Cost of Study in Australia for International Students 2025

The Cost of Study in Australia for international students in 2025 varies depending on the program, institution, and location. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are known for higher living expenses, while smaller cities such as Adelaide and Brisbane offer more affordable living options. Australia continues to attract international students due to its high quality education system, but it’s essential to plan ahead and understand the associated costs. By carefully budgeting for tuition fees and living expenses, you can make your dream of studying in Australia more attainable and stress free.

Understanding the Cost of Study in Australia is vital for students planning their higher education journey. Tuition fees alone can range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 45,000 annually, depending on the course and university. Besides tuition, students must also consider accommodation, food, transport, and other essential living expenses. On average, international students in Australia spend between AUD 1,500 to AUD 2,500 per month, depending on their lifestyle and location. It’s important to explore scholarships, part-time work options, and financial aid programs to help ease the financial burden.

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1. Tuition Fees in Australia for International Students 2025

The cost of study in Australia depends on the level of education, university, and course of study. Here’s an estimate of tuition fees for different programs:

Undergraduate Programs

• Bachelor’s degree: AUD 20,000 – AUD 45,000 per year
• Popular courses like Medicine, Engineering, and Law may have higher fees, reaching up to AUD 112,832 per year.

Postgraduate Programs

• Master’s degree: AUD 22,000 – AUD 50,000 per year
• MBA programs can cost AUD 40,000 – AUD 100,000 per year, depending on the university.

Doctoral Degrees (PhD)

• Tuition fees: AUD 23,000 – AUD 95,000 per year
• Many universities offer research scholarships to PhD students, covering tuition and living expenses.

Top universities like The University of Melbourne, Australian National University, and The University of Sydney have tuition fees on the higher end of this range.

2. Cost of Living in Australia for International Students

Living expenses in Australia vary based on the city, lifestyle, and accommodation type. Here is a breakdown of major living costs:

Accommodation Costs

• On-campus housing: AUD 110 – AUD 280 per week
• Shared apartment: AUD 140 – AUD 300 per week
• Private rental: AUD 250 – AUD 500 per week
• Homestay: AUD 235 – AUD 325 per week

Other Monthly Expenses

• Food and groceries: AUD 300 – AUD 1,200
• Transport: AUD 60 – AUD 200
• Utilities (electricity, water, internet, etc.): AUD 100 – AUD 300
• Entertainment & miscellaneous expenses: AUD 200 – AUD 600

The average student requires AUD 18,000 – AUD 30,000 per year for living expenses.

City-Wise Living Costs

The cost of living varies significantly between Australian cities:

• Sydney – AUD 2,500 to AUD 3,500 per month
• Melbourne – AUD 2,200 to AUD 3,200 per month
• Brisbane – AUD 2,000 to AUD 2,800 per month
• Adelaide – AUD 1,500 to AUD 2,500 per month
• Perth – AUD 1,800 to AUD 2,800 per month

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3. Additional Costs for International Students in Australia

Student Visa Fees

International students require a Student Visa (Subclass 500), which costs AUD 650 as of 2025. Additional fees apply for family members or dependents.

Health Insurance (OSHC)

All international students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). OSHC costs vary but generally range from AUD 500 – AUD 700 per year.

Books & Study Materials

Depending on the course, students spend AUD 500 – AUD 1,500 per year on books, software, and supplies.

Travel Costs

• Public transport passes: AUD 30 – AUD 70 per week
• Flights (if traveling home during holidays): AUD 1,000 – AUD 3,000 per trip

4. Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students

To offset the cost of study in Australia, many scholarships and grants are available:

• Australia Awards Scholarships: Fully funded by the Australian Government.
• Destination Australia Program: Offers scholarships up to AUD 15,000 per year for regional study.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities provide merit-based or need-based scholarships.
• Research Scholarships: Available for Master’s and PhD students, often covering full tuition and living costs.

5. Part-Time Work Opportunities for International Students

International students can work up to 24 hours per week during their study period and unlimited hours during semester breaks. Part-time jobs in retail, hospitality, and tutoring pay AUD 20 – AUD 30 per hour, which can help cover living expenses.

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6. Budgeting Tips for International Students in Australia

• Create a Budget: Track expenses and plan spending.
• Use Student Discounts: Public transport, food, and entertainment often have discounts.
• Find Affordable Housing: Consider shared rentals or university accommodations.
• Cook at Home: Eating out frequently can increase living costs.
• Work Part-Time: Helps manage expenses and gain experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)