Australia Student Visa Costs 2026–2027
Studying in Australia involves more than tuition, understanding visa fees, health insurance, and living costs helps you budget with confidence.
Priya Sharma
Last updated
What You'll Really Pay to Study in Australia
Tuition Is Only Part of the Picture
When planning to study in Australia, it's easy to focus only on tuition fees and overlook the other costs tied to your student visa. Beyond tuition, you'll need to budget for the visa application fee, mandatory health insurance, and proof of enough funds to cover living expenses. Understanding all these pieces upfront helps you plan realistically instead of being surprised later. A little preparation here goes a long way toward a smoother application.
The Visa Application Fee
Every student visa application requires a non-refundable government fee, which is paid when you submit your application. This fee applies regardless of whether your visa is approved, so it's worth making sure your application is complete and accurate before paying. The exact amount is set by the Department of Home Affairs and can change from year to year. Checking the current fee on the official government site before applying is always the safest approach.
Health Insurance Is Mandatory, Not Optional
All international students in Australia are required to hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the full length of their stay. This isn't optional paperwork — OSHC must be active before your visa is granted, and the cost depends on your course length and whether you're covering a partner or children too. Many universities offer OSHC providers directly during enrollment, which can simplify the process. Comparing a couple of providers can still help you find the best value for your situation.
Proving You Can Support Yourself Financially
Australia requires students to show they can cover their own living costs for the duration of their course, not just tuition. This living cost requirement is updated annually, and it typically covers accommodation, food, and daily expenses for one person, with higher amounts required if you're bringing a partner or children. This isn't about having the exact amount spent each year, but proving access to sufficient funds. Keeping clear financial documents ready makes this part of the application far less stressful.
Budgeting With Confidence, Not Guesswork
None of these costs need to feel overwhelming once you know what to expect. Visa fees, OSHC, and living cost requirements are all published clearly by the Australian government, so there's no need to guess or rely on outdated numbers. Planning around official, current figures rather than rough estimates keeps your budget accurate from the start. With the right preparation, covering these costs becomes a manageable part of your study journey, not a barrier to it.
How Much Is the Visa Application Fee?
The student visa application fee is set by the Department of Home Affairs and is paid at the time of application. It's non-refundable, so double-checking your documents beforehand helps avoid unnecessary costs from a rejected application.
Do I Need Health Insurance for My Whole Family?
Yes, OSHC coverage extends to any dependents joining you in Australia, including a partner or children. Costs increase based on family size and how long your course runs.
How Are Living Costs Calculated?
The government sets an annual living cost figure meant to cover accommodation, food, and daily expenses for a single student. Bringing a partner or children increases the required amount, and figures are reviewed and updated each year.
Check Your Australia Study Visa Requirements →
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