Lana Oconnell
In Australia, the decision for a student to move away from home for university is influenced by various factors, including course availability, family circumstances, and financial considerations. While some students opt to attend the closest university, others may need to move to access specialised courses or pursue specific academic goals. Regional students might move to a nearby city with a university, while international students comprise a significant portion of those travelling long distances. The cost of living away from home, particularly in capital cities, is a significant factor, with many students balancing part-time work and studies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Australians who move away for university | Regional Australians, people doing specialised courses, high-achieving students, and those who want to live independently |
| Distance travelled | Typically not thousands of miles, but an hour or so away is common |
| Factors influencing the decision to move away | Course availability, financial situation, family circumstances, personality, and goals |
| Number of students | Over 1.4 million local and international students choose to study in Australia's universities each year |
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What You'll Learn
Students' motivations for moving away
While there is no exact data on how many students move away for university in Australia, an ACER analysis of Census data shows that Australian university students have become increasingly likely to relocate during this century and are more mobile than the general population. In 2011, 38.9% of students lived at a different address than five years prior, compared to 31% of the entire Australian population in 2006.
Independence
Independence is often the main driving factor behind a student's decision to move away from home. Transitioning into adulthood is an exciting time, and many students don't want to feel as though they are lagging behind their peers who have left home. Moving away to university is seen as a chance to meet new people, try new things, and get involved in different social circles.
Course availability
Students may need to move away from home if the university closest to them does not offer the course they want to study. For example, a student interested in a specific field like veterinary science may need to move to a different city or town to find a university that offers that program.
High achievement
High-achieving students may choose to move away from home to attend a university that is perceived to be better or more prestigious, even if there are other options closer to home.
Change of environment
Some students may choose to move away to a different city or region to experience a change of environment or to live in a new place. For example, students may be drawn to cities like Melbourne and Brisbane, which have seen a net growth of more than 10,000 students.
Residential experience
Historically, there has been a precedent for going away to university and living in residential accommodation, particularly with the Oxbridge model in England. While this is not as prevalent today, some students may still be drawn to the idea of a "proper" university experience that includes living on campus or in student accommodation.
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Pros and cons of moving away
Australians tend to attend universities close to where they live. However, there are exceptions to this. Regional Australians often have to move to go to university, and those pursuing specialised courses may need to attend a specific university away from home.
Pros
- Opportunity to expand one's horizons, gain maturity, and establish valuable social connections.
- Students can gain independence and freedom, which can help them find their true selves.
- Moving away can help students meet new people, make new friends, acquire various useful skills, and lay a solid foundation for their future.
- Students can choose from a wider range of colleges and select the best program for them.
- Students learn to cope on their own and become more responsible and resilient.
- Moving away can help students fit better into a college at the other end of the country than in one in their hometown.
Cons
- The cost of living is high, especially in capital cities, and the income of a tertiary student is usually quite low.
- Students may feel reluctant to leave home during a period of big change and may need a stable and familiar home environment to cope with shifts in their everyday life.
- The excitement of moving out and starting a new life can overshadow the purpose of relocating – to study at university.
- Moving to a far-away college may not be a good option for those who cannot see themselves living in a vastly different environment and finding a place in a new community.
- The added costs of living away from home may be too much for some students and their families.
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How common is moving away?
The decision to move away from home for university is a complex one, and there are several factors that influence this decision. Firstly, it is important to note that the majority of students in Australia's universities are locals, and over 75% of Australians live in cities with universities. As a result, most students tend to simply attend the university closest to them, and many continue living with their parents while studying. This is especially true for students in capital cities, who often apply to universities within the same city.
However, there are exceptions to this. Students from regional areas may need to move to a different city or town if the universities in their area do not offer their desired course. Similarly, those pursuing specialised courses or aiming for high-achieving universities may need to move further away to access their desired educational opportunities. Additionally, some students may prioritise independence and choose to move away from home to experience greater freedom and separate their home and study environments.
