Tuition in Australia is generally less expensive than tuition in the United States or United Kingdom, but it is still important for international students to budget and be careful with their finances.
Tuition fees and course costs for international students
According to StudyMove.com, the average tuition fee for international undergraduate students was AU$30,840 (~US$22,170) per year in 2018, and AU$31,596 (~US$22,700) for international postgraduates.
Study in Australia, the official government site for international students, gives the typical annual tuition fees for international graduate students as:
- Master’s degree – AU$20,000 (US$14,400) to $37,000 (US$26,600);
- Doctoral degree – AU$14,000 (US$10,060) to $37,000 (US$26,600).
These figures do not include high-value courses such as veterinary or medical degree, which can cost significantly more.
Tuition fees at Australian universities are generally calculated per unit, not per year.
Cost of living in Australia
As mentioned, the Australian government’s Department of Home Affairs says you must prove you have AU$20,290 (~US$14,600) for living costs per year. If you’re bringing a partner you’ll need to add AU$7,100 (~US$5,100) to this figure, and if you have children, you’ll need to show you have an additional AU$3,040 (~US$2,200) for each child.
As well as proof of these funds, you will also need to show you have a return air fare for yourself and every family member you take with you, as well as enough money to cover the school fees of any children you have between age five and 18.