Moving to a new country can feel exciting and overwhelming. The steps below can help international students settle into life in Australia.
✔ Accept your Letter of Offer and receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
✔ Apply for your Student Visa (Subclass 500)
✔ Arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
✔ Organise your accommodation
✔ Plan your budget and travel arrangements
✔ During Your First Weeks
✔ Open an Australian bank account
✔ Get a local SIM card or mobile plan
✔ Learn how to use public transport
✔ Explore your neighbourhood and local services
✔ Set up your study schedule and timetable
✔ Connect with classmates and student activities
✔ Learn about student support services
✔ Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) if you plan to work
ECA College provides support services to help international students settle into life in Australia and adjust to their new environment.
Australia is a diverse and multicultural society where people from many cultures live and study together. International students can experience:
Studying in Australia provides an opportunity to develop both academic and life skills in a global environment.
Australia’s major cities are known for being safe, modern and student friendly.
Students benefit from:
Public transport systems including trains, buses and trams make it easy to travel between campus, accommodation and the city.
International students in Australia can choose from several accommodation options depending on their preferences and budget.
Common options include:
Sharing accommodation with other students can be an affordable option and a great way to build friendships.
Understanding living costs is an important part of planning your studies.
The Australian Government recommends international students’ budget approximately AUD $29,710 per year for living expenses.
Accommodation
Food & groceries
Transport
Phone & internet
Personal expenses
$150 – $350
$80 – $150
$30 – $60
$20 – $40
$50 – $100
Actual costs may vary depending on location and lifestyle.
Accommodation
Food
Transport
Phone & internet
Personal expenses
$800 – $1,400
$320 – $600
$120 – $240
$80 – $160
$200 – $400
Estimated monthly total: $1,520 – $2,800 AUD
Students should ensure they have sufficient funds to support their tuition and living expenses while studying in Australia.
Calculate the approximate cost of living based on the city you choose to stayPlanning your finances before arriving in Australia can help you manage living expenses. Helpful tips include:
Eligible international students may work part-time, but employment should not be relied upon to fund tuition or essential living costs.
Education Centre of Australia (ECA) ABN 14 111 918 775. ECA College RTO No. 45012, TEQSA Provider ID: PRV: 14334, CRICOS Provider Code: 02644C. Copyright © 2026 ECA College.
