Returning residents

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Residential Experience

+61 2 6125 1100

Fulton Muir Building, 95 Daley Road, Acton

Monday to Friday
Office hours: 9.30am-4.30pm AEDT/AEST

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Apply to return to residence in 2026

Keep the best parts of uni life and stay close to your friends, classes and community by returning to campus next year. We’ve made the process simple, whether you’re happy where you are or want a change.

Here is what you need to know:

I want to return to the same residence in Semester 1, 2026

No need to do anything. We will automatically check your eligibility. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive an offer on 13 October 2025, so keep an eye on your inbox!

I want to stay on campus but prefer a different residence or room type in Semester 1, 2026

Looking for a change in 2026? Apply through our portal to move to a different residence from 18 to 31 August. You’ll get your outcome on 13 October 2025. If your transfer isn’t successful but you’re eligible, you’ll still receive an offer to stay in your current residence.

Apply from 18 to 31 August

I do not wish to return

We’ll still assess your eligibility, and if you’re eligible, you will receive an offer on 13 October 2025, which you can simply decline. However, if you’re open to other options, consider exploring different residences for 2026.

I want to return as a Residential Mentor

Being a Residential Mentor (RM) is an amazing way to take on a leadership role within your residence and gain valuable experience. As an RM, you will receive a scholarship and comprehensive training to prepare you for the role.

Find out more

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible to return to campus in 2026, you need to:

Have completed the Rights, Relationships and Respect module
Not be in breach of the Occupancy Agreement
Not have your accommodation account in high arrears
Be an ANU student in Semester 1 2026

Timeline

18 August-31 August: Transfer applications open

13 October: Offers for ANU returners accommodation released

26 October: Deadline to accept offer

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How much will accommodation cost in 2026?

The Fee Summary for 2026 will be published on our website in the upcoming weeks, before offers are issued, so you will have all the details before you decide.

Do I need to sign a new contract, or can I extend my current one?

You’ll need to sign a new Occupancy Agreement when you receive your offer on 13 October 2025. The 2026 agreement will be different from your current one, so make sure to read it carefully. It will be available on our website in the coming weeks.

What happens with my accommodation over the summer? Can I stay on campus, or do I have to move out?

You will have the option to stay with us over the summer to bridge your 2025 and 2026 contracts. Please note that not all residences will be open during this period, so you may need to move to one of our designated summer residences. Have a look at our summer accommodation page for more details.

Do I need to pay a deposit to secure my accommodation offer?

You will need to pay the Acceptance Fees, which includes two weeks’ rent and a Resident Committee fee, to secure your spot on campus for 2026. Pay by the deadline through the accommodation portal, at your 2026 residence reception, or over the phone.

What if I don’t pay the acceptance fees before the deadline?

If you don’t pay the fees by the deadline, your offer will lapse and your place for 2026 won’t be secured. If you’re experiencing extenuating circumstances and need more time, please contact your residence as soon as possible.

Can I accept my offer and then cancel it if I change my mind?

Once you accept your offer and pay the Acceptance Fees, you enter a legally binding Occupancy Agreement. If your plans change and you no longer wish to stay on campus in Semester 1, 2026, you’ll need to submit an early termination form.

You can request this form through your residence or by contacting our team at uni.accom@anu.edu.au. Your request will be assessed in line with the termination clauses outlined in the Occupancy Agreement.

Will there be financial support available next year?

The Emergency Accommodation Bursary remains available to all ANU students experiencing unexpected financial difficulty. Applications for the bursary are opened all year round.

I want to return but I did not meet the eligibility criteria. What should I do?

You may be eligible to request a review of the decision. We understand everyone’s situation is different, so please reach out to your residential management team for further advice.

I want to transfer residences, but I missed the deadline to apply. What should I do?

We may consider late transfer applications if you are experiencing extenuating circumstances and need to transfer residence for wellbeing or medical concerns. Please reach out to uni.accom@anu.edu.au for further advice.

I will be graduating after Semester 1 2026 and only need a single semester contract. Is this possible?

Yes, you can request a single-semester contract if you’re graduating or going on exchange. Please contact our team to confirm your eligibility and make this request before you receive your offer. If approved, we’ll update your offer accordingly.

View fees for 2026