Student Accommodation in Australia: Options for Nepali Students

Studying abroad, especially in a country like Australia, can be a transformative experience. However, one often overlooked aspect that significantly impacts your academics as well as your lifestyle is accommodation. For Nepali students aiming to study in Australia, the complexities of finding suitable living arrangements can be hectic. There are many aspects, such as finances, proximity to the university, safety, and cultural compatibility, that need to be considered when searching for a place to live. As the number of Nepali students pursuing education in Australia continues to rise, understanding the available accommodation options becomes extremely essential. Let’s explore them in this blog.

On-campus Accommodation

Universities in Australia provide on-campus living options which offer benefits such as easy access to university facilities, and less hassle in commuting. Students can choose from a variety of on-campus accommodations, including dormitories and student apartments, catering to different preferences and needs. Some on-campus accommodations are specifically designed to cater to the needs of international students, fostering a supportive environment. Living on campus saves valuable time that would otherwise be spent on commuting while often providing services like meal plans, room cleaning, and laundry facilities, making daily life more convenient for students. Additionally, university-provided accommodations prioritize safety. However, talking about the cons, you may miss out on the experience of living by yourself enjoying your privacy, and managing your own space. The convenience provided by on-campus often comes at a higher cost, making it a more expensive option compared to living off-campus.

Off-campus Accommodation

Living off-campus can provide students with a sense of freedom and the opportunity to develop important life skills such as budgeting and time management. Nepali students can explore off-campus accommodation options like rental apartments, shared houses, and homestays for a diverse living experience. These options offer independence, cultural immersion, and flexibility in location and amenities. However, they may also face the responsibility of managing utilities like electricity and internet bills and may require factoring in transportation costs if the accommodation is further away from campus. However, the trend among international students is to first reside on campus while they adjust to their new environments. They move out and begin living in private residences in a few months after making friends and becoming well-acquainted with the city. Here are a few of the well-available accommodation choices for overseas students studying in Australia.

  • Residential College

Residential colleges are a popular option for students living far away from home and a great way to meet other students. The university takes care of basic needs such as meals, room cleaning, and laundry so that you can comfortably stay and study. Students are also able to access the university libraries, internet, and study rooms anytime they stay on campus. The costs may vary, depending on the university. It is more expensive than the halls of residence which is a safe and comfortable accommodation near the educational institution or on the premises of the university. Though it has fewer facilities as compared to residential colleges.

Student Hostels

Student hostels present an attractive option for those seeking a balance between affordability and a socially engaging living experience. Hostels provide a budget-friendly alternative compared to other accommodation choices. Hostels typically operate under the supervision of a staff committee, ensuring a structured and secure living environment. This supervision ensures the safety and well-being of students. However, some disadvantages may be limited privacy and amenities, strict curfews, noise, and disturbances.

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    Homestays

Homestays are another accommodation choice for students from Nepal studying in Australia. In a homestay, a student lives with a local family, which can provide a cultural experience and this opportunity can help improve their English language skills. Homestays are often more affordable than other accommodation options because meals are usually included in the cost. These programs are popular with secondary students or students enrolled in short-term courses. Rooms can be single or shared, and costs vary depending on the type of room. Meals are usually covered in the cost, but a self-catered homestay is also available. Students can find approved and reputable homestay providers through their institution’s accommodation services.

  • Private Rentals

If you feel comfortable living independently and want more freedom, you can choose to rent your own apartment. This can be the most expensive accommodation option, but you can save money by sharing the apartment with friends and roommates. You can find available apartments on real-estate websites, which will provide accurate information on average room rents in major cities in Australia. It’s important to thoroughly check all necessary documents and visit the apartment in person before making a choice. Find more information here.

Challenges and Considerations

  1. Ideal accommodation: When selecting a student residence, it’s essential to consider the location’s lifestyle, neighborhood, and proximity to the university. The costs will vary depending on your chosen state, city, and type of accommodation. It makes finding the ideal accommodation challenging.
  2. Fit in the budget: In Australia, where living expenses are relatively high for international students, there is a challenge in finding living spaces that fit within the limited budget. Always confirm the total cost and any other expenses you may be required to pay, such as gas, water, and electricity bills.
  3. Advance planning: Another essential consideration is, planning for accommodation in advance. This involves researching the area, checking the amenities, and doing background checks to find authentic websites that provide all necessary information. Networking and talking to friends and relatives already settled in Australia can help avoid the stress of house hunting upon arrival. Relying on peers can help deal with the lack of familiarity with the place.
  4. Safety and security: Rental scams and security risks while trying to find a suitable place to live are another challenge. Being aware of it in advance can help in spotting such scams.

If you still feel confused in understanding the aspects of accommodation in Australia, our professional guidance might be helpful. Book your free appointment for a consultation and clear all of your doubts related to Studying in Australia. References: Australia Stay Simplified: Top Accommodations for International Students (aeccglobal.com.np) Accommodation for Nepali Students in Australia – 2023 (bestconsultancy.edu.np) https://www.internationalstudent.com/study_australia/living_in_australia/accomodation/ https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/en/life-in-australia/accommodation#ref2