Housing Guide for International Students

Welcome to Kazakhstan! 🇰🇿

Welcome to Kazakhstan, to the beautiful city of Almaty, and... well, to Kaskelen! 😁

As an international student, I understand that adjusting to a new environment can be challenging. New people, different culture, unfamiliar surroundings, and of course, the question of where to live. Don't worry - I've got you covered!

Housing Options

1. SDU Student House (Dormitory) 🏠

The Safe and Social Choice

Why Choose the Dorm?

Perfect for freshmen new to Kazakhstan
Located just 30 meters from campus
Safe and supervised environment
Great way to make friends and adapt to student life

Facilities & Services:

4 blocks (A-B for girls, C-D for boys)
4 students per room
Daily bathroom cleaning
Weekly deep room cleaning (vacuum etc.)
Table tennis facilities
Sports facilities nearby (football field, volleyball & basketball courts)
24/7 security

Room Amenities:

4 beds
2 writing desks
4 storage cupboards
4 bookshelves

Dining Options:

Dinner included in dorm fee (may vary yearly)
Optional breakfast tickets available
Canteen open until 10-11 PM
Lunch not provided

Important Rules:

Curfew: 10 PM (summer), 9 PM (winter)
Lights out at 11 PM
Operating hours: 6 AM - 10 PM

Required Documents:

4 photos (3х4)
Copy of medical report 075 (from any Kazakh clinic)
Copy of identity card
Copy of payment receipt (Kaspi or Halyk Bank accepted)

Social Life:

Welcome parties
Cinema events
Dormitory football cup
Student house parties
Mountain picnics
Workshops
Holiday celebrations

2. Private Accommodation 🏢

For Those Who Value Independence

If dormitory life isn't your style (we get it - sharing a room with 3 others isn't for everyone), here are alternative options:

Recommended Websites & Channels for Apartment Hunt:

Krisha KZ
SDU Housing
Olx KZ - there are many fake ads(be careful)

⚠️ Important Safety Tips:

Always inspect properties in person
Sign legal rental agreements
Keep copies of all documents
Never pay without proper documentation
Consider location and commute time to SDU
Check utility costs and inclusion in rent
Verify security measures

3. Other Options 🤪

While I don't recommend these, technically you could...

Camp in a tent on campus (just kidding, please don't)
Build an igloo (also not recommended)
Live in a yurt (traditional, but maybe not practical)

Final Tips

Budget Planning:
- Consider all costs (rent, utilities, food)
- Factor in transportation expenses
- Plan for unexpected expenses
Location Considerations:
- Distance to SDU
- Access to public transportation
- Proximity to shops and amenities
- Safety of the neighborhood
Cultural Notes:
- Rental practices might differ from your home country
- Some landlords might not speak English
- Consider having a local friend help with negotiations

I wish you a comfortable stay and successful academic journey at SDU! Remember, wherever you choose to live (except the tent 😉), make sure it supports your studies and wellbeing.

Housing Guide