Brisbane offers quality education at affordable tuition fees. It is the largest metropolitan on the east coast and is a melting point of multiculturalism. Brisbane is home to administrative offices, top universities, popular MNCs, and landmarks, including Story Bridge, Mount Cook, etc. Studying in Brisbane on a budget is now possible.
Let’s uncover the top low-cost activities in Brisbane to live an affordable life.
Low-cost Universities in Brisbane
Australia’s academic sector is experiencing unprecedented growth. The international student enrollment reached over 717,500 as of February 2024.
- UG tuition fees in Brisbane can cost AU$17,500 and AU$42,900 per year.
- Both private and public universities increasingly offer cost-effective study programs to attract a diverse student population.
The University of Queensland (UQ) is part of the prestigious Group of Eight (Go8) universities. It stands out as an affordable option within this elite group. Despite its comparatively lower tuition fees, UQ maintains the same high academic standards as its Go8 counterparts in Sydney and Melbourne, making it a compelling choice for students seeking both excellence and affordability.
The below listed universities offer multiple low-cost courses in Brisbane:
- University of the Sunshine Coast
- University of Southern Queensland
- Edith Cowan University
- Victoria University
- Torrens University Australia
- Charles Sturt University
- Federation University Australia
- Southern Cross University
Affordable Student Activities in Brisbane
Living and exploring Brisbane need not be expensive. As a student destination, Brisbane offers plenty of affordable activities for students. Some of the most affordable student amenities in Brisbane are:
Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout
The first on the list is Mt Coot-tha Lookout. It’s a must-visit spot in Brisbane. It’s free to enter and open daily. The Summit Café operates from 6:30 am to 8 pm, offering refreshments with panoramic city views. The lookout provides stunning vistas of Brisbane and Moreton Bay, making it a favorite among students seeking affordable leisure activities.
Gallery of Modern Art
The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) is known for its rich cultural experience. It offers free entry for students with special exhibitions. The galleries are open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and are closed only on Good Friday, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. Gallery of Modern Art or GOMA, is the largest art museum in Australia and is located at the South Bank. GOMA houses the Australian Cinémathèque.
Eat Street Northshore
Eat Street Northshore at 221D MacArthur Avenue is the best place to spend weekend in Brisbane. It is an endless fun-filled adventure with eat and drink options. Popular food stalls include the South American BBQ, Charcoal Hut Fluffy Japancakes – Chaar, etc. Eat Street is only available on weekends, from Fridays to Sundays in the evening. It’s a must-visit spot for students seeking affordable and diverse dining options.
Affordable Accommodation in Brisbane
Your accommodation rent is determined as per your preferences. If you like a big and private apartment with personalized amenities, there are luxury options available. And if you want a shared room at affordable rent, you will find them too. In short, Brisbane has a large housing market catering every type of requirements.
Here are some of the most affordable student accommodation in Brisbane.
- Scape Tribune
- Unilodge Herston
- Student One Adelaide Street
- Unipark
- UniLodge South Bank
- Scape St Lucia
- Scape Regent
- Scape Merivale
Part-time Job Opportunities in Brisbane
International students in Brisbane can work for up to 48 hours per fortnight. The hourly wages in Australia are AU$ 20 to AU$ 24. Working part-time means students can pay their essential bills, including house rent, travel and clothing expenses, groceries, etc. Here’s a list of some of the highest-paid part-time jobs in Brisbane for students.
- Marketing & Admin Assistant
- Sales Associate at Ralph Lauren
- Junior Software Developer
- Online Picking & Packing Team Member
- English Tutor
- Library Assistant
- Freelancer
- Cashier Assistant
Conclusion
Studying in Brisbane is exciting more than ever. The affordable courses at universities in Brisbane, combined with affordable accommodation and attractive destinations, make it one of the most suitable destinations in the world. Students can also check out the top affordable activities in the city. The universities have their individual guidelines for international students on how to live an affordable life in Brisbane.
