University costs in Australia

As you might expect, tuition fees in Australian universities can differ greatly. Factors that influence fees include the institution you choose, where it’s located, the course you’ve chosen, and the level you’re studying at.

To help you understand what you might pay, IDP has compiled comprehensive data from over 30,000 courses. Here’s our rundown of the average Australian university fees by course type.

University costs in Australia

Tuition fees for international students in Australian universities vary. These fees depend on the location of the university, the program, and the level of study. There may also be costs associated with learning materials (for example, specific textbooks, a laptop, stationery) and clothing requirements (such as laboratory equipment or medical gear). 

Australian university fees for popular universities

The table below includes the average cost of an undergraduate program at six of Australia’s top universities for international students.

When you’re figuring out the cost of studying in Australia, you’ll also have to think about other expenses. This includes the cost of accommodation, food and groceries, transport, internet, and school supplies. You’ll also want to make sure you have some money for fun and entertainment.

It’s estimated that a single person in Australia will spend at least $20,000 per year in Australia, while a family requires more than $50,000. However, as with Australian tuition fees, the cost of living varies depending on where you choose to live.

The best way to anticipate the cost of studying in Australia for you is to research the cost of living in your chosen area. To help you get started, we’ve compiled some average costs for some of the country’s top international student destinations.

Remember, the prices above are averages for the inner city, which is usually more expensive. You can often save by living farther out or choosing accommodation within walking distance of campus, shopping at more affordable grocery stores, and taking advantage of student discounts.

Of course, you’ll also want to be prepared for some other expenses.

Before you can come to Australia, you’ll have to pay some fees to apply for your student visa. Currently, the application fee is $2,000. You also have to prove you have enough money to support yourself during your stay.

As an international student, you’re required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your time in Australia. This mandatory insurance is essential, as it ensures you’re covered if you get sick or injured while you’re here. 

The cost of OSHC can vary depending on your level of cover. For example, a basic policy that offers only emergency medical care will be cheaper than a more comprehensive policy with extras. For a standard policy that covers hospital, GP and ambulance, you might expect to pay around $650 to $700 per year. 

Make sure you account for this insurance when considering the cost of studying in Australia. You can learn more about OSHC on the IDP website. 

Finally, you’ll want to have a little extra money set aside for the unexpected. It’s a good idea to try to set aside enough to cover three months’ worth of expenses. You’ll be glad it’s there in the unlikely event of an emergency, such as if you need medical treatment, need to fly home on short notice, or have to change accommodation suddenly.

Are all of these numbers making you a bit concerned about university costs in Australia? Thankfully, there are lots of opportunities for scholarships and financial aid, which can help you reduce your Australian university fees. You can search and discover what’s available to you using our Find a Scholarship tool.

Firstly, there is a range of government-funded scholarships to explore. These include the Australia Awards, a prestigious scholarship that covers tuition, travel and expenses for accommodation, insurance and more. You can also find funding to study in certain areas, like regional Australia.

You should also explore the scholarship options available through your institution. Depending on where you choose to study, you might find financial assistance and scholarship opportunities that are allocated based on discipline, financial need, academic merit, and more. 

Each scholarship will be different. They can offer full or partial support and can cover tuition only or be used for other costs. Make sure you read all the details carefully and get your applications in early for the best chance of success.

Studying abroad can be expensive, but it’s an experience like no other. Thankfully, there are lots of ways you can save during your time here to make your money go further. Here are some of our top tips to reduce the cost of studying in Australia.

Find affordable housing

After your Australian university fees, the cost of your accommodation will likely be one of your biggest expenses during your studies. That means making a few smart choices can have a huge impact on your finances during your stay.

One of the most affordable options for student housing in Australia is living in a sharehouse. This involves renting a room in a bigger house and sharing the overall cost of rent and utilities with your other roommates. 

Purpose-built student accommodation can also be a good choice, especially if you’re looking for convenience. It might not be as affordable as living in a sharehouse, but it is competitive, and your weekly rent often includes bills like internet, electricity, and other utilities. Check out our accommodation search to discover Australian student housing providers. 

You can also save on housing by living a bit farther out. Housing that’s close to the centre of the city or directly on campus is often expensive, and you can save a lot by looking even a couple of suburbs away. Don’t forget, though, living farther out can end up costing more in public transport, so it’s important to weigh up all the costs before you decide what’s right for you.

Make a budget (and stick to it!)

Another great way to reduce the cost of studying in Australia is to have a good budget. A budget can help you track all of your income and expenses and keep on top of your spending.

You can make a simple budget yourself using a spreadsheet or use a tool like the MoneySmart Budget Planner.

Once you’ve created your budget, it’s a good idea to regularly check in on it to make sure you’re staying on track. You can also review it to see where you might be able to save more.

Cook at home

Student life is pretty busy, and it can be tempting to spend your money on expensive takeout or eating at restaurants. However, one of the best savings tips for international students is to try to cook at home.

Not only can this save you lots of money, but it can also help you eat healthier and maintain proper nutrition.

Use your student discounts

Beyond a world-class education, your Australian university also gives you access to some incredible student discounts! Once you get your student card from your institution, you’ll be able to start accessing deals straight away.

For instance, students are eligible for concession fares on most public transport systems around Australia. This can save you up to 50% or more on trains, buses, trams, ferries and light rail trips.

Students also get discounts on everything from movie tickets to clothing, restaurants, and technology. You can find discounts by using sites like UNiDAYS and Student Beans or by asking directly at retailers. 

Sample monthly budget

If you’ve never had a budget before, it can be hard to know where to start. To help you get started, check out the sample international student's monthly budget below.

University costs in Australia go beyond just your course fees, and it’s important to account for other expenses like visas, insurance, accommodation, and living expenses. While it might look like a lot of money, it’s important to remember what you’re getting in return—a world-class education that can open up an incredible future, along with the study abroad adventure of a lifetime!

Ready to get started? Check out our Study in Australia guide to discover the next steps!