FAQs
FAQs
What Is CASA?
CASA was born from the need to create a seamless transition for graduate students transitioning to life in the U.S. We’re more than housing, we’re a concierge service and community-driven experience that provides students with a sense of belonging, access to exclusive career and social opportunities, and the comfort of home in a new country. While our current focus is on supporting students in the Greater Boston Area, we’re actively planning expansion to other U.S. cities in response to growing student and institutional demand.
Our sole focus is on supporting global graduates, and we welcome all full-time and part-time students. Through partnerships with institutions, student recruitment firms, and industry leaders, we’re the bridge between global talent and the U.S. academic and professional ecosystem.
Our founding team includes individuals who have either lived the international student experience or have worked closely alongside those who have. Together, we deeply understand both the challenges and the untapped opportunities of off-campus living.
ABOUT
the benefits of casa:
CASA is more than leasing - it’s a curated social and professional membership experience designed exclusively for graduate students. When you rent through CASA, you’re joining a community built for connection, well-being, and success with a concierge approach.
Graduate-Only Living: Live alongside fellow graduate students in a diverse, intentional community. No random roommates. Just peers aligned by school, lifestyle, and location.
Built-In Community: Connect with global peers through CASA-hosted gatherings, cultural moments, and everyday connections that spark belonging.
Holistic Support: Programming that fuels your growth via professional workshops, wellness sessions, city experiences, as well as 1:1 personalized concierge support.
All-in-One Platform: Manage everything from lease documents to event RSVPs through our mobile and web resident portal. Launching soon!
Exclusive Perks: Our partners across food, wellness, travel, retail, finance, and more offer curated perks and local experiences that elevate student life.
Seamless Setup: A stress-free rental process that gets you settled quickly, with optional value-add services to personalize your space and move-in experience.
LIVING WITH CASA
Do I need to be a student to live with CASA?
CASA housing and concierge services are exclusively for full and part-time graduate students enrolled in higher education institutions in the surrounding area of Boston, MA.
Are CASa homes gender-specific?
Our homes are not inherently gender-specific, but we offer flexibility based on your preferences. If you'd like to be matched with roommates who share a specific gender identity, we’ll do our best to accommodate. All preferences are optional and confidential.
Is there an age requirement to live at CASA?
CASA homes are designed for graduate students, but we welcome any enrolled student aged 21 or older. If you meet this age requirement and are seeking a supportive, community-driven housing experience, you’re eligible to apply.
Do you accommodate students with specific needs or disabilities?
CASA’s mission is to be inclusive and accommodating for all students, including those with specific needs or disabilities. We will always do our best to find reasonable accommodation.
Do you offer housing options for couples?
If you're seeking a private or entire unit for you and a partner, let us know in the intake form (which both of you would complete separately). Our shared housing is designed for one resident per bedroom to maintain comfort and privacy.
Are pets allowed?
Our goal is to create a living environment that works for everyone. If you’re considering bringing a pet or have a service animal, please let us know in your intake form. While shared spaces require us to be mindful of roommate preferences and sensitivities, we’re happy to review your request and explore what’s possible.
For service-related needs, we’ll work with you directly to ensure you feel supported, comfortable, and at home.
Is smoking allowed?
Per the lease agreement, smoking of any kind is prohibited inside all CASA homes and shared spaces. That said, you’re welcome to enjoy fresh air and do so in designated outdoor areas away from the building. We ask that all residents and guests be mindful of shared spaces and respectful of others.
What room types can I choose from?
CASA offers private rooms and entire units like studios or one-bedrooms. Availability varies by location. For special cases where you would like to share a room, please reach out to us directly.
ARE THERE HOUSE RULES, AND HOW ARE ROOMMATE ISSUES HANDLED?
All residents sign our code of conduct agreement, which outlines shared expectations. While most roommates build strong, respectful dynamics, we understand that challenges can arise. CASA encourages open communication, and our team is available to mediate and help preserve a positive living experience for everyone.
