Things to Consider before Searching
There are many factors to consider before commencing your search for accommodation.
You'll need to think about:
- budget and location
- length of stay in Adelaide
- whether you want to live alone or with others.
Budget and Location
Many students are keen to live on or near the University campus, but this isn't always possible. In Adelaide, as with most major cities, rental prices increase, and availability decreases, closer to the city centre.
All University accommodation and residential colleges (except Roseworthy Residential College, which is near Roseworthy campus) are within walking distance to the North Terrace campus, and close to restaurants, shops, parks, and transport.
Most student hostels and cheaper private rentals, however, are located further out in the Adelaide suburbs. University accommodation and residential colleges are not only close to campus but offer competitive prices, with many associated costs, such as internet, phone rental, utilities, security and some meals, included in the fee.
Length of Stay
University accommodation and residential colleges require a minimum residency commitment of 6 months. At student hostels you may have the option to stay as little as one day or as long as 12 months. Most private rentals will require a minimum contract of 6 months, but this varies.
Private Rental or Share Accommodation
University accommodation and residential colleges offer private or shared room and bathroom options. In a private rental share house or student hostel, you may have your own room but will probably have to share a bathroom. The single fee you pay for University accommodation or residential colleges also eliminates hassles such as the division of rent and utility bills between residents, and the people you share with are also students and more likely to respect the need for a quiet place for independent study.
University Managed or Residential College Accommodation
No matter what your priorities are University accommodation and residential colleges offer better value, optimum study and living environments and more resident services than private rentals or student hostels can provide. Enjoy benefits such as:
- competitive rental prices
- close proximity to campus and consumer services such as restaurants and supermarkets
- modern furnishings
- independent or share living options
- utilities included in fees.
See the Accommodation Comparison Table (below) for more examples. Whatever you decide, the Accommodation Service is here to help you find the right place to live and study.
|
Accommodation Comparison Table |
|---|
|
|
University Accommodation |
Residential College |
Private Rental or Share Accommodation |
Commercial Student Accommodation |
Student Hostels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Average cost per week |
$190-240 per week |
$304-361* per week |
$110-400 per week |
$239-$345 per week |
$120-240 per week |
|
Application |
Book in advance |
Book in advance |
Inspect on arrival |
Book in advance |
Book in advance |
Room Options | Single bedrooms; choice between shared and private bathroom. | Single bedrooms, share bathrooms. Some private bathroom options. | Depends on amount paid and number sharing. | Single and double rooms. One and two bedroom apartments with private bathroom options. | Single rooms |
| Furniture | Fully furnished | Fully furnished | Unfurnished. Budget for set up costs. | Fully furnished | Fully furnished |
| Meals | Not provided | Provided | Not provided | Not provided | Provided |
|
Proximity to University |
Close to University |
Close to University |
Usually need to use public transport |
Close to University |
Usually need to use public transport |
|
Telephone |
The Village - Connected and included in fee (cost of calls is extra). Mattanya - Must be connected and paid for on a monthly basis. |
Most colleges have phones in rooms (Kathleen Lumley residents connect at own cost) |
Must be connected and paid for on a monthly basis. |
Additional expense |
Phone extensions are not provided in student rooms. |
|
Internet |
The Village - in-room, high-speed cable connection to University network. Included in fee. Mattanya - must be connected and paid for. |
Most colleges provide in-room connections; otherwise Internet access is available in the computer room. |
Must be connected and paid for on a monthly basis. |
In room connection privided, pay for usage |
Each hostel has its own arrangements. |
|
Electricity |
Connected and included in fee. |
Connected and included in fee. |
Must be connected and paid for on a quarterly basis |
Additional expense |
Connected and included in fee |
|
Minimum Commitment |
One semester (26 weeks). Preference is given to full year (52 week) applications. |
Contract offered on a semester or academic year basis. |
Lease agreements 6-12 months |
Lease agreements 6-12 months |
Flexible |
|
Security |
The Village - onsite management, 24 hours a day. Mattanya - available 24 hours via telephone. |
On-site management and 24 hour security. |
Nil |
Access to emergency contact. |
Each hostel has own arrangements. |
|
Pastoral Care and Academic Tutoring |
The Village - University staff on-site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Mattanya - nil |
Extensive pastoral care, academic tutoring and support |
Independent living |
Staff on-site during operating hours. No tutorial support. |
Nil |
|
Location |
In the city; close to the Central Market, supermarkets, Chinatown, cafés and restaurants. |
Close to the Central Market, Supermarkets, Chinatown, cafés and restaurants. |
Varies |
City location |
Varies |
* Kathleen Lumley College average cost $265-340 per week. | |||||
Disclaimer
The University of Adelaide has endeavoured to ensure this information is correct. The University
gives no warranty and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of information and the
University reserves the right to make changes without notice at any time in its absolute discretion.
Users of this site are advised to make their own enquiries directly with the relevant accommodation provider
before acting upon or in consideration of this information.
