Study in Australia: subclass 500, CRICOS, costs, work rules and 485 planning
Study in Australia with practical information on CRICOS checks, subclass 500 visa planning, work rules, OSHC, housing, costs and 485 considerations.
Australia study snapshot
Use this before you compare universities. The best destination choice depends on cost, recognition, visa readiness, housing and how the course supports your next step.
| Student route | Most international students need a subclass 500 student visa and a CRICOS-registered course. |
|---|---|
| University check | Check CRICOS registration, provider status, campus, course level and genuine study logic. |
| Work while studying | Work hours and conditions can change; students should check current visa conditions before budgeting around income. |
| Post-study option | Temporary Graduate visa pathways depend on current eligibility, course, qualification, location and timing. |
| Cost pressure | Sydney and Melbourne can be expensive; regional options may change cost and post-study planning. |
| Best-fit students | Students who want lifestyle, English-taught options and structured post-study planning with enough funds. |
City and campus realities
The city can change rent, commute, safety, job access and student experience as much as the university name.
Sydney
Compare housing, commute, course access and part-time work reality before choosing this location.
Melbourne
Compare housing, commute, course access and part-time work reality before choosing this location.
Brisbane
Compare housing, commute, course access and part-time work reality before choosing this location.
Perth / Adelaide
Compare housing, commute, course access and part-time work reality before choosing this location.
Regional campuses
Compare housing, commute, course access and part-time work reality before choosing this location.
Checks before you apply
Do these checks before paying a deposit or treating an offer as safe.
Use these Australia guides before you shortlist
These pages help you test the destination through cost, visa, work, recognition and transfer risk.
Australia student visa guide
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
OpenGuideGenuine Student requirement
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
OpenGuideAustralia work rule
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
OpenGuideOSHC guide
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
OpenGuideAustralia 485 visa guide
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
OpenGuideChange provider in Australia
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
OpenAustralia articles and guides
Existing UniversitySwitch articles routed to this destination by country, city and visa/work keywords.
Cost of living in Sydney for international students
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Read guide Costs and Scholarships / Living CostsExpenses International Students
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Read guideNeed help with your Australia plan?
Send your target course, budget, timeline and main worry. We will help point you to the right guide or next step.