How to find student accommodation in Australia

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Reading time: 6 minutes

Have you been accepted to study in Australia? Looking for a place to live can be one of the most enjoyable parts of planning your move abroad. There are lots of housing opportunities for international students – and in this blog, we’ll take you through a few options.

We’ll explore accommodation around two popular universities – The University of Adelaide and The University of Melbourne to help you begin your search. We’ll also give you an idea about where you might look for housing in other cities around the country. 

What’s important to you? 

There are a number of things you should consider when deciding on a place to live. We recommend making a list of everything you want in a home. Having a clear idea about what kind of place you want to live in will help you to narrow down your housing options – and ensure you have the best possible experience abroad. Ask yourself:  

  • Do you want to live close to campus? 

  • Do you want to live in a house or an apartment?

  • Do you want to live in a social setting with roommates?

  • What amenities can’t you live without? (like air conditioning or high-speed internet)

  • And, of course, what is your budget? 

You might be interested in our blog: Australian loans for international students 

On-campus housing 

Nearly all major institutions in Australia offer on-campus accommodation for international students. Lots of people choose to live in these residences because they’re convenient and it’s really easy to get to class. University residences also provide international students with a supportive place to call home right upon arriving from abroad.

Living on-campus is a great opportunity to meet fellow students, too, because there are usually lots of social events planned throughout the semester. Accommodation can range from shared dorm rooms, single rooms, or private studio apartments, and can cost between $110-$280 AUD a week.

So, what do The University of Adelaide and The University of Melbourne offer?

Off-campus housing 

There is a whole range of housing options off-campus, too. Let’s explore:  

Student accommodation 

There are lots of private student accommodation options located close to universities. They are usually not managed by universities themselves. But they are designed specifically for students and usually have many of the same facilities as a student residence – such as food halls or study rooms.

Remember, even if you don’t live in a university residence, you can still have a full social life and take part in activities with fellow students.

Check out these resources to help find off-campus student accommodation in Melbourne and Adelaide: 

  • Adelaide Student Housing is a website made to help international students look for accommodation in the city. It’s run by the Government of South Australia and features more than two dozen student housing options – including places like UniLodge, Y Suites, and Atira Student Living. The website also lists weekly prices for each property, making it easy for international students to compare. Prices range between $105-$690 AUD a week.

  • Close to the University of Melbourne, you can also find places like UniLodge and Infinity Place. Prices for these two options range between $173-$589 AUD a week. If you want to look for more student housing locations check out the website University Living, which lists accommodation for students in hundreds of cities around the world.

Private rentals  

When you finally arrive in Australia, you might also decide to live on your own in an apartment. There are definitely some benefits to living in a private rental. You get more independence and privacy. You can also choose to live anywhere you like in your new city or town.

According to the government website Study Australia, rent can cost between $185-$440 AUD a week. You might also be asked to sign a lease for an extended period, which could give you less flexibility during your time abroad.

You can look for private rentals in Melbourne, Adelaide, and across Australia using websites like Domain, Gumtree, or realestate.com.au. 

Living with roommates  

Sharing a house or apartment is a popular option for local and international students alike. It’s common for three or more people to share the same living space.

Overall, this arrangement gives you a great chance to meet other students or young professionals – and perhaps even form lasting friendships. Shared accommodation can cost between $95-$215 AUD a week. Just make sure to sign a contract so everyone is aware of their rights and responsibilities.

You can search for roommates on websites like flatmates.com.au or Flatmate Finders. Also check out university-specific community Facebook groups, where students often post rooms for rent.  

Homestays 

You might choose a homestay option, which means you’ll live with a local family. This might help you feel more supported and less isolated. You’ll also get the chance to practice your English skills in a home environment and possibly go on trips to visit local attractions, celebrate holidays, and experience your host family’s culture.

Homestays usually include meals, which can be a big plus for busy students. They can be arranged by an education agent in Australia, but there are a range of organizations you can look into for more information, as well – including  Australia Home Stay Network, and Study Vision.

As you can see, there are lots of accommodation options for international students across Australia. And the best part? Many are designed to support students’ needs and make them feel at home while abroad.

At PTE Academic, we’re also committed to helping students succeed. We have tons of resources for international students moving across borders – including articles on Australian student visas, the benefits and costs of studying in Australia, and scholarships around the world. Check them out!

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    Consider these 6 destinations to study abroad
    By PTE Author
    Reading time: 5 minutes

    You can still study abroad and stick to a budget. In fact, many of the cheapest countries to attend university are also some of the most beautiful places in the world.

    In this blog, we’ll explore 6 affordable international study destinations. And the great news is PTE Academic – our English language proficiency exam can help you achieve your study abroad dream at these amazing places. Let’s delve in:  

    1. Norway 

    Norway isn’t just picturesque. It’s also one of the cheapest countries to study in for international students. Most universities in Norway are publicly funded and don’t charge tuition fees – even for foreign learners. While some private universities do charge tuition – between €7000-€19,000 – international students aren’t required to pay more than Norwegians.  

