Study in Australia – Top Universities, Costs, Visa & Scholarships for Canadian and International Students (2025/2026 Guide)

Australia for Canadians is an increasingly attractive choice, be it for masters' study in Australia, factors related to the cost of studying in Australia for international students, or other advantages listed on this page.

As for the key benefits, there are many reasons why international students choose Australia over other countries. It offers globally recognized degrees, diverse courses, and post-study work opportunities for Canadian and international students. Here are a few other reasons:

Quality of education: Australia has some of the world's top universities, with qualifications recognised by employers worldwide. They also offer a wide range of courses in every possible field.

Flexibility for international students: Studying in Australia is a student-friendly experience because courses allow students to spread credit hours, or even choose a double degree, while focusing on real-world skills and practical learning. Students are encouraged to do more than just pass exams, and the development of skills is given more importance than just theoretical knowledge.

Job prospects for graduates: Studying at an Australian institution qualifies you for jobs at top companies globally, as well as within the country. Students have access to high-paying jobs based on their fields of study, and this is where advice from qualified education counsellors can make all the difference, especially when it comes to information on the best courses to study in Australia.

The emphasis on quality: Australia’s education system is very well-regulated, ensuring that degrees offered meet quality assurance norms.

Support for international students: Students get support not just in terms of resources paid for as tuition fees but plans for health care that provide them with financial aid to cover medical costs. Find out more about Australia’s Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

Scholarship opportunities: Students are offered multiple scholarship programs and financial assistance based on need or merit. Scroll down for more information on financial aid. Living costs for Canadian students in Australia is also low, when compared to some Canadian cities.

Quality of life: Australia offers a great living experience, thanks to the aspirational quality of life. It is safe, beautiful, has many options for extracurricular activities, and allows students to thrive. It is also known for its friendly and welcoming culture, and gives international students access to a cosmopolitan, multicultural environment.

Visa Types & Duration

Most international students need to apply for a Subclass 500 student visa to study in Australia, which allows you to stay in Australia for up to 6 years, depending upon your study plan. Here’s what you need to know about visas for students, duration they are valid for, and when you should apply.

Is it challenging to obtain an Australian student visa as a Canadian student?

It is not challenging to obtain an Australian student visa as a Canadian student, provided you prepare carefully and meet all requirements. There may be some common challenges such as incorrect applications or financial proof, but getting a student visa is simple when you have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a registered institution, meet health and English language requirements, and apply in time to avoid unforeseen processing delays. Understanding your visa conditions can make all the difference, because it allows you to follow all student visa terms and conditions. You may also be required to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and photos, as part of the application process. To apply for an Australian Student Visa, you’ll need: To apply for a Subclass 500 visa, you must:

• Offer evidence of your identity: This includes a copy of your passport, birth certificate, national identity card, or driver’s licence.

• Prove you intend to study: Provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) to prove you are enrolled in a course of study.

• Meet minimum English language requirements: Use an approved test like IELTS with a specific score depending on your course and institution.

• Prove that you can support yourself financially: You need enough funds for your program, travel, and living costs while you are in Australia.

• Have and maintain the right health insurance: Health insurance must be Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which must be obtained at least one week before your program starts and cover the duration of your stay in Australia.

• Character and health status: You need to offer evidence that you meet the Genuine Student requirement for a student visa and may need to provide a health certificate.

Check the Australian government’s Document Checklist Tool to make sure you have all the documents that need to be attached to your application. As for processing times, this can vary because applications depend upon individual circumstances and how complete your form is.

Processing time & steps Processing times can vary for a range of reasons, so it always best to apply well in advance. Find out what the latest processing times are here. Application Steps for a Student Visa to Australia:

1. Check processing times: Use the visa processing time guide tool

2. Gather your documents: Use the Document Checklist Tool

3. Apply online through the official Australia Government visa page

4. Pay the visa fee: Exact amount will depend on your visa length

5. After you apply: Prepare for biometrics, if asked for, or health exams.

6. Wait for the decision: You will get an email response from the government.

The cost of study in Australia 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.

*Please note all figures are indicative

Tuition costs vary widely depending on the degree you’re pursuing and the school you opt for. The table below will give you a general sense of the costs; however, it’s best to consult with an IDP counsellor to understand the exact costs for the degree you want to pursue.

*Please note all figures are indicative

Most commonly, courses in humanities, arts, and education 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 cost of studying in Australia will vary depending on the program.

