The Ultimate Student Guide to Studying Abroad in Australia
Are you interested in studying abroad in Australia? We can’t say we blame you! Each year, hundreds of thousands of students from all over the world travel to study at Australia’s universities, vocational schools, and English language intensive programs.
Australia offers the best of the best when it comes to education, weather, people, things to do, culture, and economy—so there’s no wonder why it’s one of the most coveted places for international study abroad programs.
If you’re ready to have the time of your life, then check out this complete student guide to studying abroad in Australia—including how to choose the right city for you!
Why Study Abroad in Australia?
Studying abroad in Australia is awesome (check out these interesting facts about Australia if you don’t believe us!). Australia, (officially known as the Commonwealth of Australia), is a large island country made up of the mainland island Australia, plus the island of Tasmania, and other smaller surrounding islands. It’s located in the southern hemisphere of the world, so the seasons are opposite of the northern hemisphere. You’ll be in for a real treat if you study abroad in Australia in December through February, as this is the thick of summertime.
International students flock to Australia not just for the great weather, but also for the incredible diversity of its metropolitan cities, beaches, countryside, and Outback. There’s so much to do and see while studying down under that your Australia bucket list will be packed!
Australia is also known for its rich culture, incredibly friendly people, laid back vibe, extraordinary sights to see, a booming economy with heaps of jobs, and its superior education system.
Australian universities are notoriously excellent too. Take the University of Sydney for example. Its graduates were rated among the world’s most employable, making this Uni #1 in Australia and #5 in the entire world for graduate employability. Graduates from the University of Sydney are consistently the most desired for jobs across multiple professions throughout the globe.
With all that said about the amazing qualities of Australia, the question really should be: why wouldn’t you want to study abroad in Australia? International students can enjoy all the perks of Australian life, whether it be for a semester, or an entire year, it’s up to you.
And if all that still hasn’t convinced you to study down under, then here are a few more reasons to study abroad.
How to Apply to Study Abroad in Australia
Studying abroad is so popular among college-age students, that many universities have partnered with schools in countries across the world—like Australia. This allows students to not only study but also fulfill key academic requirements and transfer credits back to their home university.
If you’re interested in studying abroad in Australia, contact your university’s international student centre or your academic advisor to get started. You should be guided through the entire process which typically looks like this:
- Decide on an Institution
- Apply to Your University of Choice
- Receive Your Physical Acceptance Letter
- Pay Your University Fees
- Receive Your Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
- Secure Health Coverage
- Apply for Your Student Visa
Decide on an Institution
Your home school has likely brokered study abroad opportunities with Australian universities already, so explore your options and decide, along with your advisors, which city and school is the right fit for you. If you need some additional info, check out our overseas school preparation tips.
Apply to Your University of Choice
Yes, you’ll most likely be required to apply to your Australian university of choice. Be sure to fill out your application clearly and concisely, so there are no hang-ups that prolong you from studying abroad in Australia.
Receive Your Physical Acceptance Letter
Once you’ve applied to the university of your choice, sit back and await your physical acceptance letter. This process varies by school, so hang tight, but expect something to arrive via snail mail.
Pay Your University Fees
You’ve officially been accepted to attend Uni in Australia, so be sure to promptly pay all your necessary university fees. This includes payment for all courses that you’ll be taking and can include additional fees for books, supplies, class and university dues.
Receive Your Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
After you’ve paid all university fees, you should receive a document called a confirmation of enrollment (CoE) for each course you’ll be taking while studying abroad in Australia. Keep this document handy because you’ll need it for your student visa process.
Secure Health Coverage
All students studying abroad in Australia must purchase Overseas Student Health Coverage (OSHC). We recommend speaking with your university about which of the five approved OSHC insurers you should choose from for coverage while you’re visiting.
Apply for Your Student Visa
This is one of the most important parts of studying abroad in Australia, so we’ve devoted the next part of this blog to the topic. Be aware that you only need a student visa if you’ll be staying in Australia for longer than 12 consecutive weeks; otherwise, you can apply for a tourist visa.
The Process of Applying for a Student Visa
So, you’ve decided where you want to study in Australia. You’ve applied, been accepted, and are officially enrolled. Congratulations! Now, this is where things start getting real. As we said, applying for your visa is one of the most important parts of studying abroad in Australia, but it can also be one of the most confusing, thanks to information overload online. We break down the student visa requirements for Australia here:
1. Select the Type of Visa You Need
Once you’ve received your CoE from your respective university, apply for your student visa. Next, go to the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs visa webpage, where you’ll go through the steps of selecting the type of visa you need (student) and create an online profile.
