student accommodation, options such as Envie Little Italy 1 and Lees Ave are popular.

3. Collège La Cité

While Collège La Cité is not ranked in the QS World Rankings, it is an essential educational institution for students pursuing applied arts and technology. Located just west of downtown Ottawa, the college offers a wide range of diplomas and apprenticeship programs. It is one of the largest colleges in Ontario, with a strong focus on career-oriented education. For students attending Algonquin, student accommodation Ottawa like Robinson Village are popular choices.