Thinking about studying in Australia? Apart from tuition fees, knowing day-to-day living costs is important in planning your budget. This blog shows the average costs an Indian student can incur into manageable parts, making it simple for you to transition.
This blog particularly deals with “living expenses in Australia”, Student fees make up a huge chunk of an overseas student’s overall cost. The fees widely differ based on the university and course.
While planning your abroad education, it is important to know “tuition fees in Australia for international students.” Tuition fees are a significant portion of your total cost of living, and they differ greatly based on the level of study, course and the university.
Here’s is a Comprehensive Breakdown
For majority UG programs international students might expect to pay between AUD 20,000 and AUD 45,000 per annum for tuition fees.
Popular undergraduate fields such as IT, business, and nursing usually comes in between this range.
- Ranking and prestige of university (Group of Eight universities will typically be more expensive).
- Program duration (certain degrees will be three years, whereas those such as engineering will be up to four years).
- Course specialization (e.g., specialized STEM courses tend to have slightly higher fees).
Example Fees:
Bachelors in Business Analytics AUD 36,000 to AUD 43,000 per year
Bachelors in Literature AUD 20,000 to AUD 50,000 per year
Bachelors in Commerce AUD 39,000 to AUD 54,000 per year
Students who are pursuing their Master’s degree will typically pay AUD 22,000 to AUD 50,000 per year.
Master’s degrees are usually 1 to 2 years in duration, depending on the discipline and whether the course involves research.
Example Fees:
- Masters in Commerce AUD 22,000 to AUD 50,000 per year
- Masters in computer Application AUD 20,000 to AUD 45,000
- Master in Nursing AUD 30,000 to AUD 55,000 annually.
Note: Specialized or professional degrees such as MBAs, data science, and finance tend to be at a premium.
PhD research Degrees in Australia are quite inexpensive relative to most Western nations, ranging from AUD 18,000 to AUD 42,000 annually.
Another thing to keep in mind, most universities provide handsome scholarships and fee exemptions for PhD students on the basis of research merit.
Example Fees:
PhD in Engineering – AUD 28,000–38,000/year
PhD in Humanities – AUD 20,000–30,000/year
Tip: PhD research programs mostly provide allowance on living cost in addition to fee discount scholarships, thus keeping doctoral studies within reach financially.
Vocational Education and Training (VET) is a cost-effective choice for anyone seeking trade certifications or practical skills.
VET programs typically last six months to two years and cost between AUD 4,000 and AUD 22,000 annually.
Popular VET programs include
- Building and construction;
- Automotive engineering;
- Aged care and disability support; and
- Hospitality management.
These degrees and certifications can be used anywhere in Australia, and they usually lead to direct employment or university education.
While considering “tuition fees in Australia for international students,” it is also necessary to consider the course type. Because of the specialized nature of the facilities, instruction, and equipment required, certain courses are significantly more expensive.
The average fee for each course is broken down as follows:
| Field of Study | Average Tuition Fees per Year (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Medicine & Veterinary Science | Up to 60,000 |
| Engineering & Architecture | 30,000–50,000 |
| Law | 30,000–45,000 |
| Business & Commerce | 25,000–40,000 |
| Information Technology | 28,000–40,000 |
| Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences | 20,000–35,000 |
| Education | 22,000–35,000 |
| Hospitality & Tourism | 20,000–30,000 |
The most expensive courses are those in medicine and veterinary science, which can cost up to AUD 60,000 a year.
Intensive clinical rotations and the use of cutting-edge medical equipment are common features of these courses, which raise the cost.
The average annual cost of engineering, architecture, and law is between AUD 30,000 and AUD 50,000.
Students studying architecture and engineering may also be assessed additional fees for the use of tools and supplies.
Programs in the arts, education, and humanities start at about AUD 20,000 per year, making them more affordable.
Placement and lab fees may be less for some programs.
Quick Recap
Calculating Your Budget for Tuition
In your early calculations of the “cost of living in Australia for international students,” don’t forget to account for tuition costs.
