Cost of Living in Australia for International Students

18
Dec

Studying in Australia is a cherished aspiration for many international students due to its immensely enriching experience. It serves as a gateway for students to deeply engage with a new culture. As students constantly strive for success, studying abroad significantly enhances their prospects, amplifying their chances of achieving their goals.

Nevertheless, pursuing higher education in Australia as an international student comes with a substantial cost. To provide clarity on the potential expenses that students may face when starting their educational journey in Australia, we have compiled a comprehensive list of estimated costs. This resource enables students to create a well-informed estimate of the financial investment required for their study abroad endeavour.

Average living expenses for international students in Australia:

The average living expenses can often surprise students intending to study abroad. Numerous factors contribute to determining these costs, leading to potential fluctuations in the estimated amount initially planned for educational purposes. Factors such as the specific state and city where an individual is studying and residing significantly impact these living expenses.

In Australia, cities like Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, and Brisbane are considered to be the most expensive cosmopolitan towns. If we calculate the average monthly expense for an individual, including food, transport, accommodation, tuition fees, and miscellaneous expenditures, then it might cost around AUD 2500 (INR 136,000) to AUD 3500 (INR 191,000).

The amount is substantially high, which shatters the dream of multiple students aspiring to study abroad. However, Education Loan Guru bridges this gap and allows students to realise their dream of studying abroad. 

The breakdown of average living costs for international students in Australia encompasses various factors, including accommodation expenses, transportation, food, miscellaneous costs, and tuition fees required for studying in the country.

Accommodation cost:

The accommodation expenses for international students in Australia tend to vary based on the region and the type of location chosen for study. Basically, there are two primary types of accommodation: on-campus and off-campus. The cost of accommodation significantly depends on students' preferences, determining whether they opt for on-campus residences or seek off-campus housing alternatives.

On average, accommodation costs typically fall between AUD 400 and AUD 1,200 per month. However, sharing accommodation with a roommate can reduce these costs, with an expected range of AUD 350 to AUD 900 per month.

Type of Accommodation

Average monthly accommodation

Homestays 

AUD 400 – AUD 1250

Shared Apartment

AUD 350 – AUD 900

Halls of Residence

AUD 450 - AUD 1200

Apartment

AUD 800 – AUD 1900 

 

Cost of food:

Food expenses cover groceries, including fruits, vegetables, water, and milk, among other essentials easily found in local supermarkets without much hassle.

For groceries alone, the monthly cost typically ranges from AUD 600 to AUD 1200. Occasionally, there are times when one might opt for dining out, where a meal at a restaurant for lunch or dinner could range from AUD 25 to AUD 90.

 

Cost of studying in Australia (tuition fees):

 

Tuition expenses consume a significant portion of an international student's budget. The specific tuition costs vary based on factors such as location, university, and chosen programme of study. On average, undergraduate courses may range between AUD 20,000 and AUD 50,000, while postgraduate courses typically range from AUD 30,000 to AUD 60,000.

 

There are a few degrees that have a pretty high tuition cost, but it is advisable to keep yourself covered with an overseas education loan. Below are some top universities with their tuition costs highlighted:

Top Universities 

Tuition fees for UG courses

Tuition fees for PG courses 

Swinburne University 

AUD 32,000 – AUD 37,000 

AUD 35,000 – AUD 45,000

University of Tasmania

AUD 30,000 – AUD 38,000 

AUD 35,000 – AUD 40,000

Victoria University 

AUD 20,500 – AUD 25,000 

AUD 22,000 – AUD 27,000

James Cook University 

AUD 30,000 – AUD 36,500

AUD 34,600 – AUD 40,500

Southern Cross University 

AUD 29,400 – AUD 35,500 

AUD 35,000 – AUD 40,000

 

Travel and transportation costs:

As an international student relocating to Australia for higher education, it's advisable to seek accommodation close to the campus. This proximity to the campus reduces travel, thereby potentially lowering travel expenses. For those who still need to travel, it is advisable to utilise public transport, which typically provides monthly passes priced between AUD 50 and AUD 175. On the other hand, opting for a taxi would cost approximately AUD 1.5 per kilometre travelled.

Moreover, students can rent out a bicycle to travel short distances around the campus. Usually, the rent for a bicycle for a day is around AUD 40.

Miscellaneous Expenses:

While the above sections highlight several expenses, there are additional costs not mentioned. However, students must have a clear understanding of the percentage of their funds allocated to these aspects, even if education loans often cover these expenses. Additionally, unforeseen events can arise during students' overseas studies. Students need to consider and prepare for the following major expenses:

Expenses 

Cost 

Internet 

AUD 50 – AUD 100

Prepaid mobile charges (per minute)

AUD 0.10 – AUD 1 

Gasoline 

AUD 1.2 – AUD 1.3

Health insurance  

AUD 35 onwards

Books and study material 

AUD 500 – AUD 1100 

 

Education loan for international students:

Studying in Australia involves significant costs, often causing stress for students. However, to support aspiring learners and prevent their dreams from fading, banks and NBFCs offer education loan for abroad studies. Education Loan Guru is dedicated to empowering students to pursue their studies abroad by providing seamless overseas education loans. 

Conclusion:

Studying in Australia can be quite expensive for international students, often presenting a financial challenge. The costs associated with education and living expenses in Australia might come as a shock to many. However, various banks and NBFCs offer education loans tailored to support students planning to study abroad. These loans typically cover a wide range of essential expenses for students, including accommodation, food, transportation costs, and tuition fees.

One resource available to help secure a study abroad loan is the Education Loan Guru. They specialise in assisting students in obtaining student loan for study abroad.

By Education Loan Guru