Housing
We offer support to assist you in your search to finding suitable housing.
MUA Housing Information
Housing on the Island of Nevis Medical University of the Americas (MUA), located on the island of Nevis in the Caribbean, helps students find housing and settle into life on the island.
Finding housing in a new country is an important part of preparing for medical school. Our Nevis-based Housing Coordinator, Andrew Cumberbatch, helps incoming students navigate local housing options, explore housing placements and prepare for life on the island of Nevis.
While MUA does not offer university-owned housing, students have access to dedicated support when searching for off-campus private rentals and housing arrangements. Andrew can help students:
- Identify rental options based on their needs, preferences, and budget
- Review and understand rental agreements with private landlords
- Communicate with local property owners and managers
- Support lease signing where appropriate
- Understand utility expenses and island services
- Navigate considerations for families and pets
- Answer questions about island transportation, taxis and settling into life on Nevis
Meet Andrew Cumberbatch
“My name is Andrew Cumberbatch, and I am proud to call Nevis my home for the past 28 years. For the past 10 years, MUA has also been my home, including the last six years serving as Housing Coordinator.
Over the years, I have had the pleasure of welcoming and assisting more than 500 students as they begin their journey at the Medical University of the Americas (MUA). Our Housing Department is committed to providing students with affordable, comfortable and secure housing options, while helping make their transition to Nevis as smooth as possible. From airport transportation and apartment placement to ongoing housing support, we are here to help you feel at home in Nevis.”
The Housing Department is always ready and willing to assist students with any questions, concerns, or requirements they may have regarding their housing. Whether it is helping students settle into their new accommodations, addressing housing concerns, or providing guidance throughout their stay, we are here to support them.
Off-Campus & Private Island Rentals
Explore housing options across Nevis
Students can choose from a variety of rental apartments, suites and homes located across the island of Nevis. All student accommodations on the island come fully furnished, making the transition easier for students arriving from abroad.
Compare Locations & Commutes
| Area | What to Consider | Distance & Transportation | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Potworks Estate / Barnaby | Adjacent to or directly surrounding the MUA campus; ideal for minimal travel time and quick access to classes. | ~2–5 min. walk or drive to campus | $1100-500 USD per month |
| Camps / Mount Lily / Newcastle / Nisbet / Jones Estate | Northern coastal area featuring beach access, restaurants, resorts, and popular student communities. | ~5–12 min. drive to campus; accessible via local passenger buses | $800-450 USD per month |
| Charlestown / Hamilton / Bath | The island capital and surrounding residential areas; close to grocery stores, banks, ferries, and main commercial services. | ~15–25 min. drive to campus; main hub for island transport | $800-450 USD per month |
Transportation & Getting Around Nevis
Getting around the island of Nevis is straightforward and offers several convenient options:
- Passenger Buses: Local mini-buses run frequently along the main island road connecting Charlestown, Newcastle, and campus areas. Fares are affordable (typically EC$3 to EC$5), making buses a reliable option for daily travel (Monday to Saturday).
- Walking: For students residing in housing communities immediately surrounding the campus in Potwork or Camps, walking to lectures is quick and convenient.
- Taxis: Authorized taxis are widely available for grocery runs, airport transfers, or travel to local beaches and dining.
- Car Rentals: Many upper-semester students opt to rent or purchase a vehicle locally for maximum flexibility.
What to Budget For
Planning your housing budget
When comparing rental options on the island of Nevis, keep these financial details in mind:
Monthly Rent
Rates typically range between $700 USD and $1,500+ USD per month depending on location, size, and amenities. Shared apartments can significantly reduce individual costs.
Utilities
Water and internet is often included in rent, but electricity (monitored via NEVLEC meters) is usually billed separately. Be sure to confirm utility expectations with your landlord before signing.
Security Deposits
Landlords typically require a security deposit equal to one month’s rent along with the first month’s rent prior to move-in.
Furnishings & Supplies
Rentals come fully furnished with major furniture and kitchen appliances. Students supply personal linens, towels and household items.
Moving to the Island of Nevis Preparing For Your Move
Choosing a Roommate
If you wish to share housing costs, Andrew can connect you with prospective roommates in your incoming class or link you to current students seeking flatmates.
Bringing Your Family
Private rentals in areas like Newcastle or Charlestown offer multi-bedroom homes and villas suitable for spouses and children.
Bringing a Pet
Certain private landlords allow pets. However, strict import guidelines apply for bringing animals into St. Kitts & Nevis. Contact Andrew early to request official veterinary import forms and guidelines.
Lease Agreements
Leases on Nevis are usually signed per semester or annually. Always review terms regarding deposit refunds, utility billing and notice periods before signing.
Frequently Asked Questions
MUA does not own or operate on-campus dormitories. All students reside in off-campus private rentals, apartments or housing communities nearby, with direct guidance provided by our Housing Coordinator.
Yes! Our Housing Coordinator, Andrew Cumberbatch, maintains a registry of vetted local landlords and properties across Nevis to assist students in finding accommodations that match their budget and preferences.
We recommend connecting with Andrew Cumberbatch as soon as you are accepted and confirmed. Beginning your search 6 to 8 weeks prior to the start of the semester ensures the best selection of properties.
A car is not strictly required. Many students rely on the affordable local passenger bus system, live within walking distance of campus or utilize taxis. However, some students choose to rent or purchase a car for extra convenience.
Yes, student accommodations on Nevis come fully furnished with essential furniture (beds, study desks, seating) and major kitchen appliances.
Most properties have utilities pre-installed. Water and internet are often included in your lease, while electricity is paid separately by the tenant. Andrew can help clarify utility setups for specific properties.
Yes, provided you secure a pet-friendly rental and comply with St. Kitts & Nevis government import regulations. Contact Andrew early to receive pet import requirements and find pet-approved housing.
Yes. Multi-bedroom private homes and apartments are readily available across the island for students relocating with spouses or dependents.
Ready to start planning your move to the island of Nevis?
You don’t have to navigate the housing search alone. Connect with our Student Housing Coordinator to start exploring your options and prepare for your move to Nevis.