Studying in Australia independently is a popular option for many students because it allows them to study without being overly dependent on academic performance. Australia is renowned for its education system and is trusted by many Vietnamese parents. Many generations of students dream of studying and working in Australia.
### Costs of Self-Funded Study in Australia
- **High School Programs**: 13,500 AUD – 16,000 AUD per year
- **Vocational Education and Training (VET) Programs**: 12,500 AUD – 16,500 AUD per year
- **Undergraduate Programs**: 20,000 AUD – 33,000 AUD per year (higher for medical and pharmaceutical fields)
- **Postgraduate and Master's Programs**: 21,000 AUD – 37,000 AUD per year
- **Doctoral Programs**: 14,000 AUD – 37,000 AUD per year
- **English Language Courses (ESL)**: 300 – 400 AUD per week
### Housing Options
**Private Rentals, Apartments, and Shared Housing**
The first major expense after arriving in Australia is housing. The cost for international students ranges from 400 to 600 AUD per month, depending on the location. Housing near city centers is more expensive but more convenient. Living further from the center usually requires commuting by bus or subway, which takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
- **3-5 Bedroom Apartments**: 300 – 600 AUD per month per person, typically sharing with other students. Utilities may be included in the rent.
**Dormitories**
Many high schools, colleges, and universities in Australia have dormitories for students, though they are limited and fill up quickly. When you start your application process, inform your agent about your intention to stay in a dormitory so they can secure a spot for you as early as possible.
Dormitories provide all the necessary amenities, and their security is strictly controlled. The cost ranges from 350 AUD to 1100 AUD per month.
**Homestays**
This option is suitable for middle and high school students. Students live with a host family, get a private room, and receive meals prepared by the family. Homestay costs are 1,200 to 1,500 AUD per month, including meals.
### Food Costs
On average, you will spend 200 to 300 AUD per month on food. You can save money by shopping at markets and cooking your own meals. Some schools offer meal plans payable monthly.
### Transportation
Public transportation, like buses and subways, is affordable and convenient, typically costing 400 to 500 AUD per year for an electronic payment card. Walking or cycling is also an option if you live near your school.
### OSHC Insurance Costs
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for all international students in Australia. You must have OSHC before applying for your student visa and maintain it throughout your studies. The cost is typically 600 to 700 AUD per year.
### Health Check Costs
Health check costs vary by the clinic approved by the Australian consulate. Generally, it costs between 2 and 2.5 million VND (about 100 to 140 AUD) per check.
### Tips for Self-Funded Study in Australia
**Budget Planning**
List fixed expenses like rent, utilities, internet, and transportation. Plan your monthly food budget and save an emergency fund. Effective budgeting will help you manage your finances and avoid financial problems while studying in Australia.
**Use Free Communication Tools**
Reduce unnecessary phone costs by using free communication tools like Facebook, Instagram, Viber, and Skype.
**Smart Spending and Saving**
Create a spending plan to control your daily expenses and avoid unnecessary spending. Stick to your budget to save money.
**Choose Affordable Schools**
Consider enrolling in more affordable institutions, such as:
- William Angliss Institute
- CQ University
- TAFE New South Wales
- Charles Sturt University
- James Cook University
- University of Tasmania
- University of Kent
**Part-Time Jobs**
Student visas allow up to 40 hours of work every two weeks. Balance your study schedule with part-time work. Jobs in restaurants, retail, farms, and salons pay 7.5 to 20 AUD per hour, depending on the job.
**Understand Tax Obligations**
International students must register for a Tax File Number (TFN) with the Australian Taxation Office. If you earn over 18,200 AUD per year, you must pay income tax at a rate of 19 cents per dollar.
**Look for Discounts**
Save money by taking advantage of promotions and discounts. Consider buying near-expiry products or shopping online for better deals.
### Conclusion
Self-funded study in Australia requires careful financial planning and resourcefulness. By choosing affordable housing, budgeting effectively, working part-time, and taking advantage of discounts, you can manage your expenses and make the most of your study experience in Australia.
