Living expenses and working while studying
You'll need at least A$18,000 a year to cover your living expenses. This is a rough guide only and will depend on many things, including where you live (eg in Sydney, in outer Sydney, in regional NSW or in Canberra), the type of accommodation you live in and your lifestyle. Remember, your living expenses are separate from your tuition fees.
Living costs include items such as:
- accommodation
- electricity and/or gas
- entertainment
- food
- personal incidentals
- telephone bills
- transport (bus/train).
In addition an establishment cost of around A$3,000 is usually needed to cover costs such as rental bonds for accommodation, furniture and telephone connection charges.
Other expenses may include textbooks, study aids, vacations or a car.
Check each institution's entry for links to more information. Some institutions include a tool to help you calculate the cost of living.
Useful information can also be found on the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) website.
Working while studying
Read special requirements and policies for more information about working while studying as an international student.