The decision to move away also depends on individual circumstances, such as family situation and personality. Financial considerations play a significant role, as the cost of living away from home, especially in capital cities, can be high. On the other hand, some students may be reluctant to leave home during a period of transition or big change, finding comfort and stability in a familiar home environment.
While there are no specific statistics on the number of students who move away for university in Australia, the decision is influenced by a combination of factors, including course availability, independence, financial considerations, and personal circumstances.
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The financial implications of moving away
While there are no clear statistics on how many students move away for university in Australia, it is observed that most students tend to go to the closest university to them. Several factors can influence a student's decision to move away, such as the availability of their desired course, specialised courses, or the perception that a university farther away is better. Regional students often have to move to a different city or region to attend university.
Moving away for university in Australia can have significant financial implications, and the cost of living away from home is high, especially in capital cities. Students who move away need to consider the cost of rent, bills, and other living expenses on top of their tuition fees. This can be a challenge, as the income of a tertiary student is usually quite low. However, many students manage these financial demands by working part-time or taking advantage of financial aid and scholarships.
The cost of accommodation can vary depending on the location and type of housing. While some universities offer on-campus housing, it is often limited and may be more expensive than living in a shared house. Students may need to budget carefully to cover their living expenses and should be aware of the potential financial strain of moving away.
Financial assistance is available for regional and rural students who need to move away for their studies. The Australian government offers financial aid through programs such as Youth Allowance, Relocation Scholarships, and ABSTUDY Living Allowance. These programs provide fortnightly payments, scholarships, and allowances to help with travel and living costs. Additionally, universities may offer their own scholarships and grants to students from regional areas or those with financial needs.
It is important for students and their families to consider the financial implications of moving away for university carefully. While there are financial assistance options available, the cost of living and studying away from home can be a significant burden. Students should be prepared for the financial demands and have a plan to manage their expenses, whether through part-time work, scholarships, or other means. Moving away can provide a sense of independence and a valuable university experience, but it requires careful financial planning and consideration of individual circumstances.
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The impact of moving away on family life
Australians tend to attend the university closest to them, and many continue living with their parents while studying. However, some move away from home to pursue specific programs or attend a university known for its expertise in a particular field. This decision can evoke mixed feelings, with students reporting excitement, guilt, self-doubt, and anxiety.
On the other hand, moving away can be emotionally challenging for both students and their families. Students may experience feelings of guilt, self-doubt, and anxiety about leaving their family and support system behind. They may struggle with the financial burden of living away from home, including managing rent, bills, work, and studies simultaneously.
Additionally, the family left behind may undergo their own adjustments. They may worry about their child's well-being, safety, and financial stability. Grandparents may miss having their grandchildren nearby, and siblings may feel the loss of their brother or sister as a role model or confidant in close proximity. Regular family gatherings or traditions may be disrupted, requiring adjustment and the creation of new rituals to maintain family bonds.
Ultimately, the decision to move away for university should consider individual circumstances, goals, financial situations, and family dynamics. While moving away can offer opportunities for growth and independence, it is essential to recognise the potential emotional and financial challenges that may arise for both the student and their family.
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Frequently asked questions
Most students in Australia tend to go to the closest university to them, and many still live at home with their parents. However, some students do move away, especially if the course they want to study isn't offered by a local university.
The cost of living away from home is high, especially in capital cities, and many students have low incomes. Some students may also prefer the familiarity of staying at home.
Independence is often a driving factor for teenagers who choose to move away from home. They may not want to feel like they're lagging behind their peers who have left home. Moving away can also offer more freedom to meet new people and get involved in different social circles.
It's uncommon for Australian students to travel thousands of miles to attend university. However, some may move an hour or so away, especially if they're from a regional area.
Yes, the availability of student accommodation can play a role. Not all universities have housing, and it's usually cheaper for students to live in a shared house. Therefore, international students and first-year students are more likely to live on campus.
