Embarking on a study journey in Australia is a dream for many Nepali students, offering world-class education, a vibrant culture, and outstanding career prospects. However, it requires meticulous financial planning. Understanding the true cost of studying in Australia goes beyond jus
Tuition fees are the most significant component of your study cost. In 2025, the annual tuition for international students typically ranges from AU $20,000 to AU $45,000 for undergraduate programmes and AU $22,000 to AU $50,000 for postgraduate degrees. However, these costs can vary widely depending on the institution and the field of study.
Programme Name |
Average Fee (AUD/year) |
Bachelor of Arts & Humanities |
AU $28,000 - AU $35,000 |
Bachelor of Business & Commerce |
AU $35,000 - AU $45,000 |
Bachelor of Engineering & IT |
AU $40,000 - AU $50,000 |
Master of Arts & Humanities |
AU $30,000 - AU $40,000 |
Master of Engineering & IT |
AU $45,000 - AU $55,000 |
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
AU $55,000 - AU $80,000+ |
Studying at a top-ranked Australian university is a great opportunity. Here is a breakdown of the estimated costs at some of the country’s most prestigious institutions, ranked by their 2025 QS World University Rankings.
University |
Popular Programmes |
Tuition Fees |
The University of Melbourne |
Law, Medicine, Computer Science |
UG: AU $46,000 - AU $52,000 PG: AU $40,000 - AU $55,000 |
The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) |
Engineering, Architecture, Business |
UG: AU $45,000 - AU $55,000 PG: AU $45,000 - AU $58,000 |
The University of Sydney |
Arts & Humanities, Business, Health Sciences |
UG: AU $45,000 - AU $57,000 PG: AU $42,000 - AU $58,000 |
Australian National University (ANU) |
Science, Law, International Relations |
UG: AU $46,000 - AU $50,000 PG: AU $48,000 - AU $52,000 |
Monash University |
Pharmacy, Engineering, Business |
UG: AU $45,000 - AU $55,000 PG: AU $45,000 - AU $50,000 |
The University of Queensland |
Psychology, Business, Biotechnology |
UG: AU $43,000 - AU $50,000 PG: AU $48,000 - AU $54,000 |
The University of Western Australia |
Economics, Medicine, Law |
UG: AU $40,000 - AU $50,000 PG: AU $40,000 - AU $52,000 |
The University of Adelaide |
Engineering, Education, Business |
UG: AU $42,000 - AU $50,000 PG: AU $40,000 - AU $48,000 |
University of Technology Sydney (UTS) |
Information Technology, Design, Business |
UG: AU $40,000 - AU $50,000 PG: AU $40,000 - AU $55,000 |
University of Wollongong |
Nursing, Engineering, Data Science |
UG: AU $35,000 - AU $45,000 PG: AU $38,000 - AU $48,000 |
Your cost of living in Australia is a major factor and varies significantly by city. The Australian Government requires international students to show they have access to at least AU $29,710 for a single student to cover living expenses for a year. A good personal budget will typically fall between AU $22,000 and AU $35,000 per year, depending on your lifestyle and location.
Related Article: Cost of living in Australia
This will be your largest expense. Options include on-campus student halls, shared apartments, or homestays.
Type of Accommodation |
Cost of Accommodation |
On-Campus Accommodation |
AUD 200 - AUD 500 per week |
Shared Apartment/Rental |
AUD 150 - AUD 300 per week |
Homestay (with a local family) |
AUD 250 - AUD 400 per week |
Living in major metropolitan areas is more expensive. For example, Sydney and Melbourne have higher costs than cities like Adelaide or Perth.
Sydney/Melbourne |
AU $2,500 - AU $3,500 per month |
Brisbane/Perth |
AU $2,000 - AU $3,000 per month |
Adelaide/Hobart |
AU $1,800 - AU $2,500 per month |
Food & Groceries: Cooking at home is far more affordable than eating out |
AU $100 - AU $250 per week |
Public Transport: Many cities offer student concessions. |
AU $30 - AU $60 per week |
Utilities (phone, internet, electricity) |
AU $80 - AU $150 per month |
Personal Expenses (entertainment, shopping) |
AU $100 - AU $200 per week. |
Before you can even begin your academic journey, you must account for essential pre-departure costs.
As of 1 July 2025, the base application fee for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) has increased to AUD 2,000. Additional costs may include biometrics and medical examinations. This fee is non-refundable.
OSHC is mandatory for all international students and must be maintained for the entire duration of your stay. The cost varies by provider and coverage level.
You can purchase OSHC from an approved provider before your visa is granted. Your university will often provide a recommended provider.
Financing the cost of education in Australia is a significant challenge, but there are numerous scholarships and funding options available to Nepali students.
Australia Awards Scholarships: These are prestigious scholarships funded by the Australian Government, covering full tuition, travel, and a living allowance.
University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities, including those listed above, offer scholarships for international students based on academic merit. Check the university's official website for details.
Education Loans: Major Nepali and international banks offer education loans to cover tuition and living expenses.
Living on a student budget requires discipline and smart choices. Here are some tips to help you manage your finances and reduce the study cost in Australia:
Work Part-Time: Your student visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester and full-time during holidays. This is a great way to earn extra money and gain local work experience.
Choose an Affordable City: Consider studying in cities like Adelaide, Perth, or Brisbane, where the cost of living is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne.
Cook at Home: Eating out can quickly become expensive. Learn to cook and prepare your own meals to save a substantial amount on food.
Use Student Discounts: Always carry your student ID. Many places, from public transport to cinemas and retail stores, offer discounts for students.
The cost of studying in Australia for Nepali students is a serious investment, but with careful planning, it is completely achievable. By understanding the breakdown of expenses and proactively seeking scholarships and financial aid, you can minimise your financial burden and focus on your studies. Australia's commitment to providing a world-class education and a welcoming environment makes it an exceptional destination for your academic and personal growth.
Ready to make your move to Australia? Get expert guidance from AECC Nepal. We provide personalised advice on university applications, visa requirements, and financial planning, ensuring a smooth and successful study abroad journey. Reach out to us for a free counselling session and start your adventure today.
Yes, studying in Australia can be expensive, with tuition and living expenses being significant. However, it's often considered more affordable than the US or UK due to lower living costs in many Australian cities outside of Sydney and Melbourne. The overall cost depends on your university, course of study, and personal lifestyle.
Yes, you can. Your student visa automatically gives you permission to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during your course and full-time during scheduled course breaks. This is a great way to help with your living expenses and gain valuable work experience.
On average, an international student should budget between AU $1,800 to AU $3,000 per month for living expenses. This includes accommodation, food, utilities, transportation, and personal costs. This figure can be significantly higher in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
As of 2025, the base application fee for the Australian Student visa (subclass 500) is AUD 2,000. Note that this fee can change, and you may also have to pay for other costs like health checks and biometrics.
Yes, it is a mandatory visa requirement. You must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay. The cost varies by provider, but for a single student, it is generally around AUD 600-800 per year.
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