    It is important to keep in mind, however, that the living costs in Norway are high. It can cost international students between €800 –€1400 per month to live in the country. But there are some grants and scholarships available to help students fund their time abroad. You can check them out here.  

    Overall, Norway offers world-class education and an excellent standard of living. Medical services are usually free for international students and many courses are taught in English, making it a great place to study abroad. 

    PTE Academic is accepted at top institutions in Norway including University of Oslo, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). 

    Find out where else PTE Academic can take you in Norway.

     2. Malaysia 

    With high-ranked universities and the fastest growing regional economy in the world, Malaysia is also an excellent destination to consider. The country boasts more than 100 higher education institutions – including branches of universities like Monash University and the University of Nottingham.  

    A bachelor’s degree for international students (not studying medicine) costs about $10,000-$20,000 USD at a public institution, and significantly more at an international branch campus.  

    However, the thing that makes Malaysia attractive is its low cost of living. Kuala Lumpur, the country’s capital city, is ranked by QS Best Student Cities Rankings as the second most affordable student city in the world. Rent in a shared apartment in Malaysia can cost as little as $50-$250 USD per month.  

    To learn more about how much it costs to live in Malaysia, visit the government’s website here.  

    PTE Academic is accepted at top institutions in Malaysia including Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). Find out where else PTE Academic can take you in Malaysia. 

     3. Spain 

    Spain has a great climate, a relaxed lifestyle, and more than 70 universities to choose from. And yes, it also offers affordable tuition fees. Tuition for EU/EAA students at a public university can range from just €150-€3500.  Keep in mind though, if you’re coming from a country outside the EU/EAA, your tuition fees could be higher.  

    The cost of living for international students in Spain ranges from €700-€1,100 a month. Many courses here are also taught in English, making Spain a good choice if you’re interested in improving both your English and Spanish skills.  

    PTE Academic is accepted at top institutions in Spain including Universidad de Granada. Find out where else PTE Academic can take you in Spain.

     4. France 

    France is a surprisingly affordable place for international students to study. It’s also incredibly popular – more than 350,000 students enroll in the university there each year. France’s public universities charge just €170 per year for a bachelor’s degree for EU/EAA students. But like in Spain, if you’re a non-EU/EAA citizen, fees are likely to cost more.  

    The cost of living is more expensive in larger cities like Paris. But in smaller cities, you can expect to pay around €650 per month.  

    PTE Academic is accepted at top institutions in France including Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne. Find out where else PTE Academic can take you in France. 

    5. South Africa

    South Africa is renowned for its natural beauty and rich culture – it has 11 official languages, which is more than any other country in the world. It’s also home to the top-rated university in Africa: University of Cape Town.  

    Tuition for a bachelor’s degree in South Africa is reasonably inexpensive compared to locations and will cost international students between €6000–€7000 per year. Living costs are also only about €550 per month. 

    Find out how PTE Academic can help you to study at University of Cape Town. 

    6. Greece 

    Last but not least, Greece is one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe.  Most students from the EU/EEA can study for free, while all other students could pay up to €2000 per year. 

    Greece also boasts low costs of living. Students can expect to pay between €450-€750 per month – and some students in financial need can live on campus for free. Better yet, between studies, international learners can soak up the sun while spending time on Greece’s beautiful beaches. What’s not to love?  

    Ready to kickstart your dream of studying abroad?

    Many top-rated international institutions offer courses in English and require you to take an English language test.  

    PTE Academic is recognized by universities around the world – find out who accepts PTE Academic.

  • image- new world 1080px
    8 things to consider before moving abroad
    By PTE Author
    Reading time: 6 minutes

    There’s a lot to think about when moving overseas. Will you need health insurance? What identity documents will you need to apply for? And of course, where will you live and work?

    We’ve been there, and we get it! That’s why we’ve put together this list of 8 things to consider before moving abroad. Let’s take a look:  

    1. Understand visa requirements

    If you plan to move abroad for more than six months, you might need a visa to live, work or study. So before making any travel plans, you should visit your destination country’s immigration website to ensure you’re eligible for a visa – and understand all the requirements. Many governments, for example, require applicants to take an approved English language proficiency test like PTE Academic to study or work in the country.

    If you’re looking for visa support, you may also decide to hire a registered migration agent. These are immigration professionals and can complete your visa application for you, help prepare documents, and provide advice throughout the application process.

    You can more about specific visa requirements on these government websites:

    You might be interested in reading our article: Should you hire a migration agent to move to Australia?  

    2. Find out if you’re eligible to work 

    Just because you’ve been granted a visa to live in a country, doesn’t mean you have the right to work full-time.

    Many student visas put a cap on how many hours people can work. For example, in Australia students are allowed to work up to 40 hours every two weeks during the school term. In the UK, students are able to work 20 hours per week during the semester. And in Malaysia, students can also work up to 20 hours a week, but only during school breaks longer than eight days.

