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Why study in Adelaide?

Download our free guide, covering everything you need to know about studying, working and living in Adelaide.

What makes Adelaide a top study destination?

Adelaide is a leading education city, with established institutions across all areas of education, including universities that rank in the top 2% globally.

  • Home to universities ranked in the top 2% globally
  • 100+ years of educational excellence, research and innovation
  • Strong industry connections and practical learning opportunities


Find out more about Adelaide's educational institutions


  • Adelaide is one of Australia's most affordable capital cities
  • Rent is 47% lower than Sydney, 8% lower than Melbourne, 20% lower than Perth^
  • Overall living costs range between AUD $350 and $700 per week


Find out more about the cost of living in Adelaide

  • Part-time and casual jobs available for international students in Adelaide
  • A growing economy fuelled by a range of exciting industries, such as technology, space, energy and the arts
  • Graduate opportunities with an emphasis on mentoring and on-the-job training


Find out more about building a career in Adelaide

  • Adelaide is a safe, vibrant city that embraces diversity and inclusion
  • A community-minded focus on accessibility and excellence in healthcare
  • Comprehensive health and medical services across the city


Find out more about Adelaide's inclusion, health and safety services

  • Top 10 Most Welcoming Regions on Earth*
  • Offering a convenient, student-friendly lifestyle, known for safety and inclusivity
  • Nestled between rolling hills and pristine beaches, just 30 minutes from the coast
  • Our warm Mediterranean climate creates a relaxed and friendly environment


Discover more about life in Adelaide

Choose Adelaide for world-class education

Hear directly from international students who have made Adelaide their home. From world-renowned universities to vibrant student life, discover why over 40,000 international students choose Adelaide as their preferred study destination.

Find an institution >


Student stories

Frequently asked questions

Adelaide brings you closer to success in study, work and life.

Adelaide is a leading education city, with established institutions across all areas of education, including universities that rank in the top 2% globally.

An Adelaide education is world-class, giving you internationally recognised qualifications that are valued anywhere you go.

Adelaide has a thriving economy and is host to global leaders like Microsoft, BHP and PwC.

Because of its size, Adelaide can provide more opportunities to engage directly with business and develop valuable career outcomes.

It is also one of the world's most liveable cities, with a vibrant atmosphere and natural beauty on its doorstep. 

There is so much to experience beyond the classroom, from local fresh food markets, international sporting events and world-renowned arts festivals.

And with a lower cost of living than other capital cities in Australia, you have more money to enjoy it too.

Application and enrolment procedures vary for each institution. You can contact institutions directly to learn more about their specific application requirements.

Generally, the enrolment process looks like:

  1. Explore your study options
  2. Choose your course and apply to instutitions
  3. Apply for a student visa
  4. Budget appropriately
  5. Accept your offer
  6. Fund your studies
  7. Organise accommodation
  8. Prepare for departure

There are a few requirements to study in Adelaide, including English language requirements, general academic requirements, student visa and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
You can use our course search tool to find a course of interest and learn more about the enrolment process and application requirements.

It is important that your level of English is up to the standard required for your course by the Department of Home Affairs, as you may be required to provide evidence of your proficiency to obtain a student visa.

If required by the Department of Home Affairs, you must provide evidence that you have either:

  • Obtained a satisfactory test score in an English language test that has been approved by the Department;
  • Completed eligible studies in English, or
  • Fall into an exemption category

It is worth keeping in mind that the institution you are applying for may have different English proficiency requirements. 

Do some research into your chosen institution and the Department to make sure that you will be eligible for both a student visa and entrance into your institution of choice.

If you need help improving your English skills, there are various courses available. ELICOS courses for example are designed to prepare students for study in Australia.

There are many English language schools in Adelaide to consider.

Studying abroad will involve many different expenses but embarking on the journey to Australia may not be as expensive as you think.

To help you gain an understanding on how much it costs to study in Australia, we've created clear breakdown on some of the essential costs involved.

If you require financial support for your studies, there are a range of scholarships that might be available.

There are two types of scholarships available - scholarships offered by the Australian Government, and scholarships offered by institutions in Adelaide. 

Learn more about scholarships here or contact an Institution directly.

Yes, you can work while you’re studying in Adelaide. 

If you have a student visa, you may be able to work up to 48 hours in a fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. 

If you are a Masters by research or PhD student, you may work full time.

Australia has a wide range of industries that offer part-time and casual work. Before you undertake any paid work, you need to make sure your visa allows you to work.

Learn more about working conditions for international students on the Australian Government's Department of Home Affairs website.

Corelogic Quarterly Rental Review January 2025 Median weekly unit rent

Booking.com, 2025

Corelogic Quarterly Rental Review January 2025 Median weekly unit rent

Booking.com, 2025