Accommodation for international students
University of the Sunshine Coast students have access to a range of affordable accommodation options, including student accommodation complexes, Homestay and other accommodation.
Student accommodation *
Privately-owned, fully-furnished student accommodation complexes are conveniently located next to the University. Managed independently of USC, Varsity Apartments and UniCentral are linked by pathways to the campus, which is an easy three-minute walk away. The apartments are a 10-minute drive or 20-minute bus ride to the beach, and the local shopping centre is also within easy reach.
Varsity Apartments
The complex has:
- a freeform resort swimming pool with spa and lap pool
- a tennis court/basketball court
- a gym
- a beach volleyball court
- four barbecue areas
- coin operated laundry and linen hire
- coin operated drink machines
- on-site managers and night security
Apartments have:
- a self contained kitchen
- furnishings
- a shared living room with television
- four private single bedrooms
Bedrooms have:
- a private bathroom and toilet
- an internet connection facility
- a telephone
- a desk and chair
- a double bed
Information about Varsity Apartments bookings and prices can be found on the Varsity Apartments website.
UniCentral
The complex has:
- a six-lane, 25-metre lap pool
- a floodlit tennis court / basketball court
- an outdoor recreational area and barbecues
- a recreational pavilion with pool tables, table tennis, cable TV, DVD and stereo, and other common room facilities
- secure gated complex with on-site managers and night security
Apartments have:
- a self contained kitchen and laundry
- furnishings
- a shared living room
- four private single bedrooms (mostly)
Bedrooms have:
- a private bathroom and toilet
- an internet connection facility
- a free intranet to the University
- a telephone
- a desk and chair
- a double bed
- a free intercom system
Information about UniCentral bookings and prices can be found on the UniCentral website.
Homestay
(English Language Program students only)
Living with an Australian family gives you the opportunity to experience the Australian culture and speak English on a daily basis. All families live close to public transport.
Families live in various locations, including near the beach or the University. You will be provided with:
- a single, furnished, private bedroom with study facilities
- breakfast and dinner during the week and breakfast, lunch and dinner on the weekends
| Conditions |
Information |
| Rates |
Short or long term (minimum four weeks, unless length of course is shorter):
2009 - A$210 per week
2010 - A$225 per week
Please note that a non-refundable, up-front minimum payment of four weeks rent is required. Where the length of the course is less than four weeks, the upfront minimum payment is adjusted accordingly. |
| Booking method |
Bookings can be made through USC Accommodation Services. A placement fee of A$150 applies. |
| Extra costs (not usually included in weekly rent |
- telephone calls
- lunch from Monday to Friday
- transport to and from the University
- personal toiletries
- Internet access (however this is free on the USC campus)
|
| Notice of leaving |
Two weeks notice, or two weeks rent in lieu of notice, is required after the initial four-week minimum stay, unless the length of the course is shorter. In the case of a course that is shorter than four weeks, the exit payment will be adjusted accordingly. |
Please note: all prices are quoted in Australian dollars.
Other accommodation
Due to the University's close proximity to a number of towns, conveniently located off-campus accommodation is easy to find, either through local real estate agents and newspapers or our Accommodation Register. You can find share accommodation or rent a unit or house with friends. Searching for the right place could take a couple of weeks, so it is recommended that you book temporary accommodation before arriving.
Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA)
The Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) looks after the laws for renting a place to live in Queensland (the Residential Tenancies Act 1994 and the Residential Services (Accommodation) Act 2002).
The law gives tenants, landlords and agents an understanding of their rights and responsibilities when renting.
The RTA can help you learn your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.
Get advice on:
- what to do when you're starting a tenancy
- your rights and legal responsibilities as a tenant
- how to get your bond back
- what to do if you have a problem when renting
To download tenancy forms or for more information call 1300 366 311 or visit the RTA website.
Please note that Residential Tenancy Authority services do not apply to students living in Homestay.
More information
Refer to how to book accommodation and airport transfers or contact Accommodation Services.
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