2. Upload Your Important Documentation
Once you’ve created your profile, upload all your important documentation that includes, but is not limited to:
- CoE
- OSHC proof
- A copy of your passport
- Evidence of funds to support your study abroad experience
- English language proficiency
- Your Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement personal statement
3. Pay Your Visa Fees
Additionally, you’ll need to fill out all pertinent student visa information and pay your visa fees. Fees vary depending on the country you’re coming from, so use the visa pricing estimator to get an idea of how much yours will cost.
Now that you’ve completed the visa application process, wait to receive a Transaction Reference Number (TRN). This is the number you’ll need to check on the status of your visa. If all requirements are fulfilled, it generally takes several weeks for approval of an Australian student visa—depending on your country of origin.
What to Study in Australia
Not sure what to study while in Australia? It all depends on your academic goals and what classes you need to take to fulfill your home university’s study abroad requirements.
Be sure to speak in-depth with your academic advisor to decide which courses are the best for you to take to ensure your credits transfer over once you’ve completed studying abroad in Australia.
To get an idea of some of the top areas of study for Australian students, here’s a quick rundown of some of the most popular degrees. Are you pursuing one of these, too? Let us know in a comment below!
- Business
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Accounting
- Law
- Arts
- Architecture
- Agriculture
- Computer Science
- Teaching
Are There Online Study Abroad Programs in Australia for International Students?
Yes! International students can take online courses. Over 10,000 international students are currently enrolled in Australian online courses. However, there’s a condition to studying online: if you’re studying abroad in Australia, 2/3 of classes must be taken in regular, on-campus classrooms.
While we totally understand and love the convenience of studying online, you’ve most likely traveled from afar to attend Uni in Australia, so go all-in and experience the culture of your Australian university by completing courses on-campus. By being on-campus, you’ll not only meet new friends, but you’ll fully immerse yourself in Australian student life. You won’t regret it!
How Much Money Do I Need to Live and Study in Australia?
It doesn’t take much to persuade students to take the plunge and study in Australia, but it’s important to consider how you’ll fund your time abroad!
On average, the typical annual tuition costs for international undergraduate students is around $23,000 (USD). If you’re planning on studying in Australia as a graduate student, those costs around $26,000 (USD) per year.
Tuition rates vary from Uni to Uni, but fortunately, there are ways to save on your Australian study abroad experience. Be sure to research any grants, scholarships, and other financial aid that may be available to you.
Another way to save money is by living in a more affordable city and save on the additional cost of student housing. You may also want to consider getting a part-time job or paid internship while you study abroad to help offset living expenses and make a little spending cash, too.
When Is the Best Time to Study Abroad in Australia?
That’s a trick question! Anytime is a great time to study in Australia! But in all seriousness, weather-wise, it’s important to note that many international students will be in opposite seasons from their home country.
As we mentioned earlier, Australia is in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons might not be what you’re used to. This can make for a much-needed winter escape for students in the northern hemisphere since you’ll arrive to gorgeous, sunny summer skies in Australia.
Australia’s climate varies greatly throughout the country, so before you move, be sure to check the weather in your new city.
Where Should I Study in Australia?
Tons of amazing cities play host to some of Australia’s top universities. First off, your home-Uni will most likely already have your choices narrowed down for you, depending on their approved schools in Australia.
Take the time to research all your options and consider what you want to get out of your time while studying abroad in Australia. Do you want to attend a small or large university? Is campus life important to you? Do academic rankings for your major matter? Do you want your university to be in a large metropolitan area with plenty of things to do and places to see? These are all important questions to ask yourself before deciding on your school.
To make your decision a little easier, we’ve selected some of the most popular Australian cities for international students to study in, including Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Adelaide.
Melbourne
Ranked as the world’s most livable city seven years in a row, Melbourne is the coastal capital of the state of Victoria. According to Lord Mayor Sally Capp, Melbourne is Australia’s events, sporting, and culture hub. It’s no wonder why so many international students choose to study abroad in Melbourne.
This vibrant city is home to seven universities, with the University of Melbourne being the most widely recognised since it’s ranked #1 in all of Australia. In addition to being home base for multiple universities, the city of Melbourne also hosts satellite campuses for five other universities—offering students the convenience and flexibility of attending classes nearby.
Melbourne is an incredible city to live and play in! It’s known for its unique laneways (alleys) that wind throughout the city. You can get lost for hours walking. You’ll discover a new restaurant, café, shopping area, live music, museums, shops, and more every corner you turn.
Everyone is welcome in Melbourne and this city celebrates its diversity by regularly hosting cultural events and days to honor the variety of people who call Melbourne home. There is never a lack of things to do and see when you’re studying abroad in one of Australia’s most beautiful cities.
Sydney
There are endless reasons why you should study in Sydney. The capital of New South Wales, and one of Australia’s largest cities, Sydney offers so much! From the incredible architecture of the Sydney Opera House to the harbour that connects people to outdoor activities galore, to the restaurants, museums, nightlife, and beaches, you’ll never run out of things to do while studying abroad in Sydney.
