Housing

OCAD University recognizes that secure and appropriate housing is fundamental to student success, wellbeing, and belonging. As an urban campus, the University recognizes students have many options in the city and within commuting distance. 

The University does not guarantee housing to any student. The University's role is to facilitate access to information, resources, partnerships, and support services that assist students in securing and maintaining housing while pursuing their studies.

The University is committed to:

  • Providing timely, accurate, and accessible housing information to prospective and current students. 
  • Supporting new students in accessing safe, inclusive, and suitable housing options that meet a range of needs and financial circumstances.
  • Maintaining relationships with reputable student housing providers and student residences to expand housing options available to students.
  • Promoting equitable access to housing resources, recognizing the unique needs of international students, Indigenous students, students with disabilities, and students relocating to Toronto.
  • Supporting students experiencing housing precarity through our Financial Aid and Student Wellness services.
  • Working collaboratively with community and industry partners to strengthen housing opportunities for OCAD U students over time. 

Supports for Students Seeking Housing
 

To support students in securing and maintaining housing, OCAD University provides:

Housing Information and Resources

  • A dedicated housing website offering information on student housing options, rental-search strategies, tenant resources, and housing-related guidance.
  • Dedicated staff support for new students through our Admissions & Recruitment Office.

Housing Partnerships

  • Partnerships with independent student residences and housing providers that offer accommodation options for OCAD U students.
  • Promotion of residence-style housing and other accommodation opportunities through University channels.

Student Support Services

  • Guidance and referrals through student support offices for students experiencing housing challenges.
  • Specialized supports for international students transitioning to Toronto and navigating the local housing market.
  • Connections to Indigenous student supports and community resources where housing concerns intersect with cultural, financial, or wellbeing needs. 

Advocacy and Community Partnerships

  • Referrals to the OCAD Student Union, which offers advocacy and legal services, external housing and tenancy resources where specialized advice, advocacy, or legal information is required. 

Continuous Improvement

  • OCAD University will continue to assess student housing needs, explore new partnership opportunities, and strengthen housing supports in response to evolving student needs.

Disclaimer: While OCAD University makes reasonable efforts to provide housing information and connect students with housing resources, the University does not inspect, endorse, guarantee, or assume responsibility for any off-campus accommodation, landlord, housing provider, or rental arrangement. Students are responsible for evaluating housing options and entering into tenancy agreements at their own discretion.