Can I request a specific roommate?
Yes. During your intake process, you can list preferred roommates who have also submitted interest.
What are the guest and visitor rules?
Guests are allowed. If you're in a shared unit, please coordinate with your roommates out of respect. Most leases allow short-term visitors (e.g. 3–14 days), but always review your specific lease terms and reach out if you have questions.
Is there a curfew?
There’s no curfew or sign-in required at CASA residences. You’re free to come and go on your own schedule. This is your home, and we trust you to treat it - and your community - with respect.
How safe and convenient are the neighborhoods?
Our residences are intentionally located in student-friendly neighborhoods that are safe, accessible, and close to campus and public transportation. We partner with trusted property managers who actively maintain the buildings, and locks are updated annually to support resident safety. Whether you’re commuting, exploring, or heading home late, we prioritize locations that feel both connected and secure.
Can I bring guests to CASA events?
One of the key benefits of being a CASA resident is exclusive access to our curated social, academic, and professional growth experiences. While most events are reserved for residents only, if guests are permitted, it will be clearly stated in the event details.
lease & apply
WHERE ARE CASA RESIDENCES LOCATED?
Right now, CASA is proudly focused on serving the housing needs of graduate students in Boston, MA. We’re rooted here, but growing fast. Expansion across the U.S. is on the horizon as we continue to build community, one city at a time.
How long is the lease?
Standard CASA leases are 12 months and typically begin on September 1 in the Boston market. Some shorter options or early starts may be available depending on inventory.
Can I pick my move-in and move-out dates?
While most leases align with the academic calendar and the competitive housing market, which runs on a 12-month term, we understand every student’s path is unique. Share your timeline in the intake form, and we’ll do our best to accommodate.
Can I book a tour before I commit?
Absolutely! Once you submit your intake form, a CASA representative will reach out to answer questions, explore virtual or in-person tours with our partnered agents, and provide more details on availability that matches your criteria to find you the ideal home away from home.
Can I sublet my room if I leave early?
Yes, subletting is allowed. Most CASA leases follow a 12-month term, so if you need to leave early, you'll be responsible for finding a qualified subletter to join the CASA community. We're here to support you with resources and guidance to help make the process easier.
Do you offer summer stays?
If you’re interning or in Boston for a short-term academic program, submit your intake form, and our team will explore sublease or short-stay options with you.
cost & payments
What’s included in the rent?
Rent inclusions vary by unit and building type in Boston. Some units include water, heat, or hot water, while others - particularly newer or renovated buildings - may have separately metered utilities. Once you complete your intake form, your CASA representative will walk you through exactly what’s included in each of your matched options.
What should I budget beyond rent?
A one-time broker fee (up to the value of one month’s rent), a security deposit, and last month’s rent are typically due at lease signing.
As part of joining CASA, a $249 annual membership provides exclusive access to our student-only community. This includes professional development workshops, curated social events, wellness programming, lifestyle perks, and additional resources that extend far beyond a typical rental experience.
Are discounts available?
Our rental rates are competitively priced and include access to CASA-exclusive services and experiences. Because of this, we do not offer discounts or negotiate on rental pricing.
Will I have my own individual lease, or will I share lease responsibility with roommates?
CASA operates exclusively with joint lease agreements for shared living. All roommates sign a single lease and share collective responsibility for rent and terms. Individual leases are not part of our housing model.
What does the full leasing process look like?
After you submit your intake form, we’ll handle the rest. We’ll review your preferences, share curated listings, and guide you through the free application. Once approved, we’ll coordinate lease signing, move-in costs, and all logistics to ensure a smooth, stress-free transition.
Is renters insurance required?
In most cases, yes. Renters insurance is typically required, and always recommended, to protect your personal belongings. CASA can connect you with trusted insurance partners that offer student-friendly plans to make the process simple and affordable.
How do I apply?
Complete our intake form to get started. A CASA representative will follow up with housing matches, answer questions, and next steps.
