Studying in Sydney

Information and tips for international students in Sydney

Are you looking for your next destination but you still don't know why you should study in Sydney? If it’s attractive to think about a big city with a cosmopolitan environment, a lot of life and international presence, this is the place for you! It’s located on the shores of the great Sydney Bay (Port Jackson) and it’s the biggest and most populated city in Australia. It’s one of the places with the best standards of living despite its high prices and has some of the best universities in the country. Do you want us to tell you everything you need to know for your stay in this Australian city? Our pleasure!

Cost of living in Sydney, Australia

Sydney isn’t the capital of Australia, but it’s still the country's financial and corporate centre. For this reason, it’s a city with an expensive standard of living. Salaries are able to cover these costs, but if you’re a student and don’t plan to get a job during your stay, it’s worth it to choose your accommodation well to save a little.

A student may need around $800 AUD per week to live comfortably, between rent, food and transportation. One detail that you have to keep in mind is that, in Australia, bills or the rent are usually calculated weekly.

Students usually choose to share flats. The single rooms are among the $275 AUD and $400 AUD per week. The shared rooms are another somewhat cheaper option that ranges between $200 AUD and $250 AUD.

Student life, parties and leisure in Sydney, Australia

Sydney is a city that adapts to the likes of all. There’s no time to get bored because there’s always some plan to participate in, as well as day and night events! You’ll find quiet or more lively activities, beaches, mountains and many places to explore.

The nightlife in the Australian city is quite lively, with many bars, pubs or clubs. The King Cross or Darlinghurst neighbourhoods are some of the popular options for partying. Some of our favourite places are the World Bar in Kings Cross, the Scary Canary bar near the Town Hall station and The Lord Nelson, a pub with good music and food in the The Rocks neighbourhood.

Culture and gastronomy in Sydney

If you visit the capital of New South Wales, you have to stop by the famous Sydney Opera House, where opera, ballet, theatre and music shows await you. The city is home to several festivals, including the Sydney Festival, where they celebrate their culture every year, from the streets to the beach.

Despite being a modern city, Aboriginal culture remains an important part of the local roots. The Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park contains around 1,500 pieces of Aboriginal rock art.

Another place you can visit is Chinatown, full of stalls, shops, cafés and restaurants. You will also find Japanese, Korean, Indonesian and Vietnamese food.

The gastronomy in Sydney is greatly influenced by other cultures. A wide variety of dishes from around the world have been adapted to fit local conditions and climate. Being surrounded by the sea, its main ingredients are seafood and fish. The salad “Balmain Bugs” is one of the typical ones of the place, and it’s made with a lobster that is highly appreciated on its coasts. The “Barramundi” is another typical fish in the surrounding seas, some of the most delicious too, and the aussies love to eat it grilled, with a touch of lemon and salad or potatoes. “Meat pies”, beef or lamb, are one of the favourite fast foods. The “Vegemite” spread is also a typical Australian food, but be careful because it’s very salty!

Advantages of studying in Sydney, Australia

• It’s the most cosmopolitan city in the country, with a wide presence of international students from various cultures.
• The city has excellent universities recognised throughout the world for their quality.
• It’s one of the most popular options for young people to study English. You can put it into practice daily with native speakers and students from other parts of the world.
• If you dream of living near the sea, in Sydney there are more than a hundred beaches where you can surf, snorkel or just go enjoy the waters and sun after classes. Don't forget the sunscreen!
• You have the possibility to apply to scholarships for international students like Australia Awards, Destination Australia, Australian Government RTP or Provider Scholarship, depending on your country of residence.
• You’ll be able to join clubs or university societies to meet other young people with your same interests.
• A fun fact is that, if you live in the northern hemisphere and you go to Sydney, you are going to experience Christmas in summer!

Cheap student accommodation in Sydney

Do you need accommodation in Sydney and don't know how to get it? Don't worry, in Erasmus Play you can find the best verified apartments, rooms and residences for students in this Australian coastal city simply and quickly.

Frequently asked questions about studying in Sydney

Other Erasmus destinations

Erasmus in Brisbane

Erasmus in Adelaide