Study English in Australia: 6 Month Cost Guide

Australia is one of the most popular study destinations for international students looking to learn English. The country is known for its high-quality education, advanced curricula, and vibrant cities that offer a culturally diverse environment, providing a well-rounded learning experience.

However, one of the most common questions students ask is:
💡 How much does it cost to study English in Australia?
💡 What is the total cost of studying in Australia?

Before making the decision to study abroad, it’s essential to understand the associated costs, including tuition fees, living expenses, additional costs such as accommodation and health insurance, and the opportunities available to reduce expenses.

In this article, we provide a detailed analysis of the cost of studying English in Australia for 6 months, based on official data from reputable educational sources.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Studying English in Australia for 6 Months

The cost of studying English in Australia varies based on several key factors, including:

1️⃣ Type of Institution or Language School

A wide range of educational institutions in Australia offer English language courses in Australia, including:

• Private Language Institutes: These institutes provide intensive or long-term programs and are known for their high-quality education. However, their costs typically range between AUD 6,000 – 15,000 for a 6-month course.

• University-Affiliated Language Centers: Some universities offer intensive English courses, with fees generally ranging from AUD 8,000 – 18,000 for 6 months.

• Technical and Further Education (TAFE) Institutes: These institutions provide English language courses at competitive prices, typically between AUD 5,500 – 12,000 for 6 months.

  
  

2️⃣ Location of the Institution

The cost of studying and living in Australia depends on whether the city is a major metropolitan area or a smaller town.

📌 Studying in cities like Sydney and Melbourne is more expensive than in smaller cities like Adelaide and Brisbane. If you’re looking to save costs, choosing a more affordable city could be a smart decision.

3️⃣ Course Duration and Type of Program

The cost of studying English in Australia for 6 months depends on the nature of the course:

Intensive Courses (20–30 hours per week):

• Higher cost due to more study hours.
• Price Range: AUD 8,000 – 15,000 for 6 months.

General English Courses (10–20 hours per week):

• More affordable option.
• Price Range: AUD 6,000 – 12,000 for 6 months.

Specialized Courses (IELTS or TOEFL Preparation):

• Designed for test preparation and academic purposes.
• Price Range: AUD 7,500 – 14,000 for 6 months.

4️⃣ Additional Costs Related to Studying

In addition to tuition fees, there are some extra costs to consider when calculating the total cost of studying in Australia, including:

• 📌 Registration Fees: AUD 100 – 500 (one-time fee upon enrollment).
• 📖 Study Materials & Books: AUD 200 – 500 per course.
• 🩺 Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Mandatory for all international students. Cost: AUD 600 – 700 per year.
• 📝 Exam Fees (IELTS or TOEFL): AUD 300 – 400.
  
  

 Cost of Living & Accommodation for International Students in Australia

Beyond tuition fees, students need to budget for living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment. Proper financial planning is essential to avoid unexpected expenses and enjoy a smooth study experience.

1- Accommodation Costs in Australia

Students have different accommodation options based on their preferences and budget:

1. Homestay (Living with a Local Family)

✔️ Rich cultural experience with an Australian family.
✔️ Includes meals, reducing other expenses.
✔️ Supportive environment for improving English skills.

• Cost: AUD 250 – 350 per week (AUD 6,000 – 8,400 for 6 months).

2. Student Dormitories (On-Campus Housing)

✔️ Close to the university, saving transportation costs.
✔️ Provides a study-friendly environment.
✔️ Opportunity to interact with students from diverse backgrounds.

• Cost: AUD 200 – 500 per week (AUD 4,800 – 12,000 for 6 months).

3. Shared Accommodation (Renting with Roommates)

✔️ Popular option among students to share rent and utilities.
✔️ More flexibility in location and costs.
✔️ Affordable options near language institutes.

• Cost: AUD 150 – 350 per week (AUD 3,600 – 8,400 for 6 months).

4. Private Rental (Living Alone)

✔️ Offers full privacy and independence.
✔️ Ideal for students who prefer personal space.

• Cost: AUD 300 – 700 per week (AUD 7,200 – 16,800 for 6 months).
  
  

2- Other Living Costs for International Students

1. Transportation

• Australia has an excellent public transport system. Students receive discounts on fares.
• Cost: AUD 30 – 50 per week (AUD 720 – 1,200 for 6 months).

2. Food & Essentials

• Dining out: AUD 80 – 150 per week.
• Cooking at home: AUD 50 – 100 per week.
• Total for 6 months: AUD 1,200 – 3,600.

3. Health Insurance (OSHC)

• Mandatory for all international students.
• Cost for 6 months: AUD 300 – 350.

4. Personal & Entertainment Expenses

• Includes shopping, subscriptions, and social activities.
• Cost: AUD 100 – 200 per week (AUD 2,400 – 4,800 for 6 months).
  
  
  

3- Estimated Total Cost of Studying & Living in Australia for 6 Months

 Key Takeaway:
Studying English in Australia for 6 months can cost between AUD 14,220 – 41,750, depending on the city, institution, lifestyle, and accommodation choice. Planning your budget wisely will help you make the most of your study experience! 

