Australia continues to be a popular study destination due to its academic reputation, cutting-edge research, high-quality lifestyle, and robust economy. However, it is essential to understand the costs involved before deciding to study there.
Living expenses in Australia are heavily dependent on lifestyle preferences and choices. Monthly, the average cost of living for international students ranges from $1400 to $2500, including food, travelling, social activities, and other accommodations. Brisbane, Sydney, and Canberra are some of the most expensive cities in Australia.
Learn more below, and to have any further questions answered about the cost of living in Australia as an international student, contact SI-Australia for a free consultation today.
Australia Living Expenses for Students: Public Vs Private Universities
Australia is a mix of private and public universities, having distinct fee structures. The government funds public universities and offers low tuition fees. Private universities in Australia provide specialised courses and programs with smaller classrooms and unique academic experiences.
Overall, the total living costs in Australia for international students depend on the choice of institution and course of study. Here is a breakdown of living costs in Australia (based on the university type).
Australian Public Universities
|
University |
Average Living Expenses (Annually) |
|
$20,290 - $31,870 |
|
|
$30,000 - $45,000 |
|
|
$26,000 - $44,500 |
|
|
$26,000 - $42,560 |
|
|
$24,000 - $73,204 |
Australian Private Universities
|
University |
Average Living Expenses (Annually) |
|
$20,000 - $25,000 |
|
|
Carneige Mellon University |
$40,000 - $62,250 |
|
$43,200- $64,872 |
|
|
Kenvale College |
$26,000 |
Tuition Fees in Australia
The average yearly fees in Australia can vary depending on the courses (bachelor's/master’s or PhD). For example, a bachelor’s degree fee can range from $9,000 to $50,000, and a master’s degree fee can range from $9,000 to $54,000.
|
University |
Annual Fees (average) |
|
$46,000 to $48,000 |
|
|
$45,000 to $47,000 |
|
|
$50,000 to $54,000 |
|
|
$7,000 to $11,000 |
|
|
$2,900 to $3,500/ credit |
|
|
$37,000 to $45,000 |
|
|
$9,000 |
|
|
$45,000 to $48,000 |
|
|
$1,256 per credit |
|
|
$14,000/semester - $16,000/ Semester |
International students can apply for education loans from nationalized banks, private banks, and non-bank financial companies to manage their costs better.
Student Accommodation Cost
Most Australian universities offer on-campus residence facilities. However, one can also apply for off-campus residence facilities to share with other students or stay alone with a local Australian family. The rent is paid every two weeks in advance. However, the rentals can vary from city to city.
According to the Australian Government website, here is a breakdown of the weekly costs of the accommodation options.
|
Accommodation Type |
Cost per week |
|
Hostels and Guesthouses |
$90 to $150 |
|
Shared rental |
$95 to $215 |
|
On campus |
$110 to $280 |
|
Homestay |
$235 to $325 |
|
Rental |
$185 to $440 |
Average Cost of Living per City
Besides the average cost of living, location also plays a vital role in stay options. For example, living expenses in Sydney are higher for international students than in Canberra or the Gold Coast.
|
City |
Average Cost of Living |
|
Melbourne |
$24,500 |
|
Brisbane |
$25,600 |
|
Canberra |
$22,400 |
|
Gold Coast |
$20,600 |
|
Adelaide |
$24,500 |
|
Perth |
$25,700 |
Cost of Attendance in Australia
The cost of attendance in Australia involves your pre-arrival expenses and cost of living. The pre-arrival fees will come out to approximately $3,000, which includes your airfare, standardized exam charges, college application fees, and visa charges.
On the other hand, the cost of living depends on the factors such as accommodation, commuting options, food, etc. Students can plan for short-term accommodations to minimize their living expenses.
Living Expenses
Australia’s annual student cost of living will come to around $35,000, which covers food, transport, grocery, accommodation, and other minimal expenses. Here is a breakdown of the living costs in Australia for students -
|
Factors |
Average cost per month |
|
Accommodation |
$297-$743 |
|
Food and Groceries |
$208 -$416 |
|
Transportation |
$44 - $89 |
|
Household Bills |
$20- $50 |
|
Shopping |
$223 |
Cost of Australia Student Visa
Students must also account for the Australian student visa, which costs around AUD 630, and health insurance, which can range from AUD 609 to AUD 3,438 per year. Students need to show proof of sufficient funds, typically around AUD 21,041 annually.
Other Expenses
|
Health Insurance |
$609 - $3438 |
|
Sufficient Fund Proof |
$20,290/ yearly |
|
Application fee payment |
$133 |
Study in Australia
International students can expect a well-rounded experience in Australia, but understanding the financial commitment is crucial. For more detailed information or personalised advice, arrange a free consultation with SI-Australia today.
FAQs
What is the cost of living in Australia for students?
The average annual cost of living for international students in Australia ranges between AUD 30,000 and AUD 36,000, depending on the city and lifestyle. This includes accommodation, food, transport, and other expenses. Sydney and Melbourne are generally more expensive than cities like Adelaide and Perth.
What is the cost of Overseas Student Health Coverage (OSHC)?
The cost of OSHC varies based on the type of coverage:
- For singles: the minimum cost is around AUD 500 annually.
- For couples: it can cost approximately AUD 2,600 annually.
- For families: it can go up to AUD 4,200 annually. These figures can change depending on the insurance provider and coverage level.
What is the average tuition fee for studying in Australia?
The tuition fees depend on the university, course, and duration:
- Bachelor’s degree: AUD 20,000 to AUD 50,000 per year.
- Master’s degree: AUD 22,000 to AUD 54,000 per year. Tuition can be higher for specialised degrees like medicine or engineering.
Does the cost of studying UG and PG in Australia vary?
Yes, the cost varies due to the course type, duration, and whether scholarships are applied. Generally, postgraduate courses tend to be more expensive than undergraduate ones, and the number of credit completions also plays a role. Scholarships or financial aid can significantly reduce the overall cost.
