Sections
Housing
ALPS does not arrange for housing on students’ behalf. You should arrange housing yourself, but ALPS staff can assist you if you have any questions!
Our friendly staff is very happy to answer your questions about housing and help you with the process.
We strongly advise that you secure your housing before you leave your home country. It can be very difficult and expensive to arrange housing in Seattle at the last minute!
Homestays
In a homestay, you stay with an American family in their home. Homestays can be a great way to learn more about American culture and practice English outside of class. You stay in a private room in a homestay. Most homestays include some meals.
The cost of a homestay generally depends on its location. Homestays closer to the center of Seattle cost more. For most homestays, you pay a one-time placement fee to the homestay agency, and then pay a monthly stipend directly to your host family. Most monthly stipends are $750-950 per month.
Most homestays are 40-60 minutes away from the school by public transit.
You should apply for a homestay as early as possible, because availability can be limited.
ALPS recommends the following homestay agencies:
Intercultural Homestays
Phone: +1 206-367-5332
USA International
Phone: +1 425-483-5974
Japanese-speaking staff available
Airport pickup is available from these agencies for an additional fee. Taxis, ride-shares, and public transportation options are also available from the airport.
If you have questions about homestays, talk to our friendly staff! We are happy to advise you.
Apartments and Shared Housing
Neighborhoods close to ALPS
ALPS is located in Seattle’s central Capitol Hill neighborhood. Our address is 430 Broadway E, Seattle, WA.
Capitol Hill has many apartments for rent. If you prefer to live close to the school, try to find an apartment in Capitol Hill or in one of its surrounding neighborhoods:
South Lake Union
First Hill
Belltown
Montlake (NOT Montlake Terrace!)
Madrona Park
Eastlake
Central District
Websites to find apartments
Apodment.com
Apartment Finder
PadMapper
Rent.com
Watch out for scams! Never send a landlord money before you meet them in person. Never sign a lease before you see the apartment in person.
Furnished and unfurnished apartments
Most apartments are rented unfurnished (= without furniture). Be sure to check the apartment listing to see if it is furnished or unfurnished.
Utilities
It is common in the United States for renters to be responsible for certain utilities in addition to rent. Utilities can include internet, electricity, water, gas, garbage, Internet, and more. Be sure to check the apartment listing to see which utilities you are responsible for.
How to apply for an apartment
The usual procedure for applying for an apartment is the following:
- Contact the property manager for an in-person showing. You can see the apartment building, the inside of the apartment, and ask questions. Do not send an apartment manager money before you see the apartment in person.
- Fill out a rental application. Usually there is an application fee for a credit or background check. You may need to provide a copy of your I-20.
- Put down a deposit to reserve the apartment. Do not pay a deposit before you see the apartment in person.
- Sign a lease (= housing rental contract) that stipulates the terms of the rental, including the amount of rent and other rules.
Roommates and shared apartments
Roommates and shared housing arrangements can be a great way to save money, make friends, and get extra English practice.
USA International is a local agency that will find a shared house or apartment for you for a placement fee.
Dormitory-Style Housing
The American Hotel provides dormitory-style accommodation.
Dormitory-style student housing is available in shared or private rooms. This housing is only available in the fall, winter, and spring months.
The American Hotel is conveniently located in Seattle’s Chinatown / International District, and is just a few stops away from the school by light rail.
Short-Term Housing
You can rent a private room or an entire apartment. Be sure to check the location on Google Maps to see how close your AirBnb is to ALPS.
Dormitory-style housing is available for a maximum of 14 days.
