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Australia

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At a glance

Living index rating
Expensive
Monthly rent
A$1,000 – A$2,000 (Sydney shared rooms A$1,300 – A$1,800)
Monthly food
A$400 – A$700
Other monthly expenses
A$350 – A$650 (transport, phone, utilities, OSHC health cover)
Visa processing time
Usually 4 – 8 weeks
Family allowed for students
Yes

Visa requirements

  • Student visa (subclass 500) with a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered course
  • Genuine Student (GS) statement explaining your study plans and goals
  • Proof of funds: at least A$29,710 a year for living costs, plus tuition and travel (more for family members)
  • English test such as IELTS, PTE or TOEFL
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the whole stay
  • Visa application fee of A$2,000
  • Work limited to 48 hours per fortnight during term

Work permit after studies

  • Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), Post-Higher Education Work stream
  • Up to 2 years after a bachelor's or coursework master's; up to 3 years after a research master's or PhD
  • You must be under 35 when you apply (up to 50 for research master's and PhD graduates)
  • Extra time may be available after studying in regional areas

Citizenship route

  • Permanent residence through skilled visas (such as subclasses 189, 190 or 491) or employer sponsorship, usually after gaining work experience on a 485 visa
  • Citizenship after 4 years living in Australia, including at least 1 year as a permanent resident
  • Citizenship test and good character requirement

Family details

  • Spouse/de facto partner and dependent children can come as secondary applicants on your student visa
  • You must show extra funds: A$10,394 for a partner and A$4,449 for each child
  • Partners of master's and PhD students can work unlimited hours; others can work 48 hours per fortnight once your course starts
  • School-age children must be enrolled in school, and fees may apply

Universities in Australia

Top-ranked

All other universities and colleges (181), A–Z

This guide is for general information. Visa and immigration rules change often, so always check the official government website before you apply. Last updated 6 October 2026.