International Students' Guide To Affording Australian Universities

International students in Australia have to cover living expenses, health insurance, and tuition fees. While the majority of international students pay full fees, there are several scholarships, grants, and bursaries available to help international students with their finances. These are offered by the Australian Government, education providers, and other public and private organizations. Additionally, international students are allowed to work in Australia while studying, allowing them to experience the local culture and earn money to support themselves. However, it is advised not to rely solely on earnings from working in Australia to pay for expenses. The cost of living varies across the country, with urban areas being generally more expensive than smaller towns or rural areas.

Scholarships, grants and bursaries

Scholarships, grants, and bursaries are available to international students from a variety of sources, including the Australian Government, education providers, and public and private organisations. These opportunities can provide significant financial support to international students studying in Australia. Here is an overview of some of the notable scholarships, grants, and bursaries:

Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)

The Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) program is a highly prestigious and competitive scholarship program offered by the Australian Government. It provides government-funded grants to students from selected developing countries who demonstrate leadership qualities and a drive for change. The program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to their home countries' development after graduation.

Australia for ASEAN Scholarships

The Australia for ASEAN Scholarships are international scholarships provided by the Australian Government for students from ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste. These scholarships offer recipients the opportunity to pursue a master's degree in one of the four priority areas: maritime, connectivity, economic development, and the sustainable development goals 2030.

Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP)

The Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) supports both domestic and international students undertaking research doctorate and research master's level degrees. Students can receive scholarships to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and allowances related to the ancillary costs of research degrees.

Education Provider Scholarships

Australian education providers often offer scholarships to qualifying international students based on academic merit. These scholarships can vary depending on the university and may include full or partial tuition fee waivers, living allowances, or other benefits.

Scholarships for Smaller Cities and Regional Areas

Many universities in smaller cities and regional areas offer their own scholarship programs. These scholarships aim to attract international students to study in these locations and may provide financial support or tuition fee waivers.

Destination Australia Cheung Kong Exchange Program

The Destination Australia Cheung Kong Exchange Program supports short-term two-way mobility opportunities for students between Australia and select Asian countries. It facilitates cultural exchange and enhances educational experiences for participating students.

Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships

The Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships provide funding for international students to pursue research or professional development in a range of fields. These scholarships are highly competitive and aim to foster international collaboration and enhance Australia's reputation for excellence in education.

University-Specific Scholarships

In addition to the scholarships mentioned above, many universities in Australia offer their own scholarship programs to support international students. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or targeted towards specific groups of students. It is important for prospective international students to research the scholarship opportunities offered by their desired universities.

Overall, scholarships, grants, and bursaries play a crucial role in making tertiary education more accessible to international students in Australia. By offering financial support, these opportunities enable students to pursue their academic goals and contribute to a diverse and talented student community in Australia.

Student loans

International students in Australia can face tuition fees of around A$33,000 a year for classroom-based courses, and up to A$40,000 for lab-based courses. There are also living costs, accommodation, travel, and health insurance to consider.

International students can fund their studies through a variety of methods, including family funding, student loans, and working up to 40 hours per fortnight. Students often use a combination of these methods to cover their costs.

There are a number of approved schools in Australia that are eligible for international student loans. These include:

• Australian Catholic University
• Australian National University
• Charles Darwin University
• Curtin University of Technology
• Edith Cowan University
• Flinders University of South Australia
• James Cook University - Townsville
• Macquarie University
• Queensland University of Technology
• Southern Cross University
• Swinburne University of Technology
• University of Adelaide
• University of Ballarat
• University of Canberra
• University of Central Queensland
• University of Melbourne
• University of New South Wales
• University of Queensland
• University of South Australia
• University of Southern Queensland
• University of Sydney
• University of Tasmania
• University of Technology Sydney
• University of Western Australia
• University of Western Sydney - Nepean
• University of Wollongong

International student loans can fund up to the total cost of education, as determined by the school, minus any other aid received. This includes tuition, room and board, and living expenses.

It is important to note that students should only seek loans from reputable providers with reasonable interest rates, and shop around to find the best deal.

Work/study balance

International students in Australia have the opportunity to work while studying. This can be a great way to experience the local culture and connect with the community. However, it is important to remember that you should never count on earning enough from working in Australia to pay your way through university. International students have the same workplace rights and protections as anyone else working in Australia.

Working while studying will require a careful work/study balancing act. Part-time study is an option that covers the same areas and subjects as full-time study but takes longer, allowing for work or life commitments. In some faculties, there are external classes on offer to accommodate work schedules.

Your income from a job and your study load will affect your eligibility for financial assistance programs. Always check the terms and conditions of your financial assistance programs.

It is also important to budget continuously. At first, work on a "big picture" budget that will include tuition, room and board, transportation, and living expenses. Later, you can be more specific, taking into consideration all the additional expenses of moving and settling in. Remember that tuition rates can vary tremendously, so get in touch with the schools you are interested in to get the best idea of expenses.

The cost of living in different parts of Australia varies. In general, living in urban areas is more expensive than living in smaller towns or rural areas. Renting an apartment in a big city can cost twice as much as it does in a smaller town because there is such high demand for housing in large Australian cities. Food, clothing, entertainment, and other living expenses may also be costlier.

Tuition fees and living costs

Tuition fees for international students in Australia can be expensive, and the costs can vary significantly between universities. In addition to tuition fees, international students need to consider living expenses, health insurance, textbooks, study materials, and other costs such as accommodation, utility bills, food, clothing, and entertainment. Urban areas, particularly large cities, tend to be more expensive for accommodation and other living expenses.

International students can search for scholarships, grants, and bursaries to help fund their studies. These are offered by the Australian Government, education providers, and other public and private organisations. Students can also take out loans to help cover the cost of tuition and living expenses.

Some international students may choose to work part-time while studying to help cover their living costs. However, it is important to note that working in Australia is not a reliable way to fund your studies and that there are restrictions on the number of hours international students can work.

The cost of studying and living in Australia can be a significant financial burden, and it is important for prospective students to carefully consider their options and plan their budget accordingly. Some students may choose to work and save money for several years before commencing their studies to ensure they can afford the fees and living expenses.

Budgeting

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees can vary significantly between universities in Australia. Contact the schools you are interested in to get a better idea of the costs. Remember that you may also be able to find scholarships, grants, or bursaries to help cover these fees. These are offered by organisations such as the Australian Government, education providers, and other public and private organisations.

Living Costs

The cost of living in Australia varies depending on the location. Urban areas, particularly large cities, tend to be more expensive than smaller towns or rural areas. Renting accommodation in a big city, for example, can cost twice as much as in a smaller town due to high housing demand. Other living expenses such as food, clothing, and entertainment may also be higher in urban areas.

Transportation

Consider the cost of transportation when budgeting, especially if you plan to live off-campus or commute to university.

Additional Expenses

Remember to factor in additional expenses such as moving costs, utility bills, textbooks, and other study materials.

Work and Study

While working in Australia can provide income, it is not advisable to rely solely on this to cover your expenses. However, international students do have the opportunity to work while studying, which can help supplement your budget.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

In addition to scholarships, there are other forms of financial aid available, such as international student loans and government initiatives.

Creating a budget for your time as an international student in Australia requires careful consideration of all expenses and income sources. Remember to utilise the resources and support provided by your chosen university, as well as external organisations, to help you navigate the financial aspects of your studies.

Frequently asked questions