Housing & Storage

As you prepare for your study abroad experience, you'll need to make arrangements for your current housing and belongings. Planning ahead ensures a smoother transition and helps avoid unnecessary costs.

Important: Financial aid (including scholarships, grants, and loans) cannot cover your Evanston housing costs while you're abroad.

Watch the video from Northwestern Off-Campus Life for tips on handling your living arrangements while abroad:

On-Campus Housing

Canceling Your Housing Contract

To request cancellation of your room and board:

Visit the Residential Services' Housing Portal.
Submit a cancellation request.
Wait for review of your request.

Questions?

Email the Residential Services at housing@northwestern.edu

Greek Housing

For Sigma Alpha Iota and Phi Mu Alpha: Follow the steps above
For all other Greek housing: Contact your fraternity or sorority directly

Off-Campus Housing

Subletting Your Apartment

If you need to sublet for a quarter or longer, you can advertise your space through:

Northwestern's Off-Campus Life - post free sublet ads
hostU - a subletting platform created by Northwestern students

Storage Options

In Your Building

If keeping or subletting your apartment, check with your property manager about storage options in your building.

External Storage

Many storage companies around Evanston and Chicago offer spaces of different sizes for monthly rental. You can rent anything from a small locker to a large room, depending on how much you need to store. A quick search for "self storage near me" will help you find options that fit your needs.

When choosing a storage option, consider:

Security and climate control features
Location and accessibility
Cost and size options
Whether you need pickup/delivery services

Pro tips:

Book early: spaces fill up quickly at the end of quarters
Consider sharing storage with friends
Take photos and inventory of your items
Label your belongings clearly
Avoid storing valuables if possible