Union College
is your apprenticeship to life. 

You'll be offered a range of opportunities to grow, connect, upskill, gain insight, and even challenge your perspective. We're bringing the world to you and asking you to get stuck in.

Core memories in the making, beyond the books.

No matter how you do college life, it’s about more than just study. It’s about experiences, lifelong friendships, and the memories you make on the way. Our social, cultural, sporting, and arts activities are a central part of life here. There’s always something happening and there’s always something for everyone.

Our social calendar keeps college life buzzing. With plenty of themed dinners, Union-exclusive events, and heaps of locations for those midnight chats, there’s moments to unwind, to connect, and to build friendships that extend beyond our walls.

Meet mates on the oval for an afternoon of sports, sit back and chill in the Fire Room for an easy craft sesh, or lounge around in the courtyard during our Sunday Socials. De-stress, try new things, and jump into what feels right for you.

We don’t keep you in a bubble, either. Our Inter-College Council (ICC) is a great way to step outside your comfort zone or indulge in a bit of friendly competition. Meet and compete with colleges across UQ, form bonds with other residents, represent Union, and create core college memories.

So, with no one way to do College, why not embrace it all?

Workshops and Programs

At Union, residents are supported in shaping their own future. Beyond a place to live, we provide you with unique opportunities that push your personal and professional growth, encourage you to step outside your comfort zone, and connect you with the world around us.

Our exclusive Workshops and Programs offer you the chance to kickstart your future.

  • Development opportunities include qualified career and academic counselling, industry networking evenings, and exclusive job opportunities.
  • Personal growth programs include creative workshops, budgeting skills, cooking classes and more.
  • The Perspective Series is unique to Union College. We ask our residents to challenge their perspectives by hearing from diverse speakers who share a range of lived experiences.

We don't shy away from big topics and instead create safe spaces to ask questions.

Speakers have included cult survivors, reformed gang members, and advocates against domestic family abuse.

The Perspectives Series develops empathy and a deeper insight into what makes us all human, and what makes us unique.

One of the aspects I love about college life is the chance to engage in cultural, community and sporting opportunities..

Abby Frazer, Resident 2021- 2023

Now I tutor the classes I did well in, and I love making a difference for Residents who are doing the same degree as I am.

Tutor, 2023 – 2024

I found a wonderful community that supported and encouraged me academically, and brought me out of my shell.

Charlie, 2023 – 2024

Having everything I needed in one spot was so relieving, it allowed me to meet people at my uni and doing my degree before my first class.

Tahnee Dilger, 2023 – 2024

O-week kicked off and I very quickly formed so many friendships that by the end of the week Union College very much felt like home.

Sarah Jeffries, Resident Mentor 2022

I have been given so much support that has helped me transition from high school to university.

Chelsea Ravizza, Resident 2022-2023

Union College certainly does feel like a home away from home.

Conor O’Reilly, Resident Mentor 2022

Union College is a positive, inclusive and friendly community where everyone feels welcome.

Robbie Buxton, Resident 2022

I love the community, companionship and spirit at Union College – it truly feels like one big family.

Emily Kirkwood, Resident 2022

Events

At Union College, we know how to do events. Whether you’re glamming up or dressing comfy, we offer a social calendar that brings our community together year-round.

Our formal dinners are a chance to dress-up, enjoy a delicious meal, and share a table with friends – future or current! – in a relaxed but special setting. From celebrating academic, sporting, and cultural achievement to showcasing resident talents, our dinners are equal parts comfy and classy, and every bit Union.

Beyond the dinner table, we offer a range of Union-specific and College mixer events, such as the deeply cherished (and core memory maker) Farmarama, celebrating and leaning into our heritage as the rural college. Other notable events include Union @ Home and The Ball.

With no pressure and no expectations to show up as anyone other than yourself, take a break from studying and indulge in the community you live in. Your favourite memories are just around the corner.

Frequently
Asked
Questions

Demand for places at Union College is strong, so we recommend applications as early in the year as possible. We have four offer rounds across the year, and you are welcome to apply for future years, as there is no cut-off date! So, do not wait until you are offered a place at university.

You are welcome to remain at college during the holiday periods of the academic year and no, there are no additional costs. Your fees include mid-semester break! 

Don’t stress, packed lunches and late dinners can be arranged to fit in with your class timetable (on weekdays across the semester).

Please supply your own bedding, inclusive of mattress protector, pillows, and towels. You will receive a full pack list closer to your move-in date.

Friends and family are welcome to visit you, however, due to Fire Safety and Child Protection legislation, they are not permitted to stay the night. Meal vouchers (lunch/dinner) can be purchased so that you can share a meal with your guest.

After you submit your application, a member of our team will reach out to you to confirm your interview time. The interview is a conversation geared towards understanding what you’re seeking out of the Union College experience and whether we are the right fit for you. Whilst we take your accolades and achievements into consideration, our biggest drive is identifying individuals who display the right cultural and personal fit for our community. 

We welcome applicants from students across all Brisbane-based universities. 

The contract you sign upon accepting an offer at Union commits you to the full academic year. If you are considering an early move-out, please contact us to gain a better understanding of the process. 

Should you choose to defer your university position, we may carry your offer of accommodation into the following year. Please contact us to discuss your options and the process.

We may have availability mid-year, so we recommend you contact us for up-to-date information. 

No pets, including fish, are permitted in our college / resident rooms.