### Costs of Self-Funded Study in Australia
- **High School Programs**: 13,500 AUD – 16,000 AUD per year
- **Vocational Education and Training (VET) Programs**: 12,500 AUD – 16,500 AUD per year
- **Undergraduate Programs**: 20,000 AUD – 33,000 AUD per year (higher for medical and pharmaceutical fields)
- **Postgraduate and Master's Programs**: 21,000 AUD – 37,000 AUD per year
- **Doctoral Programs**: 14,000 AUD – 37,000 AUD per year
- **English Language Courses (ESL)**: 300 – 400 AUD per week
### Housing Options
**Private Rentals, Apartments, and Shared Housing**
The first major expense after arriving in Australia is housing. The cost for international students ranges from 400 to 600 AUD per month, depending on the location. Housing near city centers is more expensive but more convenient. Living further from the center usually requires commuting by bus or subway, which takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
- **3-5 Bedroom Apartments**: 300 – 600 AUD per month per person, typically sharing with other students. Utilities may be included in the rent.
**Dormitories**
Many high schools, colleges, and universities in Australia have dormitories for students, though they are limited and fill up quickly. When you start your application process, inform your agent about your intention to stay in a dormitory so they can secure a spot for you as early as possible.
Dormitories provide all the necessary amenities, and their security is strictly controlled. The cost ranges from 350 AUD to 1100 AUD per month.
**Homestays**
This option is suitable for middle and high school students. Students live with a host family, get a private room, and receive meals prepared by the family. Homestay costs are 1,200 to 1,500 AUD per month, including meals.
### Food Costs
On average, you will spend 200 to 300 AUD per month on food. You can save money by shopping at markets and cooking your own meals. Some schools offer meal plans payable monthly.
### Transportation
Public transportation, like buses and subways, is affordable and convenient, typically costing 400 to 500 AUD per year for an electronic payment card. Walking or cycling is also an option if you live near your school.
### OSHC Insurance Costs
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for all international students in Australia. You must have OSHC before applying for your student visa and maintain it throughout your studies. The cost is typically 600 to 700 AUD per year.
### Health Check Costs
Health check costs vary by the clinic approved by the Australian consulate. Generally, it costs between 2 and 2.5 million VND (about 100 to 140 AUD) per check.
### Tips for Self-Funded Study in Australia
**Budget Planning**
List fixed expenses like rent, utilities, internet, and transportation. Plan your monthly food budget and save an emergency fund. Effective budgeting will help you manage your finances and avoid financial problems while studying in Australia.
**Use Free Communication Tools**
Reduce unnecessary phone costs by using free communication tools like Facebook, Instagram, Viber, and Skype.
**Smart Spending and Saving**
Create a spending plan to control your daily expenses and avoid unnecessary spending. Stick to your budget to save money.
**Choose Affordable Schools**
Consider enrolling in more affordable institutions, such as:
- William Angliss Institute
- CQ University
- TAFE New South Wales
- Charles Sturt University
- James Cook University
- University of Tasmania
- University of Kent
**Part-Time Jobs**
Student visas allow up to 40 hours of work every two weeks. Balance your study schedule with part-time work. Jobs in restaurants, retail, farms, and salons pay 7.5 to 20 AUD per hour, depending on the job.
**Understand Tax Obligations**
International students must register for a Tax File Number (TFN) with the Australian Taxation Office. If you earn over 18,200 AUD per year, you must pay income tax at a rate of 19 cents per dollar.
**Look for Discounts**
Save money by taking advantage of promotions and discounts. Consider buying near-expiry products or shopping online for better deals.
### Conclusion
Self-funded study in Australia requires careful financial planning and resourcefulness. By choosing affordable housing, budgeting effectively, working part-time, and taking advantage of discounts, you can manage your expenses and make the most of your study experience in Australia.