This tool helps you find suitable housing for your PASS Program sessions. Enter your preferences below to receive customized links to popular housing platforms. These links will automatically apply your search criteria, making it easier to find and book accommodations near PASS Program.
Our Houston campus sits in the Afton Oaks / Galleria / Uptown area, one of the most central and accessible parts of the city. This location gives students quick access to housing, restaurants, grocery stores, and everything needed during an intensive study program.
To make your experience as smooth as possible, we strongly recommend staying within a 10–15 minute commute of campus.
Closest to campus (often 5–10 minutes)
Walkable access to restaurants, groceries, and coffee shops
Best overall balance of convenience and lifestyle
Quiet, professional environment
5–12 minute commute
Great for focused study with nearby amenities
Safe, residential feel
10–15 minute commute
Excellent food and coffee options
More vibrant, city-oriented lifestyle
10–15 minute commute
Ideal if you want a mix of study + social environment
Choose based on your priorities (cost, flexibility, comfort):
Fully furnished, low setup effort
Ideal for short-term stays
Includes utilities, Wi-Fi, and housekeeping options
Best for comfort and space
Great for small groups or roommates
Full kitchen and living space
Most cost-effective option
Common among PASS students
Works well for longer programs
Driving or Uber is strongly recommended
The campus is not within walking distance of METRORail
Staying nearby reduces commute stress and saves time daily
Before you book, make sure your housing has:
Reliable Wi-Fi
Kitchen access
In-unit or on-site laundry
Parking (if driving)
Commute under 15 minutes
Use this address when searching:
“4646 Wild Indigo St, Houston, TX 77027”
Best keywords:
“Galleria Houston apartments”
“Upper Kirby Houston Airbnb”
“Greenway Plaza Houston housing”
“West University Houston rentals”
If you need medical care during your stay, several urgent care centers are located within ~5 miles of campus.
📍 3905 Richmond Ave
~5 minutes from campus
General urgent care services
📍 5749 San Felipe St
~7 minutes away
Modern facility, fast service
📍 5885 San Felipe St
~7–10 minutes away
X-ray + lab capabilities
📍 5568 Weslayan St
~10 minutes away
Walk-in care, extended hours
📍 1917 W Gray St
~10–12 minutes away
Open 7 days/week
📍 1814 Fountain View Dr
For patients up to age 21
Urgent care is appropriate for:
Cold/flu symptoms
Minor injuries
Sore throat, infections
Rashes or allergic reactions
For serious emergencies (chest pain, severe injury, etc.), go to the nearest ER or call 911.
Your success in the program depends heavily on minimizing distractions and commute time.
👉 Stay close.
👉 Stay comfortable.
👉 Optimize your environment for studying.
For students enrolled in the PASS Program and seeking long-term housing in Houston, a variety of options cater to diverse needs and preferences. From pet-friendly extended stay hotels like Extended Stay America and stayAPT Suites, to budget-friendly weekly rates at MainStay Suites and WoodSpring Suites, students can find flexible and affordable accommodations. Houston also offers a vibrant array of nearby shopping and entertainment venues, such as The Galleria and CityCentre, enhancing the living experience. Additionally, vacation rental sites like Airbnb and Vrbo provide alternative housing solutions. Brands like stayAPT Suites and InTown Suites offer unique amenities and safety measures, ensuring a comfortable and secure stay.
When choosing the length of stay for an extended stay hotel or rental, consider your specific needs and budget. Average length of stay (ALOS) is a key metric that measures the average number of days a patient or guest stays at a facility. For students, the length of stay may depend on the duration of their program or internship.
Many extended stay hotels offer discounted weekly and monthly rates that become more affordable the longer you stay. Monthly rates can save you up to 60% compared to typical rental properties, with the added convenience of furnished rooms, included utilities, and no long-term lease commitments.
If you need housing for a shorter period, such as a 5-week stay, extended stay hotels like InTown Suites and Extended Stay America provide flexible options with affordable weekly rates. For even shorter stays, consider booking through vacation rental sites like Airbnb or Vrbo, which offer a variety of properties for rent on a nightly or weekly basis.
Ultimately, the ideal length of stay depends on your individual circumstances. Carefully review the cancellation policies and any minimum stay requirements before booking to ensure you choose an option that fits your needs and budget.