Students from all over the world come to Sydney to attend one of its dozen universities that offer top-notch programs in a variety of disciplines. Most notable is the University of Sydney, known for its cutting-edge research programs and progressive thinking.
But the city of Sydney doesn’t just have brains; it’s also home to some of the friendliest people in the world. You’ll make friends in no time, both at your new university and outside since there’s always something exciting to do when you live in Sydney.
Brisbane
Why study in Brisbane? There are tons of reasons! The capital of Queensland, Brisbane is located alongside the Brisbane River and is Australia’s third-largest city. Unlike the wildly popular Melbourne and Sydney, Brisbane keeps a lower profile, but we like to say it’s one of Australia’s best-kept secrets.
Those who know Brisbane love it because it’s nowhere near as busy as Melbourne and Sydney, and its weather is celebrated as some of the best in all of Australia.
If you’re looking for a small(er) town feel, then Brisbane just might be the best option for you while studying abroad in Australia. Students can choose from two major universities, including the University of Queensland and Queensland University of Technology, as well as a handful of satellite campuses for various other schools. In total, over 19,000 international students opt to study abroad in Brisbane each year.
Partake in exciting outdoor activities around the city (don’t feel like trekking it to the beach? Try man-made Streets Beach instead), traverse Story Bridge, check out museums, or escape to nearby towns—the possibilities are endless in Brisbane.
Adelaide
The international-study friendly capital of South Australia, Adelaide is Australia’s fifth-largest city. Adelaide is considered one of the most ideal places for studying abroad in Australia thanks to its affordability, great schools like the University of Adelaide, exciting culinary scene, relaxed atmosphere, and awesome transportation options.
If you’re itching to work part-time or need an internship while studying abroad in Australia, then Adelaide is the place for you. According to Insider Guides, there’s a plethora of internship and work opportunities that’ll provide real-life work experience for international students.
When you’re not in school, check out new restaurants and bars, spend a day at the Adelaide Zoo, or take a day trip outside of town to the gorgeous wine country. Believe us, your social calendar will be full of enviable things to do while living in Adelaide.
Where Should I Stay While Studying Abroad in Australia and How Do I Find Where to Live?
Now that you’re caught up on some of the most popular Australian cities for international students to study in, let’s look at how to secure student housing in those areas.
First Things First: Do You Prefer On-Campus or Off-Campus Housing?
Before you pull the trigger on your living situation, decide if you want to live on-campus vs. off-campus.
There are lots of benefits to both living options. With on-campus housing, you typically don’t have to provide your own furniture since dormitories generally come fully furnished. You’re also in walking distance from class, it’s easy to socialize with other students who are studying abroad in Australia just like you, and most living expenses are rolled into your tuition.
Some universities require first-year undergrads to live on campus. But if you’re studying abroad in Australia, this most likely isn’t your first time living away from home, so we recommend you consider living off-campus to completely saturate yourself in Australian culture.
The benefits of living off-campus are even better than living on-campus in our opinion! Many off-campus housing options come furnished and are close to campus, and some of your monthly bills and amenities are still included in your rent too. Plus, with off-campus housing, you have less oversight and more freedom to do your thing. And did we mention that you get more space and privacy?
Best of all though, most student housing in Australia provides social spaces and opportunities to meet new people, so you can count on making tons of new friends both on-campus and off-campus.
If you’re ready to experience the fun of studying abroad in Australia, then let’s get down to it. The team at Unilodgers has curated a list of student apartments throughout Australia we think you’ll love.
Study Abroad in Melbourne: Where to Live
Student accommodation in Melbourne is plentiful and each of our Melbourne properties are located close to public transportation, have state-of-the-art facilities, and a wide range of apartment types.
Scape Swanston
393 Swanston St., Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Welcome home to swanky Scape Swanston. Located just a stone’s throw from RMIT University, several minutes to the University of Melbourne, and near Melbourne’s CBD, Scape Swanston has everything a student studying abroad in Melbourne could ever need.
Students can choose from well-furnished, thoughtfully designed private or shared studios with double or king-sized beds, bathroom, kitchenette, and built-in storage, dining, and study area.
Monthly rent includes electricity, gas, heat, water, and Wi-Fi. Residents can enjoy luxurious amenities such as a gym, cinema room, communal gourmet kitchen, shuttle bus service, Instagram-worthy sky terrace, study rooms, on-site laundry, and so much more.
Want more great properties to check out in Melbourne? Add these to your list:
- Infinity Place
- University Square Melbourne
- Unilodge Victoria University
- Urbanest Melbourne Central
- Unilodge @ Melbourne
Study Abroad in Sydney: Where to Live
You surely won’t have a difficult time finding incredible student accommodation in Sydney. Each of our Sydney apartments are located near the various universities, close to public transport, and have sought-after amenities.
