Housing options in Toronto for George Brown College students
Location
Most of the accommodation listed with George Brown College (GBC) Housing Services is located within 30 minutes of our campuses in downtown Toronto. Many students prefer to live within walking distance of the college. This saves money and time and also means that students can participate more easily in a variety of campus activities. However, because this accommodation is so popular, it is usually priced somewhat higher and is rented more quickly.
Timing
George Brown has a partnership with Places4Students, and we encourage students to view their listings. Finding an apartment in Toronto can take some time. Apartment listings are generally posted one to two months before they become available. So, if you want to move at the beginning of September, you will want to start looking in July.
Accommodation type
Landlords and students list rooms in shared apartments and houses, as well as private apartments and houses for rent. Sharing accommodation with either a family or another student is the most economical type of student housing. Sometimes a group of students will look for a private apartment or house and then share the rent. Accommodation may be furnished, unfurnished or semi-furnished. Private apartments and houses are usually unfurnished.
Shared accommodation
While most students need to purchase and cook their own food, some listings in this category may indicate that board is available. Although your room may be furnished, you should be prepared to supply your own bedding and towels.
Shared accommodation options
Room: A private bedroom with shared access to only bathroom and kitchen facilities.
Shared apartment or house: A private bedroom with shared access to the kitchen, bathroom, living room, etc.
Semi-private: A private bedroom in a house or apartment with one or more private facilities, i.e., bathroom, kitchen and/or sitting or study area.
Private Accommodation
Private accommodation is self-contained and usually has a private entrance which separates it from the rest of the building. You must be able to lock this entrance.
Private accommodation options
Apartment: A private unit with at least one bedroom, a bathroom, a kitchen, and one or more other rooms, such as a living room.
Bachelor apartment: A private unit with one room for living and sleeping, as well as a bathroom and kitchen area.
House: A complete house for rent.
GBC's student residence
GBC's student residence, The George, features all-inclusive living, with the flexibility of eight-month (fall-winter) and four-month (summer) agreements.
The George houses over 500 students in fully furnished two-bedroom suites that include a kitchenette and three-piece bathroom. The rooms are fully loaded with Wi-Fi, cable television, a flat-screen TV, a phone with local calling, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Our common spaces are second to none, featuring a BBQ patio, large games room, relaxation area with media screens, and study space overlooking downtown Toronto.
Off-Campus Rental Resources
Places4Students
George Brown College has partnered with Places4Students, and we encourage our students to check their listings.
Places4Students provides the following options:
Canada HomeShare
Canada HomeShare™ is facilitated by a team of social workers who prioritize safety and security.
All participants complete a Vulnerable Sector Screening, and all homes undergo a safety check. Social workers provide ongoing support by conducting regular follow-ups and mediation.
In exchange for reduced rent of $400-$600 per month, the student provides up to seven hours of companionship and/or assistance with completing light household tasks, such as preparing and sharing meals, tidying up, carrying groceries, or walking a pet. Additional costs include groceries, internet and utilities.
Homestay
For additional information about homestay services for international students, please contact GBC's International Student Programming Co-ordinator. This type of accommodation is for students only.
4Stay
4Stay is a housing platform for finding off-campus private or shared room accommodations, homestays, and dormitories.
Resources & Contacts
Renters' resources
Student legal services
Students who need legal advice can connect with the Student Association of George Brown College (SAGBC). Lawyers are expensive – especially on a student budget – but they can be a necessary expense.
SAGBC Legal Services is committed to helping students with the following legal matters:
- Landlord and tenant conflict
- Preparing affidavits
- Notarizing
- Family and criminal law & immigration
Students who need help with a legal matter can book an appointment at sagbc.ca/legal.
Student housing support
Students looking for information or assistance in finding housing can contact Housing at housinginfo@georgebrown.ca.
Students can also visit the International Student Services and Housing Hubs at the following locations:
St. James Campus
SJA, 200 King St. E., room 224A
Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Casa Loma Campus
160 Kendal Ave., room C316
Monday to Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
