There are lots of types of accommodation available in Australia, but a particularly popular one is purpose-built student accommodation, designed just for students. If you’ve decided that student accommodation is the best option for you, we’ve put together some tips for finding the perfect home. You’re welcome!
1. Rooms with exactly what you need
Living away from home doesn’t mean you need to forgo home comforts. Your room should be a place to relax and unwind after a busy day. Consider choosing a room with features that improve your daily routine and facilitate independence. The privacy of an en suite bathroom and the convenience of a kitchenette can provide you with valuable space for yourself. A good-sized, comfortable bed ensures a good night’s sleep before important exams, while an air conditioning system keeps you feeling refreshed. Additionally, bright, natural lighting will make a huge difference to the long days of studying lying ahead!
2. Spaces to socialise
The bonus of living in student accommodation is the opportunity to build close friendships with people from all around the world. Access to a variety of shared spaces provides more opportunities for students to meet their new neighbours, make new friends, study together and socialise. Communal kitchens encourage group cooking and eating meals together, as well as the opportunity to discover new cuisines. Lounge areas offer a space for social gatherings and can make study breaks more enjoyable! Some student accommodation providers also have outdoor terraces or a cinema for relaxing on the weekend.
3. Security measures
It’s normal to feel nervous while adjusting to life away from home but it’s essential that you feel safe in your new home. Look for accommodation providers with security measures in place, such as CCTV and swipe card access. Buildings with a 24/7 reception will feel safer at night, and it’s always reassuring to know someone is around to help if you need it.
4. Study facilities
If it’s late at night, you’re sick, or you simply can’t find a free desk in the library, your pad should have everything you need for a productive study session. Consider a home that provides both independent and shared study spaces. You should have access to an in-room desk, a communal study zone, and a fast and stable Wi-Fi connection.
5. Transport access
Exploring a new city is the most exciting part of moving overseas. To do this, you will need an adequate form of transport! Make sure you can easily access public transport such as trains, trams, or bus stops from your new home. You can also look out for a building that provides bike storage and car park space. These considerations will make travelling around the city much easier!
6. Proximity to your educational institution
You don’t want your commute to take up large chunks of your day. Spending an hour in traffic or taking three different buses in the morning can severely disrupt your productivity. Considering the reason you are living in student accommodation is to attend your chosen institution – the proximity between the two should be an important factor in your final decision! Ideally, your new home should be walking distance from your campus or at least be accessible by a short shuttle bus ride. You will appreciate the short distance if you happen to oversleep and are running late to class!
7. A great events program
Choose a home with an events program that’ll coordinate activities for students to engage with their new neighbours, new city and local surrounds. Attending these events can be a fun way to meet people with similar interests to you and it also provides an opportunity to try new things. Some programs may offer wellness activities such as yoga classes, fun runs, and mental health workshops. Other programs run educational workshops on skills such as networking and internships. A great events program should have a mixture of social, wellness, learning, and cultural activities.
8. Exercise space
Physical activity improves our focus, happiness, and overall health. Australian gyms can be expensive and any weather changes can disrupt outdoor exercise plans. Having access to a fitness centre in your building makes it easier to fit exercise into your daily routine. Ovals and basketball courts present opportunities for socialising, while a gym can provide valuable stress relief during busy semesters.
9. Easy access to everything
If you’ve moved to the other side of the world to study, naturally you’ll want to experience everything your new city has to offer. You might want to look for a student accommodation provider that’s located right near the action so you can enjoy restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs, shopping and more right on your doorstep.
10. Price inclusions
Many students have low budgets and don’t want to be worrying about the price of their monthly bills. It’s wise to look for a pad that includes utility bills in the overall price of the room. That way, you can realistically plan your budget with no nasty surprises at the end of the month! It can also be advantageous to consider the other inclusions an accommodation provider may offer. These could include room furnishings, a complimentary events program, and access to the building’s facilities.
