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5 FAQs About Studying in Australia

Student Life

5 FAQs About Studying in Australia

Answers to five of the most frequently asked questions we receive from prospective international students - about costs, English requirements, work rights, post-study options, and how to choose the right course.

Student Life5 min readActive Study Australia

Considering studying in Australia often comes with a long list of questions - about the application process, costs, work rights, visa requirements, and life on the ground. Here are answers to five of the most frequently asked questions we receive from prospective international students.

FAQ 1: How Much Does It Cost to Study in Australia?

Tuition fees vary widely by course type and institution level. As a general guide:

  • English language courses: AUD 300-400 per week
  • Vocational courses (Certificate, Diploma, Advanced Diploma): AUD 4,000-22,000 per year
  • Undergraduate degrees (Bachelor's): AUD 20,000-45,000 per year
  • Postgraduate degrees (Master's, Graduate Diploma): AUD 22,000-50,000 per year

Living costs are in addition to tuition. The Australian government's benchmark for living costs is approximately AUD 29,710 per year for a single student - more in Sydney and Melbourne, less in Perth and Adelaide.

FAQ 2: What English Score Do I Need?

English requirements vary by institution and course level. As a general guide, undergraduate and postgraduate courses typically require an IELTS overall score of 6.0-6.5 (with no band below 6.0). Some competitive programs require 7.0 or above. Vocational courses and foundation programs generally accept lower scores.

If you do not yet meet the requirement, enrolling in an English language program first is the standard pathway. Many institutions offer packaged English + degree programs that guarantee entry to the degree program upon completion of the English course.

Have questions about studying in Australia?

Our expert advisers can answer them - and help you build a personalised study plan.

FAQ 3: Can I Work While I Study?

Since changes in 2023, most Subclass 500 student visa holders can work unlimited hours during their studies. This replaced the previous 48-hour fortnightly cap. Always check your individual visa grant notice, as conditions can vary.

Australia's minimum wage is among the highest in the world, and penalty rates for weekend, public holiday, and evening work are significantly higher than standard rates. Part-time work in hospitality, retail, or tutoring can meaningfully supplement your living budget.

FAQ 4: What Happens After I Finish My Studies?

Depending on your qualification level and where you studied, you may be eligible for a Subclass 485 Post-Study Work visa, which allows you to live and work in Australia after your studies. Duration ranges from 2 to 6 years depending on your degree level and study location.

The 485 is also the primary vehicle for accumulating Australian work experience that contributes to a skilled migration (PR) application. Strategic planning - choosing the right occupation and accumulating relevant experience - during this period significantly improves your PR prospects.

Ready to get clear answers and a personalised plan?

Book a free consultation with Active Study Australia.

FAQ 5: How Do I Choose the Right Course and Institution?

This is the most important decision you will make in your study journey. Consider:

  • Whether the course leads to an occupation on Australia's skilled migration lists
  • The institution's ranking and reputation in your field
  • Graduate employment outcomes for your specific course
  • The city and its cost of living, lifestyle, and employment market
  • The total cost of the program and your realistic budget
  • Whether the institution provides strong international student support services

Working with a registered education agent who has whole-of-market knowledge is the most effective way to evaluate these factors systematically. At Active Study Australia, our advisers provide personalised recommendations based on your academic background, career goals, and migration objectives - at no cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to start your journey to Australian PR?

Book a free consultation with our MARA-registered migration agents and get a personalised study and PR pathway mapped for you.

Migration Institute of AustraliaMember of Migration AllianceQEAC L085 AustraliaMigration Agents Registration Number 2318131Australian Government Office of the Migration Agents Registration AuthorityICEF Agency Status

We are a licensed Migration Agent. Our License details can be found here.

You can find more information about migration agents at the Migration Agent Registration Authority www.mara.gov.au