Things to Know Before Going to Study in Australia as an International Student

Choosing to study in Australia is a decision that puts you at the heart of a globally recognized education system and a vibrant, multicultural society. Australia has firmly established itself as one of the world’s leading study destinations, attracting over 839,000 international student enrolments in 2025 across schools, colleges, and universities. With nine universities ranked in the QS World Top 100 (2026) and more than 22,000 courses offered by 1,100 institutions, Australia promises academic excellence, career opportunities, and global exposure. Beyond education, it is known for its safe environment, multicultural society with students from over 190 countries, and vibrant lifestyle. However, before starting this journey, students must be well-prepared—understanding the costs, visas, work rights, and cultural adjustments that come with studying in Australia.

Why Choose Australia for Higher Education?

Australia’s higher education system is a popular choice for international students, with strong global rankings, a wide range of courses, and a regulated, high-quality learning environment. The country’s universities are recognized worldwide, and the government has increased student intake for 2026, signaling a commitment to international education.

• Australia has consistently performed well in global university rankings. According to the QS World University Rankings 2026, Australia has nine universities in the world’s top 100, and six in the top 50.
• International students are drawn to a variety of fields in Australia. In 2025, the most popular fields of study were Management and Commerce followed by Information Technology and Engineering.
• Australia’s education system is also a hub for innovation, with researchers contributing to significant discoveries such as the development of Wi-Fi and the cervical cancer vaccine.
• The international education sector is a significant part of the Australian economy. In 2023, it contributed an estimated $48 billion, making it one of the country’s largest exports.
• In 2026, Australia has increased its international student intake to 295,000, with a priority given to Southeast Asian applicants, demonstrating a strategic effort to deepen diplomatic ties in the region.
• International students on a student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their studies. This provides a great opportunity to gain practical work experience and help with living costs.

Also Read: Heading to Australia? Here’s Your Complete Study Abroad

Things to Know Before Going to Study in Australia

Deciding to study in Australia is a big step, but with a bit of preparation, you can ensure a smooth transition and make the most of your time there. Australia offers a unique blend of world-class education, a vibrant lifestyle, and a welcoming, multicultural society. Here are some of the most important things to know before starting their academic journey.

1. Number of International Students & Trends

• In the year-to-date June 2025, there were 839,199 international student enrolments in Australia, generated by 739,843 individual student visa holders.
• This is up ~2% over the previous year, and roughly 18% higher than enrolments in 2019.
• The higher education sector showed strong growth (~12%) in international enrolments, while some other sectors (like ELICOS – English language courses) saw declines.
• Major source countries: China (23%), India (17%), Nepal (8%), Vietnam (5%), and Philippines (4%).

2. Study Levels, Popular Courses & Institutions

• Most international students in higher education are enrolled in Master’s (coursework) programs, followed by Bachelor’s programs.
• In Vocational Education & Training (VET), Diplomas and Certificates (especially Certificate IV) are popular.
• Most popular fields: Management & Commerce and Information Technology in higher education; in VET, Management & Commerce, Food, Hospitality & Personal Services.

3. Admission Intakes

• Australia typically has two main intake periods for degree programs: February (first semester) and July (second semester). Some universities/colleges also offer a November intake or mid-year starts in specific courses. (This pattern still holds in 2025, though exact available intakes depend on institution/course.)
• Because of policy changes, new caps/enrolment limits (see below) may affect availability of seats especially in popular universities.

4. Government Policy & Caps on International Students

• The Australian government has set a student intake cap (national planning level) of 270,000 new international students in 2025, increasing to 295,000 in 2026.
• Universities that expand student housing or have engagement with South-East Asia may qualify for larger allocations under the cap.

5. Cost of Living

Living costs in Australia vary significantly depending on which city you live in (Sydney, Melbourne vs Adelaide, Perth, regional areas), your accommodation type, lifestyle, etc.

Expense Category	Typical Cost (AUD)	Notes
Accommodation (weekly)	Shared rental: ~ AUD 95-215 On-campus: AUD 110-280 Homestay: AUD 235-325 Private one-bedroom apartment: AUD 185-440	More expensive in Sydney/Melbourne; lower in regional or less central suburbs.
Food & Groceries	~ AUD 140-280 per week	If cooking at home it’s cheaper; eating out raises cost.
Utilities & Internet	AUD 150-250/month (for shared accommodation)	Includes electricity, gas, water, phone/internet.
Transport	~ AUD 30-60/week using student travel cards or public transport	More if you live far from campus or travel often.
Miscellaneous / Personal & Lifestyle	~ AUD 100-300/month or more	Includes clothes, entertainment, mobile bills, etc.

• On a monthly basis, many international students spend between AUD 1,400 – AUD 2,500/month on living costs, depending on the city and lifestyle.
• Annually this could sum up to AUD 29,000 – AUD 35,000+ for more expensive cities/lifestyles.

6. Cost of Tuition & Other Study-Related Costs

• Tuition fees vary widely depending on discipline, level of study, and whether the university is a research-intensive or general one.
• As a rough guide: undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs can cost AUD 25,000-AUD 50,000+ per year depending on course (e.g. arts vs medicine vs engineering). Graduate research (PhD etc.) may be lower, sometimes part-funded or with scholarships.

