Did you know that 1,00,000+ Indian students were studying in Australia between 2023 and 2024? Indian students are the second-largest student community in this country. Home to ~9,00,000 Indians, it is a warm and welcoming study destination. From quality education to multicultural environments and from a wide range of courses to strong industry connections, Australia has it all. Here are the details about the cost of studying in Australia for Indian students.
Key highlights:
- Cost of Studying in Australia for Indian Students
- Tuition Fee – Primary Cost of Studying in Australia
- Travelling Expenses
- Accommodation
- Cost of Living in Australia for Indian Students
- Food
- Australia Student Fees and Other Miscellaneous Expenses
- Tips to Manage the Cost of Studying in Australia for Indian Students
- Working While Studying
- Making a Budget
- Saving Money as a Student
Cost of Studying in Australia for Indian Students
You have to consider the total cost to study in Australia from India. Many students often think that they have to take into account only the tuition fee in Australia. Apart from the bachelor’s or master’s degree cost in Australia, there are several other expenses. Let’s understand them one by one.
Tuition Fee – Primary Cost of Studying in Australia
The Tuition fee in Australia will differ based on programme level and type. Professional degrees, including MBAs or medical studies, can cost over AUD 80,000 each year. Annual fees for undergraduate degrees generally range from ~AUD 20,000 to ~AUD 50,000, while the cost of a master’s degree in Australia can go up to ~AUD 55,000 per annum. You should check your chosen university’s website for precise fee details.
Travelling Expenses
When considering travelling expenses, you have to plan for your flight tickets, which will vary from time to time. Moreover, you also have to factor in the travelling expenses that you will incur when commuting between your accommodation and university on a daily basis if you are living in an off-campus accommodation. Monthly public transport can cost you between ~AUD 100 and ~AUD 200.
Accommodation
The housing cost in Australia will vary significantly based on your accommodation choice and location. Students have the option to live in on-campus dormitories, which will cost ~AUD 800 to ~1,400 per month; shared apartments will cost ~AUD 600 to ~AUD 1,200 per month, homestays can be around ~AUD 1,000 to ~AUD 1,400 per month, or studio apartments can be ~AUD 1,200 to 2,000 per month. Each of these provides varying levels of convenience and exposure to the culture. You can select what is most comfortable for you as per your preferences.
Cost of Living in Australia for Indian Students
The average annual cost of living for international students in Australia can range between ~AUD 20,000 to AUD 38,000 per annum. These include the cost of accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, and other personal spending. Prices vary depending on your lifestyle, residency city, and type of housing. Popular cities such as Sydney and Melbourne are more costly than other cities, so please consider these aspects of the cost of living in Australia for Indian students.
Here is a detailed overview of living expenses city-wise:
| Cities | Cost in AUD |
|---|---|
| Sydney | ~4,000 |
| Melbourne | ~3,700 |
| Canberra | ~4,300 |
| Brisbane | ~3,700 |
| Adelaide | ~3,500 |
| Darwin | ~3,400 |
Food
On average, you can expect to spend between AUD 65 and AUD 103 every week on groceries and food. These include the bare essentials like fresh fruit and vegetables, packaged foods, and household supplies. The price might differ based on eating habits, buying behaviour, and whether or not meals are prepared at home. If you decide to eat out, it can cost you ~AUD 540 or more per week.
Australia Student Fees and Other Miscellaneous Expenses
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for international students in Australia, with a yearly premium generally ranging from ~AUD 478 to ~AUD 800, depending on the level of coverage. Students are also required to prove that they can fund their education and stay in Australia. Therefore, you will be required to demonstrate an amount of up to AUD 29,710 in your account to live in Australia. From 1 July 2025, the charge to apply for a student visa is AUD 2,000 per application.
Tips to Manage the Cost of Studying in Australia for Indian Students
Working While Studying
International students can work for a maximum of 48 hours per fortnight during their academic journey and unlimited hours during breaks. This assists students in developing life skills and supporting their lifestyle abroad. Most popular part-time employment involves jobs in retailing, hospitality, customer service, and on-campus employment.
Making a Budget
Financial management is important while studying overseas. Begin by noting down all fixed and variable costs, such as rent, food, transportation, and other costs. Budgeting apps or basic spreadsheets are useful to monitor expenditure and see where you can make some cuts. Adhering to a monthly budget will help you stay within your pre-decided limit.
Saving Money as a Student
Students can save money in various ways, such as eating at home rather than dining out, availing student discounts on transport and entertainment, and opting for shared accommodation. Keep an eye out for student offers on groceries and mobile plans. Resisting impulse buying and putting needs before wants can go a long way in making your budget stretch.
Now that you know about the cost of living in Australia, you can start planning your academic journey. If costs are overwhelming you, don’t worry, as we have your back. At Avanse Financial Services, we offer a loan for education that covers the holistic cost of education, including tuition fees, travelling, accommodation, living costs, and other education-related expenses.
We offer an education loan for abroad studies with benefits such as 100% financing, quick loan sanctions and flexible repayment options. You can try our education loan eligibility calculator to find the approximate loan amount you are eligible to borrow based on your current finances. If you have doubts, please remember, we are just a call away.
Also Read: Complete Guide to the Group of 8 Universities in Australia
