How accommodation preferences are managed

When applying for accommodation, students have the opportunity to select one preference. It's important to carefully consider the type and style of accommodation that best matches your lifestyle and budget. ANU offers both self-catered and catered residences and you can view student-voiced 360 videos of these residences to help you make an informed decision.

All of ANU's residences are conveniently located on or near campus, making it easy for students to access their classes, activities, and other university resources. For more information about ANU's student residences, please refer to the relevant pages on our website or reach out to our housing team for further assistance.

When choosing your on-campus accommodation, it's important to consider the following options:

• Catered residence: If you prefer not to cook, a catered residence where all meals are provided may be the best option for you.
• Flexi catered residence: If you want some flexibility with your meals but still want the convenience of having some meals provided, a flexi catered residence where 16 meals per week are provided might be a good fit.
• Self-catered residence: If you prefer to cook for yourself, a self-catered residence with cooking facilities may be more suitable for you.
• Shared facilities: Consider whether you're comfortable with communal facilities and amenities, such as shared shower and toilet areas that are unisex and shared with other residents.
• Private apartment: If you prefer more privacy, a private apartment with self-contained toilet and cooking facilities might be the best option for you.
• Multi-share apartment: If you're comfortable with shared amenities but still want some privacy, a multi-share apartment with your own lockable bedroom where you can cook for yourself within the apartment and toilet amenities are shared may be a good choice.

The costs for on-campus accommodation can vary depending on the type of residence and the facilities and amenities provided. We would encourage you to budget for all possible options, as accommodation preferences cannot be guaranteed.

To help with your budgeting, we recommend referring to our cost comparison chart, which outlines the costs associated with each accommodation style. This can help you make an informed decision about which option is the most affordable for you. 

• Students who have applied as a domestic direct applicant, who would like to change their accommodation preference, should follow the steps in the email sent to them after they accept the early offer released on 4 September 2025. This will explain the steps to follow.
• Students who have applied as a non-direct applicant, who would like to change their accommodation preference, please contact uni.accom@anu.edu.au.

When selecting students for our various residences, we aim to create a diverse and inclusive residential community that reflects the wider student body. To achieve this, we keep in mind several parameters, including a balanced demographic and gender mix. We strive for an even split across domestic, regional, remote, interstate, and international students.

We also seek to diversify the countries our international students come from, as well as consider the range of academic programs our students are studying. Our allocation process is designed to accommodate student preferences as much as possible, while also prioritizing the creation of a vibrant and enriching living environment for all residents.

Please note that Burgmann College and John XXIII College undertake their own unique selection process, which is outside of the University's process. If you have any enquiries regarding their selection process, please contact the Colleges directly.