Homestay vs. Student Accommodation
Which student living option is for you?
Studying in Australia? Deciding where to live? Not sure what the best accommodation option is for you?
There are many factors to consider when looking for accommodation while you study in Australia. Two of the most popular options are homestays and purpose-built student accommodation. We are often asked what the differences are between living in an Australian Homestay Network placement and living at Iglu Student Accommodation.
The following information is provided to give you a better understanding of how they compare and assess which one will suit you best. It includes general comparisons and covers topics often asked by students.
What's the difference between homestay and student accommodation?
HOMESTAY
Homestay is a cultural exchange between a local individual or family (a.k.a. “host”) and you, a visiting international student. You live as a guest in the host’s home.
Your host will assist you to become familiar with the local area and customs in a relaxed and friendly household setting. You can also share information about your home country and culture with your host.
Most initial placements are for 4 weeks unless you request longer, except in the case of younger students who may stay for a school year.
IGLU
Iglu is purpose-built, student only accommodation which offers the ability to live in a fully supported environment where you can interact with, and experience life with, other students from around Australia and the globe.
Your accommodation will be either in your own private bedroom in a fully furnished share apartment (sharing with up to 6 people) or a fully furnished studio apartment.
You sign a legally binding lease agreement for either 6 or 12 months. Shorter stays are available on request, with the minimum usually being one month.
How close will I be to my place of study?
HOMESTAY
In most cases your homestay is around 30 minutes to one hour journey from your college or university, public transportation options will also depend on your location.
IGLU
Iglu properties are all located within easy reach of major universities, colleges, public transport (trains, buses, trams), shopping, restaurants and entertainment facilities.
What’s included?
HOMESTAY
You will pay a weekly fee for your homestay. This fee covers items such as use of the Australian Homestay Network services and website, insurance, emergency telephone support, food and accommodation.
This weekly fee may vary depending on your level of service (how many meals your host provides you with for example) and which state of Australia you are living in.
IGLU
You will pay a weekly rental fee at Iglu which covers your accommodation as well as unlimited high speed wi-fi, all utilities (gas, water, electricity), 24 hour access to onsite support, use of all common areas and facilities, plus regular community events.
At Iglu, this weekly fee depends on the chosen location, type of accommodation and length of your stay.
What support is offered?
HOMESTAY
All Australian Homestay Network hosts are trained and supported to ensure that they are capable of delivering the best quality of service to students. This means their house is inspected and approved by a supervisor and also that they must have read training information and passed an online assessment.
Hosts sign a contract that clearly sets out standards they must meet. These standards are in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both student and host and to provide the best experience possible for both.
Student members of the Australian Homestay Network have access to a supervisor during business hours and a 24/7 assistance telephone line for emergencies that may happen after hours or at weekends.
IGLU
Each Iglu property is managed by a full-time team who ensure the best quality of service, safety and wellbeing for students. This includes a General Manager, Customer Service Coordinators, Facilities Managers and Resident Assistants (onsite students employed by Iglu who offer after hours support).
All team members are trained in senior first aid and emergency management.
All Iglu properties are highly regulated by state legislation and meet the industry standard expectations. All properties also have CCTV, swipe card entry and 24×7 onsite support available.
The supportive environment also includes a program of academic, social, sporting, wellbeing and cultural events – available to all residents.
Ready to apply?
HOMESTAY
Interested in homestay? Visit the Australian Homestay Network website and select ‘join as a student’ to get your application started.
IGLU
Want to live with us? Start your application right here and select your preferred city, property, room type and lease term.
Want to know more?
There is a lot to think about when you are preparing to head to university, especially when moving away from home.
Click here to read more about the differences between homestay and student accommodation in our detailed comparison sheet, or keep reading below for further student offers, insights and support pages to help you make the best decision for you.
SHARE THE LOVE: BRING A FRIEND TO IGLU
Tell your friends how cool it is to live at Iglu. If they sign up, you get $500 as a gift card or rental credit.
SHARE NOW
THE IGLU GUIDE: HELPFUL TIPS & INSIGHTS
Our blog is designed to help students and parents prepare for the transition to Uni and living away from home.
PREPARE NOW
COVID-19: KEEPING OUR COMMUNITY SAFE
We have a range of initiatives in place to help safeguard the health and wellbeing of all in our Iglu community.
LEARN MORE