Moving to Australia for studies brings exciting opportunities — and plenty of financial questions. We've created practical tools to help international students manage money, understand banking, and plan budgets without the usual confusion.
Opening an Australian bank account shouldn't feel like solving a puzzle. Our step-by-step guides walk you through documentation, account types, and what to actually expect when you arrive.
Forget vague estimates. Our calculators use current Sydney and Melbourne costs for rent, groceries, transport, and those unexpected expenses everyone forgets to mention.
We built these after talking to dozens of students who wished they'd known this stuff earlier. No fluff — just practical resources you'll actually use during your first semester and beyond.
This isn't one of those generic calculators that tells you to "budget wisely." Input your actual accommodation costs, course fees, and lifestyle preferences. Get a realistic weekly breakdown that accounts for everything from Opal card top-ups to occasional coffee runs.
Banks in Australia operate differently than what you might be used to. This checklist covers what documents you'll need, which accounts make sense for students, and how to avoid unnecessary fees that add up quickly.
These students started where you are now. They shared what worked, what didn't, and what they wish they'd known before arriving in Australia.
Engineering Student from Peru
The budget calculator helped me realize I was spending way too much on groceries. Switched to a cheaper supermarket and meal prepping — saved about weekly. That money went straight into an emergency fund, which came in handy when my laptop died.
Started September 2024
Business Student from South Africa
Banking was confusing at first. The setup guide explained which documents I actually needed and which accounts had no monthly fees. Opened my account within two days of landing, which meant I could start my casual job right away without payment delays.
Started February 2025
IT Student from Bulgaria
I thought I'd budgeted enough for textbooks and supplies. The calculator's course materials section showed me the real costs — ended up buying used books and sharing subscriptions with classmates. Saved around 0 in my first semester alone.
Started July 2024