If you want to live your university experience to the fullest and meet as many people as possible, sleeping on campus is surely the best solution. So you're ready to start the process... but not before you know more.
What types of accommodation are offered to international students? How to set up a registration file? What budget should you plan? But above all, is this the Australian life you dream of? The following may decide you...
On Campus Accommodation
Australian universities provide many places for international students to live on campus.
Most of the time, you will have the choice between several housing options:
- A double room, a single room, sometimes even a studio...,
- In an apartment (unit ) or a student residence ( hall of residence ),
- Close to the university or directly on campus.
Here, everything is at your fingertips. You care about your studies and nothing else...
The rooms are generally in good condition and quite pleasant. They have a minimum of fittings: a bed, a desk, a closet, shelves, etc.
The bathroom and kitchen are standard rooms - unless otherwise stated - i.e., you will have to share them with other residents.
In addition, all residences are equipped with washing machines.
Pros and Cons of On-Campus Accommodation
Pros
- On-campus accommodation is perfect for students who have just arrived in Australia… In addition, the procedures are simple, and you can organize everything before the significant departure.
- In the university residence, you will experience real student life. Meetings with friends, organized outings, social activities, cultural events, barbecues every weekend… you don't have a minute to yourself.
- After a while, you will know almost everyone. Be aware that this community life allows international students to make friends with many Australians, which is more difficult in class.
- You may see a corner of greenery, a lake, an open-air swimming pool, or even tennis courts... A privileged environment to relax between two lessons.
Cons
- After a long day, sometimes you want to go home and get away from college. Of course, it depends on your character… but in this case, housing on campus is not the best option.
- Also, note that many Australian campuses are out of the way. Even more, it sometimes takes an hour to reach the city and its entertainment. It is all the more difficult to find a student job because the competition is fierce around the university.
- Finally, you will quickly realize that accommodation in a university residence is not the most economical option, especially compared to shared accommodation.
Prices are slightly lower if you reserve your place for the year.
If the rates may seem high, staying in a student residence will save on several things, including transport and charges (electricity, water, internet).
In addition, you will also benefit from reductions: subscriptions to sports halls, food courts, and university restaurants (if not already included in the price of accommodation).
When and how to do it?
The first come is the first served... So be ready several months before the start of the school year. For example, starting classes in July and enrolling in April.
Here are the steps to mount a file:
- Go to the website of your future university in the "on-campus accommodation" section.
- Complete the online form (identity, curriculum, preferences, etc.).
- Wait for a confirmation, then an offer.
- Return the signed Residency Agreement with the first payment.
Procedures vary from university to university.
For some, you will have to pay a registration fee; for others, have your student number on hand. So follow the instructions to the letter.
After submitting your file, the wait can be long...
But don't worry; the good or bad news will arrive in your mailbox a few weeks before the start of the school year. If all goes well, you will be allocated a room in the residence of your choice.
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