    If you’re not on a student visa, it is likely you’ll have permission to work full-time. However, many countries require you to apply for a social insurance number – or something similar – before you can.

    In Canada, for example, permanent and temporary residents need to apply for a social insurance number after they land in the country, and it can take about 20 days to arrive.

    3. Create a budget

    Before moving to a new country, you should have some savings. In some cases, depending on your visa type and the country you’re moving to, you might be required to show proof of savings with your visa application.

    Day-to-day living costs may also be more expensive abroad, and it could take you longer than anticipated to find a job – so it’s important to have money put away to help you settle in.

    If you’re a student planning to move to Canada or the UK, we’ve put together some detailed guides that outline the living costs in each country: 

    Many governments offer cost of living calculators online, which can be a great resource for new immigrants. Take a look at New Zealand’s cost of living tool, for example.

    When you arrive, you’ll also need to open a bank account. This can often be done online. Some banks even have accounts specifically designed for newcomers and offer credit cards to help build credit history. 

    4. Search for housing 

    Looking for accommodation can be one of the most exciting parts of moving abroad. Once you find a place to call home, you’re able to really imagine what your new life will be like – you get to explore Google Maps from afar, check out neighborhood restaurants online, and plan where you might socialize with friends.

    If you’re moving with a work visa, your new workplace might be able to help you find temporary accommodation. Likewise, if you’re moving abroad to study, your institution should offer housing options for international students – such as on-campus apartments or other homestay partnerships. It’s also a great idea to join local housing Facebook groups, where people post their apartments or houses for temporary or long-term rentals.

    You might be interested in: How to choose international student accommodation in the UK.

    5. Discover transportation options

    Once you know where you’ll live, you can figure out how you’ll get around. Is your apartment close to public transportation? Or have you opted to live outside a city center, and will need to get around by car?

    You could be able to drive with an international driver’s license right after landing abroad. But after a few months, lots of countries will require you to apply for a local driver’s license instead. If you’re moving to a country where it snows, it might also be a good idea to invest in driving lessons to learn how to drive safely on icy roads.

    6. Apply for healthcare or insurance

    You might not be automatically eligible for health coverage in your destination country, even if it offers universal healthcare to citizens.

    In Canada, for example, each province administers its own publicly-funded healthcare. That means, if you’re a student, your eligibility for healthcare will depend on where you study. If you’re not eligible, your university should offer you insurance.

    On the other hand, if you’re on a work visa or permanent resident visa, you may be able to apply for publicly-funded healthcare. But, there might be a waiting period before you’re able to have access – so it’s important to buy insurance to make sure you’re covered beforehand.

    Always check with the local government in your destination country to see what your rights are regarding healthcare. It’s also important to research the mental health services that may be available once you arrive. If you’re a student, your university may offer counseling services on campus.  

    7. Keep up to date with travel regulations

    Travel regulations change quickly, so it’s essential to keep up to date on what you’ll need to do before – and after – arriving at your destination country.

    Always consult the health authorities in the country you’re traveling to ensure you follow public health guidelines – and you’ll be allowed to enter the country. 

    8. Don’t forget about the little things 

    When moving abroad, we tend to focus on the big things – like housing, work, and healthcare. But there are lots of little things to think about, too! Remember to:

    • Close your utility accounts – like internet and hydro – before leaving home (and do it before the cut-off date, so you don’t get charged extra)

    • Unlock your mobile phone so you’ll be able to use a local SIM card, and get a power plug adapter for your charger if you need one.

    • Bring a few things that remind you of home and that you won’t be able to buy abroad. Something as simple as packing your favorite face wash or snack food can make a big difference when just starting to settle in.

    Overall, getting a head-start on your travel preparations will help you to reduce stress and hit the ground running when you arrive.

  • Image, teaching, 800px
    How are PTE and IELTS different? Here’s what you need to know
    By PTE Author

    Read Time: 6 minutes

    PTE Academic is a real-world English test. This means it uses authentic source materials and a range of accents to assess natural real-world English proficiency. The test format is clearly structured, but students still need to understand the tasks in each section and know what they have to do to succeed on test day. 

    The good news is that if you’re already used to preparing candidates for IELTS Academic, you’ll easily be able to adapt to help prepare them for their PTE Academic test. 

    Let’s have a look at the similarities and differences between both tests and explore how you can adapt your test preparation classes for success in PTE Academic. 

    The structure of the tests

    The structure of PTE Academic and IELTS Academic is broadly similar. Both tests assess students on all four language skills: speaking, writing, reading and listening. The biggest difference in structure is that for PTE Academic there is just one two-hour computed-based test for all four skills. Whereas with IELTS Academic you need to book a separate face-to-face speaking test. More on that below. The order that skills are tested in, and the way the tasks are timed and organized, is also different: