Planning to study in Australia in 2026? Understanding the Cost of Studying in Australia is crucial to ensure you plan your finances effectively and avoid unexpected surprises.
Australia is a top destination for international students, offering world-class education, diverse culture, and numerous career opportunities—but it’s no secret that studying here can be a significant investment.
Genius Study Abroad breaks down the key components of the Cost of Studying in Australia, including tuition fees, living expenses, and practical budgeting tips.
Whether you’re aiming for a bachelor’s, master’s, or diploma program, this overview will help you prepare for a smooth and financially manageable educational journey Down Under.
On average, international students spend between AUD 20,000 to 45,000 per year on tuition, depending on the course and university, while living costs can range from AUD 18,000 to 25,000 annually.
Knowing these figures ahead of time allows you to plan smarter, explore scholarships, and make informed decisions about your future.
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Tuition Fees in Australia for 2026
When planning your studies, understanding the Cost of Studying in Australia starts with tuition fees, which vary depending on the level and field of study. Here’s a detailed breakdown for 2026:
- Undergraduate Programs
- General Range: AUD 20,000 – AUD 45,000 per year
- Field-Specific Examples:
- Engineering: Up to AUD 60,600 annually
- Health Sciences: AUD 60,600 – AUD 65,900
- Arts and Humanities: Approximately AUD 50,000
- Postgraduate Programs
- Master’s Degrees: AUD 22,000 – AUD 50,000 per year
- Doctoral Programs: AUD 18,000 – AUD 42,000 per year
- Vocational Education and Training (VET)
- Diplomas and Certificates: AUD 5,700 – AUD 24,000 per year
These figures highlight how the Cost of Studying in Australia can differ significantly depending on your course and university.
For instance, engineering and health-related programs tend to be on the higher end due to specialized equipment and facilities. Meanwhile, VET courses offer more affordable options for students looking to gain practical skills and quick employment opportunities.
By planning early and choosing programs wisely, you can balance quality education with budget considerations—something Genius Study Abroad can help guide you through.
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Living Expenses in Australia (2026)
Beyond tuition, the Cost of Studying in Australia includes living expenses, which can vary depending on your lifestyle, city, and accommodation choice. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:
- Monthly Living Costs
- Average Range: AUD 1,400 – AUD 2,500
- Breakdown:
- Accommodation: AUD 600 – AUD 1,200
- Food and Groceries: AUD 300 – AUD 600
- Transportation: AUD 100 – AUD 200
- Miscellaneous (entertainment, personal items, etc.): AUD 200 – AUD 500
- Accommodation Options
- On-Campus Housing: AUD 200 – AUD 400 per week
- Off-Campus Housing: AUD 300 – AUD 800 per week
- Homestay: AUD 940 – AUD 1,300 per week
For example, living in Sydney or Melbourne tends to be on the higher end due to the city’s popularity and demand, whereas smaller cities like Adelaide or Hobart can offer more affordable options.
Students can also save by sharing apartments or opting for on-campus housing.
By factoring in these costs early, you can plan a realistic monthly budget, ensuring your Australian study experience is financially comfortable. Genius Study Abroad can help you estimate your total expenses accurately and suggest cost-effective strategies
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Additional Costs of Studying in Australia
Apart from tuition and living expenses, there are additional costs that international students should budget for when considering the Cost of Studying in Australia. These can include visa fees, health insurance, and essential study materials.
- Visa and Insurance
- Student Visa Fee: AUD 2,000
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): AUD 500 – AUD 600 per year
- Other Expenses
- Textbooks and Supplies: AUD 500 – AUD 1,000 per year
- Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF): AUD 300 – AUD 500 per year
For instance, a student pursuing a master’s program in Melbourne may need to set aside around AUD 3,000 annually for visa, health cover, and study-related materials.
While these costs might seem small compared to tuition, planning ahead ensures you avoid surprises and can focus on your studies.
