About Gold Coast
With a relaxed lifestyle, stunning beaches, and a vibrant multicultural community, Gold Coast, Australia makes a perfect city for students to thrive. It has an interesting mix of convenient urban life and nature that lets you be outdoors.
Gold Coast houses some of the top universities in Australia like the Griffith University, Bond University, and Southern Cross University. The city thus attracts thousands of international students from around the globe. In terms of affordable student accommodation in Gold Coast, you have several options in Gold Coast like Southport, Robina, and Surfresh Paradise, where most university students live. Other cities like Brisbane, Byron Bay and Sunshine Coast are easily accessible for weekend getaways.
Best Student Accommodation in Gold Coast
Alphaway offers the best student accommodation in Gold Coast. Whether you are looking for budget-friendly shared student flats, average ensuite student rooms, or high-end Gold Coast student accommodation that has all the features and benefits, you can be assured that the listings have all been checked, are safe, and are designed for students. We have helped thousands of students, offer 24/7 support and flexible bookings, so you can be sure to find a student room in Gold Coast that you will love. Here is the best student accommodation in Gold Coast:
Why Choose Gold Coast for Higher Education
Gold Coast is a good choice for students who want quality education, a relaxed and balanced lifestyle. The city is not just home to well-known universities but is also full of job opportunities. You will find many internships and part-time work opportunities in growing fields like health, business, tourism, hospitality, and technology here. All this combined with a welcoming student community and locals with a safe environment makes this city great for students.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Gold Coast
Finding the right location is key when choosing student housing in Gold Coast. Here are some popular student areas:
- Southport: It is a major student hub close to Griffith University which is very well connected by tram, with shopping centers, cafés, and affordable student residences.
- Surfers Paradise: It is very lively and social, known for beaches, nightlife, and restaurants. It is perfect for students who enjoy an energetic lifestyle.
- Robina: It is close to Bond University. This area is modern, quiet, and well planned, with easy access to parks, malls, and transport.
- Burleigh Heads: It is a very relaxed and beautiful area with cafés, beach walks, and a calm vibe. Perfect for students who prefer peaceful surroundings.
- Broadbeach: Broadbeach provides a mix of convenience and entertainment. It is close to public transport, malls, and student-friendly amenities.
Different Types of Student Accommodation in Gold Coast
- Private Student Accommodation (PBSA): Purpose-built student housing in Gold Coast is designed for students to live comfortably and safely. These properties various types of rooms like shared rooms, ensuite student rooms in Gold Coast, and private student studios in Gold Coast. PBSAs are fully furnished and come with all-inclusive rent covering Wi-Fi, utilities, and maintenance. Students also have access to study lounges, gyms, social spaces, laundry facilities, and 24/7 security, making them a top choice for international student housing in Gold Coast.
- University Halls: These accommodations are provided by universities which are usually located on or near campus. Facilities vary depending on the university.
- Shared Apartments: A shared student apartment in Gold Cost is privately rented student flats near university areas, shared with other students. Responsibilities like bills and cleaning are usually managed by students themselves.
Cost of Living in Gold Coast for International Students
Gold Coast is one of the most affordable cities in the UK for students. Here’s a breakdown of Cost of living in Gold Coast:
- Rent: AUD 340-450 per week depending on room type and location. PBSA’s usually includes bills and Wi-Fi.
- Groceries: AUD 250-300 per month if you cook at home.
- Transport: AUD 80-120 per month with student travel discounts on buses and trams.
- Dining Out: AUD 15-30 per meal at casual cafés and student-friendly restaurants.
- Entertainment & Shopping: AUD 100-150 per month for movies, beach activities, and social outings.
Transportation in Gold Coast
Getting around Gold Coast is easy and student friendly:
- Trams: The Glink tram lines are established to connect many popular student locations such as Surfers Paradise and Southport.
- Buses: The bus network is also an affordable option and can access areas where the tram system does not operate.
- Trains: There are several train lines that connect the Gold Coast region to Brisbane and several other cities.
- Airport Access: There is an airport located on the Gold Coast to service both Domestic and International travel.
- Student Transport Passes: There are several types of student transport passes available for purchase to assist students in saving money on their daily transportation expenses.
Student Life in Gold Coast
Gold Coast offers a perfect balance between academics and fun, making students feel at home from day one.
- Restaurants & Cafés: Not only food options are student friendly but also affordable. You can enjoy beachside cafés, global cuisines, and budget-friendly student spots.
- Student Clubs & Events: While studying on the Gold Coast, students can take part in university-run clubs, cultural societies, and sports teams. Alongside campus life, the city hosts regular events, festivals, student nights, and live music, ensuring there’s always something happening throughout the week.
- Malls & Markets: popular shopping spots like Pacific Fair and Harbour Town offer easy access to fashion, groceries, dining, and entertainment.
- Weekend Getaways: students often explore nearby places like Brisbane, Byron Bay, and the Sunshine Coast for short trips, beach breaks, and new experiences.
- Libraries & Study Spots: Students can choose from modern university libraries on campus, along with off-campus libraries and quiet cafés. These spaces provide a comfortable and focused environment for studying, group work, or exam preparation.
Universities in Gold Coast
- Griffith University: On the Gold Coast, Griffith is one of Australia's largest public institutions with major strengths in Health Sciences, Business Studies, Environmental Studies, Engineering, and related disciplines. Griffith provides students with access to "hands-on" experiences and internships through their research collaborations and relationships with industry partners.
- Bond University: Bond University was the first private university in Australia. It is well-known for its small class sizes and the one-on-one approach it takes to teaching. Bond has developed an accelerated program for graduate students in several different fields which allows students to earn their degrees more quickly than would normally occur.
- Southern Cross University: Southern Cross University focuses on creating a supportive environment for its students, helping to maximize their potential. Southern Cross University has established a reputation for its Educational, Business, Environmental Science and Information Technology Programs.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Students in Gold Coast can access various funding options:
- University Scholarships: There are merit-based and need-based scholarships offered by Griffith, Bond, and Southern Cross University.
- Australian Government Support: There are limited grants and financial aid options for eligible students.
- GCC Country-Specific Scholarships: Students from the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar may be able to find government or ministry funding from their local ministries or embassies.
- External Scholarships: International students can apply for global and private education scholarships.
Tips for International Students
- Set Up an Australian Bank Account: It will make your rent, bills and daily spending much easier.
- Local SIM Card: You can source a local SIM with providers such as Telstra, Optus or Vodafone who provide Student plans.
- Understand Local Culture: Australians are very casual and friendly, so please ask for assistance if needed.
- Create a Budget: Write down your future expenses (e.g - groceries, rent, utilities) and wherever possible, take advantage of the student discount
- Alphaway Support: Your Airport Pickup, Travel Direction Assistance and a list of essentials will all be available through our support services.
Health & Safety Tips & Student Well-Being Resources
- Register for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): If you are an international student in Australia;you must register for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
- Save Emergency Numbers: In case of emergencies, you can call 000 anytime. Save university support numbers on your phone for easy access later on.
- Well-being Support: You will have access to free counselling, wellness programs, and various other support provided by universities.