Housing in Florence

The apartment option at Unicollege is perfect for those seeking an independent lifestyle and is a popular choice among students. Apartments in Italy, particularly in historic centers, are located in antique buildings and may differ from those in the student’s home country. They are typically on higher floors without elevators. While Unicollege maintains a standard for all apartments, each one is unique in appearance, style, layout, lighting, bedroom size/number, common space features, and kitchen size/features.

Unicollege’s apartments are situated in various buildings across the city center of Florence and the town of Tuscania, all within walking distance of the school. Standard apartment bedrooms are double occupancy with two single beds in a shared room. Although students can request a single room, availability is limited, and openness to a double room is important. Shared apartments are not co-ed.

All apartments are non-smoking, fully furnished, and equipped with essentials such as bed linen, towels, kitchen utensils, appliances, washing machine, TV, and Wi-Fi. However, they do not have a phone or air conditioning.

The rental period starts on the Housing Check-In Day and ends on the Housing Check-Out Day. Academic Year students must pay rent for both semesters and a single security deposit. Housing is provided for Fall and Spring semesters but not during the winter break.

For two consecutive summer sessions, students must pay rent for each session and a single security deposit. Housing costs cover reserved months, including the one-week break between summer sessions, even if sessions are in different cities.

Unicollege Apartment housing includes rent, repairs not caused by students, average utilities, internet connection, and one cleaning every two weeks per semester. It does not include meals or costs for damages, extra cleaning, or excessive utility consumption.

Any above-average utility costs are deducted from the security deposit and shared among apartment residents. Extra cleaning charges apply if the apartment is not clean on the specified check-out date.

Upon acceptance into their Unicollege program for the semester, students will be provided with the link to the Unicollege Online Housing Application. Upon completion of the housing submission, students will receive an email confirming their housing request.

Following the submission process, students will receive an email from the housing staff containing a Dropbox link. They are required to upload necessary documentation such as passport, flight itinerary, visa (if needed), and payment proof (if applicable as per billing arrangement).

Approximately one week before the term begins, students will receive the following information via email:

• Apartment address, specifying roommates and apartment mates
• Details regarding Housing Check-In
• The most up-to-date information on travel requirements for entry into Italy

Unicollege prioritizes the safety and comfort of its students in shared living arrangements, aiming to provide the necessary information for maintaining a high standard of residential experience. The following guidelines are specifically for students residing in shared apartments through Unicollege:

1. Housing Issues and Emergency Numbers:
   • Students should save contact details of landlords or agencies received upon arrival.
   • In case of housing issues, contact the landlord directly and inform the student advisor. For emergencies outside office hours, use the provided LdM emergency cell phone number.
2. Locked Doors:
   • Always deadbolt the lock when leaving the apartment for security.
   • When inside, deadbolt the lock and remove the key from the lock. The entrance doors do not lock automatically.
3. Keys:
   • Do not keep the apartment address on the key ring or written anywhere.
   • Check for keys before leaving; contact the landlord or agency for lost keys.
4. Noise:
   • Avoid making noise after 11:00 p.m. to respect neighbors.
   • Parties are not allowed; maintain quietness in stairwells and apartments.
5. Overnight Guests:
   • Per the leasing agreement and Italian law, overnight guests are not permitted.
6. Utilities:
   • Respect energy conservation, use washers after 8:00 p.m., and turn off appliances when not in use to avoid excess charges.
7. Heating System:
   • Heating can be used from Nov. 1 to April 15, up to 10 hours a day at 20 degrees Celsius. Contact the landlord for thermostat adjustments.
8. Proper Ventilation:
   • Ventilate apartments daily, especially in historic structures. Leave the bathroom window open after a shower to prevent mildew.
9. Waste System:
   • Adhere to waste separation rules and use the correct bins to avoid fines. Detailed waste separation information is provided upon arrival.

These guidelines aim to enhance the safety, well-being, and responsible living practices of students in shared accommodations.