International Students
St Catherine's College welcomes many students from all around the world. Whether you are embarking on a half or year-long study abroad or exchange experience, or studying as an international student, the information on this page is for you.
Future Residents
Domestic & International Students
Am I an International Student?
You are considered an international, study abroad or exchange student if you are:
intending to study on a student visa, or
not a citizen of Australia or New Zealand, or
not an Australian permanent resident, or
a temporary resident (visa status) of Australia.
Choosing to live at
St Catherine's
We understand how important it is to you and your family to find premium accommodation close to your university. While there are many accommodation options for international students in Perth, many choose to live at St Catherine's, as it provides them with an immediate sense of belonging and an instant circle of friends from across Australia and around the world.
More than just a place to live, the excellent academic support, a full calendar of sporting, cultural and social events, leadership opportunities and fantastic facilities make St Catherine's your warm and welcoming home away from home.
Life at St Catherine's
Life at St Catherine's is all about living and learning together. It's a place full of energy and laughter, which promises friendships and connections that will stay with you forever.
We pride ourselves on being an all-inclusive community of students from all walks of life - from across Australia and the rest of the world. Our group of diverse, accepting and supportive staff and residents offer you a home full of opportunity, support and interaction.
Your residency at St Catherine's takes away the stress and hassle of living away from home — it includes a spacious, fully furnished Single Room to call your own, internet, a gym membership, all utilities, meals in our Dining Hall and weekly professional room cleaning. And for those days where you just want a bit of fun, we have a big red slide (UWA), common rooms, music rooms, breakout areas and rooftop gardens.
We also offer an exciting range of events and activities throughout the year in a safe and supportive environment, so it's OK to have a go and try something new with fellow residents — attend movie nights, share your cuisine during Multicultural Week, go on a mobile photography trail, or even practice yoga at the rooftop gardens.
To get you settled in when you first arrive, we run a fun week-long orientation program where you'll get to meet your closest neighbours and other residents. You will also be introduced to staff and your Residential Assistant (RA), who is responsible for your pastoral care.
Having a successful experience
You'll be immersed in building strong academic networks and social and personal development opportunities through our two Flagship Programs, Youth Innovation and Indigenous Access. Services specially designed to assist you to be successful so you get the most out of your university journey, include weekly unit specific tutorials, join a language exchange group, build on a great startup idea, network at one of our academic dinners, or sit in a yarning circle (or dialogue circle) to advance your cultural knowledge of Australia's First Peoples.
It is all of the above (and more!) that makes life at St Catherine's a truly unique and fulfilling experience that you won't get living elsewhere.
Life in Perth, Western Australia
Compared to other major cities around the world, living and studying in Perth, Western Australia, is a smart decision for international students. Ranked the 15th most liveable city globally in the 2024 Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index, Perth offers international appeal with strong cultural diversity and urban sophistication
As the world's sunniest capital, you can't beat Perth's warm climate and relaxed outdoor lifestyle. Perth also shares the same time zone with 60% of the world’s population, making it easier to keep in touch with family and friends.
Looking further afield, there are also a wealth of activities for you to experience in other parts of Western Australia, from the drama of the outback and spectacular coastlines to the subtropical wilderness in the North West. Our residents regularly organise road trips together to explore the many wonders that our vast state has to offer.
When and how to apply
Univerisity of Western Australia (UWA):
Applying to live at St Catherine's is separate from your application to study at UWA. The process is managed through the UWA Residential Colleges Application Portal. The portal will accept your application up to 12 months before your expected commencement at UWA. We recommend you apply as soon as possible and before receiving your offer from UWA.
International students can submit applications earlier but are required to be 18 years of age or older before they can commence living at St Catherine's College.
Need help or want more information? Email our Admissions Team (uwa.admissions@stcats.com.au) to discuss and assist you with your residential application.
Curtin University:
Applying to live at St Catherine's is separate from your application to study at Curtin University. The process is managed through Curtin University's Accommodation Portal. We recommend you apply as soon as possible and before receiving your offer from Curtin University.
International students can submit applications earlier but are required to be 18 years of age or older before they can commence living at St Catherine's College.
Need help or want more information? Email our Admissions Team (curtin.admissions@stcats.com.au) to discuss and assist you with your residential application.