Costs include tuition, living expenses, health coverage / insurance, but scholarships and part-time work can help reduce the burden.

Check out this blog for a comprehensive look at scholarships for Canadian Students studying in Australia 2025–2026.

Here are some popular scholarships you can apply for in Australia:

*This is an indicative list, speak with your IDP counsellor for details and the best available options suited to your profile 

University-specific scholarships for International and Canadian Students

Among the benefits of studying in Australia for international and Canadian students are the scholarship opportunities offered by universities. The best way to find out what these are is to visit the official university website and check out the scholarships offered to international students.

Speaking to an expert counsellor at IDP Canada can also help you discover options, along with IDP's Find a Scholarship tool.

Here are a few examples of university-specific scholarships:

• The University of Melbourne offers Melbourne Research Scholarships (MRS) for international graduate research students, with 100% fee remission and up to $135,000.

• University of Western Australia’s Global Excellence Scholarship for international students offers up to AUD$48,000* over four years on eligible undergraduate courses or up to AUD$24,000* over two years on eligible postgraduate courses.

• Monash University’s Monash International Merit Scholarship automatically considers all international students who have received an undergraduate course offer.

• Deakin University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship offers 100% or 50% of tuition fees (depending on scholarship outcome) for new international students enrolling in a coursework degree.

• Curtin University offers the Curtin Global Talent Scholarship, Curtin Global Merit Scholarship, and Curtin Global Future Leaders Scholarship, among others.

• Macquarie University offers a range of scholarships depending on the country you are from, with other eligibility factors including field of study and academic or sporting achievements.

Scholarships by course or region (STEM, nursing, rural study)

International students can look for scholarships by course or region, either by checking university websites or updates from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

There are also scholarships available to international students who choose to study in regional Australia, such as scholarships offered by Charles Darwin University including the Vice-Chancellor's International High Achievers Scholarships (VCIHAS), CDU Global Merit Scholarship, CDU Bachelor of Nursing Scholarship, CDU International College Merit Scholarship 2025, ELICOS Scholarship, and Dili International School Scholarship. Students can also apply for scholarships offered by SuniTAFE in Mildura, although a majority of these are restricted to domestic students.

Some scholarships are also targeted towards specific courses like Kitchen Management or Horticulture. Speak to an IDP Canada counsellor for more information.

Australian colleges and universities offer two major intakes. In some universities, intakes may also be referred to as a semester. The two intakes available in Australia are:

Semester 1: Starts late February/early March to late May/early June

Semester 2: Starts late July/early August through to November

Application timeline, deadlines, and other details

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Everyday campus experience and activities

Australian universities for Canadian and international students tend to stand out for their social and cultural attractions, because they offer a strong sense of community. These campuses allow you to meet students from around the world, leading to new ideas and lifelong memories. Australia's multiculturalism encourages learning in all kinds of situations because students are constantly exposed to different perspectives and experiences on campus.

As for activities, there are a multitude of student unions, societies, and clubs for international students, allowing you to build new social or professional networks, or indulge in new hobbies. They also make it easier to make friends and create a support system.

Students are also encouraged to participate in events, workshops, or outings right through the year. Check your university's events calendar often, and you may be surprised at what you find.

In terms of academics, universities offer a mix of tutorials, lectures, and practical projects, but support is readily available for students who need them. Most campuses also feature facilities for study, research, food, as well as socialising. Diverse and multicultural campuses offer opportunities to interact with and learn from students who come from all corners of the world. There are also many clubs, societies, sporting and hobby groups, cultural associations, and professional networks for international students to join.

Housing and accommodation choices for students

There are several types of accommodation options available to international and Canadian students choosing to study in Australia:

• Short-term accommodation: Hotels, hostels, and other temporary options

• Renting: Rent or ‘lease’ an apartment or property by yourself or with friends. Websites like Flatmate Finders or Flatmates can help

• Managed accommodation: Purpose-built accommodation designed and built specifically for students

• University-managed accommodation: Accommodation and facilities near campus

• Residential colleges: Usually located on university campuses

• Homestays: Living with a local family in their home

For more information on accommodation options, check out these resources offered by the government of Australia.

Embracing cultural diversity and student communities

Australia has long embraced cultural diversity, not only through government policies but various community initiatives and educational programs. The country has welcomed international students for a long time, recognizing their impact on the academic landscape. Student communities on campus also celebrate diversity by promoting inclusivity and hosting events right through the year.

