Arranging Your Own Accommodation/Guarantors

1. Finding Accommodation Other than Keio University's Student Dormitories

There are many international students who live in accommodation other than Keio University's student dormitories. The main types of accommodation are as follows:

(1) Private student housing (gakusei kaikan)
(2) Private apartments for rent
(3) Share houses
(4) Monthly (short-term) apartments
(5) Homestay

The characteristics of each type of accommodation are described below:

(1) Private Student Housing (gakusei kaikan)
There are various types of private student housing, including dormitory- and apartment-style facilities. While these are known by various terms such as "student dormitories" and "student apartments," they are collectively referred to here as "student housing" (gakusei kaikan). There are several companies that operate student housing facilities, and many of them are located within commuting distance of our campuses. Almost all student housing facilities accept international students--in these facilities, students from various universities live together. Student housing facilities are fully furnished and equipped with appliances so students can begin living in them immediately after moving in. Some student housing facilities also offer meal plans. Student housing contracts are generally offered on a yearly basis.

(2) Private Apartments for Rent
Rental contracts for general apartments are negotiated and signed with a real estate agent acting as an intermediary. To sign a contract, a security deposit, key money, and agency fees, among other miscellaneous fees, are required, so you will need to prepare an amount equivalent to about four to five months' rent in advance. In addition, students must purchase and install their own furniture and appliances as necessary for daily living. You will also need to set up contracts for utilities with the gas, electric and water companies on your own. Furthermore, when signing a rental contract, you are required to have a guarantor or use a guarantor company (see below for details on guarantors). Rent in central areas tends to be expensive, so most students prefer to live in more affordable areas within an hour's commute from campuses located in the city center. Generally, rental contracts for private apartments are signed on a two-year basis. Since rental contracts are complicated and many real estate agents are not proficient in English, it is recommended that you bring someone who is fluent in Japanese to facilitate the negotiation process when visiting a real estate agency.

(3) Share Houses
Share houses have shared toilet and shower facilities, but are equipped with all the furniture, appliances, and facilities necessary for daily living. The rent is also relatively inexpensive compared to other forms of accommodation. Most share houses allow a minimum stay of at least one month.

(4) Monthly (Short-Term) Apartments
These apartments are fully furnished and equipped with appliances. You can sign a contract for a minimum of one month. Monthly Contract plan suitable for stays of less than one year costs more per month than Rental Contract plan for stays of one year or longer.

(5) Homestay
Please check Homestay page.

2. Guarantor, Comprehensive Renter's Insurance for International Students "Ryuhosyo"

In general, when renting a private apartment in Japan, you need a guarantor to cosign the contract with you. Alternatively, you may use a rent guarantor company in lieu of a guarantor. The rent guarantor company will be introduced by the real estate agent who is acting as an intermediary for your contract. It becomes the guarantor's responsibility to pay the rent on behalf of the tenant if the tenant is unable to do so. It is not easy for an international student to find someone who is willing to take on such a financial responsibility.

When a guarantor cannot be found, it is possible for Keio University to cosign the lease for the period of study at Keio University. In order for the university to cosign the lease, it is necessary for students to join the Comprehensive Renter's Insurance for International Students "Ryuhosyo".

There are various conditions and screening processes for Keio University to cosign the lease.

There are also other conditions to be considered during screening. Since your application might not be approved, please contact the university well in advance - at least two weeks before your desired move-in date.

*Please note that the university does not accept applications from overseas because a direct interview with the applicant is required to confirm the conditions. Please make an appointment in advance by email.
*If you use a rent guarantor company, Keio University cannot cosign the lease.
*If you wish to make an inquiry, please contact the housing coordinator by email with the following information:
Your name, Affiliated undergraduate faculty or graduate school, Year, Student ID number, Keio ID(XXXXX@keio.jp)

3. Things to Do When Moving

When moving, make sure to do the following:

(1) Settle all outstanding bills at your previous accommodation including rent, gas, electricity, water, telephone, etc.
(2) Notify the post office of your new address by filling out the designated relocation form. *Your mail will be forwarded to your new address for one year after moving out.
(3) You must also notify the City (Ward) Office in the areas of your previous and new addresses within 14 days of moving out (tenshutsu) and moving in (tennyū). Change the address on your Residence Card and National Health Insurance Card at the City (Ward) Office of your new residence within 14 days of moving.
(4) Notify Keio university of your new address.