UNSW's New College Village

University accommodation

We offer a range of accommodation both on and off the campus. On campus we have eight fully-catered residential colleges. Off campus we have six self-catered, shared apartments.

We recommend that, as an international student, you live on campus so that you get the most out of university life. There is strong demand for on-campus accommodation, so make sure you apply as soon as you receive your letter of acceptance.

Advantages and disadvantages of university and private accommodation

Living in private accommodation gives you a feeling of independence and it enables you to develop life skills, such as budgeting, cooking and being tolerant of other people and their habits.

However, in private accommodation, you have to do your own household chores, and problems may arrive if one member of the household does not do his or her share of the work. Also, you have to pay rent even if you return home during semester breaks.

If you live in a university residential college, you do not have to take time out for household chores or worry about paying bills, so you are free to concentrate on your study. Everything is arranged, including academic help and social activities. It is easy to meet people and you are close to your lectures. You are free to return home during semester breaks without paying rent.

However, residential colleges generally have meals at set times and do not provide a feeling of independence. Some residential colleges are quite large and sometimes noisy, and the activities can be distracting.