Budgeting for these additional expenses is an essential part of understanding the Cost of Studying in Australia. Genius Study Abroad can guide students through all mandatory and optional costs, helping you prepare a comprehensive financial plan before departure.
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Budgeting Tips for Indian Students in Australia
Managing the Cost of Studying in Australia effectively is key to making your educational journey enjoyable and stress-free. Here are practical tips for Indian students:
- Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Explore Scholarships: Many universities and the Australian government offer scholarships specifically for international students. These can significantly reduce tuition costs.
- Application Tips: Apply early, carefully check eligibility criteria, and prepare all documents to increase your chances of securing financial aid.
- Part-Time Work Opportunities
- Work Rights: As an international student, you can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during holidays.
- Job Sectors: Retail, hospitality, tutoring, and freelancing are common options that help cover living expenses while gaining valuable experience.
- Cost-Saving Strategies
- Accommodation: Shared housing or on-campus dorms can save a significant portion of your monthly rent.
- Transportation: Take advantage of student discounts on public transport or consider cycling to nearby locations.
- Groceries: Shopping at local markets, cooking at home, and planning meals can reduce food expenses.
By following these strategies, you can balance your budget while enjoying your life in Australia. Genius Study Abroad can assist students in identifying scholarships, part-time opportunities, and smart budgeting practices to make studying abroad both affordable and rewarding.
Estimated Total Annual Cost of Studying in Australia (2026)
To give you a clear picture of the Cost of Studying in Australia, here’s an estimated breakdown of annual expenses for international students
These estimates show that depending on your course, lifestyle, and city of study, the total annual cost can range from AUD 40,000 to nearly AUD 96,000.
For example, a student pursuing an engineering master’s program in Sydney will likely be on the higher end due to tuition and living costs, whereas someone studying arts in a smaller city may manage on a lower budget.
Planning ahead and budgeting smartly is essential to manage these costs effectively.
Genius Study Abroad can help you calculate your personalized budget and explore strategies to make studying in Australia financially feasible while focusing on your academic goals.
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Conclusion
Studying in Australia in 2026 is an exciting opportunity, offering world-class education, vibrant cultural experiences, and promising career prospects.
Understanding the Cost of Studying in Australia—from tuition and living expenses to visa, insurance, and other additional costs—is crucial for effective financial planning.
By budgeting wisely, exploring scholarships, and leveraging part-time work opportunities, Indian students can manage expenses efficiently and enjoy a fulfilling academic journey.
Whether you choose on-campus housing, shared apartments, or homestays, planning ahead ensures that your focus remains on learning and personal growth rather than financial stress.
With the right guidance, such as the support offered by Genius Study Abroad, you can make informed decisions, prepare a realistic budget, and take confident steps toward achieving your Australian education goals.
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FAQs
1: What is the average cost of studying in Australia for international students?
The average annual Cost of Studying in Australia ranges from AUD 40,000 to AUD 95,000, depending on factors such as your course, university, city, and lifestyle choices.
2: Can I work while studying in Australia?
Yes! International students are allowed to work up to 40 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during holidays, helping to offset living expenses.
3: Are there scholarships available for Indian students?
Absolutely. Many Australian universities, as well as the Australian government, offer scholarships and financial aid programs specifically for international students, including Indian applicants.
Applying early and meeting eligibility criteria increases your chances of success.
4: What are the additional costs I should budget for?
Apart from tuition and living expenses, students should account for student visa fees (around AUD 2,000), Overseas Student Health Cover (AUD 500–600), textbooks, and Student Services and Amenities Fees (AUD 300–500 per year).
5: How can I save money while studying in Australia?
Consider shared accommodation, cooking at home, using public transport with student discounts, and exploring part-time work opportunities.
Scholarships and financial aid also help significantly reduce the Cost of Studying in Australia.
Genius Study Abroad can guide you in estimating costs, finding scholarships, and planning your budget efficiently, making your Australian study journey smoother and more affordable.