What to Expect from Campus Life in Australia: A Guide for African Students
One of the biggest decisions Nigerian and African students face when moving to Australia is where to live. Your accommodation affects your comfort, cost of living, daily routine, and how easily you settle into your new life.
In this post, we’ll break down the two most common options: homestay vs student housing, so you can choose the one that fits your lifestyle, budget, and study goals.
Option 1: Student Housing: Independent and Social
This includes university-managed residences or private student apartments. You’ll live in a student-only environment, often near campus.
Pros
- Independence and flexibility
- Vibrant student life and events
- On-campus or near-campus location
- Often includes utilities and Wi-Fi
Cons
- No home-cooked meals (you’ll cook or eat out)
- Higher cost if in premium apartments
- Can get noisy or feel lonely at times
Average Cost: AUD $250-$500 per week (based on city and type)
Option 2: Homestay: Live with a Local Family
Homestay means living with an Australian host family who provides you with a private room, meals, and support.
Pros
- Cultural immersion: Learn Aussie customs, slang, and local life firsthand
- Meals included: Most homestays offer 2–3 meals daily
- Meals included: Most homestays offer 2–3 meals daily
- English improvement: Constant communication with native speakers
Cons
- Less privacy or independence
- You’ll need to follow the family’s house rules
- May not be close to campus (commute may be required)
Average Cost: AUD $250-350 per week (includes utilities and meals)
Quick Comparison
Privacy
- Homestay: Moderate
- Student Housing: High
Meals Included
- Homestay: Yes
- Student Housing: No
Cost
- Homestay: Lower
- Student Housing: Varies
Independence
- Homestay: Limited
- Student Housing: High
Cultural Support
- Homestay: Strong
- Student Housing: Medium
Location
- Homestay: Suburban
- Student Housing: Often near campus
Best For
- Homestay: First-timers, younger students
- Student Housing: Independent learners, social butterflies
How Afrovo Helps You Choose and Book Accommodation
At Afrovo, we guide students from visa success to full settlement. Here’s how we help with accommodation:
- Advising on the best option based on your lifestyle and budget
- Connecting you with trusted providers (homestay agencies or verified student apartments)
- Helping you avoid scams: common in unregulated private listings
- Assisting with booking, contracts, and payment setup before arrival
- Matching you with culturally aware hosts where available
“My homestay family in Adelaide made me feel like I had a home away from home. They even helped me find a part-time job!”
— Nnenna, studying Nursing“Living in student housing helped me make friends and build my network fast. It’s like a small city for students.”
— Fola, studying IT in Melbourne
Afrovo Tips for New Students
- Always choose CRICOS-approved accommodation options
- Don’t pay upfront for unverified rentals
- Consider temporary stay (like Airbnb) if unsure, then explore options in-person
- Join Facebook housing groups linked to your uni or student association
Let’s Get You to Australia
Start your migration journey today with Afrovo. We are passionate about helping Africans unlock global opportunities.
Email: hello@afrovo.com
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