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Best Cities in Australia for Students: Find the 10 Best Cities in Australia for International Students

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Kashyap Matani
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In terms of higher education and living standards, Australia is home to some of the world's most highly rated cities. A rewarding academic and professional journey can be expected for students studying in Australia. Several of the best cities in Australia for students have facilities that are well suited to the needs of a thriving and vibrant student community. For instance, the very best city in Australia for Indian students, Melbourne, has been ranked 6th in the recent QS Rankings for the Best Student Cities in the world. Intriguing right? Take a look at some of the best cities in Australia for international students, in the blog below.

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Table of Contents

Benefits of Studying at Best Student Cities in Australia

Studying in one of Australia's most desirable cities can be defined by the quality of life that it provides to its international students. There are many benefits to studying in any of the best cities in Australia for students, including:

  • Employment opportunities: A diverse range of job opportunities are available in the best student cities in Australia across a variety of industries, such as hospitality, healthcare, and agriculture. Some areas may have fewer job opportunities, but there are typically fewer candidates to compete against for those jobs.
  • Access to special scholarships: Studying in the best place in Australia for international students opens up the possibility of receiving substantial funding. Multiple scholarships are offered by the Australian Government to international students interested in studying in regional Australia. The most relevant scholarship for international students is the Destination Australia Program. It offers recipients a maximum of 15,000 AUD in funding per year.
  • Personalized class environment: If you enroll in a course at a smaller institution in the best city for students in Australia, you are likely to benefit from smaller class sizes. Therefore, you will have a greater opportunity to become acquainted with everyone in your class and develop strong bonds with them.
  • Relaxed lifestyle: Australians are known for their laidback lifestyle with a 'no worries' attitude. Living and studying in the best student cities in Australia will give you an opportunity to experience this Australian way of life. Enjoy endless pristine sandy beaches, rolling hills, and iconic bushscapes in your spare time.

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10 Best Cities in Australia for International Students

Approximately 300,000 international students attend universities in Australian cities and towns each year. The majority of university students come from abroad to study in Australia best city for students, including students from China, India, Korea, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Their presence enriches university life in Australia by adding a global perspective.

Below is a list of the best cities in Australia for students:

1.  Melbourne

Melbourne is undoubtedly the best place in Australia for international students, having been ranked sixth on the QS Best Student Cities 2022 list. Aside from being the country's cultural capital, the city is home to several reputed universities that have appeared in global rankings. Student life in Australia is characterized by a high level of multicultural exchange, and Melbourne is no exception. In fact, Melbourne has been ranked as one of the world's most livable cities by the Economist.

Best Study City QS Ranking

6

Best Universities In Melbourne

University of Melbourne

Monash University

Deakin University

La Trobe University

Swinburne University of Technology

RMIT University

Victoria University

University of Divinity

Cost Of Living Of Melbourne

1,968 AUD (104,835 INR)

Things To Do In Melbourne

Take a look at the impressive street art.

Live music is one of Melbourne's most famous attractions, particularly rock music.

Visit the Immigration Museum, Old Melbourne Gaol and Crown Casino Complex.

Is It Worth Studying In Melbourne?

Melbourne has approximately 270,000 university students, of whom more than a third are international students (91,000). Melbourne is also the most livable city in Australia.

Throughout Australia, best city for students, artists can flourish through the arts, fashion, and cultural events.

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2.  Sydney

Sydney is another best student city in Australia, ranked 8 in the QS Best Student Cities 2022 report. As Australia's largest city, Sydney boasts stunning beaches, lush vegetation, and a cosmopolitan student population. It is home to five universities that are ranked internationally. There are more than 50,000 international students studying in Sydney each year and this city offers excellent employment prospects. Due to Australia's diverse and inclusive culture, student life is a holistic experience.

Best Study City QS Ranking

8

Best Universities In Sydney

University of Sydney

University of New South Wales

Macquarie University

Western Sydney University

University of Technology Sydney

Cost Of Living Of Sydney

4,100 AUD (218,407 INR)

Things To Do In Sydney

Explore the inner workings of the Sydney Opera House

Swim at the oh-so-grammable Bondi Icebergs Pool

Discover the hidden gem that is Wattamolla Beach

Climb Sydney Harbor Bridge

Is It Worth Studying In Sydney?

In terms of academic research, Sydney's universities are highly regarded as one of the best cities in Australia for international students.

Sydney has four out of six universities ranked in Australia's top 10 according to world rankings.