For students seeking housing for a 5-week stay in Houston, extended stay hotels and corporate housing provide convenient and flexible options. InTown Suites offers affordable weekly rates that include fully furnished apartment-style suites with in-room kitchens, high-speed internet, and expanded TV channels. Extended Stay America also provides discounted weekly rates on spacious suites with fully-equipped kitchens, free WiFi, and on-site laundry facilities. Corporate housing, such as executive rentals, can be a comfortable choice for 5-week stays, as these furnished apartments often include utilities, housekeeping, and amenities like high-speed internet and kitchen essentials in the rent. Airbnb and Vrbo also offer short-term rental options, allowing you to book private apartments or houses for your 5-week stay, often at competitive rates compared to traditional hotels.
Booking on Airbnb is a straightforward process. First, create an account and complete your profile with a photo and some information about yourself. Then, search for listings in your desired location and dates, using filters to narrow down options by price, amenities, and other preferences. Once you find a suitable listing, you can either book instantly if the host allows it, or send a reservation request. For instant bookings, you’ll be charged immediately after confirming the reservation details and agreeing to the host’s policies. For reservation requests, the host has 24 hours to accept or decline, and you’ll only be charged if they accept. Some hosts may require additional verification or send you a special offer before confirming the booking. Be sure to carefully review the listing details, house rules, and cancellation policies before booking to ensure a smooth stay.
Booking a stay on Vrbo is a simple process. First, search for properties in your desired location and dates, using filters to refine your results by price, amenities, and other criteria. Once you find a suitable listing, you can book instantly if the host has enabled Instant Booking, which automatically confirms your reservation and charges your credit card. If Instant Booking is not available, you can send a reservation request to the host, who has 24 hours to accept or decline. Before booking, carefully review the property’s cancellation policy, as it may vary by host. If your plans change and you need to modify your reservation, such as shortening your stay, contact the host through the Vrbo platform to discuss your options and any applicable refund policies. Keep in mind that some hosts may have minimum stay requirements or charge different rates for shorter bookings.
Booking a stay on Booking.com is a straightforward process. First, search for accommodations in your desired location and dates, using filters to narrow down options by price, property type, amenities, and other preferences. Once you find a suitable listing, you can book instantly if the property allows it. The reservation will be confirmed immediately, and your credit card will be charged.
Some properties may require you to send a reservation request instead. In this case, the property has 24 hours to review and accept or decline the booking. You’ll only be charged if they accept. Guests can also send booking inquiries to properties if they have questions before making a reservation.
Before booking, carefully review the listing details, house rules, and cancellation policies. Booking.com reservations are instantly confirmed, so the property does not need to take any additional steps on their end. However, if your plans change, you may be able to modify or cancel your reservation, subject to the property’s specific policies.
StayAPT Suites is a rapidly growing apartment-style hotel brand that offers a new standard for extended-stay properties. Purposefully designed with attention to the details of everyday living, stayAPT Suites makes home feel a little less far away with spacious 500+ square foot suites featuring a full-size kitchen with full-size appliances, a dedicated living room with a sleeper sofa and 55-inch smart TV, and a separate bedroom with a king or double queen beds, workspace, and walk-in closet. The brand also offers unique amenities like a secure outdoor courtyard with a built-in grill station and fire pit, on-site fitness and laundry facilities, and pet-friendly accommodations. stayAPT Suites caters to business, relocation, and leisure travelers, offering nightly, weekly, and monthly rates for short or long stays
Extended Stay America offers several hotel locations in Houston, providing comfortable and convenient accommodations for extended stays. The Extended Stay America – Houston – Galleria – Westheimer is situated in the heart of Houston City Center, offering easy access to popular attractions and a comfortable stay with fully-equipped kitchens, free WiFi, and free parking.
Another option is the Extended Stay America – Houston – Med Ctr – NRG Park – Braeswood Blvd., especially designed for longer stays. Every room features a fully-equipped kitchen with a stovetop, microwave, and fridge. The hotel also provides free grab-and-go breakfast, complimentary weekly housekeeping services, and a 24-hour front desk.
The Extended Stay America – Houston Kingwood is another highly-rated choice, offering spacious suites and great deals for extended stays in the Kingwood area.
With 15 Extended Stay America locations across Houston, guests can find the perfect hotel to suit their needs and budget. These properties consistently rank among the best extended stay hotels in the city, with travelers praising the comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and affordable rates.
InTown Suites is an American chain of extended stay properties headquartered in Atlanta, GA, with 196 locations across 22 states. Founded in 1988, InTown Suites offers affordable weekly and monthly rates for fully furnished apartment-style suites that include an in-room kitchen, high-speed internet, expanded TV channels, and other amenities to provide the comforts of home. The company owns and operates all of its locations rather than franchising them, with an average guest stay of around 16 weeks. InTown Suites has proved to be a successful business over its decades of operation, with a history of strategic expansions and acquisitions to grow its portfolio. The brand’s “Triple Check Clean” system ensures rooms are thoroughly cleaned and inspected to give guests confidence in the cleanliness and sanitation of their accommodations. With its focus on providing an affordable, flexible alternative to traditional hotels and apartments, InTown Suites has become a top choice for extended stay travelers.