I filled out the form but have roommates in mind. Do they need to fill it out too?
All prospective roommates must complete the CASA intake form. CASA homes are reserved exclusively for members, and each resident must be enrolled to access our housing and full range of services, including concierge support, community events, and member-only perks. This ensures every household is aligned, supported, and set up to thrive.
What payment methods are accepted?
We recommend paying via e-check or ACH transfer from a checking account to avoid banking fees. Credit and debit cards are also accepted but may incur processing fees.
What are the approval criteria for applying?
To ensure a safe, inclusive, and community-minded living environment, all prospective CASA residents are pre-screened. This typically includes a credit check; however, if you don’t have a U.S. credit history, we accept alternative documentation such as a valid visa (F-1, I-20), passport, proof of enrollment or admission, or student loan details. Our process is designed to support international students and make your transition smooth and stress-free.
Cancellation Policy: Can I change my lease terms after it’s confirmed and signed?
While your lease is a binding legal agreement, CASA is here to help you navigate next steps. If you need to adjust your dates or end your lease early, we’ll work with you to explore available options.
amenities & services
I already have housing.. can I still join CASA?
Yes! While CASA’s core services are currently centered around student residents, we’re actively exploring ways to offer a tailored CASA experience for students living off-campus on their own. By joining the waitlist here, you’ll help us better understand what offerings could be most valuable: from community events to career support and wellness services. We’ll keep you updated as we shape these opportunities.
What value-added services does CASA offer?
Every student’s needs are different, which is why we offer a range of optional add-ons to personalize spaces and streamline experiences. From furnishings and linens to cleaning, laundry, and more, we’ve got you covered. Just let us know your preferences in the intake form, and we’ll take care of the rest. Please note, third-party partners may provide these services and are subject to availability, pricing, and terms set by those providers.
Do CASA homes come furnished?
Some homes are fully furnished, while others may be partially furnished or unfurnished depending on the unit. If you’re looking for a move-in-ready setup, or something in between, we offer flexible furnishing packages you can choose from, and we’ll handle the rest.
Are cleaning services available?
Cleaning of shared building spaces is included. For personal rooms or units, professional cleaning services are available as an optional add-on to support your comfort and routine.
What laundry options are offered?
Laundry setups vary by property. Some homes include in-unit laundry, while others offer shared, on-site laundry. For added convenience, optional laundry and dry-cleaning services are available through our trusted vendors.
Can CASA help me open a bank account or get a phone plan?
Yes. CASA connects you with trusted partners to set up your bank account, phone plan, and SIM card. We also offer a range of other partnerships to cover the essentials you need to feel settled and set up for success.
What amenities and recreational spaces are available?
Amenities vary by building. Once we’ve identified units that match your needs, we’ll review what’s available on-site and nearby. All CASA homes are located in vibrant neighborhoods with access to parks, gyms, and local conveniences that support life beyond the classroom.
Is parking available at cASA Residences?
Parking availability varies by location. Many CASA homes are in neighborhoods with free or permit-based street parking. For units that offer private parking, an additional fee typically applies. If parking is a priority for you, we’ll do our best to match you with a home that meets that need.
What dining and grocery options are nearby?
All CASA homes are located in neighborhoods with easy access to local markets, international grocery stores, and a variety of dining options. We also partner with trusted delivery and grocery services to support convenience and comfort. Whether you're shopping for essentials or craving familiar flavors, you’ll find curated recommendations in the resident portal.
Do you offer arrival transportation?
We’re excited to offer optional door-to-door transportation to make your arrival into this new chapter as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you're flying into the airport or arriving by train, we can help you and your belongings get home comfortably. This service can be requested in advance or coordinated closer to your arrival.
Do you offer travel insurance?
Travel insurance isn’t included through CASA, but we partner with trusted providers who specialize in international student coverage. We also recommend checking your school’s onboarding resources.
These FAQs are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice or modify the terms of a lease agreement.