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3.  Canberra

Several reputable institutions are located in Canberra, which receives more than 35,000 students each year. QS ranks Canberra 37th on the list of Best Student Cities 2022. Among the city's major attractions that makes it one of the best cities in Australia for international students are the Black Mountain Tower, Captain James Cook Memorial, and an artificial lake. One of the most popular events in Canberra is the Barassi International Australian Football Youth Tournament. Hence, it is considered as the best place to study in Australia for international students.

Best Study City QS Ranking

37

Best Universities In Canberra

Australian National University

University of Canberra

Canberra Institute of Technology

Cost Of Living Of Canberra

1,792 AUD (95,460 INR)

Things To Do In Canberra

Wine tasting, fine dining, truffle hunting

Take a trip to the National Gallery of Australia to view the world's largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.

As Canberra's heart, Lake Burley Griffin is surrounded by galleries, museums, cafes, parks, and walking and cycling paths.

Is It Worth Studying In Canberra?

Canberra is the capital city of Australia and is another good small city for students to live in. International students are attracted to the city because it is an easy place to live and study. The city has good infrastructure and plenty of space.

 

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4.  Brisbane

In addition to being a top city in Australia, Brisbane is also the best city for students in Australia that attracts more than 50,000 international students each year. The area is also a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to the Gold Coast, which is home to some of the world's most famous beaches. Known for its sunny climate, buzzing nightlife, and strong sporting culture, this new-world city offers a number of benefits to its visitors.

Best Study City QS Ranking

29

Best Universities In Brisbane

University of Queensland

James Cook University

Queensland University of Technology

Griffith University

Cost Of Living Of Brisbane

1,733 AUD (92,325 INR)

Things To Do In Brisbane

Stroll along the Brisbane Riverwalk.

Strap on a harness and scale the Story Bridge with Story Bridge Adventure Climb.

Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and get to know Australia’s famous furry icon.

Gear up for a scenic ride with Brisbane by Bicycle.

Is It Worth Studying In Brisbane?

It is estimated that Brisbane, the capital of Queensland and Australia's third largest city, has at least 100,000 university students affiliated with different institutions, including three large universities.

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5.  Adelaide

In addition to being the fifth largest city in Australia, Adelaide is considered to be the best city for international students in Australia. As one of the country's southernmost cities, it has a number of parklands, open spaces, and a well-planned city center. A city such as Adelaide offers a wide range of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife observation. It is possible for students to participate in cultural events such as the Adelaide Festival of Ideas, the Adelaide Festival of Arts, and the Adelaide Writers' Week. If you are a cricket enthusiast, you should take a trip to the Adelaide Oval and watch a live match.

Best Study City QS Ranking

35

Best Universities In Adelaide

University of Adelaide

Flinders University

University of South Australia

Torrens University Australia

Cost Of Living Of Adelaide

2,862 AUD (152,471 INR)

Things To Do In Adelaide

Step into a thriving hub of food and culture at the Adelaide Central Market.

Head to the magical Adelaide Hills, and unearth world-class restaurants and award-winning wineries.

Kick off at the Art Gallery of South Australia, housing one of Australia’s best art collections and exhibitions.

Is It Worth Studying In Adelaide?

There are approximately 70,000 students studying in Adelaide, including close to 20,000 international students. Due to its low accommodation prices, Adelaide is the preferred destination for many international students.

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6.  Perth

One of the best places to study abroad in Australia, Perth is located along the Western coast of Australia, about 2,000 miles from Melbourne and Sydney. Students are drawn to Perth due to its abundance of cultural, recreational, and culinary attractions. In Perth, student life is largely focused on university campuses and on-campus activities. As a result, most of the institutions are located outside of the city center of Perth. Some of the major attractions in the city include the Scitech Discovery Center at West Perth, Kings Park, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, the Pinnacles, and Cottesloe Beach.

Best Study City QS Ranking

35

Best Universities In Perth

University of Western Australia

Curtin University

Murdoch University

Edith Cowan University

Cost Of Living Of Perth

2,949 AUD (157,106 INR)

Things To Do In Perth

Spend your day walking through the laid-back streets of Freo.

Take in the iconic sites of Perth from the Swan River

explore the Perth Hills for some scenic relaxation or head up to the gorgeous lagoon at Yanchep Beach.

Is It Worth Studying In Perth?

About 35,000 international students attend four universities in Perth, the capital of the vast, semi-arid state of Western Australia.

