Four compelling reasons to choose Adelaide as your study abroad destination

Compared to other major Australian cities, Adelaide can be a less expensive place to live. Whether it’s rent, groceries, or transportation, students in Adelaide find that their money goes further, allowing them to focus more on studies and experiences and less on managing a tight budget. 

Rental prices in Adelaide are among the lowest of Australia’s major cities, and students can find quality accommodation options that suit their needs and budget, whether near the city centre or in quieter suburbs. Depending on your chosen accommodation, Study Adelaide advises budgeting between AUD $150 and AUD $600 per week. 

Public transportation is cost-effective and the city is known for its bike-friendly streets, which can further reduce commuting costs. Should you need to use Adelaide Metro – a reliable service consisting of buses, trains and trams – students receive a 50 percent discount on the cost of a regular monthly Metro CARD. 

Even dining out and enjoying Adelaide’s nightlife is reasonably priced, which is important for students who want to have a social life without breaking the bank. A meal out in a restaurant in Adelaide will cost you AUD $15-30. 

With accessible international cuisine options, fresh produce from the Adelaide Central Market, and budget-friendly bars and cafes, students can enjoy a balanced lifestyle while keeping expenses manageable. 

If you do require extra income while studying, those on a student visa may be able to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time.  

The University of Adelaide also offers a range of scholarships for international students, making it easier to stretch your budget and reduce your financial burden. For example, the Global Citizens International Scholarship rewards students with accomplished academic records with either a 15 or 30 percent reduction in fees, while the Global Academic Excellence International Scholarship offers a 50 percent reduction. 

Adelaide is often regarded as one of Australia’s safest cities, which is a huge advantage for students living away from home. The city has a low crime rate compared to other urban areas, and its welcoming community fosters a sense of security and belonging.  

International students, in particular, find Adelaide’s inclusive nature and friendly locals make it easy to adapt to life in Australia. 

 The University of Adelaide provides dedicated support services for international students, including orientation programmes, counselling and emergency assistance.  

This commitment to student welfare extends beyond campus, as the city government and community groups actively work to make Adelaide a safe, comfortable place for everyone. 

One of the greatest advantages of studying in Adelaide is the variety of activities and attractions that the city has to offer.   

Adelaide is known as Australia’s ‘festival city’, and with good reason. Throughout the year, the city hosts a series of major events that draw visitors from around the world. The Adelaide Fringe Festival, the second-largest annual arts festival in the world, showcases a diverse lineup of performances, visual art, and interactive installations.  

Other highlights include the Adelaide Festival of Arts, WOMADelaide (an international music and arts festival), and Tasting Australia, a celebration of the region’s culinary scene. 

For students, these events are perfect for soaking up the local culture and meeting people from all walks of life, and the University of Adelaide hosts many events of its own to mark key dates throughout the year. 

For example, this year events have been held on campus to celebrate Eid, Mid-Autumn Festival and Diwali.  

If you’re keen to explore the city, Adelaide is also home to numerous museums, galleries and historic sites. The Art Gallery of South Australia features an impressive collection of Australian and international art, and the South Australian Museum is an excellent place to learn about Aboriginal history and culture.

The city’s Chinatown and diverse immigrant communities bring an array of cultural influences, making Adelaide a vibrant mosaic of food, art, and traditions.