WEST Program

Accommodations

Securing and paying for housing in New York City is the responsibility of each CDS WEST participant for the entire program. In order to make your search simpler, CDS makes arrangements for WEST participants with two housing providers in New York City: Sara’s Homestay and Educational Housing Services.

Alternatively, participants are welcome to use the private housing market, as most American students in New York do. Housing in New York City, and especially in Manhattan, is expensive, and participants should plan to bring US$2000 per month in personal funds to cover expenses for the duration of their stay in the U.S.

Please note that CDS WEST participants are required to confirm housing for at least the first two weeks in New York (August 24–September 6) before arriving in the U.S.

Sara’s Homestay

Sara’s Homestay offers furnished rooms in private homes and shared apartments throughout New York City. This is an excellent option for WEST participants who are self-reliant and flexible. Conditions will differ from one situation to the next, but all will include a private bedroom (if a single is booked), a bed with sheets, a pillow, towels and blankets, a closet, and a desk with chair where possible.

A light self-serve breakfast is also included in all home placements. Bathrooms may be shared with the host, and kitchen access will be permitted for light cooking. Executive singles include additional amenities.

Rates are charged per week and vary according to the number of weeks booked. Here are some sample rates in Manhattan. Further information is provided on their website. Please note that although the option for housing in Manhattan Below 115th Street is more expensive, these locations will be more convenient to Hunter College in most cases.

Guests at Sara’s Homestay are required to pay a US$200 deposit when booking their stay. This deposit will be applied to rates listed above.

Educational Housing Services

Educational Housing Services (EHS) specializes in housing services for students and interns in New York City.

EHS rents accommodations by the U.S. academic semester. Round 4 WEST participants who would like to stay in EHS residences should book the fall term (August 28–December 23) and may add on four nights beginning with the Round 4 arrival date, August 24. Single, double, or triple rooms with or without a kitchenette are available. Prices range from approximately $800 to $1650 per month for furnished rooms, including utilities, cable television, and internet service. Please book early to ensure availability.

Further information is provided on the EHS website. Should you require additional information, you may it request it there and a housing representative will call you to assist your search.

Please note that EHS charges a $200 membership fee.

Short-term stays

For short-term stays at budget prices, CDS recommends the YMCAs in Manhattan, where rates start as low as $18 per night. Please note that YMCA accommodations are very basic and include a shared bathroom.

If you would like to stay in a hotel for the first several days in New York, one reliable option is Expedia, a U.S.-based travel website.