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How to Study in Australia on a Budget?

 

Think of Australia and one is bound to imagine beautiful and endless coastlines, exotic wildlife, pleasant weather and friendly folks. It is a country that remains on top of the list for tourists as well as international students. With such appealing reasons, other than the world-class education it offers, students prefer to pursue their higher education in Australia.

Each year, about 230,000 international students opt for higher studies in Australia, with about 90,000 graduates each year

It is undoubtedly an extremely popular study destination for students. However, studying and living in Australia is a little more expensive, when compared to other destinations in Europe. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to plan you study in Australia dream meticulously.

This write-up will help you in finding out how to complete higher studies in Australia, without burning a hole in your pocket.

APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP

Once you have decided to study in Australia, the first thing you should do is apply for scholarships. Australia offers many public scholarships for international students. However, it is best to first check through the University of your choice. The amount of aid varies depending on the number of students applying for a particular course.

Thus, the trick is to look for study abroad scholarships promoted by the university you have applied to.

Usually, the Business and the STEM subjects (majors) have a limited number of candidates and this increases the chances of receiving a scholarship.

To get it right, it is important to choose the right programme. You can find all the useful information about the different courses available on the Australian government’s website.

Hiring a study abroad expert not only reduces your research work but also guarantees you some of the best deals.

PLAN A BUDGET

Having a budget plan will definitely prove to be of help. It will ensure that you spend just the right amount, and not a penny more, on things. Prepare a spreadsheet and allocate an amount for all the important expenses. You can have both weekly and monthly allocation for different things. It should also include an amount for your recreational stuff so that you do not end up splurging. In fact, try and spend even less than your weekly allocation.

This will leave you with more amount for the next week/month and if you work it right, who knows, you might even end up saving a little from your allocated amount. And, as you know, it is always good to save for the rainy days.

So, try and not munch too often on a sandwich that will cost you about $8.00 in AUD. Instead, look for cheaper yet wholesome and nutritious food.

TRY TO SAVE ON TRAVEL EXPENSE

One of the heaviest expenses is going to be your air ticket. But you can save some amount on it if you buy it right. Regardless of where and when you depart, a round trip flight could cost you over $2000.

Try and look for airlines which offer discounts and other special offers. However, do bear in mind that many lower-cost fares come with strict cancellation and change policies, so figure travel insurance into your budget.

USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT

If you want your budget plan to work right, you will have to get into the habit of commuting by public transport. Do not be tempted to call an Uber for that weekend getaway. Rather go and explore the city through its public transport and whenever possible, on foot.

If you are in Melbourne, the trams are best. They go all over the city. Students have to pay about $3 for a full day pass, which is half the full fare.

You can also get yourself a go card which can be used for trains, trams and buses.

Also, hitching a ride with a friend whenever possible will also be a good idea. Not only will it help you bond well, but you will also save on your commuting expenses.

LIMIT EATING OUT AND LEARN TO COOK

Living abroad is expensive as it is. You wouldn’t want to spend a huge amount on your meals. One meal at a restaurant can cost you around $10-$20. A cup of coffee (small) is almost $4. That’s a significant amount and it can end up as your saving if you just learn to buy groceries and whip up your meals by yourself.

Woolworths or Coles are popular grocery chains in Australia.

You can also defray the living cost by working part-time. In Australia, as an international student, you can work up to 40 hours every two weeks—an uncommon perk for students studying abroad. However, the visa costs about $380.

Thus, it is evident whether you are going for an MBA in Australia or any other programme, it is of paramount importance to have a budget. Also, having a study abroad expert can help you with finding the right course and apply for the right scholarships. Get in touch with our study abroad experts at Manya – The Princeton Review to find out more.

For more information, call our Study Abroad Helpline 1800 102 4646

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