When choosing university accommodation, students often face the pivotal decision of where to live. While each option has its advantages, one type of housing consistently stands out for its convenience, community, and lifestyle benefits—close-to-campus living. For both domestic and international students navigating the challenges of university life in Australia, this choice can significantly enhance the academic and social experience.
Convenience at Your Doorstep
Living near campus offers unparalleled convenience. Proximity to lecture halls, libraries, laboratories, and study spaces means students spend less time commuting and more time engaged in academic pursuits or enjoying their social life. This reduced travel not only saves money on transport but also lessens fatigue, giving students more energy for study, work, and social engagements.
For international students unfamiliar with local transport systems or adjusting to a new time zone, this convenience can be a stabilising factor during the initial transition period. It also makes attending early morning or late evening classes far less daunting.
A Boost to Academic Performance
Time management is critical to academic success. Close-to-campus accommodation helps students structure their days around their studies without the disruptions of long commutes, making it easier to attend last-minute study sessions, group work, or access academic support services.
Findings from a study on the effect of student housing conditions on academic performance showed that students living closer to campus achieved higher GPAs (3.85 vs. 3.47), studied more each week (24.32 vs. 19.96 hours), and had better attendance (88.65% vs. 80.02%). This highlights how proximity encourages consistent academic engagement and easier access to university resources.
See also: Private Tutoring at Home: Enhancing Education in Karachi:
Immersed in Student Community
Living close to campus makes it easy for students to join study sessions, attend events, and spend time with friends without the hassle of long commutes. This everyday interaction helps build strong social connections and a sense of belonging. For international students, it’s a valuable way to adjust to a new environment and become part of the university community.
Accommodation designed with students in mind often enhances this sense of community. Options like Iglu properties nearby offer more than just convenience—they create spaces where students can meet, collaborate and connect through shared facilities and regular social activities. Being surrounded by fellow students from diverse backgrounds encourages cultural exchange, broadens perspectives, and enriches the overall university experience.
Access to Local Amenities and Services
Campus-adjacent neighbourhoods are often designed with students in mind, offering a wide array of essential services: grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, cafés, gyms, and public transport. These surroundings provide students with everything they need for daily living, often within walking distance.
Additionally, being close to campus means students are better placed to explore local culture, enjoy nearby events, and discover hidden gems around the university—be it a local gallery, weekend market, or favourite study café.
Financial Considerations
While accommodation closer to campus can sometimes come with a higher rental price tag, the cost-benefit analysis often favours it when factoring in savings on transport, utilities, and food (thanks to access to university facilities and dining options). Furthermore, some accommodations include bills in the rent, simplifying budgeting for students who are managing finances for the first time.
Living close also opens up part-time work opportunities on or near campus, such as tutoring, research assistance, or working in university-run cafés and shops.
The Hidden Value of Living Close to Campus
Close-to-campus living is more than just a housing choice—it’s a strategic decision that can significantly enhance a student’s university experience. From boosting academic engagement and promoting well-being to fostering community and offering peace of mind, proximity to campus delivers both tangible and intangible benefits.
