Canberra is the capital of Australia and is considered to be one of the most liveable cities in the world. What makes Canberra unique is its exceptionally friendly people and safe city with excellent healthcare facilities. It is home to many important government institutions, national monuments, and museums as well.
Being one of the most lucrative higher education destinations across the globe, the quality of education and research is world-class here. Students can find innovative and creative programs in various disciplines at the Australian National University, the University of Canberra, and the Canberra Institute of Technology.
Cost of Living Expenses in Canberra
When it comes to studying in Canberra, one thing that haunts international students is the cost of living in the capital city. Despite its relatively small population, Canberra has a high cost of living. But the good news is that the cost of living in Canberra is relatively lower when compared to other major Australian cities. The cost of living in Australia for international students is typically around A$ 20,000 depending on lifestyle choices like housing and transportation.
Here, we have put up a comprehensive guide to living costs in Australia for international students and everything else you will need to know about it.
Accommodation costs:
The biggest expense for students in Canberra is their accommodation cost. There are a number of different types of accommodation available to students, each with its own set of pros and cons. The most popular type of student accommodation in Canberra is on-campus accommodation. On-campus accommodation is usually more expensive than off-campus options, but it is often more convenient as it is usually located close to the university. Another popular type of student accommodation in Canberra has shared houses. Shared houses are usually cheaper than on-campus options, but they often require students to sign a lease for an entire year. However, you can expect a host of benefits including a fitness center, pool, cinema room, etc. The average cost of rent for students varies from A$162 per week to over A$530 depending upon several factors such as location, neighborhood, amenities, type of accommodation, etc. Also, living in the city center is a pricey decision than living outside.
Food costs:
There are a number of different options available to students when it comes to food, and the cost of food can greatly depend on the type of food that students choose to eat. The cheapest option for students is to cook their own meals, but this can be time-consuming. Another option is to eat out at restaurants, which can be more expensive but is often more convenient. The cost of food for students in Canberra varies from A$50 to A$100 per week. A meal in an inexpensive restaurant may cost you around A$22, while a meal in a more expensive restaurant can cost A$50 or more.
Transportation costs:
The transportation in Canberra is quite good, well-connected, and efficient. The cost of public transportation in Canberra is A$3-A$6 for a one-way trip. The cost of a monthly pass is around A$50, which gives you unlimited rides on buses and trains. If you choose to drive, the cost of gasoline is around A$1.98 per liter. For students, the best option is to ride a bike as it is relatively cheap and it is a good way to get some exercise or a bus.
Utility costs:
The cost of utilities in Canberra is as high as A$270 per month, which includes the cost of electricity, gas, water, and internet. This amount may vary depending on your usage. It is better to live in a student residence where utilities are often included in the price of rent. While the cost of the internet alone can be somewhere around A$70 per month, the cost of mobile tariff plans is relatively cheaper with an average of A$0.32 per minute.
Miscellaneous:
There are a few other miscellaneous costs that students need to consider when studying in Canberra. These include the cost of books and course materials, which can be quite expensive. Additionally, students need to factor in the cost of health insurance, which is required for all international students in Australia. The cost of health insurance for students is according to the type of coverage that you choose, but it is typically around A$450 per year. Add to this the cost of shopping, entertainment, outings, and other personal expenses.
The cost of living in Canberra is important for students to budget carefully and understand the costs that they will be responsible for before they arrive. So that the students can make informed decisions about their accommodation, food, transportation options, and manage finances while studying abroad. With careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to live comfortably on a student budget in Canberra.
