Cost of Education in Australia

Australia is among one of the best countries to study abroad for an Indian student. The country has excellent universities with diverse courses, good international exposure, diverse cultural interaction, and a strong statement for your CV.

Knowing the cost of living and studying in Australia is an important part of your financial preparation. We are here to guide and help students understand the overall cost of getting a UG degree in Australia.

Cost of Education in Australia

The total expenses will depend on the university fees in Australia. It further depends on the level of study you choose and the location of your university. 

• Cost of student visa

To study in Australia  for Indian students, the first step is to secure a valid student visa. The Department of Home Affairs has financial requirements you must meet in order to receive a student visa for Australia.

The Australian Department of Immigration checks if you have enough money to pay for your course fee. They also make sure you can manage travel and living costs while in Australia. This annual personal income requirement ranges from INR 30-35 lakhs.

• Tuition fees

According to a 2016 study by Dr Philip Kirby, the average university fees in Australia for higher education institutions are AU$7,900 (INR 40,1190).

Tuition fees depend on the course of study and the institute. University fees in Australia range as follows: 

1. Undergraduate Bachelor degree – $20,000 to $45,000 annually
2. Postgraduate Masters degree – $22,000 to $50,000 annually
3. Doctoral degree – $18,000 to $42,000 annually
4. Vocational Education and Training (Certificates I to IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma) – $4,000 to $22,000 annually

To bring down your expenses, apply to scholarships available for Indian students to study in Australia.

• Accommodation 

Accommodation expenses while studying in an Australian university will change depending upon where you want to live. You have six options:

1. Hostels and guesthouses – $90 to $150 per week
2. Shared rental – $95 to $215 per week
3. On campus – $110 to $280 per week
4. Homestay – $235 to $325 per week
5. Rental – $185 to $440 per week
6. Boarding schools – $11,000 to $22,000 a year

•   Living expenses

The living expenses to study in Australia for an Indian student vary from place to place. The expenses include:

• Gas, electricity – $10 to $20 per week
• Phone and Internet – $15 to $30 per week
• Entertainment – $80 to $150 per week

Bigger cities will entail higher expenses that could range from AU$350 to 900 per week.  On average, living expenses (including food, entertainment, phone, and travel depending on the city) are Rs 17,774 to Rs 45,705 per week.

• Food 

You can easily get Indian, Italian and other authentic cuisines in nearby restaurants. The cost of food while studying in Australia will be approximately $140 to $280 per week. This includes groceries and eating out costs. 

• Transportation

Depending upon longer or shorter distance travels, public or private vehicle, and the city you live in, the expense varies:

1. Public transport – $30 to $60 per week
2. Car (after purchase) – $150 to $260 per week

You can get a weekly pass of $20 or a monthly pass of $80. Student discounts are easily available in all states and territories.

• Health insurance

Medical insurance is mandatory for all students before the commencement of the study program in the Australian university. The average cost for medical insurance ranges around AUD 500 a year (indicative). 

The estimated cost written above is an approximate guide and does not take into account personal habits, other medical expenses and lifestyle costs.

The cost of study in Australia for an Indian student is expensive. When you are living in a foreign country, you should keep track of your expenditure. It will help you save money and avoid overspending.