There are two housing options listed below, let us know if we can help you get started!

Host Families

Students have the opportunity to live with host families that are arranged through a non-profit organization called ACES – American Cultural Exchange Service. A homestay is a unique opportunity to practice English, learn about U.S. culture and family life and share your own culture. All ACES homestays include:  

• A local host who is looking forward to including you in 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.
• Cost
  • Placement Fee: $415 (non-refundable)
  • Weekly Fee: $235
  • Term Fee: $2,350 (estimate for a 10-week term; terms vary in length)

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

For more information about ACES homestays, visit https://sites.google.com/exploretheworld.org/pdx-programs/for-international-students or contact the program manager Kellie Irish at 971-387-6388 or kellie@exploretheworld.org.

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 "Roommat Finder"
• Check housing bulletin board in the Student Union on campus or other free speech areas
• Ask other students
• Check the local newspaper: Gresham Outlook or the Oregonian, select rentals
• Contact student-friendly apartments in the Gresham area (links to another page; scroll down to find resource)

Room rental costs range from $400 per month to $800 depending on location and amenities. Apartment rentals can range from $800 to $1,300, again depending on location and amenities. In addition to the monthly rental fee, a student 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 unfurnished so you must figure the cost of obtaining 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 an application fee for a non-refundable credit check.
• 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.
• 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 inspect each room carefully. 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. If you pay in cash, be sure to get a receipt.