How Much Does It Really Cost to Study and Live in Australia?

Planning to study in Australia? Here’s what you need to know about the real costs.Australia is one of the top destinations for international students, offering world-class universities, diverse cultures, and a vibrant lifestyle. But while the experience is exciting, the financial side can be quite overwhelming if you’re not prepared. Whether you’re applying for a bachelor’s or master’s degree, understanding the cost of studying and living in Australia is key to managing your budget and avoiding unexpected expenses.

In this guide, we break down all the major costs you’ll encounter as an international student—from tuition fees and student visa charges to living expenses like rent, food, transportation, and more. If you’re a student planning to apply to study in Australia, this post will give you a realistic picture of your financial responsibilities—and practical tips to budget wisely.

Tuition Fees in Australia for International Students

Average Annual Tuition Fees🎓

Program Level	Cost in AUD	Cost in NPR (Approx.)
Undergraduate Degrees	AUD 20,000 – 45,000	NPR 17.6 – 39.6 lakhs
Postgraduate Degrees	AUD 22,000 – 50,000	NPR 19.4 – 44 lakhs
VET Courses	AUD 4,000 – 22,000	NPR 3.5 – 19.4 lakhs
PhD Programs	AUD 18,000 – 42,000	NPR 15.8 – 36.9 lakhs

🎓 Tip: Explore scholarships offered by Australian universities and the government to lower your tuition burden.

2. Student Visa Costs

To study in Australia, you need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). The visa application fee is:

AUD 710 (as of 2025)

Make sure you also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory.

3.Cost of Living in Australia

our living expenses will depend on your city, lifestyle, and accommodation choice. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are more expensive, while Adelaide, Brisbane, or Perth tend to be more affordable.

Category	Monthly Cost (AUD)	Monthly Cost(NPR)
Accommodation(shared)	600-1,200	NPR 52800-1,05,600
Food & Groceries	300-600	NPR 26,400-52,800
Transportation	100-200	NPR 8,800-17,600
Phone & Internet	40-100	NPR 3,520-8,800
Entertainment	150-300	NPR 13,200-26,400
Miscellaneous	50-150	NPR 4,400-13,200
Total(Estimate)	1,200-2550	NPR 1,05,600-2,24,400

According to the Department of Home Affairs, students must show proof of AUD 24,505 per year (2025) to cover living expenses.

4.Accommodation Options

Type	Weekly(Cost)	Weekly Cost(NPR)
On-Campus Dorms	90-80	NPR 7,900-24,600
Homestay	250-350	NPR 22,000-30,800
Shared Apartment	150-300	NPR 13,200-26,400
Private Rental	300-500	NPR 264,00-44,000

Tip: Many students reduce costs by sharing accommodation and cooking meals at home.

5.Part-Time Work and Earning Potential

International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during semester breaks.

Minimum wage in Australia: AUD 23.23 per hour (as of 2025)=NPR 2,040/hour

Typical Monthly Earnings:

If working 24 hours/week:
AUD 2,230/month = NPR 1.96 lakhs/month (before tax)

Common Student Jobs:

Hospitality (cafes, restaurants)
Retail (stores, supermarkets)
Tutoring or campus jobs
Delivery services (Uber Eats, etc.)

Pro Tip: Part-time work can cover basic living expenses, but don’t rely on it for tuition fees.

6. Other Expenses to Consider

Expense Type	Cost(AUD)	Cost(NPR)
Books Supplies	AUD 500-1,000/Year	NPR 44,000-88,000
Flights(one-way)	AUD 800-2,000	NPR 70,000-1.76Lakhs
Students Transport Card	Discounted	Saves ~25-50%

7.Ways to Reduce Study and Living Costs

Apply for scholarships and grants
Choose affordable cities like Adelaide or Hobart
Use student cards for discounts on food, transport, and entertainment
Cook meals at home and shop at local markets
Share accommodation with other students

Conclusion: Is It Worth the Cost?

Absolutely—studying in Australia is a smart investment if planned wisely. With globally ranked universities, work opportunities, and a high quality of life, Australia offers excellent value. But it’s essential to understand and prepare for the real costs involved. From tuition fees to everyday living expenses, smart budgeting and early planning can make your study journey smoother and stress-free.