Moving to New South Wales for Sydney College of English? We've hand-picked the best student accommodation — from affordable rooms to fully-furnished PBSA — for the September 2026 intake.
Sydney College of English (SCE) is one of Australia's oldest and most prestigious independent English language schools. Located at 35-39 Mountain Street in the heart of Ultimo, the college is perfectly positioned at the center of Sydney's educational and cultural district. Students at SCE enjoy immediate access to major universities (UTS and USYD), the Broadway Shopping Centre, and some of the city's most vibrant inner-city neighborhoods.
Because SCE is located in a high-density student precinct, students benefit from a massive range of accommodation choices. Whether you are looking for the social environment of a managed student tower, the bohemian charm of an inner-west share house, or the supportive experience of an Australian homestay, the area surrounding the college has options to suit every preference and budget.
For SCE students, the primary accommodation choices include:
Living in Ultimo or Glebe is the top choice for SCE students, as it allows for a short walk to class and immediate access to Sydney’s best student amenities.
| Accommodation type | Best for | Typical weekly cost | Key points |
|---|---|---|---|
| PBSA Shared Room | Social students wanting convenience | A$400 - A$550 | All-inclusive bills, gym, 5-min walk to SCE |
| PBSA Studio | Maximum privacy and city access | A$650 - A$850 | Luxury facilities, central location, high security |
| Private Share House | Budget-conscious independent students | A$300 - A$450 | Bohemian streets, social atmosphere; bills extra |
| Homestay | New arrivals needing English practice | A$350 - A$450 | Includes meals and utilities; supportive environment |
| Student Lodge (Glebe) | Students seeking mid-range value | A$360 - A$495 | Managed residence, social hubs, walking distance |
Note: Sydney's inner-city rental market is highly competitive. Students are encouraged to secure their housing at least 8 weeks before their course begins.
Living in a PBSA building near Mountain Street simplifies your transition to life in Sydney. Since many language students are arriving in Australia for the first time, having a "ready-to-move-in" solution reduces the complexity of managing a private lease.
Key benefits of PBSA for SCE students:
| Area | Distance to Campus | Transport Mode | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultimo | < 1 km | Walk | The campus heart; modern, busy, and extremely convenient |
| Glebe | < 1 km | Walk | Bohemian village feel with historic cafes and waterfront parks |
| Chippendale | 1 km | Walk | Trendy, artistic hub near Central Park and major shopping |
| Haymarket | 1.5 km | Walk / Bus | The high-energy center of Chinatown and city dining |
| Pyrmont | 1.5 km | Walk | Scenic waterfront living; slightly quieter than the CBD |
| Newtown | 2-3 km | Bus / Train | The cultural capital of the inner-west; eclectic and social |
Pro Tip: If you want a more residential feel with a local "village" vibe, Glebe offers beautiful leafy streets and is still only a 10-minute walk from SCE.
| Monthly cost category | Budget (Share House) | Moderate (PBSA Shared) | Higher Comfort (PBSA Studio) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | A$1,500 | A$2,000 | A$3,000+ |
| Food and groceries | A$500 | A$700 | A$950 |
| Public transport | A$60 | A$110 | A$190 |
| Social life and entertainment | A$250 | A$450 | A$750 |
| Mobile phone | A$40 | A$50 | A$70 |
Most students at SCE should budget between A$2,350 and A$5,000 per month, depending on their housing choice and lifestyle.
Research different neighborhoods and decide between a social PBSA or a supportive homestay. If you are an international student, consider starting with a Homestay for your first 4 weeks to settle in.
Narrow down your choices. Check for any "early bird" discounts or specific student housing specials for the Ultimo market. Ensure you have your finances and enrollment documents ready.
Finalize your lease, pay your bond (lodged with NSW Fair Trading), and organize your arrival. Sydney Airport is about 20 minutes from Ultimo by taxi or the Airport Link train.
Ultimo is one of the most well-connected suburbs in Australia:
In New South Wales, rental rules are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act.
| Usually provided in Ultimo PBSA | Usually bring or buy |
|---|---|
| Bed frame and mattress | Bedding (sheets, duvet, pillows) |
| Study desk and chair | Personal laptop and adapters |
| Wardrobe and basic storage | Towels and personal toiletries |
| High-speed Wi-Fi and utilities | Kitchenware (if living in a shared flat) |
Most modern PBSA buildings in Ultimo (like Scape and Iglu) are built to high accessibility standards. If you require specialized housing (e.g., step-free access or proximity to specific support services), contact the SCE Student Support team early. They can help you identify local housing options that meet your specific mobility or sensory needs.
The best experience for an SCE student is found right in Ultimo or Glebe. While the rent may be premium, the ability to walk to class and access the best of Sydney’s urban culture makes it the ultimate choice for a successful time in Australia. Always compare the "total weekly cost" (rent + bills + transport) before making your final decision.
Share a few details and we will send tailored rooms near Sydney College of English.
Powered by Best Student Halls
Estimate your monthly expenses near Sydney College of English.
Based on your selected preferences.
Common questions about Sydney College of English.
Planning to study at University of New South Wales? Browse verified student rooms, shared houses and purpose-built accommodation in New South Wales for the September 2026 intake.
Searching for student rooms near Macquarie University in New South Wales? Explore our hand-picked selection of rooms, PBSA and private apartments for the September 2026 intake.
Planning to study at University of Sydney? Browse verified student rooms, shared houses and purpose-built accommodation in New South Wales for the September 2026 intake.