4-How to Reduce Costs While Studying in Australia

International students can minimize their study and living expenses in several practical ways, including:

1️⃣ Look for Scholarships

Some universities and language institutes offer discounts of up to 30% on tuition fees for outstanding students.

2️⃣ Work While Studying in Australia

International students in Australia are allowed to work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during holidays. Some common job opportunities include:

• Restaurants and cafés
• Sales and customer service
• Private tutoring

💰 Earnings: Students can earn between AUD 20 – 30 per hour, helping to cover a significant portion of their expenses.

3️⃣ Share Accommodation & Reduce Entertainment Expenses

To cut costs, students can:
✔ Rent shared housing
✔ Use public transportation
✔ Take advantage of student discounts and special offers

Best English Language Institutes in Australia & Selection Criteria

After discussing the cost of studying English in Australia for 6 months and living expenses, we now move to the most critical question:

How do you choose the right institute to study English in Australia?

Many institutes offer high-quality education, but selecting the right one depends on several factors, including location, tuition costs, quality of education, and career development opportunities.

Below, we provide a list of the best English language institutes in Australia, along with the key criteria to consider when choosing the ideal institute.

1️⃣ Best English Language Institutes in Australia

Australia has a variety of institutes and universities offering specialized English language programs for international students.

Here are some of the top-rated institutions based on global rankings and student reviews:

 1. EF – Education First

✔ One of the most well-known international institutes, with campuses in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
✔ Offers intensive programs and IELTS & TOEFL preparation courses.
✔ Provides an interactive learning experience with social and cultural activities.

💰 Cost: AUD 350 – 500 per week (Approx. AUD 8,400 – 12,000 for 6 months).

2. Navitas English

✔ Has partnerships with Australian universities, making it easier for students to transition into higher education.
✔ Offers exam preparation courses and advanced academic language programs.
✔ Locations: Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide.

💰 Cost: AUD 300 – 450 per week (Approx. AUD 7,200 – 10,800 for 6 months).

 3. English Language Company (ELC)

✔ Rated as one of Australia’s top language institutes, located in Sydney.
✔ Focuses on practical communication skills, making it ideal for students who want to improve their language skills quickly.
✔ Offers intensive courses, exam preparation, and social activities to enhance speaking skills.

💰 Cost: AUD 320 – 470 per week (Approx. AUD 7,680 – 11,280 for 6 months).

4. University-Affiliated English Language Centers

Many Australian universities have specialized English language centers, allowing students to transition into undergraduate or postgraduate programs. Notable centers include:

• CET – Centre for English Teaching (University of Sydney)
• Hawthorn-Melbourne (University of Melbourne)
• UQ-ICTE (University of Queensland)

💰 Cost: AUD 400 – 600 per week (Approx. AUD 9,600 – 14,400 for 6 months).

2️⃣ Criteria for Choosing the Right English Language Institute in Australia

Selecting the best institute depends on several key factors:

1. Geographic Location

Do you prefer studying in a major city like Sydney or Melbourne? Or would you rather be in a less crowded city like Adelaide or Perth?

✔ Ensure the institute is close to public transport and affordable housing to save time and costs.

2. Course Type & Duration

Are you looking for an intensive course for rapid progress, or would you prefer a long-term general English course?

✔ Some institutes offer specialized courses in business, tourism, or university preparation—so define your goal before enrolling.

3. Academic Accreditation & Teaching Quality

✔ Make sure the institute is accredited by English Australia or NEAS, which ensure high-quality education standards.
✔ Read student reviews to assess their satisfaction with teaching methods and student services.

4. Tuition Fees & Additional Costs

✔ Review the total cost of the course carefully.
✔ Don’t forget extra expenses such as registration fees, study materials, and health insurance.
✔ Some institutes offer discounts for international students, so ask about available offers.

5. Student Support & Additional Services

✔ Some institutes offer academic support, cultural exchange programs, and social activities to help students improve their language skills.
✔ Certain centers provide free additional courses or access to advanced learning resources.

3️⃣ Tips for a Successful Language Study Experience in Australia

To get the most out of your English learning experience in Australia, consider these practical tips:

1. Take Every Opportunity to Practice the Language

- Don’t limit yourself to classroom lessons.
- Join social activities, talk to locals, and participate in cultural events.

 2. Set Clear Learning Goals

- Define objectives such as achieving a specific IELTS score or reaching a particular writing and speaking level, then work consistently to meet them.

 3. Utilize Online Learning Resources

- Use apps like Duolingo, BBC Learning English, and Grammarly to enhance your skills in your free time.

4. Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help

- If you struggle with learning, talk to your teachers or student advisors at your institute for extra support.

5. Get Involved in the Local Community

- Volunteering in community organizations or taking a part-time job can be great opportunities to practice English in real-life situations.

Final Thoughts

After exploring the cost of studying English in Australia for 6 months, living expenses, accommodation options, and the best institutes, you now have a clearer picture to help you make an informed decision.

If you’re looking for a rich educational experience in a culturally diverse environment, Australia offers everything you need to achieve your goals. Just choose the right institute, plan your budget wisely, and get ready for a life-changing journey! 🚀

Note: The costs mentioned are estimates and may vary depending on the institution, city, course type, and personal lifestyle. Always check official websites of Australian educational institutions for the most up-to-date pricing.