Evolution is a snail, but revolution is a kangaroo, one crawls while the other jumps.’ That is why international students aiming to take higher jumps in their careers often choose Australia for their higher studies. I mean, just take a look at any ranking list, and you will see that over 90% of Australian universities are ranked among the world’s best. The only challenge these students sometimes face is deciding which Australian city will give them the most value during their time here.
While Australian cities are popular among international students, Melbourne and Sydney stand out as top contenders. To clear up the confusion, let us bring you a detailed comparison to help you choose the best city for your studies in Australia. Starting from top universities to study in Australia for international students to scholarships and funding options we will make sure that no point is left out!
Top Universities in Melbourne
| Top Ranked Universities in Melbourne | |
| University | World Ranking as per QSWR |
| University of Melbourne | 13th |
| Monash University | 37th |
| Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) | 123rd |
| Deakin University | 197th |
| La Trobe University | 217th |
| Swinburne University of Technology | 291st |
Being the 5th best student city in the world as per QS World Student Cities, Melbourne has earned the name as Australia’s educational capital, drawing students from all over the world. It is not just about the top-ranked universities, but also the overall student experience that makes Melbourne special. The city is rich in diversity, offering a multicultural atmosphere where international students can easily integrate.
Below is the table highlighting some of the top-ranked global universities situated at the Cultural Capital of Australia:
Top Universities in Sydney
Close behind Melbourne, which ranks 5th is the Emerald City of Australia – Sydney – a bustling city that is ranked as the 6th best student city in the world. Sydney offers more than just top-quality education – it is a hub for career opportunities, especially in fields like business, technology, and finance. The universities here are renowned for their innovation, research, and global reach. International students in Sydney benefit from a vibrant city life while gaining a world-class education.
For international students, here is a curated list of all the top-ranked universities in Sydney to study in 2025:
| Top Ranked Universities in Sydney | |
| University | World Ranking as per QSWR |
| University of Sydney | 18th |
| University of New South Wales | 19th |
| University of Technology Sydney – UTS | 88th |
| Macquarie University | 133rd |
| Western Sydney University | 384th |
When you look at the rankings of the universities in these cities, it is easy to see why students are so keen to compare Melbourne and Sydney instead of looking at other places. Now that you have a good understanding of the top universities, let us hop like a kangaroo into a comparison of the cost of living in Melbourne and Sydney.
Comparing Cost of Living in Melbourne and Sydney
Here is a comparison of the cost of living in Melbourne and Sydney for 2024, focusing on various essential categories that international students should consider. This information will help you make an informed decision about studying in both of these vibrant cities:
| Cost Categories | Sub-Categories | Yearly Cost of Living in Melbourne | Yearly Cost of Living in Sydney |
Accommodation | University Residence | AU$ 10,400 – 20,800 | AU$ 13,000 – 26,000 |
| Shared Apartments | AU$ 7,800 – 18,200 | AU$ 10,400 – 20,800 | |
| Private Accommodation | AU$ 15,600 – 31,200 | AU$ 18,200 – 36,400 | |
Food and Groceries | Groceries | AU$ 3,600 – 7,200 | AU$ 4200 – 8,400 |
| Dining out for Two | AU$ 1,200 | AU$ 1,440 | |
Transportation | Public Transportation | AU$ 2,280 | AU$ 2,604 |
| Private Transportation | AU$ 66 | AU$ 84 | |
| Health Insurance | AU$ 1,200 – 1800 | AU$ 1,200 – 1800 | |
Utilities | Basic | AU$ 2,700 | AU$ 3500 |
| Electricity | AU$ 1,200 – 1800 | AU$ 1,440 – 2,160 | |
| Mobile Phone | AU$ 490 | AU$ 480 | |
Other Expenses | Entertainment | AU$ 1,200 – 2,400 | AU$ 1,200 – 2,400 |
| Clothing | AU$ 600 – 1,800 | AU$ 600 – 1,800 | |
| Social Activities | AU$ 1,200 – 2,400 | AU$ 1,200 – 2,400 | |
| Gym | AU$ 600 – 1,800 | AU$ 600 – 1,800 |
While living in these cities might seem pricey, there is good news – managing those expenses is easier than you think, thanks to plenty of financial support options available. Whether it is scholarships for international students in Australia or part-time job opportunities, you have got a variety of ways to cover your living costs. Let us take a quick look at how you can fund your stay in these Australian cities!
Scholarships and Financial Support
Now that we have talked about living expenses, let us explore some practical ways to manage them. From scholarships to part-time jobs, here’s how you can ease the financial burden while studying in Australia.
- Scholarships and Bursaries
Many universities in Australia offer scholarships specifically for international students. These can cover part or even all of your tuition fees. Keep an eye out for merit-based and need-based scholarships that could significantly reduce your overall costs.
- Overseas Education Loans
Education loans are another great option to fund both your studies and living expenses. Many banks and financial institutions provide student-friendly loans with flexible repayment options, so you can focus on your studies without stressing about the money upfront.
- Part-time Jobs
Australia allows international students to work part-time while studying. This not only helps cover living costs but also gives you real-world experience. Whether it’s a campus job or something off-campus, working part-time can ease your expenses while giving you a taste of the work culture.
In the end, whether you choose Melbourne or Sydney, both cities offer world-class education and countless opportunities to shape your future. From prestigious universities to vibrant city life, you will find yourself in a place that not only nurtures your academic growth but also enriches your overall experience.
As they say, ‘Every big leap starts with a small step,’ so take the leap toward your dreams with confidence just like a kangaroo and visit an overseas education consultant for personalized guidance on choosing the right city, know the cost of living in Sydney, and everything in between. They can provide expert advice and simplify the process, so you can focus on what matters most—your education and career goals!
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