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Busting common myths about living at ANU
If you've been researching and asking about on-campus accommodation, you've probably heard it all. From stories about endless parties to rumours about having to move out every summer, there’s a lot of information floating around. But not all of it is true.
We’re here to set the record straight. Whether you're an introvert wondering if you'll fit in or not sure what "catered" really means, these have become myths about living on campus — and there’s a real story behind them.
Myth: You need to be a high-energy extrovert to join in residential activities
Fact: There are events for everyone, whether you love big social gatherings or prefer smaller, low-key hangouts.
If you're imagining every res event as a loud, crowded party, it's time to re-think that image. ANU residences offer a wide range of activities designed to suit all kinds of personalities and interests.
Movie nights, craft sessions, study groups, mindfulness sessions, sports comps, communal cooking nights — there’s something for everyone. And if you'd rather chill solo in your room or hang with a small group of friends, that’s totally normal too.
Living at ANU is for every type of student, no matter what your personality may be.
Myth: You will only make friends within your student residence
Fact: With interhall competitions, mixers, and shared events, you’ll meet students from across the campus.
Your residence will definitely become a home base, but your social world won’t stop at its front door. ANU has a long-standing tradition of interhall events. Ranging from sporting challenges like the annual Inward Bound to debates, arts and cultural competitions, these are where students from all residences come together.
There are also plenty of campus-wide events, clubs and societies to help you branch out. Basically, it’s hard not to meet people.
Throughout the year, the different student residences get together for lots of events and fun activities such as Inward Bound.
Myth: Residences are just for first-year students
Fact: Any ANU student can apply to live on campus — not just first-years.
There’s a common assumption that ressie life is only for students starting out. But ANU accommodation is open to everyone — second-years, postgrads, exchange students and more.
Residences are full of people at different stages of their degree, and many students stay in the same hall for multiple years. Some even take on leadership roles to support new residents and get a discount on their rent.
And with the accommodation guarantee in place for those who apply by the deadline, why not try it? You’re covered for a room during your first year.
Living on campus at ANU is inclusive for different age groups, with our residences catering for a diverse range of students.
Myth: If you don’t get your first preference, you won’t enjoy living on campus
Fact: Every residence offers great facilities, a supportive community and plenty of ways to get involved.
Lots of students fall in love with a particular residence on paper and then end up loving a different one even more.
While each residence has its own vibe, they all provide the same core things: connection, support and community. Keep an open mind when applying. You might find your perfect fit where you least expect it.
All of our student residences at ANU have their own quirks and personalities – and we love them all!
Myth: Campus accommodation is more expensive than living off-campus
Fact: When you factor in bills, furniture and commuting, on-campus living can actually be better value.
It’s easy to look at weekly rent and assume off-campus living is cheaper. But a room on campus includes a lot. Electricity, internet, furniture, cleaning of common spaces and meals are all included if you are in a catered or flexi-catered space.
Plus, living on campus means no daily public transport commute and easy access to everything uni and food related.
Many cafes in campus accommodation have cheaper prices for residents.
Myth: You have to move out every summer
Fact: With summer accommodation and storage options available, you can stay on campus during the break if you want to.
Heading home for the holidays? You can store your belongings on campus, so you’re not dragging everything across the country or the world.
Staying in Canberra over summer? Many student residences offer summer accommodation, letting you stay in your room or move to another one temporarily. They’re flexible and designed to fit your plans and make things easier for you when you return to campus.
The choice is totally up to you to stay or go during the summer at ANU.
Myth: Catered residences provide more support
Fact: Every ANU residence offers the same wellbeing and academic support—no matter the catering option.
Whether you’re in a catered or self-catered residence, you’ll have access to the same support structures.
All ANU residences have dedicated wellbeing and community coordinators, academic support programs and student leaders to help you settle in and thrive.
The only real difference between catered and self-catered options? In one, your meals are being prepared for you and the other you’re making your own.
No matter where you live on campus, there is support for you whenever you need it.
Myth: It’s harder to get into a residence if you’re applying from interstate or overseas
Fact: The accommodation guarantee at ANU makes the process straightforward, no matter where you're coming from.
If you’re moving to Canberra from another city or country, on-campus accommodation can take a lot of the stress out of your move.
As long as you apply by the deadline, you're covered by the accommodation guarantee for your first year and will receive an accommodation offer. It’s a smooth, supportive process — and a great way to feel settled quickly when everything else is new.
With our accommodation guarantee, there will be a room waiting for you at one of our student residences no matter what.
Still have questions?
Feeling unsure about accommodation is normal. It’s a big decision, and you want to get it right.
The Compare Residences tool is a great place to start if you're figuring out what suits you best. You can filter by catering option, rental contract length, bathroom options and more. And if you're still not sure, our Accommodation team is happy to chat.
Whatever you choose, you won’t be doing it alone. Living on campus is more than just where you sleep. It’s about convenience, support, community and finding your people.
Ready to become a ressie? Learn more about student accommodation at ANU and how to apply.
