Where to live

As if choosing the right course and institution wasn’t stressful enough, you may also find have to move interstate or out of home to be nearer your chosen education provider. Even local students returning to study from full-time work may need to downsize from their fashionable bachelor pad to something a little more affordable.

Students with work commitments and families to look after will find their options are more restricted than the average school leaver. In these cases a private rental will usually be the best option.

For those who are unattached, it is worth at least considering the following options. Student housing can often provide an affordable and stress-free transition to university life, with plenty of social and networking opportunities. Note that some types of student accommodation may be restricted to residents under a certain age.

Halls of residence/university colleges

Halls or colleges are usually affiliated with or owned by a university, and are located close to the campus.

• Usually students rent a single bedroom/study, and share facilities like bathrooms and cooking equipment.
• All utilities (electricity, heating, maintenance) are included in the fees.
• Some older colleges provide services such as meals or self-catering, tutors and academic support. Internet access is usually provided in each room and in communal labs.

Pros: Plenty of opportunities for socialising and lots of help so you can concentrate on your studies.

Cons: Colleges can be very expensive, with little privacy and not much room to move. The food isn't as good as your home cooking, and you'll be surrounded by rowdy teenagers enjoying their first taste of freedom.

College apartments or student hostels

Some hostels and apartment facilities are affiliated with universities, while others are privately owned.

• Apartment living offers more independence than the traditional college experience.

• These are usually self-contained apartments with kitchen, bathroom and small living area.
• Utilities (electricity, heating, maintenance) are generally not included in the fees.

Pros: More privacy and independence than university colleges or halls of residence, with the same student community atmosphere.

Con: Often more expensive than a sharehouse. May also have curfews and other rules.

Share houses

You may already be living with a flatmate, or you might be considering one to help cut costs. Make sure you agree on some basic rules before they move in, otherwise you may find that while you’re trying to study, they’re just looking for the next party.

• Find share houses online, through word-of-mouth, university housing services, newspapers and on university noticeboards.
• Moving into a room in an existing household is easier and less costly than renting a vacant property.
• University housing services can offer advice on everything from paying your bond to disputes with landlords.

Pros: Shared costs and more independence than other student accomodation.

Cons: Household disputes.

Need help?

Most universities, TAFE institutes and other education providers have housing offices to help you. They will provide information on the range of housing options and costs, your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, and extra services. They can even help negotiate with real estate agents. If you’re an international student, some housing offices may provide airport pick-up and help you find temporary accommodation while you settle in.

Australian residents who are full-time students may be eligible for government rent assistance through Centrelink and Commonwealth Scholarships. These can ease the financial burden of relocating, especially if you’re from a rural area.

(Back to top)