Australia is one of the most popular destinations for Bangladeshi students — but it's also one of the most expensive. The problem is that most agents give you vague numbers. This guide gives you the exact 2026 costs in both AUD and BDT, including everything you'll actually spend.
1. Tuition Fees
Tuition varies enormously by university and programme. Here are realistic 2026 ranges for Bangladeshi students:
| Programme Level | AUD/Year | BDT/Year (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's | AUD 20,000–40,000 | BDT 15–30 lakh |
| Master's (coursework) | AUD 25,000–45,000 | BDT 19–34 lakh |
| Master's (research) | AUD 20,000–42,000 | BDT 15–32 lakh |
| PhD | Often fee-waived + stipend | — |
Affordable universities for BD students: Charles Darwin University, University of Southern Queensland, Federation University, Edith Cowan University, Western Sydney University — all under AUD 30,000/year for most programmes.
2. Visa & OSHC Costs
- Student visa (Subclass 500): AUD $1,600 (~BDT 1.2 lakh) — increased from AUD $710 in 2024
- OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover): AUD $500–700/year (~BDT 38,000–53,000) — mandatory for the entire visa duration
- Medical examination: BDT 15,000–20,000 (at IOM-approved clinics in Dhaka)
- Police clearance: BDT 500–1,000
- Biometrics: Included in visa fee
Total visa-related costs: Approximately AUD $2,300–2,500 (~BDT 1.7–1.9 lakh)
3. Living Costs
The Australian government requires you to show AUD $24,505/year as proof of living expenses (increased from $21,041 in 2024). Actual costs vary by city:
| Expense | Sydney/Melbourne | Adelaide/Brisbane | Regional |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (shared) | AUD 250–350/wk | AUD 180–280/wk | AUD 120–200/wk |
| Food | AUD 80–120/wk | AUD 60–100/wk | AUD 50–80/wk |
| Transport | AUD 40–60/wk | AUD 20–40/wk | AUD 10–20/wk |
| Phone + Internet | AUD 40–60/month | ||
Monthly total: AUD 1,600–2,200 in Sydney/Melbourne; AUD 1,100–1,600 in smaller cities; AUD 800–1,200 in regional areas.
4. Total First-Year Budget
| Item | AUD | BDT (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (affordable uni) | 25,000 | 19 lakh |
| Visa + OSHC + medical | 2,500 | 1.9 lakh |
| Living (12 months, smaller city) | 16,000 | 12 lakh |
| Flight (Dhaka→Sydney) | 1,200 | 0.9 lakh |
| Total First Year | AUD 44,700 | ~BDT 34 lakh |
Realistic range: BDT 30–50 lakh for the first year depending on university and city choice.
5. What You Can Earn Part-Time
International students can work 48 hours per fortnight (24 hours/week average) during term and unlimited during breaks. At Australia's minimum wage of AUD $23.23/hour (2024 rate):
- During term: 24 hrs × $23.23 = ~AUD $557/week = ~AUD $2,228/month
- During breaks: 38 hrs × $23.23 = ~AUD $883/week = ~AUD $3,530/month
This means part-time work can cover most or all of your living expenses. Many Bangladeshi students in Australia earn enough from part-time work to send money home after covering their rent and food.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Australia more expensive than UK?
Per year, yes — Australian Master's programmes are 2 years vs UK's 1 year. But Australia offers 2-4 years of post-study work rights and higher part-time wages, so the return on investment can be better.
Can I get a scholarship?
Yes. Australian Government scholarships (Australia Awards) are very competitive. University-specific scholarships range from 10-50% tuition reduction. Teesta Tech helps you find and apply for available scholarships — free of charge.
How much show money do I need?
You need to show AUD $24,505 per year for living + first year tuition + return airfare. Total show money is typically AUD 50,000-70,000 (~BDT 38-53 lakh) depending on tuition.