A Complete Guide for Filipino International Students – 2026
Planning to study in Australia? Trying to understand the total cost — from tuition fees to everyday living expenses — is one of the most critical steps you should take before you apply. In this guide, Filipino students will have a clear and accurate overview of what they should plan to spend, what influences your costs, and how APG Philippines can be useful in helping you maximize your investment.
At APG Philippines, we assist Filipinos with all matters regarding their educational journey to Australia — from selecting the right course and institution, until receiving admissions and student visas.
Australia consistently ranks among the world’s leading study destinations — but it also ranks as one of the more financially demanding ones. Understanding your total cost in its entirety at the beginning goes a long way in making the right choice of course, city and institution without surprises so your student visa application (563) gets processed as quickly as possible.
Visa Requirement
You should be able to demonstrate AUD 29,710 in available funds for your first 12 months’ living expenses — tuition and travel are additional.
Tuition Varies Widely
Your choice of level and course matters! From AUD 8,000/yr for VET courses up to AUD 50,000+/yr for university degrees.
City Affects Living Costs
In fact, Sydney and Melbourne are 20–30% more expensive than regional cities like Adelaide, Hobart or Toowoomba.
Part-Time Work Allowed
International students can work for up to 48 hours per fortnight during semester — helpful in offsetting day-to-day living expenses.
Tuition Fees for International Students (2026)
Tuition fees are the biggest single expense in your Australian education. What you pay will vary according to how qualified you are, whether you’re studying at a university or TAFE/VET provider, and your area of study.
| Qualification Level | Annual Tuition Range (AUD) | Typical Duration |
| VET / Diploma | AUD 8,000 – AUD 20,000 | 1 – 2 years |
| Advanced Diploma | AUD 10,000 – AUD 22,000 | 1.5 – 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | AUD 20,000 – AUD 45,000 | 3 – 4 years |
| Master’s Degree | AUD 22,000 – AUD 50,000 | 1.5 – 2 years |
| Doctoral (PhD) | AUD 20,000 – AUD 42,000 | 3 – 4 years |
Important: Professional courses like Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science or Law at Group of Eight (Go8) in Australia can cost higher than AUD 60,000 – AUD 95,000 per Annual. Always check fees with your chosen institution directly.
Indicative Tuition by Field of Study (Bachelor’s Level)
- Business & Management: AUD 26,000 – AUD 38,000
- Information Technology & Cyber Security: AUD 28,000 – AUD 42,000
- Engineering & Trades: AUD 20,000 – AUD 36,000
- Health Sciences & Nursing: AUD 28,000 – AUD 45,000
- Education (Primary / Early Childhood): AUD 22,000 – AUD 32,000
- Cookery & Hospitality (VET/Diploma): AUD 8,000 – AUD 18,000
- Aged Care & Community Services: AUD 8,000 – AUD 16,000
- Accounting & Finance: AUD 24,000 – AUD 38,000
