Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone apply to live on campus?
If you have applied to study full-time, or are a currently enrolled full-time student at the University of Newcastle and the Hunter Institute of TAFE (Ourimbah) you are welcome to apply for on-campus accommodation.
Please be aware that the primary mission for Accommodation Services is to transition young people from a family or other supported environment to being fully independent. As such the majority of our residents are 18 – 22 years old. Accommodation Services does not have the facilities to support applicants with dependent children and does not provide targeted services for people over the age of 25. If you are over 25 years old or an applicant with dependent children you may wish to consider looking for off-campus accommodation instead.
If I am not selected for on campus accommodation, what other options do I have?
The University also managed a comprehensive database of off campus accommodation. This can be found at the following link: https://offcampusaccommodation.newcastle.edu.au/
Are there any male only or female only accommodation areas?
No, all the accommodation is mixed gender.
What happens if I choose to move off campus before the end of the year?
If you choose to move off campus before the end of your licence agreement, you must abide by the terms and conditions. You are required to provide two weeks’ notice and pay a termination fee. If you do not provide two weeks’ notice you will need to pay this rent in lieu.
How do I choose the college that will suit me best?
It is recommended that you think carefully about how many people you want to live with, how much cooking you would like to do and what facilities you desire. With these factors in mind you can read the details about each of the colleges. It may also be beneficial to talk to past and current students who have lived on campus.
When I apply, what is my login ID and password?
The login ID and password section is where you can log in when you have already registered. The first time you make an application you will need to go to the “Register” tab to enter your details and generate your login for future use.
Once I have completed my on campus application, can I make any changes to my personal details or preferences?
Once you have completed your application you cannot make any changes via the website. If you would like to change your preferences or any other details, please email Accommodation.Services@newcastle.edu.au
Can I bring a car to college?
Yes, however to park within the residential colleges you will need to obtain a residential parking permit. The permits for 2012 cost $145.50 for a full year and $72.75 for Semester 2 only (Newcastle Campus). Blue Gum House at the Central Coast Campus has its own car park with no charge for parking.
* Parking permit cost for 2013 TBC.
Can I defer an offer for on campus accommodation?
No, if you are offered a spot on campus it is only for the current year. If you defer your university course you will need to reapply for accommodation when you choose to start your course.
Can I stay on campus for my entire university degree?
Application to on campus can be made on an annual basis or semester by semester basis, subject to assessment and offer. Relevant application and acceptance fee will be applied with each application.
Is Halal food catered for and included in the fees for catered accommodation?
If students adhere to a Halal diet, it may be preferable to stay in self-catered accommodation. There are butchers within the Newcastle area that provide Halal meats. The caterers for the catered accommodation ensure that all chicken meat is Halal, but do not provided Halal lamb or beef.
How are the people that are offered on campus accommodation selected from the total number of applicants?
In 2012 the selection process is done by random ballot. With each applicant assigned to a lottery number, for random selection.
The 2013 selection process requires applicants to meet the essential criteria of:
- Distance to UoN (>100kms)
- Applied to study full-time, or are a currently enrolled full-time student at the University of Newcastle or the Hunter Institute of TAFE (Ourimbah).
- Are able to demonstrate how you will meet the financial obligations.
Applicants will be encouraged to apply as soon as possible – as applications will be assessed as soon as we receive them.
Details on the 2013 Application Process including application fee, tariffs and dates will be regularly updated onto the Accommodation Services website: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/service/accommodation/on-campus/prospective-residents/
What happens to my application fee if I am not selected for on campus accommodation?
The application fee is non-refundable and must be paid to complete and validate the application process.
When will I be notified if I am offered a position on campus?
We aim to notify as soon as possible. Applicants are encouraged to apply sooner rather than later, as the assessment for a position on campus will start as soon as the application is received.
Will I be notified if I am not successful in selection?
Yes, we notify all unsuccessful applications as soon as possible to give them the opportunity to find alternative accommodation.
Should I apply for accommodation if I have not received an offer to study at the University of Newcastle?
We encourage applications to be lodged as soon as possible to secure the individuals interest. This would mean, prior to the University offers being made.
All fees/payments except for the application fee are refundable on presentation of supporting documentation of not gaining acceptance at the University.
What method will I use to pay my accommodation fees?
In 2012, the University invoiced accommodation charges on an instalment basis (4 times per year). This is changing in 2013.
In 2013, after you are offered a place on campus you will need to sign up to a Direct Debit Authority allowing the University to deduct your account on pre-determined, fortnightly Direct Debit dates. You can also pay your account via the online payment gateway in advance of these dates.
When will I have to pay the application fee, acceptance fees, bond and rent in advance?
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The application fee is payable upon submission of the application.
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The acceptance fees, consisting of the Community Program Fee, the Building Levy and the Single Semester Fee (if applicable) are payable within 5 days of receiving an offer.
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The bond and rent in advance will become payable in late December - early January. This will be communicated to accepted residents in due course.
What are the total fees and charges I ned to pay in order to accept a place on campus?
After paying the $100.00 application fee and receiving an offer of accommodation, you will be asked to log into the accommodation portal, accept the terms of the Residential Contract and pay the applicable acceptance fees.
In 2013, the fees are:
| Full Year | Single Semester | |
| Application Fee |
$100.00 |
$100.00 |
| Community Fee |
$250.00 |
$125.00 |
| Building Levy |
$250.00 |
$125.00 |
| Bond |
Equivalent to Four (4) Weeks Rent |
Equivalent to Four (4) Weeks Rent |
| Rent in Advance |
Equivalent to Two (2) Weeks Rent |
Equivalent to Two (2) Weeks Rent |
| Single Semester Fee |
$100.00 |
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