How to find the right student accommodation in Sydney for you

We help you every step of the way to find a safe home away from home.

Students at UNSW on-campus accommodation

Spectacular beaches, buzzing nightlife and globally-renowned universities – Sydney has long been a top choice for international students.

This year, UNSW Sydney continues to welcome our international students back to our beautiful campuses, which means it’s time to book your new home in Sydney. Here’s how you can secure your spot.

Apply early for on-campus accommodation

If you want the ultimate university experience, staying on campus is key. UNSW has a range of residential colleges and apartments where you can fully immerse yourself in uni life. Whether you choose the classic dorm-style accommodation or an apartment for more independent living, you’ll only be a short stroll from all your classes, and surrounded by cafes, shops and parks. Plus, on-campus accommodation is often more affordable than renting privately, but that does mean demand is high.

Applications for UNSW owned and operated residential colleges and apartments are still being accepted, however vacancies are limited. There are also affiliated accommodation options available on campus. We are currently working to open more rooms on campus, and we encourage you to plan ahead and apply as early as possible.

To see what accommodation is available, compare fees and apply online, visit UNSW’s Accommodation page.

Find out more

Living off-campus

If you prefer to explore this wonderful city and live like a local – there are plenty of off-campus accommodation options. If you still want the convenience and student culture of on-campus living, check out one of the many privately-run student accommodation options around the city.

Iglu, Urbanest and Scape are three great options, all of which have modern amenities, shared spaces and regular social events to bring people together. Rooms come fully furnished with bills included, and they’re within walking distance of UNSW’s Sydney campuses.

Alternatively, you can rent an apartment or house through a local property agent. This gives you the flexibility of choosing a location that suits your lifestyle – beachside, parkside or harbourside. However, it’s important to know that the rental market in Sydney can be quite competitive. You’ll also need to arrange your own furniture as most rentals come unfurnished. Be sure to check out your rights as a tenant before signing a contract.

Sharehouses can be a happy medium between student and private rental accommodation. You’ll be living in a house or apartment with one or more other people, splitting the rent for a more affordable option than living on your own. UNSW’s portal can help you find a sharehouse near campus.

Short-term accommodation

Looking for a short-term stay while you find the right place to set up base? You’ll find a huge selection of hostels, hotels, Airbnb and short-term lettings to give you time to search for something more permanent. Suburbs like Randwick, Coogee, Surry Hills and Bondi, which are all close to our Kensington campus, are good places to start looking.

It’s a good idea to book 2-4 weeks of short-term accommodation, especially if you’re travelling from overseas. This will give you a chance to settle in, get to know the city and find a location that suits your budget and lifestyle. It also allows you to inspect properties in person and make sure you’re comfortable living there during your time in Sydney.

Avoiding rental scams

Unfortunately, there are a small number of people who try to take advantage of international students who aren’t familiar with rental laws in Australia. Avoid using unauthorised business platforms such as social media or private trading websites when searching for accommodation. Even some house-sharing websites can unknowingly circulate scams. Take a look at our page to avoid any trouble.