Estimated cost for a Bhutanese to study in Australia

Astonishing view of the Opera House

Australia is the number one preferred study destination for Bhutanese. It is one of the famous study abroad destinations for international students. The country attracts many students annually because Universities in Australia have the best education systems and world-class facilities.  Approximately 22,000 different courses are available in 1100 universities and institutions throughout the country.

Australian lifestyles and cities are easily adaptable for international students because they have the friendliest neighborhood, excellent job prospects (part-time jobs included), and provides you with homely hospitality. There are thousands of scholarships available, and students have numerous job opportunities during and after their studies. Every year, Australia attracts an increasing number of international students, despite the high living standard and expensive tuition fees.

Following are some of the budget stretches for considering to study in Australia.

1. Estimation of tuition fees Australia

Estimation of course fees in Australia

Investment in your education yields better returns. Pursuing a higher-level education in Australia doesn’t come cheap. The cost of studying in Australia varies depending on your course and the level of education. Here are the average estimated tuition fees and course cost for international students:

The estimated fees for diploma programs or associate’s degree (VET) range from AU$ 12000- 15000 a year.

The estimated fees for international undergraduate or bachelor’s degree ranges from AU$ 20000- 45000 a year. For postgraduates and doctoral degrees, the cost will reach up to AU$ 45000- AU$50000.

These estimated figures are not liable for high-value courses. If you wish to pursue studies such as veterinary or medical degrees, it will be significantly expensive.

Note* 1 AUD = Nu ( 50 -60) depending on the exchange rates.

2. Living expenses in Australia

Luxurious Australian lifestyle

The Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs directs that you will need to show funds of AUD 21,041 to support yourself for the first year and prove you have financial resources to live and study in Australia. You will have to add another figure of AU$7100 if you have a partner or spouse and another AU$3040 if you have children with you. You will also need to prove that you have enough money for your stay and return airfare. Although you may not need to spend such amounts, these are the figures required to meet the Australian immigration standards.

International students in Australia need between 1400 to 2500 AUD /month to cover all their living expenses in Australia. It includes accommodation, food, and other costs in Australia.

The commodities mentioned below are some of the weekly expenses in Australia:

  • Groceries and dining al fresco(eating outside)- AU$80-280 per week
  • Gas and electricity consumption- AU$35-140 per week.
  • Phone and internet costs- AU$20-55 per week
  • Transportation costs (Public Transport)- AU$15-55 per week
  • Car(if purchase)- AU$150-250 per week
  • other entertainments- AU$80-150 per week


Most Australian universities and institutions give a detailed breakdown of the cost of living in their neighborhood. Some universities give out shopping smarter pages where students can learn about shopping and commodities on their websites. Make sure to carry extra budgets because the universities and institutions will only include costs for an academic year, exclusive of vacations. International students will learn to be independent, time management, and resource utilization during their stay in Australia.

3. Food costs in Australia

Food cost in Australian restaurants.

Groceries are available in local marts and require an average of 500 – 1000 AUD per month. Shopping at cheaper markets like Aldi, Coles, and Woolworths will save your money. The average meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost 18 AUD, while a three-course food for two can cost up to 80 AUD.

Research shows that most student students cook in their room and save 50% of the external expenditure. There are many cafes and high-class restaurants that offer affordable packages for Birthday celebrations and many other occasions.

4. The cost of student accommodation in Australia

Estimation of renting a house in Australia

Your most significant living expense in Australia will be your housing rent. It is comparatively cheaper to live in the suburbs and further away from cities. The accommodation price will vary depending on the area and types of apartment. You can choose to stay in a furnished or semi-furnished flat or room. Sydney is the most expensive city in Australia, followed by Melbourne, Perth, Canberra, Brisbane, and Adelaide.

You will spend almost AU$ 16000 roughly on accommodation in Australia per month. Sharing a house is a common trend for international students and is recommended. Rent for a share house will cost around AU$ 150-300 per week in Australia considering cheaper accommodation, further away from cities.

5. Transportation costs in Australia

Reasonable public transports in Australia

Depending on cities, public transport is easily accessible with buses, trains, trams, and ferries  in Australia. Sydney is the most expensive city; an adult fare for public transportation would cost around AU$2-3 for an average of 10 Km journey. Students can benefit from other discounts from state programs such as Queensland, South Australia, and Victoria depending on your residential area. Public transport for students costs between 30 – 70 AUD per month depending on the city. Students get forty percent (40 %) discounts on public transport.

Wrap Up

Australian university degrees are renowned world-wide.

The quality of life in Australia is high with better education and facilities. The part- time job wages in Australia are also high compared to other parts of the world that help you sustain the Australian lifestyle. As an international student, you must use your student card every possible way and consider sharing rents and not going out often.

Over 10,000 Bhutanese are residing in Australia for work and study. With the safest neighborhood, low crime rates, top facilities, and friendly populace, you will feel at home in Australia.

Do you wish to study at the leading Universities in Australia?
Global Reach is the gateway to your educational dreams.

Global Reach is the first and comprehensive study-abroad consultant with consistent professional service located in the Kingdom of Bhutan.