What you need to study in Australia

Looking to study English in Australia? You’re in good company, with Australia ranking as one of the most popular destinations in the world when it comes to learning English.

But what exactly will you require if you’re looking to study in Australia and make the most of that experience?

Here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need to have in place if you’re looking to study English as an international student in Australia.

Enrolment

From short English language courses to comprehensive studies that take you from beginner to advanced English speaker, Australia has a wealth of English language courses to choose from.

Selecting the right course for you depends on the outcome you hope to achieve. For example, there are general English courses which focus on conversational English or more intensive options such as English courses related to specific professions.

You can do some of these courses as part of a working holiday in Australia or a short visit, or you can complete more comprehensive courses as a dedicated student.

You can use our handy course search tool here, but once you’ve selected a course, you will need to apply and then complete the enrolment process.

Visa

If you’re looking to visit, travel, or study in Australia, you will require a visa to enter the country. A number of different visas allow you to study in Australia.

These include:

• Working holiday visas - which allow people under the age of 35 to study for up to four months while also working and travelling in Australia.
• Student visas - which are designed for long periods of up to five years dedicated study in Australia.
• Visitor visas - Which allow you to study short English courses up to three months in length while on holiday in Australia or visiting family and friends.
• Student Guardian visas - which allow the guardian looking after an overseas student to complete an English course up to three months long.
• Training visa - which you to take part in workplace-based training or professional development in Australia for up to two years.

You can learn more about the visas that allow you to study English in Australia here.

Funds

There are a range of costs associated with studying in Australia, including:

• Travel and visa costs
• Course fees
• Accommodation
• Living expenses

Depending on the course you choose, where you opt to study and the lifestyle you enjoy leading, the costs associated with studying in Australia can vary.

For example, some cities are more expensive to reside in than other areas due to accommodation costs, public transport, and the cost of food or dining out.

It’s also important to note that most visa applications require you to have enough funds for your stay, and if you intend to apply for a Student Visa, that sum can be substantial.

In 2025, the minimum required funds for a single student applying for a Student Visa was AU$29,710.

As part of your Visa application, ensure you double check the funds required.

Meanwhile, the Australian Government has a handy cost of living calculator to help you determine the costs associated with studying in different locations in Australia here.

Accommodation

When it comes to accommodation, there are a wealth of options available, ranging from private share houses to homestays and student accommodation.

It’s a good idea to investigate the options available in your chosen location as part of your course selection process, including the approximate costs involved.

When selecting accommodation, it’s also important to look at factors like:

• Distance from your education provider
• Transport options available
• Nearby amenities
• Safety
• Inclusions, such as electricity and internet

A sense of adventure

Studying in Australia offers the opportunity to explore a stunning country while immersing yourself in an English-speaking environment that is known for its warm, welcoming and down-to-earth culture.

Making the most of that experience involves fostering a sense of adventure.

You can start that adventure today by exploring the English study opportunities available here.