How to apply

Everything you need to know to start your application.

Students relaxing and studying in the common lounge at UNSW Kensignton accomadation.

Ready to apply but not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through it.

Your journey to securing a spot in UNSW's owned and operated colleges or apartments begins with our convenient online resident portal. We highly advise early application, even before your high school or university results are finalised, because our available spaces fill up quickly.

  • Applications for 2024 are now open! Visit the online resident portal and start your application today.

    Registering a new account is easy; simply fill in the registration form. It helps to have your details ready.

    Returning residents can log in using their existing account. Please make sure to update your details before starting your application.
     

  • Once you’re logged in to the portal, click the ‘New Application’ page menu tab. Here you will be able to select the entry term and will be prompted to view our terms and conditions before starting your application. 

    The application form breaks down each step of the process as you go. 
     

  • We encourage you to nominate up to four accommodation options in your order of preference. Every effort is made to give you your first preference, but placement depends on availability and can’t be guaranteed.

    Please make sure you only select preferences you’re willing to accept.

    Please note that International House does not accept foundation year or first-year students directly from high school.

     

  • If you’re applying for Basser, Goldstein, Philip Baxter, Colombo House, Fig Tree Hall, UNSW Hall or International House, you’re encouraged to upload the following documentation:

    • Completed Referee Form (reference must be from a teacher, or professional or work referee)

    • Additional references and academic transcripts/reports

    • Letter of application addressed to the Dean (outlining your previous experience in community living (if any) including your views on issues such as noise, alcohol and smoking. Please include your reasons for applying to the college and what contributions you plan to make.
       

  • The application fee for new applicants is $50 and non-refundable.
     

  • If you applied for Basser, Goldstein, Philip Baxter, Colombo House, Fig Tree Hall, UNSW Hall or International House, you’ll be required to attend an interview either over the phone or in person. 
     

  • The first round of offers are usually emailed in October of the year prior to commencement. Offers are made on a rolling basis until a college or apartment is full. You might receive an offer after your course starts.
     

  • To accept your offer, you’ll be required to make a payment of $1000AUD fee in advance. This fee will be subtracted from your final payments at the end of your licence agreement (provided your room is left clean and there are no damages to your room at the time of check-out).
     

  • If you do not receive an offer to study at UNSW, you will not be eligible to become a resident of UNSW Accommodation. If you have already accepted your accommodation offer and paid the $1000AUD fee, please inform us in writing along with one of the following documents:

    • a letter from the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) showing that your preference for UNSW was not offered

    • a letter from UNSW, The Nucleus: Student Hub or faculty course co-ordinator advising that you will not be offered a place, or you were unsuccessful in your application

    • a letter from UNSW Admissions advising that you will not be offered a place.

    Complete the refund request form and please email us at accommodation@unsw.edu.au for further processing.
     

  • If you receive an offer to study at UNSW in 2024 but decline the offer, the $1000AUD fee in advance is refundable. Please contact us as soon as possible so that we can allocate your place to another student and refund the fee. 
     

  • If your visa application is denied, and you wish to refund your fee in advance, please inform us in writing along with one of the following documents:

    • the letter confirming visa application was denied

    • the letter confirming visa application was delayed and will not be processed in time for your enrolment or contract start date.

    Complete the refund request form and please email us at accommodation@unsw.edu.au for further processing.