Suburban Studios Houston North I-45 is an extended stay hotel located in Houston, Texas, offering comfortable and affordable accommodations for guests staying a week or longer. The hotel features air-conditioned suites with fully-equipped kitchens, including a tea and coffee maker, as well as private bathrooms with a bath. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and access to an on-site fitness center during their stay. The hotel’s convenient location puts you within a 15-minute drive of popular attractions like Willowbrook Mall and ExxonMobil Campus. Suburban Studios Houston North I-45 offers competitive rates and a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable extended stay experience in Houston.
MainStay Suites Texas Medical Center/Reliant Park is an extended stay hotel located in the heart of Houston, offering convenient access to nearby attractions and businesses. The hotel features spacious suites with fully-equipped kitchens, free WiFi, and weekly and monthly rates for guests staying longer. Nestled in the vibrant Houston City Center, MainStay Suites provides the perfect base for exploring the area. Guests can enjoy a comfortable extended stay experience with amenities like in-room kitchens and pet-friendly accommodations. The hotel’s prime location near Brays Bayou and the Houston Zoo makes it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers seeking affordable long-term housing options in Houston.
When searching for extended stay housing options in Houston, it’s important to be aware of potential scams and take steps to protect yourself. Be suspicious of any unexpected contact or high-pressure tactics pushing you to make a quick decision without time to research the opportunity. Scammers may pose as legitimate businesses, so always ask for identification and confirm the identity of anyone trying to rent you a property or collect payment. Never give out personal information or pay by wire transfer, gift card, or cash, as it’s harder to get your money back if it turns out to be a scam. Instead, book through reputable extended stay hotel chains or vacation rental sites like Airbnb and Vrbo, and carefully review the listing details, cancellation policies, and reviews before committing.3 If a deal seems too good to be true, trust your instincts and take time to verify its legitimacy before handing over any money or personal details.
Houston offers plenty of nearby shopping and entertainment options for students staying in extended stay hotels or apartments. The Galleria, Houston’s premier shopping mall, features over 375 stores including high-end brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci, along with more affordable options. For a unique shopping experience, check out the historic 19th Street in the Heights, known for its eclectic mix of vintage clothing stores, antique shops, and locally-owned boutiques. Students can also enjoy entertainment at CityCentre, a mixed-use development with trendy shops, restaurants, a movie theater, and live music. Bargain hunters will appreciate the deals at Houston Premium Outlets, offering discounts on designer brands in a convenient location just outside the city. When you need a break from shopping, catch a musical at the Queensbury Theatre or explore the vibrant Montrose area, home to unique gift shops, thrift stores, and art galleries.
Our campus at 4646 Wild Indigo Street is located in the Afton Oaks / Galleria area. Unlike our previous location, we are now centrally located near the West Loop, making Houston’s most popular inner-loop neighborhoods much more accessible.
If you prefer to be as close to campus as possible, we recommend looking for housing in the Galleria/Uptown, Afton Oaks, or Greenway Plaza areas. These neighborhoods offer a mix of high-rise living and garden apartments just minutes from the PASS Program.
However, many students choose to live in Houston’s culturally rich “Inner Loop” neighborhoods, which are now just a short drive or bus ride away:
The Galleria / Uptown (Immediate Area) Since the PASS Program is located right on the edge of this district, it is the most convenient option. Known as Houston’s premier shopping and business district, the Galleria area offers hundreds of restaurants, high-end shopping, and walkable streets. Living here means a very short commute (or even a walk) to class.
Montrose (~4 miles away) Known for its bohemian charm, art galleries, and vintage shops, Montrose is a favorite for students looking to unleash their creativity. While it was previously a long commute, our new location makes Montrose highly accessible via a short drive or a direct trip on the 82 Westheimer bus. This neighborhood’s energetic vibe and diverse community create a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere.
Rice Village / University Place (~3.5 miles away) An enchanting neighborhood nestled near Rice University, Rice Village harmoniously combines academic pursuits with leisure. This vibrant area boasts eclectic boutiques, lively cafes, and diverse dining options. It is significantly closer to our new campus, making it an excellent option for students who want a quiet, academic environment that is still close to the action.
Midtown (~6 miles away) For those seeking a buzzing hub of entertainment, Midtown is a perfect choice. With its prime location near downtown, trendy bars, and cultural spots, Midtown offers the ideal blend of modern amenities and city excitement. It connects to our area via Westheimer Road, offering a straight shot for commuters.
