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Housing

Host Families

Students can live with host families arranged by a non-profit organization known as the American Cultural Exchange Service (ACES). Living with a host family offers a unique chance to practice English, discover US culture and family life, and share your own culture. Each ACES host family provides: 

  • A friendly local host who wants you to be part of their daily life.
  • A private bedroom, access to a study area, and internet access. You might share a bathroom with other household members or guests.
  • Three meals per day. You will make your own breakfast and lunch, with ingredients provided by your host. Dinner will be together with one or more household members most evenings.
  • Public transportation will be within walking distance of the home. 
  • Orientation materials with information about the local area and practical advice on how to get ready for your cross-cultural experience.
  • ACES staff support for you and your host throughout the application process, in your preparation, and during your homestay.
  • Local transportation to and from the Portland International Airport or other Portland area location at the beginning and end of your homestay.

Costs 

The ACES homestay program has the following costs:

  • Placement Fee: $390 (non-refundable)
  • Weekly Fee: $235
  • Term Fee: $2,350 (estimate for a 10-week term; terms vary in length)

Apply for a homestay

To apply for a homestay, please contact ACES after you are accepted to MHCC and at least 45 days before your arrival. You must be at least 18 years old to participate in a homestay program.

For more information about ACES homestays visit the ACES Website,  call 503-673-6898, or email ACES homestays.

Apartments for Rent

There are many apartment buildings near campus and in the Gresham community on the local bus line. There are many ways to find an apartment:

  • Search online at websites like "For Rent," "Apartment Guide," or "Roommate Finder".
  • View more resources on housing help.
  • Ask other students.
  • Check the local newspaper: Gresham Outlook or the Oregonian, select rentals.

Room rental and apartment rental fees vary depending on location and amenities. In addition to the monthly rental fee, you must also consider the additional costs of renting an apartment. Some apartments will require you to pay for your own electricity, water, and sewer bills. Also, most apartments are without furniture so you must figure the cost of buying furniture and household items into the initial cost of your apartment.

Once you have found a suitable apartment be sure to do the following:

  • Be prepared to pay a non-refundable application fee.
  • Read the rental agreement and do not sign it if there is something you do not understand.
  • Find out how much the security deposit is.
  • Find out how much the monthly rent will be and when it is due.

Ask the landlord the following questions, or review their answers in the lease agreement:

  • Is there a grace period if you do not have the rent money on the exact day? Are there penalties?
  • Will you have to pay for your own water and sewer or is it included in the rent?
  • Will you have to pay your own electricity?
  • What about garbage pick-up?
  • Are there any other monthly charges?

When you move in, be sure to check each room carefully for damages and things that are broken. Write down anything that needs repair. They should give you a checklist for this. Be sure to get a signed copy of the checklist.

When you pay the rent, pay by check or credit card. If you must pay in cash, be sure to get a receipt.