Accommodation

The University of Newcastle offers a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual lifestyle and budget.

University of Newcastle accommodation service

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NIC students are welcome to utilise the University of Newcastle accommodation service to book on-campus accommodation. Places on-campus are limited and we recommend you make a booking as soon as you have accepted your NIC offer.

Contact Us

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For further information about accommodation at the University of Newcastle, please do not hesitate to contact:
Phone: +61 2 4924 1444
Fax: +61 2 4924 1440
Email: accommodationenquiry@newcastle.edu.au
If you have not decided where you would like to live, we recommend you arrange temporary accommodation or a minimum 4 week home stay so you have accommodation secured when you first arrive.

What if I am under 18 years of age?

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Students under 18 years of age must either:

  • Live with a parent, legal guardian or person aged over 21 years who is nominated by their parent (or legal guardian), or
  • Provide evidence of guardianship arrangements.

Guardianship arrangements must be made through the homestay organisations listed below and involve living with an Australian family in your own furnished bedroom. It is a great opportunity to experience Australian culture and improve your English skills.

Live with an Australian family - Homestay Accommodation

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Are you wanting to experience the Australian way of life first hand, and willing to try new things? Why not try Homestay? Homestay is a great way to learn about Australian culture and to practice your English, while making lifelong friendships with an Australian family. If you are an easy going person who enjoys meeting new people and can easily adapt to new environments, then why not try Homestay?

What is Homestay?

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Homestay allows you to live as an active member of an Australian family, and is a popular choice of accommodation. All families who offer Homestay accommodation have been approved as Homestay providers by University staff. As a member of a Homestay family you will experience Australian culture in the home. It is expected that as a Homestay student you will remain in Homestay for a minimum of four weeks. In that time, you will experience the warm hospitality of our Homestay families, who will welcome you into their home as a gesture of friendship. Just as you are eager to learn about Australian culture, our Homestay families are looking forward to learning all about your country and culture.

Cost

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There is a $200.00 administration fee charged for each Homestay placement. You will be sent an invoice for this charge during your first semester at the University. Students should pay the Placement Fee at the Cashier's Office in the Student Services Building on campus within a week of arriving in Newcastle. The Homestay accommodation fee（ 21 meals per week) is $215 per week. This generally includes packed lunches during weekdays although if you have chosen the cheaper option ($200 per week for 16 meals) weekday lunches will not be provided.

Please note: some hosts will also charge an additional fee for use of the internet ($10 per week)
In locations where public transport is a problem, some hosts will drive students to and from the University and may request extra fees to cover petrol. (Usually under $30 per week)

You must pay for 2 weeks (either $400 for 16 meals or $420 for 21 meals) on arrival. This is non-refundable. You should prepare to stay at least 4 weeks in your Homestay. After this time you can negotiate to stay longer or arrange alternative accommodation.

How Can I Apply?

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To apply, please download the Homestay Application Form from the University of Newcastle website and post the Application Form to:

Homestay
International Office
The University of Newcastle
Callaghan NSW 2308
Australia