The charm of Australia, with its world-class education, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant urban life, has always been a big draw for international students. For the January-May 2023 period alone, there were 608,942 ​​international students studying Australian courses – proving just how popular it is as a destination country!

But before hurrying on to pack your bags and head Down Under, you should have a good understanding of the cost of living in Australia. In this article, we will provide a breakdown of living costs in key Australian cities.

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Cost of Tuition Fees

You can find a multitude of globally recognised universities in Australia. However, how do they compare with other countries in terms of tuition fees?

Average International Student Tuition Fee

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• Australia vs the United States

The average yearly tuition fee for international undergraduate students in Australia ranges from around AUD 27,000 to AUD 96,000, depending on the university and course chosen. Comparatively, the average cost for out-of-state students studying at public US colleges is USD 22,953 annually, making Australian education more economical for many courses.

• Australia vs the United Kingdom

UK universities charge international undergraduates anywhere between £11,400 and £38,000. The average cost is estimated to be around £22,200 per year. Again, this depends on the study level and where in the UK you are studying. While certain courses might be slightly cheaper in the UK, Australia often provides a great quality of life as well as post-study work opportunities, subject to the appropriate visa status.

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Cost of Living in Australia

Navigating the cost of living is pivotal for any international student. Knowing the different costs can help you budget and manage your expenses better. Here are a few budget considerations you should take into account:

Average Living Costs By City (in AUD)

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• By City

While cities like Sydney have slightly higher living costs, others like Adelaide can be more affordable. 

• Accommodation

Depending on the type of accommodation and the area of a city, monthly rent in a popular city can be between AUD 1,103 and AUD 1,864. The cost can also differ if you choose other types of living arrangements, such as shared apartments or on-campus housing.

• Food and Groceries 

Depending on whether you eat out often or do your own cooking, your food bill can vary. But you can expect to spend about AUD 300 to AUD 600 monthly. 

• Transportation

Monthly expenses for public transport use can range from AUD 100 to AUD 200, depending on your location in Australia.

There are also additional considerations, including:

• Utility Bills

A survey conducted in Australia in 2022 found that respondents spent an average of AUD 49 per week on electricity. You should also keep in mind other utilities, like water, gas, and internet.

• Student Visa

The Australian student visa starts from AUD 710, not including additional costs.

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Australia, A Smart Choice for International Students

Australia promises not just an enriching academic journey, but also exciting life experiences. With many activities you can explore, Sydney is a serious contender as a top destination for your university years. 

Sounds good and want to get there, fast? UniFastTrack Transition Program Online may just be what you need.

Designed especially for international students who narrowly missed direct entry to university, this program prepares you to bridge that gap quickly – complete it in just 4 months, 100% online – so you can start living your dream university life abroad in Australia (and beyond!).

 Want to find out if this program is for you? Chat with our friendly Student Advisors and get a free eligibility check!