Can't seem to find the best student city in Australia? Speak with our Yocket Counselors!

7.  Gold Coast

Gold Coast is one of Australia's top student cities, ranked 89 in QS Best Student Cities 2022. The city offers a vibrant lifestyle, complemented by 300 sunny days each year. Aside from 52 kilometers of golden sands, it has a suburb known as Surfer's Paradise. The picturesque coastline is surrounded by a subtropical rainforest with three national parks, waterfalls, mountains, and rock formations. The Gold Coast is home to four leading Australian universities, including Bond University. Thus, it is the best city to study in Australia.

Best Study City QS Ranking

89

Best Universities In Gold Coast

Bond University

CQ University

Griffith University

Southern Cross University

Cost Of Living Of Gold Coast

1,776 AUD (94,615 INR)

Things To Do In Gold Coast

Walk the tree-tops at Mount Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk.

Do a barrel roll in the sky over Gold Coast.

Go on safari at the Stradbroke Islands.

Is It Worth Studying In Gold Coast?

The Gold Coast is the best city to study in Australia if they are able to find a suitable program. Four Australian universities have campuses on the Gold Coast, which is home to over 30,000 university students.

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8.  Hobart

The city of Hobart may be an attractive option for students seeking a cheaper living environment. As the best city in Australia for Indian students, it offers comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price. Tasmania's largest university campus, the University of Tasmania (UTAS), is located in Hobart, as is the majority of the 20,000 university students in Tasmania. It is the only university in Hobart and in the state of Tasmania. A wide range of courses - both general and specialized - are offered by the institution, and its facilities are spread throughout the state.

Best Study City QS Ranking

-

Best Universities In Hobart

University of Tasmania

Cost Of Living Of Hobart

1,648 AUD (87,793 INR)

Things To Do In Hobart

See quaint buildings and edgy art

Take in incredible views from Mount Wellington

Spend the day exploring windswept Bruny Island

Is It Worth Studying In Hobart?

Hobart houses the main campus of the University of Tasmania (UTAS) and is also home to the majority of Tasmania’s 20,000 university students, making it the best city in Australia for Indian students.

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9.  Wollongong

According to reports, Wollongong provides an excellent environment for studying and living. It is an ideal place to live due to its natural surroundings, temperate climate, and small population. In addition to its proximity to a major city, it has a high standard of education. There is no doubt that Wollongong is Australia best place to study. In terms of academic rankings, the University of Wollongong ranks among the best in Australia. Internationally renowned for its research, and highly regarded by both local and international students.

Best Study City QS Ranking

-

Best Universities In Wollongong

University of Wollongong

Cost Of Living Of Wollongong

1,554 AUD (82,786 INR)

Things To Do In Wollongong

Check out the beautiful Sri Venkateswara Temple.

Visit Australian Wildlife At Symbio Wildlife Park.

Hike to the Sea Cliff Bridge Lookout.

Is It Worth Studying In Wollongong?

With one of the finest modern universities in the world, Wollongong is the best city in Australia for Indian students. Living and studying in such a vibrant, multicultural city makes it easy to explore all that Australia has to offer.

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10.  Darwin

Located in a regional area, Darwin is one of the most vibrant cities, with youthful energy, and one of the highest employment rates in the country. It is an excellent place for students to pursue employment. If you are a student who enjoys a relaxed, laid back atmosphere, this is the city for you. It does not have skyscrapers surrounding it, but there is plenty to do during weekends and semester breaks.

Best Study City QS Ranking

-

Best Universities In Darwin

Charles Darwin University

Cost Of Living Of Darwin

1,431 AUD (76,260 INR)

Things To Do In Darwin

Relax at the Darwin Waterfront Precinct

Wander through Darwin’s Smith Street Mall

Explore Litchfield National Park

Is It Worth Studying In Darwin?

Darwin has a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne when it comes to living expenses such as rent and dining out. Besides being less crowded, it offers exotic tropical surroundings without the hassle of crowds and high rent.

For those seeking higher education in Australia, there are many options available. Over 1,100 educational institutions offer more than 22,000 courses. There are a number of options available to international students, including vocational education and training (VET) and higher education at colleges and universities. If you wish to study in Australia, you will need to apply for the appropriate student visa. For more information on the best city to study abroad in Australia, consult experts at Yocket.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Cities in Australia for Students

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Which is the cheapest city in Australia for international students?

How much does a student in Australia spend on a monthly basis?

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