As the new academic year begins, many Egyptian university students are struggling to find affordable off-campus housing. For students like Miary Khaled, who has joined the faculty of pharmacy at Ain Shams University, finding a place to live near campus can be a daunting task. With limited options available, students are often forced to prioritize between affordability and proximity to their university.

The cost of off-campus housing varies greatly depending on the location and amenities provided. In areas close to Ain Shams University, such as Abbassia and Manshiyat Naser, students can expect to pay between 1,000 and 3,300 Egyptian pounds per month for a bed in a shared room. Some accommodations may include utilities and internet, while others may require students to pay for these services separately.

Students are exploring different options to reduce their living costs. Some, like Sara Adel, have opted for a room in a shared apartment near the university, paying 2,500 Egyptian pounds per month for a private room. Others, like Menna Sharif, have chosen to live in a shared room with multiple students, paying 3,300 Egyptian pounds per month for a room that includes all utilities.

The search for affordable housing is not limited to students at Ain Shams University. At Mansoura University, students are also facing challenges finding affordable accommodations. The cost of a bed in a shared room can range from 1,100 to 4,000 Egyptian pounds per month, depending on the location and amenities provided.

Students are calling for more affordable housing options. Many have expressed frustration with the high cost of living, which can be a significant burden on their families. Some students, like Nada Adel, have been forced to commute long distances to attend classes due to the high cost of housing near the university.

The issue of high housing costs is not unique to Mansoura or Ain Shams universities. In Asyut, students are also facing challenges finding affordable off-campus housing, particularly with the influx of students from Sudan. The cost of a bed in a shared room can range from 1,200 Egyptian pounds per month, with prices varying depending on the location and amenities provided.

As the academic year begins, Egyptian university students are facing significant challenges in finding affordable off-campus housing. With rising costs and limited options available, students are being forced to prioritize between affordability and proximity to their university. Key points:

Key points

  • Students face high off-campus housing costs, up to 4,000 Egyptian pounds per month for a room
  • Affordability and proximity to university are major concerns for students
  • Some students forced to commute long distances due to high housing costs near university

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.