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Housing and Everyday Life

Living in a new country is about more than just classes.  It’s about finding your home and your rhythm. This page will help you get settled and thrive at Idaho State University. Learn about housing options, health insurance requirements, and discover the many clubs and activities that make campus life engaging and fun.

On-Campus Housing

We encourage on-campus housing, particularly for your first year.  For details on ISU's on-campus housing options, go to the ISU Housing page.

Off-Campus Housing

There are many off-campus housing options around and close to the ISU campus, including student complexes and privately owned rental properties.  Download our Housing Resources List (PDF) for a list of apartments in the Pocatello area.  The following resources may also be helpful in finding off-campus units:

Recommended:

Other Options:

The cost of a shared apartment begins at about $250, not including cost of utilities.  Living off-campus alone could cost much more ($500-$1000 per month).  Always be sure to read carefully the stipulations of the contract that comes with renting an apartment.

Please be advised that off-campus Housing doesn't necessarily mean you have to live far from the campus. You can get an off-campus apartment very close to the campus, not owned by ISU. If you find an off-campus apartment far from the campus, please ask the landlord or property management if the apartment falls near a bus stop. Several city buses (with fixed routes and door-to-door) operate regularly and cover many Pocatello areas. You can ride the bus one way with 50 cents and your student ID. You can also get the Bus Pass at a nominal cost. Please see more options here.

Other Helpful Resources

Exploring Utility Costs

Setting up your new home means getting connected—literally. Use In My Area to compare utility providers and find the best options near you. Below are some common services available in the 83201 Pocatello area:

  • Internet Services – Explore providers and plans to stay connected with family, classes, and entertainment.

  • Cable TV Services – Find affordable packages to keep up with your favorite shows and local news.

Health Insurance Information

While Idaho State University does not require you to have health insurance, we strongly encourage you to have it.  U.S. medical costs are very high and can be financially devastating if you have a medical emergency.  Following are just a few insurance companies that provide insurance plans specifically for F-1 and J-1 students and scholars:

Understanding the U.S. Healthcare System

The following resources will help you better understand and navigate the U.S. healthcare system.

Student Clubs

Student clubs play an important role in helping new students feel connected to the campus and with each other.  We highly encourage new international students to look at the various clubs we have on campus and reach out to the club presidency if you are interested in connecting with them. 

There are many culturally based clubs at ISU as well as academic. Some examples include:

  • International Student Association
  • African Student Association
  • Nepalese Student Association
  • Korean Club
  • And many more

Go to the Student Organizations page for more information or go directly to the Club List for a list of available clubs.

Contact Us

ipomail@isu.edu

(208) 282-4320

 
International Programs Office
921 South 8th Avenue Stop 8038
Museum Building 12, Room 426
Pocatello, Idaho, USA 83209-8038

On This Page

Housing
Utility Costs
Health Insurance
Student Clubs