Updated 8 December 2022
You have decided to study in the beautiful city of Adelaide and want to learn about student accommodation.
First, ask yourself:
- Do I want to live by myself or with other people?
- Do I want to live on the university campus, in the city or nearer to the suburbs/beach?
- Do I need a place that is fully furnished?
- What utilities do I need, and what are optional?
- How much do I have to spend on rent each week?
Remember, rent is not the only living expense; you will also need to consider other things such as groceries, mobile phones, internet, and entertainment costs. You can use this handy Cost of Living Calculator to get an idea on the total living cost per week, and you can use a budget planner to help control your spending and increase savings.
Once you have answered the above questions and have an idea of your weekly budget, it’s time to look at the options to find the best fit for you.
The main options for student accommodation in Adelaide are:
1.Homestay
Homestay is where you will pay board and involves living and socialising with a local family. You’ll enjoy the comforts of home, have meals (included in the board) and cleaning provided and get to practise your English language skills.
The University of Adelaide College has a list of approved homestay families happy to welcome you into their lives and help you learn more about our culture.
If you like living with a family and need some extra support from friendly Australians, this is a good option for you.
2.Purpose-built student accommodation
These are accommodation and facilities built for students exclusively. The rooms are fully furnished with many shared facilities and there are staff available for support. If you’re a social person, this is the right type of accommodation for you.
Scape @ University of Adelaide
Scape at the University of Adelaide is the College’s preferred student accommodation provider. It is located across the road from the University and near Rundle Mall, the main shopping district. Rent includes electricity, water and internet.
There is a range of rooms available with staff onsite all day and night. There are shared study spaces, unlimited WiFi, a video game room, a rooftop terrace with BBQs, a cinema and gym. There are communal kitchens where you can cook your meals or eat out at the many cafés and restaurants close by.
Scape Waymouth
Scape Waymouth Street is approximately a 20-minute walk or a 6-minute bus trip to our College or The University of Adelaide. It is also close to Adelaide’s entertainment precinct, shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can choose from studio or shared apartments with fast WiFi and use the gym and basketball courtyard.
Yugo Adelaide City
Yugo Adelaide City is a new residence with panoramic views and is conveniently located across the road from The University of Adelaide and a 5-minute walk to our College and very close to many, shops in Rundle Mall. You can choose from a range of studio, 2- bedroom, 4-bedroom or 6-bedroom apartments and shared spaces, unlimited WiFi, a gym, cinema, BBQ terraces, study spaces, and laundry facilities. There are communal kitchens where you can cook your meals or eat out at the many cafés and restaurants close by.
UniLodge City Gardens
UniLodge City Gardens has excellent facilities and is located in the city near cafes, restaurants, shopping, entertainment and Adelaide Central Markets. It is around a 15-minute walk from the College.
You can choose from a range of studio, 2-bedroom to 6-bedroom apartments. There are shared facilities such as study rooms, gym, laundry rooms, communal kitchen, dining area and theatre.
3. Under 18 accommodation options
The College staff take particular care of students under the age of 18. Before you arrive, the Accommodation Manager will help you to arrange suitable accommodation. Some of these options include:
- The University of Adelaide College homestay
- Scape @ University of Adelaide
- Current homestay (U18 Conditions apply)
- Living with a family member or trusted contacts (U18 Conditions apply)
For more detail, you can read our accommodation options for under 18’s.
4. University Managed student accommodation
University of Adelaide Village is an apartment complex for students, located in the Adelaide city centre near China Town and Central Market. It’s a 10-minute bus ride or 25-minute walk away from the university. You have the option of living alone or sharing an apartment with other students. There are common indoor and outdoor areas for socialising and preparing food.
If you’re on a low budget, this is a good option, because the rent is more affordable.
“There are apartments and townhouses available at the Village. I am living in an apartment with 3 girls and there is a shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. In the Village, there are so many interesting activities and nice managers who are always on hand to help with anything. There is a free shuttle bus service that can transport me to the university on weekdays.”
Jennifer Wu (Foundation Studies Program, China)
5. Living with family or trusted contacts
You can stay with family or trusted contacts already living in Adelaide. Staying with family or friends will help you settle into a new place faster and easier.
To find out more about student accommodation in Adelaide, visit our webpage or you can email collegeaccommodation@adelaide.edu.au