Author name: Prabidhi Shah

Studying in Australia is an exciting dream for many Nepalese students as it provides world class education, diverse culture and many promising career pathways. However, before you take that first step in your academic journey you need to make one extremely important decision that will affect your comfort, safety and overall success abroad – where to live.  Finding student accommodation in Australia can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time living out of home. However, with the adequate information and a little bit of local help, you can find something that is decent and within your budget. In this blog, we will enlighten you on the types of accommodation Nepalese students can access in Australia, where to search, budgeting tips and mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re heading to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or any other exciting city in Australia—this guide is for you. Why Accommodation Matters For Nepalese Students The place you choose to live doesn’t just affect how much money you pay for rent. It affects your mental health, academic success and the possible work-study balance in Australia. A well-located and safe place to live ensures you: Eliminate commuting distance to university. Focus better on your studies. Adjust smoothly to a new environment. Slash those living expenses by staying savvy! It’s vital to know your options, so start the search as early as possible. Types of Student Accommodation In Australia Depending on your budget, lifestyle, and preferences, Nepalese students in Australia have several different accommodation types to choose from: On Campus Accommodation Universities in Australia often provide on-campus housing such as residential colleges or halls of residence. Pros: Close to classes and campus events Includes meals and utilities Secure and student-friendly environment Cons: Usually more expensive Limited availability Less independence Estimated Cost: AUD $250–$450 per week Homestay In a homestay, you live with a local Australian family who provides you with a furnished room, meals, and a sense of community. This is a great way for new students to settle into a new culture. Pros: Cultural exchange Meals and utilities included Emotional support in early days Cons: Limited privacy May have house rules to follow Estimated Cost: AUD $200–$300 per week Private Student Accommodation Purpose-built student apartments such as Scape, UniLodge, or Iglu offer premium living experiences tailored for students. Pros: Fully furnished Close to universities and city centers Facilities like gym, lounges and study areas Cons: Higher cost Competitive availability Estimated Cost: AUD $300–$500 per week Shared Rentals/House Sharing One of the most popular options used by Nepalese students is to share a house or apartment with others. You rent a room and split the bills among your house mates. Pros: Affordable and flexible More independence Easy to find through Facebook or student networks Cons: Varies in cleanliness and quality Must manage bills, groceries and cleaning Estimated Cost: AUD $150–$250 per week (plus bills) Short-Term or Temporary Stay If you are arriving in Australia and have not yet secured permanent accommodation, it is worth considering a temporary stay in a hostel, Airbnb or hotel until you find something locally. Pros: Flexible Allows in-person inspections Easy to find through Facebook or student networks Cons: Expensive in the long run  Not ideal for long-term comfort How To Find Accommodation As A Nepalese Student Start with research  Before choosing where to live, begin by researching the area around your university. Look into how far it is from campus, the availability of public transport, and whether the suburb is known to be safe. It’s also important to consider nearby facilities like grocery stores, libraries, medical centres, and even local Nepali communities that can provide support. Use tools like Google Maps to get a sense of distance and travel times, and check platforms like Reddit or local Facebook groups for honest reviews and tips from current students living in the area. Use trusted accommodation platforms Many online platforms help students find housing in Australia: Flatmates.com.au – For shared accommodation Realestate.com.au – For full rentals Domain.com.au – Apartments and houses Student.com – Purpose-built student housing University housing offices – Often list vetted on-campus and off-campus options You can also check Facebook groups like: “Nepali Students in Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane” “Student Rooms to Rent in Australia” Connect and Communicate Once you’ve found potential accommodation listings, reach out to the landlord or agent to express your interest. If you’re still in Nepal or unable to visit in person, request a video inspection to get a clear idea of the space and condition. Don’t forget to ask important questions about what’s included in the rent, the lease length, bond requirements, internet availability, and any specific house rules. Always verify the exact location using Google Maps to ensure it’s within a reasonable commuting distance from your university and close to essential services. Book Early Student accommodation in Australia tends to fill up quickly, especially before semester intakes in February and July. To avoid last-minute stress, it’s best to start applying at least one to two months in advance. Be prepared to provide a refundable bond (usually one month’s rent), two weeks’ rent in advance, and personal documents such as your passport and student visa. Booking early gives you more choices, better prices, and peace of mind before your classes begin. What To Consider Before Finalising A Place Choosing the right place isn’t just about price. Pay attention to: Weekly rent and included utilities Furnished or unfurnished room Number of housemates and their background Lease contract terms (fixed or flexible) Internet access and laundry facilities Public transport proximity If you’re unsure, you can always reach out to EduAdvices for student-friendly accommodation suggestions and city-specific advice. How To Avoid Rental Scams In Australia Unfortunately, international students are often targets of rental scams. To stay safe: Never pay a deposit before viewing or signing a contract Avoid deals that sound “too good to be true” Use verified websites and platforms Get a written rental agreement Don’t send money via Western Union or Bitcoin When in doubt, check with the Tenants Union of

