The University offers both on-campus and off-campus accommodation. Detailed information (together with an application form) is sent to all students once they have accepted an offer of admission to a program.
The University of Newcastle provides approximately 950 beds in three residential colleges (Edwards Hall, International House and Evatt House) and a 'motel-type' residence (Barahineban) located on the Callaghan campus. At its Ourimbah campus, the University has another self-catered residential unit (The Residence). Each residential unit has its own ethos and students have a choice of catered, semi-catered or self-catered lifestyles.
Finding a place to live is one of the biggest decisions faced by students. The University recognises the importance of secure, affordable and comfortable accommodation and thus offers a comprehensive accommodation service to all students. Additionally, the University manages off-campus short-term residential units (Univille) and provides a homestay service.
The University offers an accommodation service that provides a range of free and confidential services to assist students in their search for off-campus accommodation. The accommodation service maintains an interactive database of current accommodation options. This database and a wealth of other relevant information is available from the Residential Accommodation Unit.
Homestay provides an opportunity for students to live in a home with an Australian family. It provides an opportunity for practising English in a relaxed environment whilst getting to know how Australians live.
It is estimated that a single international student requires a minimum of AUD $13,500/year for living expenses - accommodation and meals, incidentals, entertainment and local transport. This does not include any allowance for costs associated with a student's spouse, partner or dependent(s). Students should also have additional funds to pay for initial establishment costs, textbooks and, where applicable, special equipment, transportation and temporary or additional accommodation.
Although the Australian Government allows international students to work part-time up to 20 hours a week while studying (and full-time when on vacation), part-time work opportunities are limited and students should not rely on employment to supplement living expenses while living in Australia.