Frequently Asked Questions

Please note: Brandeis University does not take responsibility for the actions of any specific realtors, roommate services or companies.

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When should I begin looking for housing?

We recommend you begin your search for housing as early as possible; many students will start apartment hunting as early as April or soon after they matriculate. It's best to sign a lease that starts Aug. 1 or 15 to avoid the stress of moving in during the first week of classes.

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What options do I have for finding a lease that begins in the summer?

Many students are able to find summer sublets (June 1 to Aug. 31) in Waltham and around Boston. Another option is a month-to-month lease that provides the flexibility to terminate the agreement on short notice.

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Do I need a car?

This depends on where you live. Most residents of Waltham, Newton, Porter Square (Cambridge), Davis Square (Somerville) or downtown Boston find a car either unnecessary (because of convenient public transportation) or too difficult or expensive to park. However, we strongly advise Master of Arts in Teaching students to have their own transportation for commuting to and from their off-campus teaching internships.

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Am I permitted to park a car on campus?

Yes. Parking, however, is limited and requires a permit from Brandeis' Department of Public Safety. Campus commuter parking passes are $120 for the academic year. For more information, visit the Office of Parking and Traffic or call 781-736-4250.

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Does the campus operate a bus or shuttle service?

Yes, the university operates bus and van shuttle service on campus and to surrounding areas. Learn more about about on-campus transportation.

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Is graduate student housing available on campus?

Unfortunately, graduate students do not have access to on-campus housing. However, many students are able to find convenient rental housing in Waltham that is only a short car, bus or bike ride from campus.

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Since there is no graduate housing on campus, where should I be looking?

This decision will largely depend on whether or not you have a car, an off-campus job or internship, and other personal factors. To help gain some insight about places to live around Brandeis and Boston, please refer to the main housing page of this website.

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What resources are available to find housing?

Many of our students use the internet to perform their housing search. We offer several resources on the Finding an Apartment page of this website to assist you in your search.

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I'd like to spend a few weeks in the area before classes start. Is short-term housing available?

There are many short-term housing options in the area. We recommend beginning your search at Airbnb.com, Hostels.com or the visitors' section of the Brandeis website.

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What kind of initial expenses should I expect when securing housing?

Some expenses associated with securing rental housing include, but are not limited to:

  • First month's and last month's rent

  • Security deposit (up to one month's rent)

  • Brokers fees for real-estate assistance

  • Moving van or professional movers

  • Storage units

  • Furniture (if leasing unfurnished apartment)

  • Temporary housing

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Should I purchase renters insurance?

Rent insurance is recommended — and usually is less than $15 a month! Renters insurance typically covers liability as well as damage or property losses, including damage due to fire, smoke or storms, or loss due to theft. ConsumerAffairs.com has helpful information to further educate you on the importance of rental insurance, along with reviews of leading insurance companies.