What one year of study in Australia really costs

Tuition is the largest component

Fees vary substantially by institution and discipline. As one public 2026 reference, RMIT indicates international undergraduate tuition broadly around A$36,000 to A$50,000 a year, and coursework masters programs around A$35,000 to A$60,000. Medicine, health, engineering and some business programs can sit higher.

Before the course is known, A$36,000 to A$60,000 can be used as an early discussion range for a standard non-medical program. Replace it with the exact course page and formal offer as soon as they are available.

The visa benchmark is not a living budget

Australia currently uses A$29,710 as the 12-month living-cost amount for a single student in the Student visa financial capacity calculation. It is a regulatory calculation rather than a quote for living in Sydney, Melbourne or any other city.

Accommodation usually has the greatest effect. A cheaper room further away may add transport costs and hours of travel. City, room type, food habits and personal spending all move the final figure.

Costs that arrive before and just after the flight

• From 1 July 2026, the base application charge is A$2,500 for a general primary Student visa applicant, while selected ELICOS non-award and passport categories may have a lower charge, and additional applicant or payment fees are separate
• Overseas Student Health Cover for the required period of stay
• Flights, health examinations, translations and document preparation
• A rental bond and temporary accommodation on arrival
• Bedding, kitchen items, a phone plan, computer, textbooks and course equipment

Allowing a further A$5,000 to A$8,000 can create a useful buffer for these items. OSHC depends on provider, duration and the number of people covered, and should be quoted for the actual visa period.

Three planning scenarios

Exchange rates move daily so this guide does not lock the Australian dollar totals into another currency. Check the rate at each payment date and leave room for movement.

Part time work is a supplement not tuition funding

Most students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session. Finding a job quickly, receiving steady shifts and maintaining the same income are not guaranteed. Employment may help with food and daily costs, but should not carry the study plan.

Before the course is final, a family conversation built around A$80,000 to A$100,000 is usually more useful than a budget that includes tuition alone.

Replace every estimate with actual tuition, rent, insurance, visa and arrival figures once the school, city and housing choice are clear. Fees, exchange rates and policies can change, and this article is for early budgeting only.