PASS Program is now located at 4646 Wild Indigo Street, Suite 230, Houston, TX 77027, situated in the Afton Oaks / Galleria area just inside the West Loop (I-610).
Please note: The campus is not within walking distance of a METRORail station. The area is best served by METRO bus routes, specifically those running along Westheimer Rd and the West Loop.
From Downtown, Midtown, or Montrose:
Best Option: Take Route 82 (Westheimer) westbound. This is a high-frequency route that runs from Downtown, through Midtown and Montrose, directly to the Galleria area.
Stop: Exit at Westheimer Rd @ Newcastle Dr or Westheimer Rd @ W Loop S. It is a short walk (approx. 5–8 minutes) south to Wild Indigo Street.
From the Texas Medical Center (TMC) & Rice Village:
Option 1: Take Route 27 (Shepherd/Durham) northbound to the intersection of Shepherd & Westheimer. Transfer to Route 82 (Westheimer) westbound.
Option 2: Depending on your location, you can take Route 84 (Buffalo Speedway) northbound to Westheimer, then transfer to Route 82 westbound.
From IAH (Bush Intercontinental Airport):
Take Route 102 (Bush IAH Express) to the Downtown Transit Center.
From Downtown, transfer to Route 82 (Westheimer) westbound toward the Galleria to reach the campus.
From HOU (Hobby Airport):
Take Route 40 to Downtown Houston, then transfer to Route 82 (Westheimer) westbound.
Cost: A local ride is $1.25.
Student Discount: The discounted student fare is $0.60 with a valid METRO Q® Student Fare Card.
How to Pay: Use the RideMETRO app to plan trips and the METRO Q® Ticketing app to purchase mobile tickets. You can also pay cash on the bus (exact change required).
You can reach PASS by METRO bus (see routes 6, 56, 102 to Greenspoint Transit Center). METRORail does not serve Greenspoint; use rail only to reach Downtown/TMC/Museum District and then transfer to bus. Many students still prefer a car for flexibility in Houston’s spread-out layout, but transit can work with planning.
Houston is a sprawling city, and many popular destinations, such as shopping centers, entertainment venues, and recreational areas, may not be easily accessible by public transportation alone. Having a car can make it easier to explore different parts of the city, run errands, and participate in off-campus activities without the constraints of transit schedules.
That said, owning a car also comes with additional expenses like parking, gas, maintenance, and insurance. For students on a budget, it’s important to weigh the costs and benefits of having a personal vehicle. If you do choose to bring a car, be sure to research parking options and any permit requirements near your housing and the PASS Program location.
Ultimately, while a car can provide greater freedom and convenience in Houston, it’s not an absolute necessity. With careful planning and familiarity with the public transportation system, students can still navigate the city and commute to the PASS Program successfully.
Turo is a peer-to-peer car rental marketplace that offers a convenient and affordable alternative to traditional car rental companies in Houston. With Turo, you can rent vehicles directly from local hosts, choosing from a wide selection of cars to fit your needs and budget.
Turo offers a variety of vehicle types in Houston, including SUVs, vans, and electric vehicles. Skip the rental counter and book your car directly through the Turo app or website, with the option to have your vehicle delivered to your desired location, such as the airport, your hotel, or the PASS Program site.
One of the benefits of using Turo is the ability to find unique and specialty vehicles that may not be available through traditional rental companies. For example, you can rent a Tesla or other electric vehicle to explore Houston in an eco-friendly way. Turo also offers a wide range of affordable options, with discounted weekly and monthly rates for extended stays.
Turo also sets cleaning standards for all vehicles. Hosts are required to thoroughly clean and sanitize their cars before each trip, following Turo’s guidelines.
When renting through Turo, you can choose from three different protection plans – Premier, Standard, or Minimum – to get the level of insurance coverage that suits your needs. These plans include varying levels of liability insurance and physical damage protection, providing peace of mind during your rental period.
Here are some of the best cell phone plans for international students studying in the USA:
• T-Mobile (Go5G / Experience plans): International roaming with unlimited texting and included data in 215+ countries & destinations (high-speed data caps vary by plan; then unlimited at basic speeds). Calls while abroad typically $0.25/min.
• AT&T International Day Pass: Use your domestic plan abroad in 210+ destinations for a daily fee; add lines are discounted per day.
• Google Fi: On Flexible or Unlimited Premium, get texting and data in 200+ destinations; calling rates vary (Wi-Fi calling often best).
• Tello (MVNO): Plans include free calls/texts to 60+ countries; great budget option if most calling is to countries on Tello’s free-list.
