Study Abroad in São Paulo: Housing and Meals

Students select one of two options for housing before leaving the U.S. They can live in a student apartment or stay in a Brazilian home (seldom in the center of town). The Resident Director makes every effort to accommodate students' choices.

Homestays

The homestay experience can be the most rewarding part of a student's time abroad. It is the best way to learn Portuguese, get involved in the culture and integrate into the local community. Patience, respect and an open mind are essential to success. Living in a homestay situation demands a great amount of flexibility on the part of the student. Students are paying guests in a Brazilian home and are likely to be housed with a single woman or professional couple. Students are seldom housed with families with young children. Students usually have a double room, shared with another AIFS student, in an apartment or house. In many homes, students have the use of only the bedroom, bathroom and limited use of the kitchen. Most private homes do not have Internet facilities. There is privacy for study, yet a certain amount of contact with Brazilian hosts. Homestays are limited and subject to availability. Meals are not included.

Student apartments

Student apartments are located near the university and have a kitchenette, bathroom and twin-bedded accommodation.

Meals

Students receive an allowance toward the purchase of breakfast and lunch or dinner from Monday through Friday. This is a subsidy and will not cover the cost of meals in expensive restaurants. For lunch, students tend to gather at the University cafeteria.