Australian universities recognise the benefits of embracing diversity, which include fostering a sense of unity, encouraging mutual respect, and teaching students the importance of tolerance. There are also advantages for students in terms of enhanced learning opportunities and the development of intercultural communication skills.

Student communities on campus regularly celebrate a range of cultural festivals, help with the formation of student-led groups, and provide services that include mentorship and language support, among other services.

Health services and safety support for international students

International students in Australia need to have mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for their visa because it covers basic medical costs. Many universities also offer on-campus health services for students, providing basic medical care and advice. OSHC generally covers visits to General Practitioners (GPs) for non-emergency medical needs, while there are several public hospitals offering good care. Students can also choose to get additional private health insurance for services not covered by OSHC.

As for safety support, students can dial 000 for police, fire, or ambulance services. For mental health, they can also access university counselling, 24/7 support lines offered by OSHC providers, or national crisis lines like Lifeline (13 11 14).

Here are a few tips and suggestions to keep in mind:

• Many cities​​ and towns in Australia have local ​​G​eneral Practitioner​s​ (GP​s​)​ for non-​emergency​​ ​health care​, including physical and mental health issues​.

• You can book an appointment with a GP by searching online for a medical centre near you and letting the clinic know that you have OSHC.

• Find out what health services are covered by your OSHC policy, whether there are any waiting periods, and if you have to pay the difference when OSHC payments are less than your doctor’s fee.

There are also several official resources you can rely on. For example, if you are struggling with depression, you can ask your GP if you are eligible for a mental health plan​. You can also talk or chat online with a counsellor at one of Australia's most trusted mental health support services, Beyond Blue.

Here are a few other places you can turn to for mental health support:

• Suicide Call Back Service: 24/7 telephone and online counselling.

• Head to Health supports culturally and linguistically diverse people.

• Lifeline: Online chat, phone support, and free language translation service.

• Embrace Multicultural Mental Health: Offers multilingual information about mental health.

• Headspace: Offers work and study support.

Here’s a list of top courses for Canadian students in Australia:

• Dentistry Programs - Australian dental schools offer programs that attract students from Canada seeking quality dental education.

• Engineering Programs - Canadian students have access to programs across various engineering disciplines at Australian institutions.

• Nursing Programs - Canadian students can experience Australia's healthcare system while completing nursing programs.

• Law Programs - Students from Canada can access law degree programs that cover legal studies and jurisprudence at Australian universities.

• Physiotherapy Programs - Canadian students can access programs focused on rehabilitation and movement science.

• Medicine Programs - Students can access medical programs at Australian universities with established reputations in medical education.

Medicine

Studying medicine in Australia, be it at an undergraduate or postgraduate level, requires Canadian students to have competitive academic scores, complete entrance exams like the UCAT or GAMSAT, and attend interviews where necessary. Undergraduate degrees take five to six years and are entered directly from high school, while postgraduate degrees are around four years and require a prior bachelor's degree.

Law

Canadian students interested in studying law in Australia can enroll in a 4-year Bachelor of Laws (LLB) after high school or a 3-year Juris Doctor (JD) after completing an undergraduate degree. Entry requirements typically include a strong GPA, and some universities may consider the LSAT. Also, while an Australian law degree is recognized internationally, students need to complete National Committee on Accreditation (NCA) assessments if they plan to practice in Canada.

Dentistry

You can study dentistry at undergraduate or graduate programs in Australia if you have strong academic scores in high school science courses and specific scores on standardized tests like the UCAT for undergraduate or DAT for graduate entry. The degree can take four years for a graduate-entry program, and costs vary depending on tuition type and living expenses.

Physiotherapy

There are 4-year bachelor's programs in physiotherapy, as well as graduate-entry master's or doctoral programs in Australia. Students must register with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency to practice professionally.

Nursing

Students must complete a Bachelor of Nursing or graduate-entry master's program, then apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. Entry requirements include completing Year 12 (or equivalent) and proving English language proficiency. There are also shorter, 18- to 24-month Diploma of Nursing programs that allow you to work as an enrolled nurse and can be a pathway to a Bachelor of Nursing.

When deciding which university to study at, it is crucial that you also look at the world university rankings.  

Check this blog for more information on top universities in Australia.

Did you know that you can cut down your cost of living and gain work experience while pursuing your study program in Australia? Thanks to Australian laws, working part-time on a student visa for 48 hours per fortnight (a two-week period) is permitted.  Employment options:

*Salaries sourced from listings on Seek.