Additional costs to consider:

• Course materials, textbooks, lab fees etc.
• Student services and administration fees (sometimes AUD few hundred to few thousand depending on course).
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
• Visa application fees, travel costs, initial settlement expenses.

7. Visa, Health Insurance & Work Rights

• Most international students apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500). Important requirements include:
  • Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian educational institution.
  • Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement.
  • Proof of financial capacity (to cover tuition + living expenses + travel + OSHC).
  • English proficiency (IELTS / TOEFL / PTE etc.), depending on course/university.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for international students for the span of their visa. Costs depend on provider and number of people covered.
• Work Rights: International students on Subclass 500 visa are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight (during study term), and unlimited hours during semester breaks. (Verify specific conditions under your visa type and course.)

8. Budgeting & Financial Planning Tips

• Prepare for initial costs: airfare, visa application, bond/deposit for rental, furnishing (if needed), OSHC, course materials.
• Always keep a buffer for emergencies/unexpected expenses (health, travel, etc.).
• Explore scholarships, bursaries, and grants offered by universities and the Australian government.
• Consider working part-time where possible—but balance this with course workload.
• Choose accommodation wisely: living slightly outside city centres or sharing can reduce costs significantly.

9. Lifestyle, Culture & Other Practicalities

• Australia is highly multicultural: students from 190+ countries, and many universities have strong international student support services.
• Climate, lifestyle, and cost of day-to-day items differ greatly between cities & regions. For example, Sydney & Melbourne are more expensive; smaller cities or regional campuses tend to be cheaper.
• Transportation: public transport is good in major cities, and discounts / student passes are often available.
• Safety, laws, and customs: as with any country, there are rules around workplace rights, driving licenses, behavior etc. It’s important to understand local norms and regulations.

Also Read: A Guide to Student Life in Australia

Tips for Students Before Leaving for Australia

Preparing for your journey to Australia is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. A little planning goes a long way. This comprehensive checklist will help you get organized and ensure you have everything you need for a smooth arrival and a great start to your academic adventure.

1. Pre-Departure Paperwork: The Essentials

This is the most critical step. Ensure you have all your documents in a safe, easily accessible place—ideally in your carry-on luggage.

• Passport and Visa: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival. Print a copy of your Student Visa (Subclass 500) grant notice.
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): This document is issued by your university and confirms your enrolment in a specific course. You must have a copy.
• Proof of Funds: While you’ve already shown this for your visa, it’s a good idea to have a recent bank statement or proof of scholarship handy.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Have your OSHC policy details, including your member number and the insurance provider’s contact information.
• University Offer Letter and Receipts: Keep a copy of your offer letter and receipts for any tuition fees you’ve already paid.
• Other IDs: A photocopy of your national ID, driver’s license, and birth certificate can be useful for various purposes.

2. What to Pack: A Smart Guide to Your Luggage

Australia’s climate varies widely, so packing for the right season and location is important.

• Clothing: Pack for the season you’ll be arriving in. If you’re arriving in July, you’ll need warm clothes for winter in southern cities like Melbourne and Hobart. If you’re arriving in January, pack light, breathable clothing for the summer heat. Pack a mix of casual wear and one or two professional outfits for presentations or job interviews.
• Electronics: Bring your laptop, smartphone, and chargers. Australia uses a Type I power socket, so you’ll need a universal travel adapter.
• Medication and Health: Pack any prescription medications you need, along with their prescriptions. A basic first-aid kit with pain relievers, bandages, and antiseptic wipes is also a good idea.
• Sentimental Items: Bring a few photos or small items that remind you of home. These can be a huge comfort during your first few weeks.
• Kitchen Essentials: If you’re planning to cook, you don’t need to bring a lot. Most basic items like plates, cutlery, and pans are affordable and easy to buy in Australia. However, if you rely on specific items like a pressure cooker, it might be worth packing one.

3. Financial and Banking Preparations

• Temporary Cash: It’s smart to have a small amount of Australian currency (around AUD $200-$300) when you land. This will cover immediate costs like a taxi or public transport before you can access your bank account.
• Opening a Bank Account: Many Australian banks allow international students to open an account online before they arrive. This means you’ll have your account details and can transfer money from home, which you can access as soon as you visit a branch to activate your account upon arrival.

4. Before You Leave Home: Final Checks

• Inform Your Bank: Let your home country’s bank know about your travel plans so they don’t block your cards for suspicious activity.
• Accommodation and Transport: Make sure you have your initial accommodation booked for at least your first few nights. Know the address and how you will get there from the airport. Many universities offer airport pickup services.
• Emergency Contacts: Create a list of important contacts, including your family’s phone numbers, your university’s international student support office, and the phone number for your country’s embassy or consulate in Australia.
• Inform Your Family: Ensure your family and friends know your travel itinerary and arrival details. Staying in touch will make the transition easier for everyone.

Also Read: Requirements for Student Visa Australia

FAQs

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