This is how to make an estimate:
Undergraduate degrees should cost between AUD 20,000 and AUD 45,000 annually;
postgraduate degrees should cost between AUD 22,000 and 50,000 annually, and doctoral
Degrees should cost between AUD 18,000 and AUD 42,000 annually.
VET Courses: Approximately AUD 4,000 to AUD $22,000 per year
Top Tip: To reduce your tuition costs, check for any scholarships, early bird discounts, or bursaries the university gives to overseas students.
A worry-free, enjoyable time as a student in Australia can be guaranteed if you plan ahead for your living expenses and tuition!
Australia provides different scholarships, such as Australia Awards, Destination Australia, and university-specific grants, to lighten the tuition load.
Always verify whether you qualify for a “student discount” or fee waiver on the basis of merit or need.
One of the most crucial choices you’ll make when planning your studies abroad is finding the perfect place to stay. Accommodation will be a significant part of your “cost of living in Australia,” and the type of accommodation you choose and the city you’re studying in will affect how much it costs you.
Let’s talk about the main kinds of accommodations that overseas students can get:
Residential colleges, dorms, and residence halls are forms of on-campus living offered by many Australian institutions.
It is a popular choice for first-year international students because it provides a safe, practical, and socially conscious living environment.
Cost:
Depending on the university, the kind of room (private or shared), and whether meals are included, the weekly cost might range from AUD 90 to 280.
Usually included are
- Fully equipped rooms with a bed, desk, and wardrobe.
- Water, electricity, and internet are examples of basic utilities.
- Some homes have meal programs (rent includes cafeteria meals).
- Involvement in social activities, study spaces, and common places.
Benefits:
- Conveniently close to university amenities like lecture halls, libraries, and student services.
- Very easy to create a social network and meet new people.
- It is safe, secure, and ideal for overseas students who are just starting out.
One drawback is that it can cost a bit more than living off campus.
- Limited privacy compared to private renters.
International students can stay with a local Australian family through homestay programs.
Students who are new to Australia and like a domestic setting are especially drawn to this choice.
Depending on the location and level of service provided, the cost ranges from AUD 250 to 350 each week.
Included are:
- Utility bills (internet, water, and electricity); • A separate room that is completely equipped.
- The majority of homestays include meals, including complete meals on weekends and breakfast and dinner on weekdays.
Advantages:
- Great opportunity to experience Australian culture firsthand.
- Enhances communication abilities in English.
- The emotional support required during the settling-in phase is provided by the family environment.
Cons:
- Less independence than if living alone;
- Needs to adapt to family norms and routines in the home.
Many students move into private rental homes in Australia after they feel more comfortable there, either renting a studio apartment for themselves or sharing a home or apartment with others.
Options for Cost:
- AUD 100 to AUD 200 per week for a shared room.
- AUD 180–250 per week for a single room in a shared apartment or house.
- Living alone in a studio apartment costs between AUD 250 and AUD 400 a week.
Additional Costs:
- Utility bills, which range from AUD 20 to AUD 50 per week, are usually separate and include power, water, and internet.
- If the rental is unfurnished, it may be necessary to purchase furniture.
Benefits include:
Greater privacy and independence.
- The ability to select the place and housemates.
- Less expensive when shared.
Cons:
Requires handling of utility bills, leasing agreements, and housework.
- International students who haven’t yet developed a social network may find it isolating.
In major Australian cities, purpose-built student housing, or PBSA, is becoming more and more popular among international students.
These are modern, fully equipped residence halls designed for students that combine a strong sense of community with private living.
The price ranges from AUD 250 to AUD 400 per week, contingent on the city, amenities, and type of lodging (private or communal).
PBSA’s amenities include
- Fully equipped rooms with either private or communal bathrooms;
- High-speed internet; and
- All utilities are included.
24-hour security and support personnel; - On-site gyms, study spaces, gaming lounges, barbeque areas, and even movie theaters.
