WISH Frequently
Asked Questions
These Faqs And Give Us A Call Today For More Information!
General
Is WISH affordable?
Yes, WISH makes housing affordable so that every student has the opportunity to experience D.C. Our occupancy selection accommodates student housing for every budget.
Does WISH offer year-round services to schools and students?
Yes, WISH partners with schools and students for fall, spring, and summer semesters or year-round. Contact the WISH team about housing assistance for your program:
Email: interns@internsdc.com
Phone: 202-548-2720
What type of housing does WISH offer to interns?
WISH offers studio apartments, single, double, triple and quad occupancy bedrooms. Double, triple, and quad bedrooms refer to shared bedrooms. It’s up to the needs of the intern. WISH residents live in classic Capitol Hill apartments or row houses. All WISH locations are Metro-accessible in the heart of the District.
Why is WISH considered the best D.C. internship experience?
How easy is it to apply?
I haven’t been to DC before, is WISH safe?
- Yes! WISH offers housing on Capitol Hill and Woodley Park which are known to be some of the safest neighborhoods in Washington DC.
- Capitol Hill locations are closely monitored by Metro Police, U.S. Capitol Police, and police from the Supreme Court and National Parks Service at Union Station.
- All of our properties are a short walk away from Metro stations. The furthest walk from a metro stop is 8 blocks.
- All WISH properties are intern only.
- WISH has 24/7 staff on call for emergencies including maintenance issues, lockouts, lost keys, etc.
- Additional safety information is provided in our residential life handbook that all residents receive upon arrival. This includes the suggestion to register for Alerts DC, which is a District of Columbia real time alert system for weather, traffic, closure and crime notifications.
- For life threatening emergencies always call 911 before contacting WISH
What types of issues should go to my program director v WISH services?
WISH Services: For anything related to your housing — maintenance requests, events,
activities, or questions about your building — reach out to us directly.
Program Director: For internship-related matters such as placement issues, schedule
extensions, or academic concerns, your program coordinator is your go-to. We work
closely with them to ensure you have a smooth and successful experience.
Is parking available?
WISH doesn’t offer on-site parking, but don’t worry — you have plenty of options nearby. Street parking is available around Capitol Hill, and there are several private garages within walking distance. Residents are responsible for arranging their own parking directly with the city or a garage. Check for monthly passes early, as spots can fill up fast!
What is the difference between WISH and WISHGRAD?
Both WISH and WISHGRAD offer student housing in D.C., but they’re meant for different stages of your journey.
WISH is for undergrad students — perfect if you’re doing an internship and want to live close to everything.
WISHGRAD is for graduate and law students who are looking for something a bit more private and flexible. The apartments are a little bigger, you can live with a spouse or family, and the move-in/move-out dates are more flexible — which is super helpful when your schedule’s all over the place.
Reservations
How do I reserve housing?
- Once the free application is submitted and approved, you will receive a link from WISH requesting a non-refundable processing fee and refundable security deposit to reserve housing. The deposit can be submitted here.
- Once the free application is submitted and approved, you will receive a link from WISH requesting a non-refundable processing fee and refundable security deposit to reserve housing. The deposit can be submitted here.
My internship dates are different than your sessions, can I still stay with WISH?
- The free housing application has a field to request alternative dates.
- Residents are free to check in and out within their reservation dates at no additional cost.
What are the addresses of available locations?
- For privacy and security, WISH doesn’t publish addresses and will provide them only after an application is approved and a deposit received.
- All WISH properties are in the historic Capitol Hill and Woodley Park/National Zoo neighborhoods.
- We specialize in locations close to the U.S. Capitol Grounds and Metro stations.
Housing Preference
- Housing preference is based on when your refundable security deposit and non-refundable processing fee is received. WISH cannot reserve housing for you until these are received.
- We offer shared rooms and private rooms in shared apartments or townhouses, and a limited number of private apartments.
- Students can request to room with another applicant on their application.
- Most townhouses are co-ed by floor, and apartment buildings are co-ed, but each apartment is not unless a special request is made in writing.
- All WISH locations are Metro-accessible.
- WISH provides daily and weekly maintenance and a 24-hour phone for emergencies.
Can I choose my roommates?
Absolutely! While WISH doesn’t share information about other residents with open
availability, you can request to room with a specific person. Just make sure both of you
list each other’s names in your applications — and we’ll make it happen!
Payments
Once housing is reserved, how is rent paid?
- The rental payment is due in full 45 days prior to the start of the session.
- WISH accepts personal check (prior to arrival for check-in), cashier’s check, money order, bank wire, or PayPal for credit/debit (fees apply). A PayPal invoice can be sent upon request.
Do the WISH Rates include taxes?
Do the WISH Rates include utilities?
What if I need to cancel?
- All housing cancellations must be made in writing or via email to WISH.
- In the event of cancellation, WISH will attempt to re-rent your assigned space so that you can receive the maximum refund, dependent on the new booking price.
Arrival
Does WISH have House Rules?
- Everyone wants a safe, comfortable living experience. A few rules go a long way to making every intern and student staying with us have a great stay. Click here for resident policies.
- Alcohol and smoking of any kind is prohibited in all properties.
- There are no curfews, but quiet hours are from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. 7 days per week.
- Guests are prohibited.
What should I bring to DC?
How does the check-in process work?
- Please email arrivals@internsdc.com to schedule a check-in date and time no later than one week prior to arrival.
- Once arrival has been scheduled, interns will receive further details regarding check-in.
Can I reach WISH staff outside of regular business hours?
- WISH staff can be reached 24/7 in the event of an emergency. The emergency line is available after business hours at: 202-446-3117
- For medical emergencies, please dial 911.
Can I arrive early or stay a few extra days if I want to avoid spending more money on a plane ticket that’s a few days later?
Yes, if it’s a week after check out, you will be charged an additional $350. A day or two is allowed, but per the WISH policy, you must adhere to the session dates.
Since I will pack a lot of dress clothes, is there a dry-cleaning service nearby?
Capitol Hill has everything you’ll need within walking distance (and then some!). For groceries, you’ll find both local corner stores for quick runs and larger supermarkets just a short trip away. If you’re packing lots of dress clothes, you’re in luck — there are several dry-cleaning spots nearby, including Capitol Hill Valet, Capital City Cleaners, and Hill Cleaners & Alterations. You’ll also find plenty of pharmacies and healthcare
options around the neighborhood, so you’re covered for both convenience and comfort