Perth’s student lifestyle is defined by support from prestigious universities, affordable living options, accessible student financial support, a low crime rate, and lucrative part-time job opportunities.

Sounds great, right? It truly does, but there are still a lot of factors you have to consider before moving here as an international student.

The good news is you don’t have to spend hours of tedious Googling. Our team has the lowdown on other elements like the city’s transportation system, cost of tuition, and international student experience. All the answers are just below!

Cost of Living

What is the average cost of living for students in Perth?

In 2023, Study Australia reported that students in Perth can expect to spend approximately $2,000 to $3,000 per month. This amount covers essential expenses such as housing, food, utilities, and entertainment.

Remember that variations in costs may occur based on individual lifestyle preferences and housing options. This estimate only provides a benchmark for budget planning.

What is the average cost of essentials for students in Perth?

The data below shows the 2024 costs of essentials for students in Perth.

What is the cost of accommodation in Perth for students?

The cost of accommodation for students in Perth depends on the lodging’s type and location. According to Study Perth, shared rentals typically cost around $198 weekly.

On the other hand, on-campus accommodation will set students back at least $90 to 280 per week, and homestays, where students live with a local family, average about $345 per week.

Finally, those renting independently will pay approximately $450 per week, while boarding schools offer yearly rates that can go from $11,000 to $22,000.

On-Campus and Off-Campus Accommodations

What are the pros of living on-campus in Perth?

Living in on-campus accommodations in Perth provides benefits such as easy access to academic facilities, including services like cleaning and meal plans, and enhanced campus security measures.

You will also be closer to academic support groups, counseling experts, and other resources within the institution. On top of that, living on campus will let you build networks or friendships with fellow students.

What are the cons of living on-campus in Perth?

Living on-campus in Perth has cons, primarily higher costs for amenities and convenience, restrictions on independence, and cramped living spaces with limited privacy.

Additionally, adherence to university schedules and policies can disrupt a student’s plans and routines. On-campus housing may limit exposure to Australian culture or diverse food options, too.

What are the pros of living off-campus in Perth?

If you opt for off-living accommodations in Perth, you will gain advantages like having more space and privacy (you will not share rooms), being able to attend any social gathering, and enjoying a quiet space for studying.

Moreover, you can immerse yourself in the local community’s culture, which is a huge upside for international students. You can also make friends outside of your university, whether it is through bonding with flatmates or neighbors who do not attend the same school as yours.

What are the cons of living off-campus in Perth?

Longer travel time, feeling disconnected from your schoolmates, additional transport costs, and extra fees for utilities are the major cons of living off-campus in Perth.

You will also deal with rigorous research and paperwork, particularly those related to leases. The quality of the accommodation might also be a drawback, as off-campus lodgings tend to vary widely, for better or worse.

Education

What are the major universities in Perth?

How much do universities in Perth cost?

Based on Futurity Invest‘s data, university students in Perth should expect to spend $6,888 to $101,952 annually.

It is crucial to note, though, that the average fees depend on the type of school you are attending and the number of units or areas of study you are taking.

Are student loans available in Perth?

Yes, there are several student loans available in Perth.

Transportation

What transportation options are available for students in Perth?

Students in Perth have multiple transportation options, primarily provided by Transperth, which operates an extensive public transport network including buses, trains, and ferries.

For convenience, students can even take advantage of the Transperth SmartRider card. By doing so, they can enjoy seamless travel across all types of public transport.

Employment

Are there part-time job opportunities available for students in Perth?

Yes, there are part-time job opportunities available for students in Perth. Seasonal and casual roles are also available, offering flexibility to fit around academic schedules.

Usually, students can find work in restaurants, retail outlets, and various service industries. In addition, students can explore part-time jobs in tutoring, administrative work, and internships related to their field of study.

Many businesses in Perth also seek part-time employees, especially in customer service and office roles. Furthermore, universities often have on-campus employment opportunities such as research assistants, library staff, and event coordinators.

How many hours can students work in Perth?

Students in Perth are allowed to work up to 48 hours every two weeks during the semester. During semester breaks, students are permitted to work unlimited hours.

It is also critical to mention that international students must strictly follow the rules imposed by their visa status. Failing to do so may result in visa cancellation.

How much can you earn from a part-time Job in Perth?

According to Insider Guides, a Perth student of 18 years or older can earn around $23.23 per hour or $557.52 weekly.

Lifestyle and Recreation

What recreational activities are available for students in Perth?

In Perth, students can enjoy numerous recreational activities, such as beach outings, hiking in parks, kayaking on the Swan River, visiting museums and galleries, and attending live performances.

You can also dine at local cafes, pubs, and restaurants, shop at malls and local shops, and engage in exercises at sporting or fitness facilities.

Safety

Is Perth safe for students?

Yes, Perth is known as a safe city for students, courtesy of its low crime rate, which PerthNow reports to be 10,204 total offenses per 100,000 people (for a population of 2,067,000).

However, since it is a big city, you should still stay vigilant of your surroundings.

International Student Experience

Is Perth good for international students?

Yes, Perth is good for international students because of its world-class education, several job opportunities, lucrative incentives, and lower cost of living.

Perth is also diverse; over 200 nationalities reside in the city. Furthermore, Perth boasts a high standard in terms of quality of living, with clean and well-maintained surroundings, beaches, and parks scattered throughout the area.

How much do universities cost in Perth for international students?

Top Universities claims that the average cost of undergraduate bachelor’s degrees in Perth can go from $20,000 to $45,000, while a postgraduate master’s degree will set you back approximately $22,000 to $50,000.

If you will pursue a doctoral degree, the average annual fees will run from $20,000 to $42,000.