Cost of living
Perth is one of the most affordable capital cities in Australia. Paired with UWA's competitive fees and scholarships, you’ll have more room in your budget for life-changing experiences.
Planning your budget
If you’re planning to live and study in Western Australia, it’s important to understand all the costs involved. Studying at university includes costs beyond your tuition fees, which will vary based on your lifestyle. Some of the costs you may need to keep in mind are:
- Accommodation
- Travel - getting to and from university and airfares to Perth
- Bills - gas, water, electricity, phone and internet
- Study supplies - textbooks, tech devices and stationery
- Health care - health insurance and medical appointments
- Food - grocery shopping, takeaway and dining out
- Entertainment - activities (movies, concerts) and socialising (with new friends and joining a club or society)
- Course-related fees - any ancillary fees that may apply to your course
For information about living expenses in Perth, visit the Study Perth website and use the Cost of Living Calculator for an estimate tailored to your lifestyle.
Living in Perth
Working in Australia as an international student
Working in Perth is a great way to meet new people, earn extra money and gain new experiences. Once you have commenced your course, the terms of your student visa will allow you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.
Getting to UWA
As an international student in Perth, you can enjoy up to 40% discount on public transport fares with Transperth. You can also hop on the free Purple CAT bus, which runs from Elizabeth Quay Bus Station in the CBD directly to UWA.
Accommodation
Finding the right place to live can make all the difference to your university experience. Explore a range of options, from our on-campus residential colleges to nearby off-campus housing, all located within close proximity to the campus, cafés, shops and the city.
Children’s schooling
If you plan to bring your children to Perth, they must attend school while living in Western Australia. Both public and private schools charge fees, which vary depending on your level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate) and visa class.
Tuition fees
Your tuition fees will depend on the course you choose and the year you plan to study. Onshore international students are charged an annual course fee, calculated per credit point at a rate specific to their enrolled course. These annual fees are based on an annual study load, which you can find in the UWA Handbook. Please note that tuition fees are reviewed annually and are subject to indexation.
Student Services and Amenities Fee
The Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) is a compulsory fee that directly benefits all UWA students. The fee is used to provide a range of recreational, sporting, social and educational facilities and services, including student representation.
Overseas Student Health Cover
The Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs requires all international students applying for a student visa to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of their visa. UWA has a 'preferred provider' agreement with Medibank, but you can choose another insurer if you prefer.
Scholarships for international students
At UWA, we offer a range of scholarships to international students from across the globe, to encourage you to pursue excellence in your studies and assist with the costs along the way.
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View our Frequently Asked Questions for all UWA-related queries.
Domestic students
Open 8.30am - 5.00pm (AWST) Monday to Friday
International students
Open 8.30am - 5.00pm (AWST) Monday to Friday
Visit UWA
Visit the Future Students Centre between 9.00am - 4.00pm, Monday to Friday, or book an appointment.