Australia continues to be one of the most popular study abroad destinations for Nepalese students. The top-notch education, diverse campuses and vibrant Nepalese communities in cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. But studying abroad isn’t cheap at all. That’s where scholarships can help.  In this blog, we’ll look over some of the top scholarship options for Nepalese students looking forward to studying in Australia. From fully funded scholarships that cover everything to partial scholarships that ease the financial load, here’s what you need to know.  Why Nepalese Students Need Scholarship  The cost of tuition fee alone can range from AUD $20,000 – $45,000 annually for studying in Australia. Add living expenses, travel and health insurance, and the total sum can feel massive. Scholarships can reduce your financial burden and help you focus more on your studies. For Nepalese students, especially from lower middle class families, scholarships can often decide if you are able to study in Australia or not at all.  Scholarship Options for International Students in Australia  There are a wide range of scholarships and grants provided that can support you financially to a great extent when studying in Australia. Some are offered by the Australian government, others by education providers, and public and private organizations.  Australia Awards Scholarships  Australia Awards Scholarships are one of the most prestigious scholarships for students to study in Australia from developing countries, including Nepal. They cover full tuition fees, round-trip airfare, contribution to basic living expenses, health insurance for the duration, and even academic prep prior to the commencement of formal study in Australia.  Applicants must demonstrate a good leadership capacity as well as a strong dedication to return home to give back to the home country’s development. These are generally given for Postgraduate (Master’s) studies. Australia for ASEAN Scholarships  Australia for ASEAN (Aus4ASEAN) scholarships are prestigious international rewards offered by the Australian government to the next generation of leaders from the ASEAN Member States and Timor-Leste. This scholarship will give students the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree,  and develop skills and knowledge to drive change and help build long term people-to-people links with Australia.  Applicants will be judged on their professional and personal qualities, academic competence and their potential to contribute to one of the four areas of the ASEAN Outlook for the Indo-Pacific: maritime, connectivity, economic development and the sustainable goals 2030.  Applications from women, people with disability and marginalised groups are highly encouraged.  Australian Government Research and Training Program (RTP) The Australian Government Research and Training Program (RTP) supports both domestic and international students undertaking research doctorate and research masters degree. Funded by the Australian government and offered through participating universities, RTP scholarships are perfect for Nepalese students pursuing postgraduate research. These awards cover tuition fees, and provide stipend and allowances to assist students.  University-Specific Scholarships Most Australian universities offer their own institutional scholarships to international students, often awarded on the basis of academic excellence, leadership qualities or financial need. Such institutional-based scholarships can vary in value and coverage, and mostly include partial or full tuition fee reductions, accommodation support, grants for travel or living expenses.  Below given are some universities that are easier to get into and offer partial or full scholarships for international students in Australia: Deakin University University of Tasmania Australian National University La Trobe University University of Southern Queensland Central Queensland University Western Sydney University Federation University Australia Monash University University of Technology Sydney  Deakin University   Deakin is a globally ranked university with campuses across Victoria. It offers modern facilities, strong graduate outcomes, and a welcoming environment for international students.   Scholarships for Nepalese Students:   Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship – Covers 50% or 100% of tuition fees based on merit.   Deakin International Scholarship – Provides a 25% reduction in tuition fees.   These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.  University of Tasmania (UTAS)   UTAS is located in one of Australia’s most affordable and peaceful regions. It offers high-quality education and excellent academic support in a regional setting.   Scholarships for Nepalese Students:   Tasmanian International Scholarship (TIS) – Offers a 25% reduction in tuition fees.   Students are automatically considered during the course application process.   This scholarship is available across most undergraduate and postgraduate programs.  Australian National University (ANU)   ANU, located in Canberra, is Australia’s top-ranked university and a member of the prestigious Group of Eight. It is known for academic research, political science, data science, and public policy. This makes it an excellent choice for ambitious students aiming for global careers. Scholarships for Nepalese Students: ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarship   Offers 25% or 50% tuition fee reduction.   Automatically considered based on academic merit.   Available to students from selected countries, including Nepal. ANU College-Specific Scholarships   Faculties like Engineering, Business, and Law offer additional scholarships, with amounts varying. Australia Awards Scholarships (via ANU)   Fully funded government scholarships available to Nepalese nationals through DFAT.   La Trobe University   La Trobe is a respected university in Melbourne and regional Victoria. It has a strong international focus, making it ideal for Nepalese students looking for PR-friendly locations.   Scholarships for Nepalese Students:   La Trobe International Scholarship – Provides up to a 30% reduction in tuition fees.   This is based on academic performance.   The scholarship is available for a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.    University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)   UniSQ is a flexible, regional university that offers practical courses and lower living costs. It is a budget-friendly option for Nepalese students.  Scholarships for Nepalese Students:   International Student Support Scholarship – Offers up to AUD $5,000.   This is based on academic merit and course eligibility.   The scholarship is offered for full-time, on-campus study. Central Queensland University (CQU)   CQU has several campuses in both urban and regional areas. It offers practical programs and is welcoming to international students. Scholarships for Nepalese Students:   CQU International Student Scholarship – 25% reduction in tuition fees.   No separate application is needed; students are automatically assessed.   This scholarship is available for various undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Western Sydney University (WSU)   WSU is located in Sydney’s multicultural western region. It

