Moving to Sydney for university from overseas is an exciting and big step. At Sancta, international students join a welcoming residential community where they can settle in, build friendships and make the most of university life from day one. Located on the University of Sydney campus, Sancta offers accommodation for undergraduate women in our Main (Heritage) Building and for postgraduate women and men in Graduate House. We welcome students from around the world who are enrolled (or intending to enrol) at the University of Sydney, including exchange and study abroad students.
A place to feel at home in Sydney
Finding accommodation is only one part of moving overseas for study. It is also important to feel supported, connected and confident as you adjust to a new university, a new city and, for many students, a new country. Living at Sancta gives international students a strong foundation for that transition. You will be part of a residential community that values friendship, academic commitment, personal growth and respectful community life.
Why live at Sancta as an international student
Sancta offers international students the opportunity to live on campus in a well-established college community, close to tutorials and lectures, libraries, study spaces and public transport. All meals (21 per week) are provided throughout the week in our Dining Hall and our Housekeeping team services all student rooms once a fortnight, so students can spend less time managing day-to-day logistics and more time focusing on study, making new friends and enjoying all that life in Sydney has to offer.
Our community includes students from across Australia, with a vast majority coming from regional and rural New South Wales, as well as students from around the world. Many international students seek the opportunity to build friendships with Australian students and experience local culture as part of everyday life at College.
Students also benefit from pastoral care, everyday support from dedicated staff and a wide range of opportunities to get involved in College life, including sport, creative and performing arts, social justice initiatives, and leadership opportunities. For many international students, this sense of connection is one of the most valuable parts of the experience.
Accommodation options
Undergraduate women
Undergraduate women live in Sancta’s Main (Heritage) Building, where they become part of a close-knit community shaped by shared traditions, strong support networks and an active student experience. Room options include single or twin share rooms with shared bathrooms.
Postgraduate women and men
Graduate House is home to a diverse community of 100 postgraduate students, researchers and professionals. Residents enjoy single-occupancy rooms with their own ensuite.
Applying from overseas
We encourage international students to apply as early as possible. You do not need to wait until your university enrolment is fully confirmed before expressing interest or submitting an application.
Applying early gives you the best chance of securing a place and allows more time to plan your move to Sydney.
Support as you settle in
Starting university in a new country can feel exciting, unfamiliar and at times overwhelming. Living at Sancta means you will be part of a community where staff and students help new residents settle in, get to know the College and find their feet in Sydney.
That support begins early and continues throughout the year, giving students both practical guidance and a sense of belonging as they adjust to university life.
Need help?
Choosing where to live is an important decision, and you may have questions along the way. If you would like to speak with someone about the application process, our Dean of Admissions would be pleased to assist.