Part-time work options during study 

Many international students seek part-time or casual work while they study in Australia, which is possible provided their visa status ensures they are eligible to work whilst studying, and have enough time to balance studies and a job.

Part-time employees work a set number of hours per week, but less than 38 hours per week. These roles are often found in hospitality and retail, care industries, and supply chain sectors. Part-time employees have the same rights as full-time employees but work fewer hours. Find out more.

Graduate career pathways after finishing your degree 

If you want to stay in Australia after your studies and build your career, you will need to get a new visa. If you have a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) Post-Study Work stream. An Australian employer may also be able to sponsor you for a new visa, or you can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect for a visa to live and work in Australia. Find out more.

Employment Choices for International Students

On-campus roles and student internships 

If you're looking for on-campus roles and internships in Australia, many universities have their own career portals or job boards that list on-campus positions and internships. Universities also hire students for support roles on campus, such as library staff, IT support, or administrative assistants. Other places to check include dedicated job boards like Student Job Board Australia, Prosple, and GradConnection, because they specialize in casual jobs for students.

The government also offers internship opportunities, so check the Australian Public Service (APS) Jobs website regularly. There are also job boards that are industry-specific, listing internships and on-campus roles that align with your career goals.

Volunteering is another great idea because it can help you build a professional network, while developing skills you can use later. .  

Casual and part-time jobs in retail and hospitality 

For casual and part-time jobs related to retail or hospitality in Australia, try job search websites like SEEK. You can also check the careers pages of major retail and hospitality groups such as Bunnings, Coles, or Woolworths.

Paid internships connected to your study program 

Many universities in Australia offer students opportunities to participate in course related internships and work placements. For some programs, internships, practicums, or work placements may be available as part of a course and can range from six weeks to six months.

If you're interested in paid internships connected to your studies, check out programs like the University Partnership Employment Program (UPEP), which offers paid, casual work for university students looking to gain real-world experience in their field of study. The International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE) is a global non-governmental, non-profit organization that offers paid internships abroad to help students gain professional experience and cross-cultural skills.

Work hour rules under student visa conditions

According to the government of Australia, international students have the same workplace rights and protections as anyone else working in Australia. Casual work means you don’t have a fixed number of hours every week. However, to be eligible to work as a student in Australia, you must:

• be paid at least the minimum wage​

• pay tax on your income

• receive a payslip

From 1 July 2023, students can work up to 48 hours every fortnight during term time (unless they are a PhD and master's by research student), and unlimited hours during holiday breaks. Find out more.

Cost of living in Australia

According to the Human Development Index and Quality-of-Life Index reports, Australia is ranked among the top 10 nations*, which implies Australia is counted in the top countries in terms of GDP, education system, and purchasing power parity index. So, along with high levels of income, it enjoys an excellent quality of health awareness, the medical system, and political stability.  

Accommodation Costs: Canada Vs. Australia

Housing is one of the largest monthly expenses. Rent prices in Australia are approximately 3.9% higher than in Canada. Find out more.

Use IDP’s Cost of Living calculator to find out more about living expenses across major Australian cities. 

Transportation

Transportation costs vary depending upon mode of transport. While vehicle owners may pay around AUD $99 per week, public transport costs can range from approximately AUD $75/month in Tasmania to $216/month in New South Wales. You can get a cost breakdown by transport category here.

Transportation Costs: Canada Vs. Australia

Utilities

Utility costs vary significantly between states and even between different distribution networks within a state. Different energy providers have different prices, and energy consumption is the biggest factor. Find out more about the average cost of electricity (per kWh) in Australia here.

Utilities: Canada Vs. Australia

Grocery Shopping

Australians shopping for their households reported spending an average of $204 per week in 2025. You can find out more about the average food prices in Australia here.

Entertainment & Leisure

Australians spend between $80 and $150 per week on entertainment and leisure. Find out more about costs here.

Entertainment & Leisure: Canada Vs. Australia

Dining Out

The cost of dining out in Australia depends upon location and type of establishment.

Dining Out: Canada Vs. Australia

What students should consider while planning a monthly budget:

• The cost of living in Australia is 7.5% higher than in Canada (excluding rent)

• Rents in Australia are 3.9% higher than in Canada

• Restaurants in Australia are 1.5% higher than in Canada

• Groceries in Australia are 10.2% higher than in Canada

Source: Numbeo - Cost of Living Comparison: Canada vs Australia

Use IDP’s Cost of Living calculator to find out more about living expenses across major Australian cities.

