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, or one semester. 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.
Independent or Share Living
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.
Your Best Option
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 |
Student Hostels |
Average cost per week |
$160-210 per week |
$250-300 per week |
$100-390 per week |
$100-200 per week |
Application |
Book in advance |
Book in advance |
Find on arrival |
Book in advance |
Proximity to University |
Close to University |
Close to University |
Usually need to use public transport |
Usually need to use public transport |
Room Options |
Single bedrooms - choice between share
and private bathroom. |
Single bedrooms, share bathrooms.
Some private bathroom options. |
Depends on amount paid and number
sharing. |
Single rooms |
Furniture |
Fully furnished |
Fully furnished |
Unfurnished. Budget for set up costs. |
Fully Furnished |
Meals |
Not provided |
Provided |
Not provided |
Provided |
Telephone |
The Village - connected and included
in fee (cost of calls is extra).
CITI Townhouse & Mattanya - must be connected and paid for on a monthly basis. |
Varies between colleges. Refer to
individual College websites for details. |
Must be connected and paid for on
a monthly basis. |
Phone extensions are not provided
in student rooms. |
Internet |
The Village - in-room, high-speed
cable connection to University network. Included in fee.
CITI Townhouse & Mattanya - must be connected and paid for on a monthly basis. |
All colleges provide in-room connections; Internet
access is available in the computer room. |
Must be connected and paid for on
a monthly basis. |
Each hostel has its own arrangements. |
Electricity |
Connected and included in fee. |
Varies between colleges. Refer to
individual College websites for details. |
Must be connected and paid for on
a quarterly basis |
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 |
Flexible |
Security |
The Village - onsite management, 24
hours a day.
CITI and Mattanya - available 24 hours via telephone. |
On-site management and 24 hour security. |
Nil |
Each hostel has own arrangements. |
Pastoral Care and Academic Tutoring |
The Village - extensive student support.
CITI and Mattanya - not available. |
Extensive pastoral care, academic
tutoring and support |
Independent living |
Nil |
Location |
Close to the Central Market, supermarkets,
Chinatown, cafés and restaurants. |
Close to CBD, North Adelaide shops,
cafés and restaurants. Aquatic Centre, Adelaide Zoo and parklands. |
Varies |
Varies |
Disclaimer
The University of Adelaide has endeavoured to ensure this informationĀ 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.
|