Cost of living

International study – What will it cost?

When planning to study abroad, consider ongoing and one-time cost-of-living expenses such as your student visa, accommodation, food, recreation, entertainment and travel.

A look at your starting costs

As of March 2025, the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs (DHA) provided an estimate for 12 months of living costs. Actual costs vary throughout Australia and may be much higher than the minimums listed below.


Visa expenses and minimum amounts

The Australian Government requires you to demonstrate that you have the minimum amount of money needed to pay for your stay as part of the conditions to be granted a student visa. These minimum requirements must be enough to pay for:

Your travel expenses

12 months' worth of your course fees1

12 months of living costs for you and any joining family

School fees for school-age children joining you

DHA 12-month living costs estimate

Students: A$29,710

Accompanying partners: A$10,394

Each accompanying child: A$4,4492

Overseas health cover

Understand your ongoing expenses

As well as your minimum requirements, living and study costs, and fees for any partners or children accompanying you, it is recommended that you also allow for additional expenses.

We offer a range of scholarships to help with the increasing financial pressures when planning for international study. So whether you’re interested in undergraduate or postgraduate coursework, there’s a La Trobe scholarship for you.

Study expenses

The cost of studying in Australia as an international student will vary depending on your level of study. Expenses you should consider include:

Textbooks and other materials

Transport to and from campus

Accommodation

The cost of accommodation while studying in Australia depends on location. If you live in a city such as Melbourne, costs may be higher than in a regional area such as Bendigo or Shepparton.

Once you’ve decided on your location, you must consider the type of accommodation required. You could live in on-campus accommodation, a homestay arrangement, a private or shared rental, or with family or friends.

Our guide on studying and living in Australia can help you figure out where you want to study.

The median weekly rent for a home in Melbourne is A$5603

The weekly median rent for a regional Victorian home is A$455

Other living expenses

Living and studying in Australia will require you to factor in the cost of essentials like food and utilities, alongside entertainment and other expenses. For a detailed breakdown of living costs, Study Melbourne provides updated budgeting and cost of living data.

A few additional living expenses to consider include:

Groceries and household items

Power, water and other utility bills

Entertainment and recreation

1Pro rata fees apply if the period is less than 12 months.

2Add a further A$13,502 per year for each school-age child accompanying you.

3Median weekly rent for a home.

Note: All estimated costs are accurate as of 13 May 2025 unless otherwise stated.