Advantages: - Excellent privacy and community balance;
- Easy budgeting thanks to opulent amenities and all-inclusive prices.
Easy access to city centers and college campuses.
Cons: - One of the priciest options for lodging, especially in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
Everyday necessities like food and transportation also make a significant contribution.
Costs of Food
Food expenses are low if you cook your own food. However, eating out frequently can strain your finances.
Shopping stores:
Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi are budget-friendly supermarket chains.
The average monthly shopping cost is between AUD 300 and 600.
Dining out:
- Fast food: AUD 8–12 o Coffee: AUD 4–5.
- Meal at a restaurant: AUD 15–25.
Indian Students Beware
There is a lot of “Indian food in Australia” if you miss the flavors of home, including restaurants serving biryani, dosa, and butter chicken, as well as supermarkets like Patel Brothers.
The following are well-known Indian grocery stores: Indian Spices in Sydney, Bharat Traders in Melbourne, and Indian Groceries Online in Brisbane and
The best food in Australia that students should try:
- Meat pies
- Vegemite sandwiches
- Tim Tams (chocolate biscuits)
- Barramundi fish dishes
In Australia, public transit is dependable, reasonably priced, and accessible to students.
- Monthly Public Transportation Pass: AUD 150–200 for Sydney
- Brisbane: AUD 120–160
- Melbourne: AUD 150
- Trains, buses, and trams: Depending on the distance, each trip costs between AUD 2 and AUD 6.
- Student Transportation Discounts: As part of government programs, international students in some states (such as Victoria and South Australia) are eligible for transportation discounts.
To save up to 50%, always ask for a student concession card.
Extra Tip: Bicycles are a popular way for people in small communities to save even more money.
If you’re smart, it’s feasible to save money as an international student in Australia.
There are student discounts everywhere!
Your student ID card entitles you to savings in numerous industries:
- Technology: Student discounts are available from Apple, Microsoft, and Dell.
- Retail: 10–15% off is available at Myer, JB Hi-Fi, and certain apparel stores.
- Entertainment: o Reduced prices for events, museum admission, and movie tickets.
- Travel: Student airfare offers are frequently available on Qantas and Virgin Australia.
- To locate special offers, search for the UNiDAYS App or ISIC (International Student Identity Card).
Indian Students’ Budgeting Advice
Compared to eating out, cooking at home can save up to AUD 150–200 each month.
- Shared housing: Significantly lowers rent and utilities costs.
- Use Opal/Myki Cards to receive discounts on public transportation in Victoria and New
South Wales.
- Part-time Employment:
You can work legally up to 48 hours a fortnight on a student visa.
Popular jobs are
- Assistant
- Hospitality (cafes, restaurants)
- Tutoring younger students
- Admin/office work on campus
Set Monthly Budgets:
Use apps such as Pocketbook or Frollo to monitor and plan your expenses.
Making a Smart Financial Plan
Although “living expenses in Australia” might seem excessive, Indian students can live happily and affordably with careful planning.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared) | 600–1,000 |
| Groceries | 300–600 |
| Transportation | 120–200 |
| Utilities (electricity, internet) | 100–150 |
| Entertainment | 100–250 |
| Health insurance (OSHC) | 40–60 |
| Miscellaneous | 100–200 |
Your time in Australia will be both inexpensive and pleasurable if you use “student discount” offers, budget sensibly, and maintain a healthy balance between employment, study, and life.
Do not hesitate to contact our staff if you need help understanding immigration requirements, finding affordable housing, or applying to Australian universities. We’re here to help you every step of the way!
| Field of Study | Average Tuition Fees per Year (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Medicine & Veterinary Science | Up to 60,000 |
| Engineering & Architecture | 30,000–50,000 |
| Law | 30,000–45,000 |
| Business & Commerce | 25,000–40,000 |
| Information Technology | 28,000–40,000 |
| Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences | 20,000–35,000 |
| Education | 22,000–35,000 |
| Hospitality & Tourism | 20,000–30,000 |