Tip: Always confirm your exact plan’s international terms before traveling (caps, throttling, and in-flight benefits can vary by carrier & plan).
Houston offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene with options for every taste, from high-energy dance clubs to laid-back lounges and live music venues. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife include Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.
In Downtown and Midtown, you’ll find popular spots like Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar, House of Blues, and Howl at the Moon for lively music and entertainment. Montrose is known for its edgy, hipster vibe with lounges like Anvil Bar & Refuge and Poison Girl drawing a laid-back crowd. Washington Avenue features a mix of trendy clubs like Ei8ht and classic bars such as Canyon Creek and Liberty Station.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, check out the bars and pubs in Rice Village near Rice University, including The Ginger Man and Little Woodrow’s. Other highly-rated nightlife spots around Houston include Cidercade, an arcade bar with hard cider and games, and McGonigel’s Mucky Duck, a legendary live music venue.
With its walkable districts and variety of nightlife options, Houston makes it easy to plan a fun night out on the town, no matter your preferences or budget.
Houston boasts a diverse array of world-class museums, with many located in the charming Museum District. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston houses an encyclopedic collection of nearly 80,000 works spanning millennia. The Houston Museum of Natural Science offers fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, space, and more. For a unique experience, check out the Art Car Museum, which showcases cars transformed into creative art pieces.
Other notable museums include the Holocaust Museum Houston, the Houston Zoo, and the Menil Collection, known for its contemporary and surrealist art. The Space Center Houston is a popular attraction, serving as the official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
Exploring beyond Houston, nearby cities also offer intriguing museums. In Galveston, the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum provides an insider’s look at the oil and gas industry. The San Jacinto Museum of History in La Porte commemorates the pivotal Battle of San Jacinto and features a 567-foot monument.
With such a wide variety of museums to choose from, visitors to Houston and the surrounding areas are sure to find something to pique their interest, whether it’s fine art, natural science, history, or quirky specialty museums.
The PASS Concierge Assistant can help simplify your housing search across multiple platforms, saving you time and effort. This service acts as a personal assistant, working on your behalf to find suitable accommodations that meet your specific needs and preferences.
To use the PASS Concierge Assistant, provide them with details about your housing requirements, such as location, budget, amenities, and length of stay. The concierge will then search various platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, extended stay hotels, and corporate housing providers to find options that match your criteria.
The concierge can handle tasks such as comparing prices, amenities, and reviews across listings, contacting hosts or property managers to inquire about availability and policies, and even booking your chosen accommodation on your behalf. This personalized service can be especially helpful for students who are unfamiliar with the Houston area or who don’t have the time to conduct extensive housing searches on their own.
By leveraging the expertise and resources of the PASS Concierge Assistant, you can streamline your housing search process and find the perfect place to stay during your time in the PASS Program, without the hassle of navigating multiple platforms and listings yourself.
• F-1 (academic) and M-1 (vocational) are the primary student visas. To get one, you must be admitted to an SEVP-certified school that issues Form I-20.
• J-1 is used for approved exchange visitor programs.
• B-1/B-2 visitor status is not for full-time study. Only short, recreational, non-credit classes are typically allowed while visiting. For academic study, you generally must change status to F-1/M-1 first.
Important: PASS Program is a test-prep/continuing-education program and does not itself confer a degree. Prospective international attendees should verify visa eligibility with a U.S. consulate or qualified immigration counsel based on their situation and whether their primary purpose in the U.S. is tourism vs. academic study.
By carefully following the visa application process and maintaining their status, international students can successfully participate in the PASS Program and achieve their educational goals in the United States.
The Visit Houston website is a comprehensive resource for travelers and locals alike, showcasing the best of what Houston has to offer. From world-class museums and vibrant nightlife to diverse dining options and outdoor adventures, the site highlights the city’s top attractions and experiences.
For students in the PASS Program, the Visit Houston website can be a valuable tool for exploring the city during their stay. The site features neighborhood guides, including information on popular areas like the Museum District, Montrose, and Rice Village, which are all within easy reach of the program location. These guides provide insights into each neighborhood’s unique character, attractions, and dining and entertainment options, helping students make the most of their time in Houston.
The website also offers a robust events calendar, showcasing upcoming festivals, concerts, exhibitions, and more. This can be a great resource for students looking to immerse themselves in Houston’s rich cultural scene and attend exciting events during their downtime from the PASS Program.
Additionally, the Visit Houston website provides practical information for visitors, such as transportation options, maps, and trip planning tools. This can be particularly helpful for international students navigating the city for the first time and seeking guidance on getting around and making the most of their stay.
