What’s the cost of studying in Australia? This guide breaks down tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and financial aid options for students planning to study in Australia.
The cost of university study in Australia
How much does it actually cost to study in Australia? If you’re thinking about studying there, one of the biggest things to figure out is how much you’ll need to budget. This guide covers every expense you might face as a student, so you’re fully prepared.
Keep in mind that prices and exchange rates are accurate at the time of writing but may change later.
Tuition fees
Australia is a top choice for international students, but like the UK and the US, it’s also one of the pricier options.
That said, costs vary a lot depending on location, so don’t dismiss studying in Australia without checking all possibilities. For instance, international students can pay their fees well before the term starts, making it easier to manage money during the school year.
For undergrad degrees (which usually take 3-4 years in Australia), international students can expect to pay between $20,000 and $45,000 AUD (around £11,140 to £25,065).
A master’s degree ranges from $22,000 to $50,000 AUD (£12,254 to £27,850).
Degrees like medicine and vet science cost even more. For example, at Australian National University, a BA in arts costs $38,400 AUD (£21,396) per year, while a BSc in medical science is about $51,360 AUD (£28,617) per year.
Unlike some countries, Australian fees are usually calculated per unit, not per year. Since students take a mix of units from different fee bands, the total cost varies each year.
Local students pay much less than international students, thanks to government subsidies and caps on fees. Many are also eligible for the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP).
Accommodation costs
Housing prices depend on location and type. Rural areas (like Western and Northern Australia) are cheaper, while cities (especially Sydney) are more expensive—especially in downtown areas.
- On-campus housing: $440–1,120 AUD/month (£245–618)
- Homestay: $940–1,300 AUD/month (£250–668)
- Shared rental: $740–1,760 AUD/month (£408–972)
Other essential student costs
Some rentals include utilities, but if not, expect:
- Gas & electricity: $50–100 AUD/month (£27–55)
- Internet: $70–120 AUD/month (£39–66)
- Water/sewage/waste fees: Around $50 AUD/month (£27), split between tenants.
To get a student visa, you’ll need to prove you have $21,041 AUD (£11,723) per year for living costs (covering 1–2 years). Alternatively, you can show proof of a parent’s or partner’s income of at least $62,222 AUD (£34,384). The visa itself can cost up to $650 AUD (£359). Check visa rules carefully—some types don’t allow students to work while studying.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory and costs about $438 AUD (£244) for three years for undergrads, though prices vary by provider and coverage level.
Some universities charge a Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF)—a non-academic fee funding student services. This is usually around $315 AUD (£174) per year but depends on the uni.
You’ll also need proof of a return flight ticket booked for after your studies.
Budget $500–1,000 AUD (£278–557) per year for books and supplies.
Many unis offer free campus transport, and some states (like Queensland, South Australia, and Melbourne) give students discounted public transport.
Lifestyle expenses
- Groceries: $80 AUD/week (£44)
- Average restaurant meal: $18 AUD (£10)
- Cinema ticket: $14 AUD (£7.80)
- Big Mac: $4.30 AUD (£2.40)
- Pint of beer: $8 AUD (£4.46)
- Glass of wine: $9 AUD (£5)
- Gym membership: $65 AUD/month (£36)
- Night out: $50–60 AUD (£27–33), depending on location.
Financial support options
Scholarships and grants for international students exist but are limited. Most go to postgrads, though this is slowly changing. They’re usually based on academic merit, not financial need.
Most scholarships are offered directly by universities—check their websites.
Big programs like the Australia Awards (funded by the government) cover full tuition, travel, and some living costs.
An ISIC card (proof of student status) is worth getting—it costs $4–25 AUD (£2.25–13.81) and gives:
- 20% off at restaurants/cafés
- Cinema tickets from $11.50 AUD
- 5% off groceries, fuel, and alcohol
- 40% off international flights.