Planning to study in Australia but worried about how you’ll afford it? You’re not alone. With rising tuition fees and living expenses, many international students find themselves asking the same question: Should I take out a study loan, or work while I study? In 2025, the good news is that there are more financial support options than ever before. Whether it’s an education loan from your home country, on-campus jobs, or Australia’s part-time work rights, you’ve got choices. Here’s how you can realistically fund your studies in Australia.
Key Takeaways
Why Is Funding a Big Concern for International Students?
Australia is one of the top destinations for global education, and that popularity comes at a cost. Tuition fees for international students in 2025 typically range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 50,000 per year, depending on the course and university. Add to that living expenses — which can easily reach AUD 25,000 to AUD 30,000 annually — and you’re looking at a significant investment.
Given these figures, most students can’t rely solely on personal or family savings. That’s where student loans, scholarships, and part-time work opportunities step in.
Can You Work While Studying in Australia?
Yes — and this is one of the biggest advantages of studying in Australia. As of 2025, international students on a Student Visa (subclass 500) can legally work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during official breaks.
Many students find part-time jobs in retail, hospitality, delivery services, or even on-campus roles such as library assistants, lab helpers, or research support. Depending on your role and hours, you could earn between AUD 20 to AUD 28 per hour, which helps cover living expenses like rent, groceries, and transport.
Also Read: How Can You Study in Australia Without IELTS in 2025?
However, it’s important to note that part-time work alone won’t cover your full tuition fees. It’s best seen as a supplement, not your primary funding source.
What Are Work-Study Programs and How Do They Help?
In some Australian universities, “work-study” isn’t a formal program like in the U.S., but rather a combination of part-time jobs, internships, and cooperative education. These programs allow you to gain professional experience while studying and sometimes even earn academic credit.
Universities like Monash, Deakin, and RMIT offer internship-linked courses or career support services that connect students to part-time, paid roles. These jobs not only help financially but also improve your resume, which can be useful if you plan to apply for a graduate visa or permanent residency later.
Are Student Loans Available for International Students?
Yes — but it depends on where you’re from. Most international students take education loans from banks or financial institutions in their home country, rather than directly from Australia. In 2025, many private lenders and government-backed schemes will offer international study loans that cover:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Travel insurance and airfare
- Visa and application fees
If you’re from India, for example, banks like SBI, HDFC Credila, and ICICI offer education loans with repayment terms of 7 to 15 years, and often include a moratorium period until graduation. These loans usually require a co-signer and may be either secured (with collateral) or unsecured.
Australian banks, on the other hand, are less likely to offer loans to non-residents unless you have a local guarantor or permanent resident status.
What’s the Process to Get a Study Loan?
To get a study loan approved, you usually need:
- A confirmed offer letter from an Australian university
- A cost estimate of tuition and living expenses
- Academic records
- Proof of identity and income (for you or your co-applicant)
- Collateral documents (for secured loans)
In 2025, many lenders will offer digital loan applications, faster processing, and doorstep document collection. If your loan is from a recognized bank, it can also strengthen your visa application by showing proof of funds.
Also Read: What Are the Top Australian Universities Offering Scholarships in 2025?
Just remember, loans are a long-term financial commitment, so always check the interest rate, repayment start date, and any hidden charges.
Can Scholarships Cover the Costs?
While loans and part-time jobs are the most common funding methods, scholarships can significantly reduce your expenses if you’re eligible. Australia offers hundreds of merit-based, need-based, and program-specific scholarships in 2025.
Government programs like Australia Awards and Destination Australia, along with university-funded options, can cover anywhere from 25% to 100% of your tuition. Some even include living stipends and travel support.
Even if you’ve already started your studies, many universities offer ongoing scholarships or bursaries that reward academic performance during your course.
What’s the Best Way to Combine Funding Sources?
The smartest approach is a balanced strategy. Most students combine:
- A study loan to cover tuition
- Part-time work to manage living expenses
- Scholarships to reduce the overall burden
This mix ensures that you’re not overly dependent on any one source and gives you flexibility if things change during your study period. In 2025, many students are also turning to online freelance work, gig economy jobs, or peer tutoring — all of which offer flexible income streams without violating visa rules.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Australia in 2025 is a valuable investment, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With a combination of study loans, on-campus and off-campus work, and scholarships, you can manage your finances smartly while gaining global experience.
Whether you’re applying from abroad or already enrolled, planning your funding early is the key to avoiding financial stress later. Explore your options, know your limits, and build a funding mix that lets you focus on your education,n ot just your expenses.
Karan Rawat
Content strategist and Full-time editor of The Immigration World. Karan focuses on simplifying complex immigration rules and scholarship opportunities into clear, practical guidance for global readers. Passionate about making international relocation easier for everyone.
