Milan Course Preregistration Update

Course pre-registration for Spring 2025 Milan programs has been rescheduled. All students will be informed of the new date soon.

Milan Housing Accommodations

Jules Katz headshot
Jules Katz
October 23, 2023

So, you're considering staying in a dorm, an apartment, or a homestay. Which choice do you choose? You're probably overthinking which option is the greatest, and I'm here to give you the honest answers): It may be a little biased because I live on the 10th floor in a dorm and am sharing my friends' thoughts and experiences, but hopefully, this list of pros and cons will help you make your final decision!

Milan Studio Apartment/Dorms

Pros: 

  • The majority of IES Abroad students will reside here, making socializing, group work, and going out easy! 
  • Having your own space to relax in when adjusting to a new setting is extremely beneficial.
  • Comes with a private kitchen, bathroom, desk, and table. The room also includes cooking basics such as pots, pans, bowls, plates, glasses, silverware, and so on.
  • Cleaning services are available at IES Abroad Milan…need I say more?
    • This includes garbage removal, change of your towel & linens, and cleaning of the bathroom, floor, and counter surfaces.
  • Central location so you’ll have an easy commute using public transportation.
  • Common spaces are nice and clean.
    • Includes a gym, a cinema, a game area, a laundry facility, and study rooms!

Cons:

  • Living alone in a new place can be isolating at times.
    • However, there are floor events in the first few weeks, so you can get to know people on your floor.
  • Pay an additional $1500 charge
  • Guest policy is strictly imposed. Guests from outside of Aparto are allowed till 7 p.m.
  • There is no meal plan, so you must cook...unless you eat out every night.
  • Must pay for laundry.

Milan Apartments

Pros and cons, depending on who you are and how you look at it!

  • "Family style," with 4-8 other IES Abroad students living with you.
  • There are always people to come home to.
  • Sharing your kitchen and your living space.
    • I've heard that cooking can sometimes be cramped and difficult. 
  • Could live in a single or double room.
  • More affordable (prices might range from $750 to free)
  • Because fewer students will be in your building, it may be more challenging to mingle and work with other program/dorm students.

Homestays

Pros:

  • Living with an Italian family provides a cultural insight.
  • Saving money on groceries with home-cooked meals.
  • Most cost-efficient option.
  • Family support system—have people to come home to who genuinely care!
    • They are able to show you around the city and the greatest local spots. 
  • You are more likely to become fluent in Italian since you will be exposed to it.
  • In-home washing machine.

Cons:

  • Reduced privacy, making you feel like a guest in the house. 
    • Living with someone else's family can be challenging since you don't fully feel at home.
  • Sharing household responsibilities and chores.
    • (Depending on the family) could have parental rules or restrictions.
  • Farther commute to classes and anyone who lives in the dorms/apartments.
  • You may feel more isolated from the people in your program.
    • However, you will have other homestay students in the same situation!
    • Everyone has classes together so you’ll be able to meet friends. 

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My thoughts and feelings throughout my final days in Milan and my first few days back in the United States.

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Jules Katz headshot

Jules Katz

I am a Gender Studies student at Skidmore College :) I'm a graphic designer for Lunchbox, a lovely school magazine incorporating fashion, art, and writing. I also love to bullet journal, listen to music, take photos, create art, and dance!

Home University:
Skidmore College
Major:
Gender Studies
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