Australia continues to be one of the top study destinations for Nepalese students who are looking for a high-quality, world class education as well as high paying job opportunities. Before applying for study in Australia, it is very crucial to choose the right university and course that matches your interest. However it is equally important to consider the timing while applying for abroad studies, which most students often overlook. Any delay in the application process can make all your efforts go in vain. It can cost you a seat in your desired university, your preferred course or chances of scholarship or even an entire academic year. If you wish to study in Australia in 2025-2026, knowing when to apply for different intakes in Australia is the starting point of getting accepted and enjoying your time studying in Australia!  Intakes In Australia for International Students Australian universities usually have three major intakes each year for international students: February, July and November. Each intake offers different opportunities with regard to courses, scholarships and visa timelines. Students need to determine which intake is best for them, their academics and personal circumstances.  February Intake (Semester 1) : The main intake with the most courses and scholarships at nearly all universities.  July Intake (Semester 2) : The mid-year intake, which offers a variety of popular courses, although there may be slightly fewer places and scholarships.  November Intake (Semester 3/Summer) : A smaller intake and only offered at selected universities with limited options. For Nepalese students, the February 2026 intake would be the most ideal intake, especially for students who will complete their +2 or Bachelor’s by the end of 2025 and want complete access to the best programs and funding.  February Intake: The Primary Choice The February intake, also known as Semester 1, is the primary and most popular intake. Nearly all the universities in Australia offer their full range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs during this period and it has the biggest field of scholarships and seats available.  The February intake matches with Australia’s hiring and internship seasons too. So, students are in the best position to find work experience during or post-college. Therefore, it’s the most competitive but also the best alternative to start your education in Australia.  Courses available: Full range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across all major disciplines Universities participating: Almost all universities including Monash, ANU, Deakin, UniMelb, UTS, UNSW, and many more Best for: Students completing +2 or Bachelor’s in 2025, or planning a gap year Key Deadlines for February 2026 Intake: Application opens: July 2025 Application closes: November – December 2025 Classes commence: February 2026 Recommended Action in 2025:  March – May 2025: Research and shortlist universities and courses.  May – July 2025: Gather academic and financial documents July –  August 2025: Take IELTS/PTE Test August – October 2025: Apply to desired university and preferred course of choice October – November 2025: Wait for application assessment. November – January 2026: Apply for student visa and explore scholarship. January – February 2026: Time to fly to Australia, look for accommodation options.  July Intake: The Secondary Intake The July Intake, also known as Semester 2, is a mid-year alternative with minor offerings of courses and programs. However, there are many courses that have a high level of intake such as IT, engineering, nursing and business, among others. July intake is the best option for students who missed the February deadline or need an additional time to complete their English pathway requirements, financial arrangements or document requirements.  Courses available: Good selection in Business, IT, engineering, nursing, health sciences and more Universities participating: CQU, UniSA, Monash, UNSW, Griffith, RMIT, Macquarie and more Best for: Students who miss their February intake or are completing their studies in early 2026 Key Deadlines for July 2026 Intake: Application opens: February 2026 Application closes: April – May 2026 Classes commence: February 2026  Recommended Action in 2025:  August – October 2025: Research and shortlist universities and courses.  October – December 2025: Gather academic and financial documents December – January 2025: Take IELTS/PTE Test January – March 2025: Apply to desired university and preferred course of choice March – April 2025: Wait for application assessment. April – June 2026: Apply for student visa and explore scholarship. June – July 2026: Time to fly to Australia, look for accommodation options.  November Intake: The Limited Option  The November Intake, also known as Semester 3 or Summer intake, is the least common and limited option for international students. It typically includes limited programs; primarily focuses on vocational courses, diploma programs and selected postgraduate courses. While it offers flexibility for late applicants, it may not be ideal for everyone due to narrower course range and fewer scholarship opportunities.  Courses available: Limited programs, mostly in Business/It and diploma levels Universities participating: La Trobe, Deakin, Griffith, CQU, Kaplan, Federation Best for: Students who want quick entry, are applying late or whose courses are available in this intake Key Deadlines for November 2026 Intake: Application opens: Around June – July 2026 Application closes: September – October 2026 Classes commence: November 2026 Recommended Action :  December 2025 –  February 2026: Research and shortlist universities and courses.  February – April 2026: Gather academic and financial documents April – June 2026: Take IELTS/PTE Test June – August 2026: Apply to desired university and preferred course of choice August – September 2025: Wait for application assessment. September – October 2026: Apply for student visa and explore scholarship. October – November 2026: Time to fly to Australia, look for accommodation options.  How To Choose The Right Intake as a Nepalese Student Choosing the right intake time is an important step in your study journey. For a Nepali student, this decision depends on a number of academic, financial and personal circumstances. Here’s how you can assess your best decision:  Course Availability Many universities offer their full range of available programs and courses in February intake, including competitive courses in nursing, business, IT and engineering. For many smaller or regional universities,