The Iglu Guide | Blog
Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane: Where to Study in Australia?
Australia is an undisputed standout destination of choice for international students. The laidback living, unbeatable weather and top-notch universities make it very hard to beat. But with so much on offer, choosing where to go is a challenge in itself. If you’re torn between Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, here’s what you need to know.
Sydney
The city
What’s not to love about the beachy paradise that is Australia’s harbour city. Widely regarded as the country’s international gateway and ranked as the 7th best student city in the world, Sydney packs a mighty punch on the global stage. Nestled in a stunning location complete with world class institutions on tap, Sydney has the perfect mix for every student to enjoy. From the majestic Harbour Bridge to the elegant sails of the Opera House, and with sun, sea and sand on every corner, you may never want to leave.
The universities
With four universities in the world’s top 150, Sydney’s universities are recognised around the world for their academic research and performance. Both Sydney University (Australia’s oldest university) and UNSW are part of the prestigious Group of Eight, a selection of research-intensive universities focussed on delivering sustainable national higher education and research policy. Today, over 50,000 students flock to Sydney’s shores each year for the wide range of courses available, the fantastic graduate opportunity and the unmatched quality of life.
The weather
Sydney has a fantastic climate that offers round 300 days of sunshine a year, so those occasional rainy days that come along can be well and truly forgiven. The warm summers and mild winters make it the perfect environment for enjoying the great outdoors, whether that’s getting around by bike, jumping on a paddleboard or hiking through one of the many National Parks. The winning combination of vitamin D and healthy sea air is just what you need to lift your mood when the studying gets too much.
Student life
Sydney is a culturally diverse city which provides a welcoming environment to international students from around the world. Every suburb has an integrated mix of ethnicities, and with university campuses based all around the city the opportunities for students are endless. Most universities offer some on-campus student accommodation, but students can also live independently or in purpose-built student accommodation buildings. These are generally well-located for university campuses and transport options. When you’re ready to explore, simply load up your Opal card and enjoy the interconnected network of trains, buses, ferries and light rail.
The lowdown
Sydney can be an expensive city for international students, and with rising prices many students choose to combine their study with a part-time job. Fortunately, the amazing weather means there are plenty of activities on hand that don’t cost any money at all. Combined with the multicultural experience and beachy living, Sydney is the perfect choice for any student.
Melbourne
The city
Unofficially acknowledged as the cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne is widely recognised as the cool cat of Australian cities. Also known for her unpredictable weather systems, passion for all things sport and unparalleled taste for the humble coffee bean, Melbourne has been named as the world’s third most liveable city and it’s not hard to see why. A multicultural melting pot that represents around 140 different cultures, Melbourne is the ideal destination for international students. And with countless festivals and events on the cultural calendar there’s always something for students to enjoy.
The universities
Recently crowned as the number one student city destination, Melbourne is home to many prestigious universities that includes the University of Melbourne, the second oldest university in Australia and Australia’s highest-ranking institution. Students can also pick from Monash University, RMIT, La Trobe, Deakin and Swinburne University to name just a few. It’s no surprise that over 170,000 international students flock to the city each year to take advantage of the high standard of education, flexible learning opportunities and graduate placements.
The weather
Nothing says unpredictable quite like Melbourne’s weather. No matter the season, just prepare for all eventualities and you’ll never be disappointed. Fortunately, Melbourne doesn’t need to rely on sunshine to keep students entertained. Sure, you might not be able to hit the beach every day – but you’ll never be short of activities to keep you busy. Thanks to the multinational diversity and infusion of bright minds, Melbourne has an unrivalled cultural scene that never fails to impress. Think laneways, art, museums, festivals and theatre for starters, and that’s before you even wrap your head around the sport.
Student life
A slightly cheaper option to Sydney, Melbourne can also be expensive, so it pays to shop around. Finances aside, the student living experience is not a difficult one. This friendly and inclusive city that spans the Yarra River was founded on the very notion of welcoming the outside in, and so Melbourne provides a sense of community and connection that all international students will appreciate. Factor in the incredible foodie offerings, the buzzing nightlife and entertainment on tap – not to mention the shopping – and there’s literally nothing for students not to enjoy. Pick up a Myki card to use the excellent network of public transport systems and you’re set to go.
The lowdown
Melbourne is a truly international city with a high standard of living. The top-notch education, graduate opportunities and multiculturalism make for an attractive proposition. Students have the opportunity to live in on-campus accommodation, independent rentals or take advantage of the well-located purpose-built accommodation buildings like Iglu.
Brisbane
The city
Capital of the sunshine state and home to over 285 days of sunshine a year, there’s plenty to smile about for students living in Brisbane. Home to three major universities and a large student population, Brisbane has the ideal mix of urban living and access to beaches that all students will enjoy. With over one third of the population born overseas, diversity and community walk hand in hand with students arriving from over 40 different countries every year. And with one of the country’s fastest growing state economies and a lower cost of living, it’s no wonder that increasing amounts of international students are headed to Brisbane as their study destination of choice.
The universities
Brisbane offers world-leading education opportunities. Home to two main universities, The University of Queensland and The Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane also has multiple campuses from six other Australian universities including Griffith University which means the city is swarming with students on a daily basis. QUT is well renowned for providing close industry connections as well as an approach to learning that applies real-world focus. Top class education coupled with a welcoming and diverse community make Brisbane a popular student choice.
The weather
Brisbane has a fairly predictable weather pattern. Think endless sunshine and long summer days, a short mild winter and then straight back to summer. For students that love hanging out in the great outdoors, Brisbane is the perfect destination. Take advantage of the beautiful beaches outside the city, nearby rainforests and beautiful national parks, or take a dip in the Brisbane River and enjoy some al fresco living. For students that thrive on a slice of sunshine, there’s really no better place to study.
Student life
Students have a unique welcome into Brisbane at the world’s largest orientation day. This is a good indicator of how the city integrates new communities and thrives on diversity. Students will find Brisbane has a noticeably lower cost of living than either Sydney or Melbourne, which means your dollars will stretch that bit further. And with such good weather, cycling and walking are good transport options all year round – and completely free of charge! Accommodation options vary between on-campus options, independent living and purpose-built accommodation buildings like Iglu which tend to be more centrally located and close to good transport links.
The lowdown
Brisbane has an excellent public transport service made up of buses, trains and ferries, as well as an impressive network of cycle routes that criss-cross the city. It’s perfectly appointed to take advantage of the great outdoors, from beach to bush and everything in between. Factor in the shopping, entertainment and nightlife and it’s no wonder so many students are delighted to call this multicultural city home.
