Fig Tree Hall
A college for domestic and international students from all corners of the globe, from many different backgrounds and varying faiths. At Fig Tree Hall, there are no barriers to lifelong friendships.
Fig Tree Hall is a strong and unique family-like community built on the foundations of respect and inclusivity amongst its hugely diverse student population. The college provides an alcohol-free environment and multifaceted educational experience where students can learn about each other’s different backgrounds and belong to a community that values various academic, social, and cultural pursuits.
- Overview
- Student support
- Testimonials
- Meet the team
Overview
Fig Tree Hall offers a supportive and respectful community where residents can engage in social activities without the presence of alcohol, making it ideal for those seeking a balanced, respectful living environment that aligns with their personal values and cultural backgrounds. It sets the benchmark for a college of its kind in Australia.
Student support
You’ll be supported by an on-site team comprising of the Dean, Deputy Dean and a team of Resident Fellows (or RFs). Every floor has an RF, and their job is to provide academic guidance and pastoral support and ensure each and every resident is looked after.
Academically, we run peer led study groups to support students adjust to the academic requirements of university study – in addition, we also run shared study sessions along with wellbeing programs co-ordinated by our Wellbeing Officer, helping to make the transition from high school to university a smooth one.
Testimonials
I highly recommend living in a college early on in your degree. It’s a great way to meet other students and participate in heaps of fun events. College gives you the independence of living away from home, while not leaving you to fend for yourself.
Living on campus broadens your horizons, gives you multiple opportunities to connect with new people, experience new traditions and events, and the best part is the convenience of heading to class in no time.
Rasheed Khan | Dean of Fig Tree Hall
As an international student from Pakistan, I understand through my own experience that adjusting to life in a foreign land, creating new social support network and navigating a different academic system can be quite challenging. I was a student at the University Hall in 2014, and quickly realised how much I value what collegiate life has to offer to students in similar situation. Wanting to give back, I took up staff roles within the community (as a Resident Fellow and Deputy Dean).
I became Dean at Fig Tree in 2016. Fig Tree has a unique identity of being a most culturally diverse and progressive college. It provides a rare opportunity for Australian and overseas students to share and learn from one another.
The ability to mentor and support students is what truly drives me. During my many years of involvement in these communities, I’ve witnessed students start their journey as uncertain first years and left as confident leaders, who will no doubt excel in their areas of study. Supporting them through this journey and watching them grow is what makes this job so rewarding.
Lauren Medlin | Deputy Dean of Fig Tree Hall
Hi, I’m Lauren, your Deputy Dean for Fig Tree Hall. I'm very excited to meet everyone! This year I'll be around to help guide you through your college and university life, providing pastoral care, academic support, and additional advice and resources as needed.
In my spare time you might find me reading, playing social netball or watching the same TV show for the 80th time. In the last 6 years I have lived in Sydney, Tamworth, Port Macquarie and the Central Coast, and I am so excited to call Fig Tree my new home! In my spare time you might find me reading, relaxing, or heading to the gym. I'm super excited to meet everyone and can't wait for a great year together!
House Committee
The House Committee is composed of student leaders elected annually by residents in various portfolios aimed at offering residents opportunities to be involved in extra-curricular activities. The House Committee includes an executive group of a president, secretary and treasurer and administers a budget each year across areas such as cultural, sport, social, charities and communications.
Resident and Student Fellows
Resident Fellows (RFs) are staff members of UNSW and typically in their final years of study or already holding a degree. RFs live with the students on their floors and provide daily academic and pastoral support. RFs aren’t teachers, but they’re a little like a supportive older sibling with loads of experience to pass on and a willingness to help guide the residents.
Student Fellow (SF) is assigned every year. They’re a volunteer senior student whose role who works closely with the RF's, Deputy Dean and Dean, ensuring the wellbeing of all residents is top of mind.
Features
- 158 rooms
average room size 10 to 12 square metres
option to live on mixed-gender or gender-segregated floors
private bathrooms (ensuite options)
all meals provided (including formal dinners)
Wi-Fi, electricity, gas and water included
QR-operated and cashless laundry facilities
- cleaning of rooms fortnightly
24-hour campus security
social and group study rooms on each floor
large common room adjacent to private outdoor courtyard
rooftop terrace with outdoor barbecue facilities
regular support from college staff
leadership and networking opportunities.
Gallery
Room types & fees
Room type |
Meals |
Bathroom |
Cleaning |
Single |
Catered |
Yes |
Yes |
- The contract period is 44 weeks. Single-term contracts are currently unavailable due to high occupancy numbers; please contact the office for more details.
- Weekly rates are for 2025 and are expected to change yearly. Rates shown are for full-year contracts only.
The contract period is from 7 February to 12 December 2025.
