You will be amazed to know that after the US and the UK, Australia is the third-largest educational destination preferred by international students in the world. What majorly attracts students from across the globe to study in Australia is the massive career opportunities, quality education along with the presence of a diverse population. It is reported that every year millions of international students arrive in Australia to pursue various educational programs such as; undergraduate, diploma, postgraduate, and research-related programs.
As per the QS World University Rankings 2022, a total of seven Australian Universities have got featured on the list, ultimately making the country more attractive for international students to study in Australia.
The foremost thing that everyone looks for before moving to another country, is the cost of living, including the expenses during their stay.
This article is written with the intention to provide better clarity on various aspects of the cost of living for international students in Australia. This includes details regarding the accommodation for students in Australia and how Australia for international students is good for pursuing higher education.
Average Cost of Living in Australia
International students in Australia will have to bear a cost between $1,400 to $2,500 per month for living expenses. This cost is estimated on the basis of the average cost of living for a couple (married student), whose expenditure stands at $4,118 per month. Hence, students must plan out their stay in Australia keeping these figures in mind.
Australia has gained immense attention in the past few years due to its quality education and world-class universities. As mentioned at the beginning of this article, Australia is the third-biggest educational destination in the world, and is also comparatively cheaper when it comes to the cost of living and living standards. If you are planning to study in Australia and wish to settle down here, then you would be glad to know that Australia is home to 30 of the best cities in the world.
Although the cost of living for international students is expensive, the country recorded a maximum number of 650,000 students from across the globe, in the year 2020 alone. The reason behind the presence of such a huge number of students is that Australia has one of the best education systems in the world.
The average annual cost of undergraduate courses lies between $20,000 and $45,000. Students who wish to pursue graduate and doctoral programs should know that the average cost will amount to between $22,000 and $50,000 per year. Speaking of the living expenses in Australia for international students, the monthly amount will vary between $3000 and $4,500. One must consider the fact that the living costs including the accommodation for students in Australia will differ across cities in Australia.
For example, the cost of living in Sydney is around $3,000 to $4,500 whereas, the average cost of living in Brisbane is approximately $2,500 to $3,000.
Charges of Accommodation for Students in Australia
A majority of international students in Australia look either for private residences or homestays. This is due to the reason that most of the universities in Australia have a limited number of dormitory arrangements for international students.
The monthly accommodation cost for international students may vary between $440 to $1,200. This depends on the type of accommodation they choose for living.
Another affordable option of accommodation for students in Australia is student halls of residence. This is the most beneficial option as it eliminates the pressure of sourcing food and paying for utilities. If students choose private accommodation, they get the liberty to either live alone or find flatmates to accompany them. Talking of homestays, these are the provisions where the students have to stay with a local family in Australia throughout the duration of their educational program. You can use these interesting tips to find student accommodation.
Transportation Costs in Australia
Students living on-campus and in remote areas are provided with private transport facilities by the universities. The students are given a monthly transport pass with a cost between $30 and $ 70, this transportation cost depends on the city in which the student lives.
Another transportation option available for students is to rent a bicycle that will cost them between $25 and $40 per day.
The monthly average cost that is spent on food (including groceries) by international students in Australia usually varies between $500 and $1,000. There are even cheaper alternatives available for students in terms of food, these are the supermarkets which have less expensive food items.
Restaurants and dining out can also be considered by the students as budgeted food options. Students can find a diverse range of food alternatives as Australia is the fusion of various cultures, which leads to ethnic diversity in the country, hence, leaving the students to choose from delicious and healthy cuisines.
The average cost of a meal is generally about $18, and a three-course meal for two persons costs around $80.
Along with studies, the students need entertainment as it is necessary for their mental health. Therefore, there are many adventurous things to do in the country. Students can even explore places in Australia. For instance, the beautiful beaches of the island continent, the great outback, and the diverse and enchanting flora and fauna can be good sources of entertainment for international students in Australia.
Australia is known for its great surf culture, and adventure sports. Deep sea diving will fill you with immense thrill. While pursuing higher studies in Australia, you can explore the lush rainforests, which can give your mind the ultimate peace.
If you love urban life, you get a lot in terms of entertainment. Students can find bars, clubs, lounges, and specialty restaurants during their stay in Australia.
The monthly average for entertainment in Australia will cost the students approximately $200 while studying in Australia.
University Tuition Fee in Australia
Tuition fees take up a large portion of the student’s budget in Australia. But it varies from university to university, location, and the educational program that students have opted to study.
The average tuition fee for bachelor’s degrees ranges between $20,000 and $45,000 per annum. For master’s and doctoral programs, the fees range from $20,000 to $50,000 per year.
The tuition fees are comparatively high for some programs such as medical degrees, Master of Business Administration, and several other professional degrees. One of the best ways of minimising such high tuition fees is by applying for a scholarship, if you manage to secure a scholarship, you will have to pay a lesser amount or get their complete degree sponsored and save your valuable money.
Scholarships in Australia for International Students
Students can avail of various scholarships in Australia through sources such as; universities, government, and public/private institutions. Depending upon various factors, the scholarships can be partially or fully funded. The following are some of the most prominent scholarships in Australia for international students:
- Australia Awards Scholarships
- Destination Australia Scholarships
- Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP)
- Provider Scholarships
City-Wise Living Expenses in Australia
Australia is the home to many of the leading universities, Sydney and Melbourne have been consistently ranked among the most student-friendly cities in the world. Melbourne and Sydney have secured 6th and 8th positions respectively in the QS Best Student Cities 2022 list, making them the best cities to study in Australia.
According to the report of the QS, the best student cities 2022 list compared nearly 115 cities across the world on indicators that included factors such as affordability, desirability, affordability, diversity, safety, and employment opportunities after graduation. The University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney, Monash University, and the University of New South Wales, are a few of the leading universities in Melbourne and Sydney.
In order to avoid the extra expenses, the students can opt for the right city to stay in during the academic years.
Mobile and Internet Charges
Communication is possible only when you have the medium. Such a medium is facilitated by mobile and internet connection, which can be availed by getting a SIM card. It is advisable for international students to purchase and use an Australian SIM card during their stay in Australia. Students can get prepaid and postpaid plans to choose from.
Students can buy prepaid SIM cards from grocery stores and supermarkets. Following this, they require a simple set-up process. The other viable option is to get a contract or postpaid SIM card, this provides various options to students so that they can plan for the period of their study in Australia.
The Internet plans are nearly similar to that of the mobile phone plans. The average mobile and internet charge, in Australia, is about $70 per month.
Miscellaneous Living Expenses for Australian Students
If you want to study in Australia, then you have to account for miscellaneous expenses too before you move to Australia, as these expenses are essential for living in the country. These expenses include the following;
- grooming and personal care expenses
Miscellaneous expenses will vary from student to student depending on what the item is he or she spending on. Therefore, the average miscellaneous expenses would amount to approximately $250 per month.
Do you need guidance for planning your future studies and career in Australia? Connect with our friendly and expert team today.