For many international students, accommodation is a deciding factor when choosing where to study. A school that handles it well earns trust before a student even arrives. Let’s learn how to turn the accommodation you offer into something agents actively highlight when recommending your school.

Set clear accommodation standards

Start with a baseline and stick to it. Whether you offer homestay, student residences or partner properties, define what students can expect in terms of cleanliness, facilities, house rules and support. Consistent standards across all options mean fewer complaints, smoother arrivals and a reputation that holds up under scrutiny.

Gather regular student feedback

Your current students are your most reliable quality control. Build in regular, structured feedback on their accommodation experience. Do this not just at the end of a course, but throughout. Acting visibly on that feedback signals to both students and agents that you take the living experience seriously, not just the academic one.

Create detailed accommodation guides

A well-produced accommodation guide removes any uncertainty. Include practical details: what’s provided, what students should bring, how disputes are handled, local transport links and nearby amenities. The more informed a student feels before they arrive, the better their overall experience tends to be.

Show accommodation options visually

Honest, high-quality photography and video walkthroughs of actual student rooms go a long way. Agents often get asked questions about living conditions before anything else, so give them visual content they can share with confidence.

Work with trusted accommodation partners

If you use third-party providers, make sure to vet them carefully and review those relationships regularly. Your school’s reputation extends to every property you recommend and a strong network of reliable partners gives agents (and their clients) the reassurance they need to commit.

Schools that invest in quality accommodation options don’t just retain students; they build the kind of word-of-mouth that agents trust. Ready to strengthen your profile with agents worldwide? Get in touch with Schools & Agents today for more about our membership tiers!

Written by Stephanie Clark