Housing
Prior to departure, you'll find and arrange your housing for the program. You can either apply to have the University of Alicante Housing Services staff manage the accommodation search for you, or you can refer to UA's list of housing resources to get your started on a search. The location and type of accommodations you choose is a personal decision based on your preferences, lifestyle, and budget. Some other things to consider:
When to book housing
Plan to book your housing about 2-3 months in advance of the program. This timeframe should enable you to find a variety of available options. Spend time learning about the city and figuring out which neighborhoods may be a good fit for your lifestyle.
Where do most students live
The University of Alicante campus is located in San Vicente del Raspeig, a suburb to the north of Alicante's city center. Most students will live near the city center and commute to campus. Living in Alicante allows you to easily visit the sites of the city when you’re not in class. Spending time on campus on the days you have class is a great way to participate in student activities and language exchanges, use the recreational facilities, and make friends.
How long is the commute
Keep in mind that commuting is very typical and it isn't unusual to have a 30-minute commute. The city and the surrounding areas are very well connected via public transportation. Familiarize yourself with public transportation options and check out routes from your potential housing to campus, so you can make sure you have a fairly direct route.
Accommodations
If you seek to work on your Spanish skills, put yourself out of your comfort zone in everyday situations, or meet people, then any housing situation can lend itself to meeting these goals.
Homestays
Homestays can provide daily Spanish language practice and a link to the local culture. When looking for a homestay, it’s important to know what you’re looking for and communicate that with the homestay coordinator so they can do their best to match you with a host. Some homestays will be very welcoming and include you in family meals and activities. Some will feel more like you’re renting a room. Some may be a family with younger or teen children, some may be a couple or a single person with grown children who have moved out and they are now renting the rooms either for a connection with students or for financial reasons.
Dorms
Residence halls are a great option for international students because the environment provides opportunities to engage with peers, which can help you settle into life in a new country and interact with students from around the world.
Apartments
Shared apartments can expose you to new ways of living and expand your social network. Select a single-room apartment for maximum independence and the opportunity to shape your own experience.
Resources
The program is running for the first time in 2025-26, so while you won't find past or current UCEAP students who can share their experiences and challenges they faced finding housing in Alicante. Here are resources to help your search:
- UCEAP Discord and TikTok are great places to connect with your peers and see if there are any students in your program looking for roommates.
- You can contact University of Alicante Housing Services if you have questions about housing or want to browse their services and resources. They may be able to help set expectations for your experience.