Eligibility criteria

Check out key application dates, hall locations and comparison charts or refer to the 2024 Accommodation Guide.

Eligibility to apply

You’re eligible to live in a UC hall of residence if you are a student or future student of:

• University of Canterbury
• Another tertiary institution in Christchurch (as preference is given to students intending to study at UC, your application will be placed on hold until mid-December). 

WiFi networks are available in all halls of residence for UC students or you can connect via wired (Ethernet) connection through 2degrees.

There are two steps to the application process for most students.  Check the reference requirements for the hall you are applying to under "Step 2". 

Returning resident

If you are a current resident in any UC affiliated hall of residence and wish to apply to Campus Houses, Hayashi, Ilam Student Accommodation, or Sonoda for 2025, please complete an application as a Returning Student. Log in with your email and password that you set when you initially applied for accommodation.  Returners applications will open on 1 August.  No application fee is required.  Offers will be made in late September.

If you are a current resident in Arcady Hall, College House or Rochester and Rutherford Hall and wish to return to the same hall, please contact your hall office.

If you have had a break in your residency, you are not a returning student and will need to re-apply as a new student.

If you require assistance contact Accommodation Services.

Temporary Accommodation

If you are an individual student undertaking a short term course in Christchurch, or require accommodation to enable you to search for a longer-term house or flat, you may be able to stay on campus in a self-catered apartment.

Kōawa Halls - Sonoda

Throughout the year, Sonoda can offer up to 30 rooms as temporary accommodation.  You will have your own fully-furnished room and share kitchen and bathroom facilities with up to four other students.  Laundry facilities are available in each building.  The cost for a single room is $NZ427 (2024 rate) per week (minumum stay two weeks).  

Check availability by contacting the hall directly
T: +64 3 266 0400
E: sonoda@unilodge.co.nz

More information

If you need help with your application or have any questions about the application process, contact Accommodation Services.

Halls of residence set their own fees, manage the selection process, and send the offers.  If you have a question related to either of these, please contact your hall directly.