Lots of people would like to study abroad in Australia. However, they fear that it is unaffordable. Naturally, it is very important to find out how much such a trip is going to cost you, and this needs to start by knowing how long you want to go for. You will obviously have to budget differently for a summer program than you would for an entire year. You also have to make sure you budget for everything: your tuition costs, your living expenses, your books and materials, and more.
What Does it Cost to Study Abroad in Australia?
First of all, the tuition rates you will pay will vary depending on which university you go to, and which program you choose. In general, however, you can expect that a bachelor’s degree would cost anything between $11,000 and $23,000 (USD). If, however, you want to study something more specialized, such as a Bachelor in Veterinary Science, then you will probably pay more, ranging from some $19,000 to $40,000. Law degrees usually cost anything from $17,500 to $36,000.
If you want to study towards a master’s degree, you will have to pay a little more, just as you would in this country. For the full two years, you can expect to pay between $13,000 and $27,00. And, should you want to add a further two years and obtain a Ph.D., you can expect to pay a further $2,500 to $25,000. Medical degrees usually cost between $35,000 and $50,000, whereas an MBA averages at between $17,000 and $50,000.
The cost of your tuition isn’t the only thing to pay for. You also have to pay your student visa. This allows you to go to university in Australia and reside there during your stay. You may also be allowed to work and access the country’s health care system, although this is not always the case. The Australia visa is slightly more expensive than the Kiwi visa. The first costs between $450 and $515, whereas the latter ranges from free to around $170. On both, you are allowed to work during your academic year for up to 20 hours per week, and full time during school breaks.
Of course, you will also have to pay for your living expenses, your books, and your travel to the country itself. In 2007, it was found that, overall, New Zealand was marginally cheaper for these types of expenses than Australia. One academic year costs around $8,958 (USD), whereas it cost around $11,322 in Australia. That said, American students were found to pay slightly more overall, averaging at $12,362 for a year. Naturally, since you are in Australia, you are likely to want to see the sights as well, which means you have to budget for that as well.
Thankfully, you may be able to receive some form of financial aid, particularly if you combine your degree in Australia with one in your own country. Do speak to professional advisors and to your school about that.
