Hey everyone, I’m Shivansh — and if you’ve ever dreamed of studying in Australia but felt overwhelmed by the visa process, tuition costs, or university options, I’ve been there! This article is my personal, step-by-step story of how I applied for my Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500), found affordable universities, and even secured a partial scholarship.
I’ll also share insider tips on how to manage your budget, choose the right university, and make your dream of studying in Australia a reality — without going broke.
🎯 Why Study in Australia in 2025?
Australia is one of the most popular destinations for international students — and for good reason. It’s safe, multicultural, English-speaking, and full of globally ranked universities. Plus, post-study work rights are amazing!
- ✅ World-class education system
- ✅ Post-study work visa (up to 4 years in some regions)
- ✅ High-quality life and diverse culture
- ✅ Scholarships for international students
- ✅ Part-time work allowed while studying (up to 48 hours per fortnight)
For official details, visit Study Australia — it’s a government resource that helps international students explore study and visa options.
🎓 Step 1: Choosing the Right University
I started my research by comparing universities not just based on rankings but also on cost, location, and available scholarships. Australia has over 40 universities, and many offer affordable, high-quality education — especially in smaller cities like Adelaide, Hobart, or Perth.
Here are some affordable universities for international students:
| University | Location | Average Tuition (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Southern Queensland | Toowoomba | AUD 24,000 – 29,000 |
| Charles Darwin University | Darwin | AUD 22,000 – 28,000 |
| University of Sunshine Coast | Queensland | AUD 23,000 – 30,000 |
| Federation University Australia | Ballarat | AUD 21,000 – 27,000 |
| University of Tasmania | Hobart | AUD 25,000 – 32,000 |
Tip: Don’t ignore regional universities. They often offer extra scholarships and longer post-study work visas (up to 4 years!).
💸 Step 2: Applying for Scholarships in Australia
Getting a scholarship was a game-changer for me. While many people think scholarships are only for top students, that’s not true! Australia offers several options based on academic performance, leadership, financial need, or region.
Top Scholarships for International Students in Australia (2025)
- Australia Awards Scholarship – Fully funded, offered by the Australian Government for students from developing countries.
- Destination Australia Scholarship – Up to AUD 15,000 per year for studying in regional areas.
- Research Training Program (RTP) – For postgraduate research students, covers tuition and stipend.
- University-specific scholarships – Like the University of Queensland International Excellence Scholarship.
Visit Study Australia Scholarships Page for a complete list of current programs.
🧾 Step 3: My Student Visa (Subclass 500) Application Journey
The visa process can feel intimidating, but trust me — once you understand the steps, it’s straightforward. I applied online via the official Australian Government – Student Visa (Subclass 500) page.
Documents I Submitted:
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
- Proof of funds (bank statements, scholarship letter)
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Academic transcripts
- Passport and photos
Visa Fee (as of 2025): AUD 710
Processing Time: Around 3–6 weeks (mine came in 21 days 🎉)
🏡 Step 4: Finding Accommodation in Australia
Australia is expensive if you don’t plan wisely. I chose a shared flat near my university instead of living in student dorms — it saved me about AUD 200 per month!
Accommodation Options:
- University halls: Safe and social, perfect for newcomers.
- Private flats: Affordable if you share with 2–3 students.
- Homestays: Great for cultural experience and meals included.
Average Monthly Living Cost: AUD 1,200 – 1,800 (including rent, food, and transport)
💼 Step 5: Working While Studying in Australia
Australia allows international students to work up to 48 hours per fortnight (and full-time during breaks). I worked as a barista for 10 hours a week — and believe me, Aussie coffee culture is serious business ☕.
- Minimum wage: AUD 23.23/hour (as of 2025)
- Common jobs: Cafés, retail stores, admin work, tutoring
- Pro tip: Use Indeed Australia and Seek.com.au to find part-time jobs
🎓 Step 6: Life in Australia as an International Student
Australian life is everything you imagine — sunny beaches, friendly people, and endless adventures. But it’s also a country where punctuality, independence, and work-life balance matter a lot.
What I Learned Living in Australia
- Australians are super relaxed but hardworking.
- Everyone calls you “mate” — even your professor!
- The multicultural food scene is unbeatable — sushi, curry, pizza, all within one block.
- Weather can be wild — bring sunscreen AND a raincoat.
🧠 Common FAQs About Studying in Australia (2025)
1. What is the minimum IELTS score required?
Usually, a 6.0 overall score is enough for most universities, but top ones may need 6.5–7.0.
2. Can I study in Australia without IELTS?
Yes! Many universities accept alternative proofs like PTE Academic, TOEFL, or prior English-medium education.
3. How much money is required to show for the visa?
For one year of study: around AUD 24,500 for living expenses + tuition + travel funds.
4. Can I bring my spouse or family?
Yes, the Subclass 500 allows dependents, but you must show additional financial proof.
5. How can I get PR (Permanent Residency) after study?
Complete a course in a skilled occupation, apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), gain work experience, and check Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.
📊 Quick Summary Table
| Category | Details (2025) |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Subclass 500 (Student Visa) |
| Work Hours | 48 hours per fortnight (during study) |
| Post-Study Visa | Subclass 485 (2–4 years depending on region) |
| Average Tuition | AUD 25,000 – 35,000/year |
| Living Cost | AUD 1,500/month |
| Top Cities | Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide |
🌏 My Final Thoughts
Studying in Australia completely changed my perspective on life. It’s not just about getting a degree — it’s about growing as a person. The independence, cultural mix, and career exposure are unmatched. If you’re planning your study abroad dream, Australia should definitely be on your list.
My advice? Start early, prepare your documents carefully, and stay positive. The visa officers just want to see that you’re genuinely going to study and come back with skills that make a difference.
For updated info, visit:
Author: Shivansh (International Student Blogger)
Contact: iflylink@gmail.com | Telegram: @iFlyLink_Support
Disclaimer: This article is based on my personal experience and verified public resources. Always check official websites for the latest updates.
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