Monthly Budget Estimate for Students

Living expenses across major Australian cities

*Source: Numbeo

IDP has been delivering exceptional outcomes for students studying in Australia for over 50 years. In Canada, you’ll be able to work with an IDP counsellor at offices in Toronto, Vancouver, or virtually. Our team of counsellors has over 200 years of collective experience working 1-on-1 with students to plan their study abroad journey and achieve their career goals.

When you work with an IDP counsellor, our mission becomes getting you into the program and University that helps you achieve your education and career goals. That means working with you on a personalized study abroad plan that covers everything from:

• Applying and getting accepted to school

• Securing your Visa

• Arranging accommodations, banking, and health insurance

• Lining up any other service you will need to succeed down under

Thanks to our strong partnership with top universities, we’re able to support you in gaining admission to many of Australia’s most in-demand programs. Best of all, because of our partnerships, there is no cost to you as a student.

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Is Australia costly for students?

When calculating the estimated cost of studying in Australia, it's important to consider various expenses such as accommodation, food, health coverage, travel, and tuition fees. The average annual tuition fees at post-secondary institutions in Australia typically range between AUD 20,000 and AUD 42,000. Therefore, before departing from home, make sure to factor in these additional expenses to get a comprehensive understanding of the overall cost of studying in Australia.

How much can I earn in Australia as a student?

The Government has announced an increase to the part-time working hour cap for international students, while studying, from 40 to 48 hours per fortnight, from 1 July 2023.

What is a 485 post-study work stream visa?

The Subclass 485 visa is now officially called the Temporary Graduate Visa, with updated eligibility conditions. Find out more about it here.

How much does an Australian student visa cost?

To study in Australia, the first step is to secure a valid student visa. The student visa fee for the Subclass 500 Student Visa is from $2,000 AUD. Find out more here.

What is the GTE to study in Australia?

The term GTE, or Genuine Temporary Entrant, refers to a process used by Australia to assess the authenticity of student visa applicants and prevent any misuse of visas for illegal migration. Please note: GTE is no longer relevant and has been replaced by a GSR (Genuine Student Requirement).

How is studying in Regional Australia beneficial for me?

The growth and development of regional Australia can be attributed to several factors, including the introduction of additional regional scholarships and the implementation of graduate visas that grant up to 6 years of Post-Study Work (PSW) rights after graduation. Institutions located in regional Australia offer a range of benefits, including a pleasant lifestyle, personalized university experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant employment opportunities.

What is the acceptable academic gap for Australia?

The acceptable academic gap in Australia is generally up to 2 years for undergraduate courses and up to 5 years for postgraduate courses. However, longer gaps can be accepted if a student can provide a strong, documented justification.

How much does it cost to study law in Australia?

If you want to know more about the cost to study law in Australia, check out this blog for an overview, along with information on the best law schools.

How much does it cost to study dentistry in Australia?

This blog tells you how much it costs to study dentistry in Australia, along with insights on the best dental schools, tuition, entry requirements, licensing, and how to apply.

How much does it cost to go to medical school in Australia for Canadian students?

This blog covers how much it costs to go to medical school in Australia for Canadian students, along with information on the best medical schools, which schools offer a joint degree program, how to apply, and how you can practice in Canada after graduation.

Can Canadian students study in Australia without PR?

Yes, Canadian students can study in Australia without Permanent Residency (PR) by applying for a Student Visa (Subclass 500).

Do Canadian students need a visa for Australia?

Yes, Canadian students need a student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian institution, prove you have sufficient funds, and have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Canadian and international students must also meet English language test requirements.

Can I work while studying in Australia?

Yes, you can work while studying in Australia on a student visa, provided you are eligible and meet specific conditions. You cannot exceed 48 hours of work per fortnight during your course's term. Find out more.

Here are some of the advantages of studying in Regional Australia

1. Additional 2 years of Post-Study Work Visa, extending your stay and career prospects.

2. Specialized course offerings that cater to specific fields and industries.

3. Limited batch sizes, ensuring a more focused and interactive learning environment.

4. Affordable tuition fees and cost of living compared to major cities.

5. Numerous scholarship options to support your education financially.

6. A relaxed and comfortable lifestyle, away from the hustle and bustle of urban areas.

7. Regional areas in Australia encompass various locations, such as New South Wales (NSW), Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, Northern Territory, Gold Coast, Perth, Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay, Adelaide, Cairns, Tasmania, and Bundaberg.

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