Studying abroad can be an expensive affair but planning your budget smartly can help you get a hold on your finances effectively. Before you depart from your home country, ensure that you consider expenses like accommodation, food, health coverage and travel along with your tuition fee when calculating the estimated cost of studying in Australia. This will help you plan your budget more effectively.

1. Tuition fee is your prime expenditure

Your expenditure on tuition fee depends on the type of qualification and the university or school you opt for. For instance, veterinary and medical degrees cost substantially more than other degrees. The average tuition fees at one of Australia’s tertiary institutions ranges between AUD 20,000 and AUD 30,000 a year.

S.no	Study Program	Average Fees in AUD*
1.	School	$7,800 to $30,000 annually
2.	English language studies	$300/week (varies as per course length)
3.	Vocational Education and Training  (Certificates I to IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma)	$4000 – $22,000 annually
4.	Undergraduate Bachelor Degree	$15,000 – $33,000 annually
5.	Postgraduate Master’s Degree	$20,000 – $37,000 annually
6.	Doctoral Degree	$14,000 – $37,000 annually

*Source: www.studyinaustralia.gov.au, please note all figures are indicative

Most commonly, courses in humanities, education and arts are a little cheaper, while subjects such as medicine and engineering are likely to be more expensive. If you wish to study at a postgraduate level, the tuition fee is typically higher and the costs vary depending on the program. If you want to bring down your educational expenses, it is best to apply to various scholarships available for international students.

2. Where will you live? Calculate accommodation costs

Most universities in Australia offer on-campus residence facilities to international students. You can also opt for an off-campus accommodation wherein you can share apartments with other students from your home country or stay with a local Australian family. The rent is usually paid every two weeks in advance. Remember, the rentals vary from city to city.

3. Cost of your student visa

In order to study in Australia, the first step is to secure a valid student visa that comes with its own costs (approx. AUD 575). Find information on visa application process and related cost here

4. Living expenses in Australia

You need to keep a little money aside for your grocery shopping, social activities and emergency situations. When living in a foreign country as a student, it is better to keep a track of your expenditures so that you do not over spend. Considering various expenses and living costs, a single international student budget in Australia comes to be approx. AUD 200-400 per week (indicative). You should also consider these common expenses when creating your budget:

• Communication expenses: As an overseas student, you’d be frequently calling your friends and family back home. Therefore, always keep a section of your budget for phone bills and data expenses. An approximate cost on phone can be anywhere around AUD 150 per 3 months. Local calls from a home phone can be around 30-40 cents and are not timed. Look for cost-effective calling plans and student discounts in order to stay connected with your loved ones within your monthly budget.
• Groceries: Keep aside at least AUD180 per two weeks if you’ll be staying in a private accommodation. This will be less if your package includes food.
• Books and supplies: Purchasing textbooks can get a little expensive. For instance, books for engineering courses, law, and medicine can get pricey. You can manage this in your budget by opting for second hand books, buying digital versions or even securing a library membership.
• Personal expenses: Your daily expenses will include laundry, toiletries, clothing, dining out, etc. This depends entirely on the kind of lifestyle you choose for yourself.

5. Keep safe. Consider health support and insurance

It is mandatory for all students travelling to Australia to get a medical insurance before the commencement of their program. The average cost for medical insurance ranges around AUD 500 a year (indicative). Extensive health and support services are readily available for all international students in Australia.

6. Transportation. Know how much it will cost to move around

Unless your institution provides with a shuttle service to-and-fro from your lodging, you’ll have to rely on the available public transport.

For short distances

You can make use of regional trains, buses, and trams. A short ride on a bus or train can cost you around AUD 3. You can get a weekly pass upwards of AUD 20 or a monthly pass for AUD 80. Student discounts are easily available in all states and territories apart from Victoria.

For long distances

For travelling between different cities, you can avail any of the following options:

• Long-distance bus
• Rail
• Air

7. Don’t ignore your taxes

International students in Australia cannot work without acquiring their Tax File Number (TFN). With this, you are allowed to work 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during vacations. If you choose to work along with your studies, your earned income will be taxable.

Remember, the exchange rate variations may also affect your budgeting. We suggest you also look for a part time job while you are studying in Australia or seek scholarship in the universities you apply to. This can help lower your cost of studying abroad to a great extent.

---

Ready to get started? Book a FREE consultation to discuss your study options in Australia.