Sydney University Village
90 Carillon Avenue, Newtown NSW 2042, Sydney, Australia
Live at the premier Sydney University Village student apartments located on Carillon Avenue, right in the very heart of Newtown, Sydney. These modern apartments are located near all university campuses, making it one of the most ideal student living situations.
Students can choose from brilliantly furnished studios or shared apartments complete with a comfy bed, ample storage space, and a dedicated study station where you can focus on your schoolwork.
Monthly rent at this light and airy apartment complex includes water, electricity, heating, Wi-Fi, and on-site laundry services—as well as fun extras like a game room, media lounge, internet café, and pool table.
Don’t forget to check out some of our other awesome properties in Sydney too:
- Scape Abercrombie
- Macquarie University Village
- Western Sydney University Village Parramatta Campus
- Urbanest Darling Square
- Urbanest Sydney Central
Study Abroad in Brisbane: Where to Live
Looking for the ideal student accommodation in Brisbane? Look no further! Unilodgers has done the heavy lifting for you and selected the top student apartments that are near the city’s universities, close to public transportation, and central to activities, restaurants, and major landmarks.
Student One Wharf Street
38 Wharf Street, Brisbane City, Queensland, Australia
Are you ready for it? Student One Wharf Street is the world’s tallest student accommodation and it’s located in the heart of Brisbane. Not only are you close to university campuses, but you’re also close to restaurants, nightlife, and plenty to do.
Students can choose from a variety of living set-ups like studios and one-bedroom apartments to four and five-bedroom apartments to be shared with multiple roommates. If you like the idea of living with a roommate but don’t know how to find one, Student One Wharf Street can help match you with your new besties before move-in.
Monthly rent includes electricity, water, Wi-Fi, gym, and bike storage. Students can also partake in modern amenities such as a cinema room, study lounge, gorgeous skydeck, game room, swimming pool, and more. The sky’s the limit at Student One Wharf Street.
We’ve got more great properties for students studying in Brisbane too! Check these out:
Studying in Adelaide: Where to Live
Reap the benefits of affordable student accommodation in Adelaide. See for yourself why four of Adelaide’s globally acclaimed universities house more than 20,000 international students when you arrive to study in this incredible city. Each property is located close to public transportation, has high-end facilities, and is centrally located to nearby Unis.
Atira Waymouth St
231 Waymouth Street, Adelaide, Australia
Welcome home to the chic and contemporary Atira Waymouth St student apartments. These apartments are in the hustle and bustle of Adelaide, bringing the best the city has to offer right to your doorstep.
Students can choose from over 26 fully furnished room types from studios all the way to seven-bedroom housing options. All apartments come with beds, study stations, spacious wardrobes, fully fitted kitchens, bathrooms, and enviable living spaces.
Monthly rent includes electricity, gas, heating, water, and Wi-Fi, and residents can enjoy beautifully maintained amenities such as a cinema room, gym, karaoke and game room, sky terrace, and much more. If you’ll be studying abroad in Australia and want major bang for your buck, Atira Waymouth is the place for you.
That’s not all though—Unilodgers has other incredible properties for students studying in Adelaide, including:
What to Pack When Moving Abroad for Uni
If you’re wondering what to pack to prepare for studying abroad in Australia, you’re not the only one. It can feel overwhelming trying to remember all the things you might need, but don’t stress!
Do pack your laptop, tablet, and other electronic devices. Also, pack basic toiletries, a pillow, and set of sheets for your first night in your new student apartment.
Pack clothing appropriate for the season(s) in which you’ll be studying abroad and remember: you can always purchase what you forget.
Here’s our study abroad packing list just in case you need some inspiration.
Preparing for Your Big Move
Before leaving to study abroad in Australia, do one final check to make sure you have everything in place for a flawless transition to your new home. Ensure you have all your student visa documentation, your passport, health insurance information, and living details accounted for. Also, be sure you have the appropriate amount of money budgeted for your time studying abroad in Australia. And finally, pack all your belongings—only bringing what you absolutely need!
Have You Found Your Student Accommodation in Australia?
By now we hope you know everything you need to know about how to study abroad in the land down under. With the right plan and mindset, there’s no doubt that you’ll have an incredible time and make memories and friendships that will last your entire life.
If you need to book your student accommodation in Australia, you’ve come to the right place. Unilodgers offers the best in student accommodation, with great properties in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and all other major towns in Australia. Now, where will you choose to live?
Unilodgers is the world’s leading platform to book student accommodations and serves over 2 million students from over 195 countries every year. We provide students exclusive offers on student housing options and make it easy to book the accommodation that’s the best fit for you.
