Four FAQs about uni life

Author: Caitlin Ganter

New faces. New places. New experiences. Your first weeks at university will be full of new things. And with all the excitement, you probably also have a few questions. So, we’ve rounded up the top four frequently asked questions by those who are just about to start university.

1. Will I make friends?

University is a great place to make new friends. You’ll get introduced to fellow students at Orientation, you’ll meet new people in your classes, and you’ll get to know others as you work on group assignments and practicums together.

There’s also a whole range of student groups, clubs and societies at universities – everything from sporting activities to music, art and languages. Joining clubs that interest you and signing up to the student association to get involved in students events are great ways to meet likeminded people.

At ACU, you can even get to know people before uni starts with our Connect2Uni program. You can join a virtual welcome to meet other successful offer holders, get prepared for uni with online activities, and connect with a student mentor who can introduce you to other students and show you the ropes.

Ultimately, making friends is one of those things that just happens naturally – so don’t force it. Walking onto campus for the first time can be daunting, especially when you don’t know anyone. But it’s important to remember that nearly everyone else will be in the same situation. They are all new, just like you.

Learn more about student life at ACU.

2. Is student accommodation available?

Living in student accommodation is one of the best ways to get the most out of your university experience. Different universities will have different accommodation options – some run by the university, and some run by private providers that cater to university students.

At ACU, we offer accommodation in Ballarat, Canberra and Sydney. With our accommodation, you’ll get academic support, make lifelong friends, and be part of a diverse and close-knit community. You’ll also have access to unique sporting, leadership, spiritual and community engagement opportunities.

And if you’re planning to study in Brisbane, Melbourne or Rome, we can help you secure the right place for you.

Learn more about student accommodation at ACU.

Students relaxing.

3. How many hours of class can I expect each week?

Depending on which course you choose, and whether you are studying full- or part-time, you may be able to squeeze all of your contact hours into three days of the week – but you’ll still be busy. You will need to read, research, review and ensure your assignments are completed on time. In general, full-time students are expected to spend at least 40 hours per week on their studies (including the contact hours). Think of it like working in a full-time job.

Many students choose to find part-time work while they study, from a few hours to a few days per week. This can help to ensure you maintain a good study/work/life balance.

4. What if I need support?

We’re going to let you in on a little secret: universities want you to do well in your studies. At ACU, we see your success as being our success, and we’ll help you with everything from challenges in your personal life to challenges with your studies.

Just some of our support services available to students include:

Academic skills assistance: to help you develop your skills for successful university study.
Campus Ministry: animates the faith life of ACU by creating opportunities that bring alive our distinctive Catholic identity and mission.
Career support: helps students and graduates by providing a comprehensive range of job services.
Counselling service: free and confidential counselling if you are experiencing personal, study or work-related issues.
Disability services: promoting access and equity for students who have a temporary or ongoing mental health/medical condition, are neurodivergent or have significant carer responsibilities, so you can participate fully in university life.
Medical centres: some campuses have on-campus medical centres with bulk billing for students.
Peer-assisted study sessions: led by a current student who has already successfully completed a subject.
Student advocacy: free and confidential information and advice that helps you navigate university policies and procedures.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander success: each ACU campus has its own hub for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.