Student Housing Policy

Policy Number: CS-1705-2025

Policy Title: Student Housing Policy

Policy Owner: Chief Business Services Officer

Effective Date:

On this page:

  1. Purpose
  2. Application and Scope
  3. Definitions
  4. Principles
  5. Accountability and Compliance
  6. Rules
  7. Policy Revision Date
  8. Attachments

  9. Specific Links

1. Purpose

This policy outlines the college's commitment to supporting students in accessing  student housing options that support a diverse student population. The college aims to enhance student well-being and academic success by delivering comprehensive housing support services in alignment with provincial regulations.

2. Application and Scope

This policy applies to applicants and students enrolled at Mohawk College.

3. Definitions

“Student” is any person who is currently enrolled in a course or program at Mohawk College, or is a confirmed applicant.

4. Principles

4.1 Commitment to Student Housing

The college is committed to:

  • Ensuring students can easily access housing information through online platforms, brochures, and personalized support services.
  • Range of Housing Options: Providing housing solutions that reflect the institution's enrollment levels and meet diverse student needs.
  • Community Engagement: Collaborating with local community partners to balance housing demands and foster positive relationships.
  • Inclusivity: Offering housing that supports the needs of a diverse student body, including accessible and culturally responsive options.

4.2 Institutional Infrastructure to Support Student Housing

The college will:

  • Maintain a dedicated housing webpage that provides easy access to housing resources, contact details, and community information.
  • Provide links to  workshops and information sessions on key topics such as lease agreements, financial planning for housing, and tenant rights.

4.3 Off-Campus Housing Resources

To support students living off-campus, the college will:

  • Partner with reliable third-party housing databases and local landlords to offer vetted housing options.
  • Provide legal and leasing support to help students understand their rights and responsibilities as tenants.
  • Share safety guidelines and best practices for off-campus living to ensure student safety and well-being.

4.4 International Student Housing Support

The college supports the smooth transition and settlement of international students through College staff, who are part of the International Student Recruitment, Retention, and Engagement team.

Key Support Services:

  • Pre-Departure Support: College staff deliver a comprehensive pre-departure webinar series, which includes the following sessions:
    1. Housing and Tenant Rights
    2. Avoiding Scams
    3. Supports for Families with YMCA Settlement
    4. Navigating Canadian Health with Insurance Partners
    5. Employment in Canada

These webinars are recorded and made available on the college’s website for continuous access.

  • Arrival and Transition Services: College staff assist students with settlement tasks, including housing, transportation, banking, and internet setup. They also facilitate welcome and orientation events.
  • Ongoing Support: College Staff offer year-round, one-on-one consultations through drop-ins, providing assistance with housing searches, neighborhood recommendations, landlord communication, and lease reviews.

College staff collaborate with internal services, residence teams, and community organizations to ensure international students are well-supported throughout their academic journey.

5. Accountability and Compliance

5.1 Accountability Framework

This policy has been approved by the Senior Leadership Team. 

5.2 Compliance

The college is committed to transparency in housing operations by:

  • Participating in the annual MCU Student Housing Survey, reporting on housing availability, challenges, and improvements.
  • Attesting compliance with policy requirements, including those related to international student housing support.
  • Tracking new housing developments and regularly updating the Ministry on progress.

6. Rules

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7. Policy Revision Date

7.1 Revision Date

February 2026

7.2 Responsibility

This policy will be reviewed annually to incorporate feedback from students, staff, and community stakeholders. The review process will ensure housing services remain responsive to student needs and aligned with evolving provincial regulations.

8. Attachments

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9. Specific Links

Mohawk College Student Housing

Mohawk College Housing for International Students