Study abroad and exchange costs and fees

Your fees will depend on the number and type of courses you study. You may choose to study either 18 units (usually three courses), or 24 units (usually four courses). 

Courses are divided into two distinct discipline groups. If all your chosen courses are in Discipline Group A, you’ll be required to pay Discipline Group A fees. If any of your courses belong to Discipline Group B, you’ll be required to pay Discipline Group B fees.  

Discipline Group A includes a wide range of courses in study areas including arts, business, computing, design, economics, education, humanities, law, mathematics, non-lab-based science and social science.  

Discipline Group B includes a select group of courses from areas such as engineering and lab-based science.

2026 fees 

Discipline Group A

• $6,119 for 3 courses (18 units), or 

• $8,158 for 4 courses (24 units).

Discipline Group B

• $9,083 for 3 courses (18 units), or 

• $12,110 for 4 courses (24 units).

You can determine which discipline group a specific course belongs to by looking on the relevant course page on the Adelaide University website. Each course will have an ‘Inbound study abroad and exchange’ label in the course information section at the top of the course page. If a course is available to study abroad and exchange students, ‘Yes’ will be displayed, followed by the discipline group that course belongs to. See the Choosing study abroad and exchange courses webpage for more information.  

Whether you’re studying as an exchange or study abroad student, there will be other costs you’ll need to consider.

Life in Adelaide is relatively affordable compared to many other Australian capital cities. As a student, you’ll benefit from discounted fares on public transport and numerous discounts on festivals, movies and technology. 

Accommodation is another significant expense, but Adelaide University students have access to a range of options – so you’ll be able to find accommodation that suits your needs and budget. Visit the Accommodation webpage to discover the options available. 

You can also refer to StudyAdelaide’s cost of living information to start planning your expected living costs in Adelaide. 

Other costs to budget for include health cover, visas, travel costs, and study materials. 

Overseas Student Health Cover

As an international student studying in Australia, you’re required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your visa. You can purchase cover through Adelaide University's preferred provider or choose your own approved provider. 

Note: you don’t need OSHC if you’re covered under some Reciprocal Health Care Agreements. This includes students from Belgium, Norway, and Sweden. Visit the Australian Government’s Private Health website to learn more.

It’s also strongly advised that study abroad and exchange students have comprehensive travel insurance cover for the length of their stay in Australia.

Visas

Most study abroad and exchange students will apply for a Student visa (subclass 500). Additional costs will apply.

Flights and travel

The cost of a return flight to Adelaide varies depending on where you’re travelling from, so make sure you factor this into your budget. Adelaide is also a great base for you to explore other parts of Australia, so don’t forget to include some funds for extra travel if you can!

Study materials

It’s a good idea to allow AUD$250–500 per semester for the cost of textbooks and other basic study materials. If you’re studying specialist courses, you may also have additional costs for specialist study materials and possibly field trips. Visit the Non-tuition fees webpage for more information. 

You can also visit the Preparing to come to Australia webpage to help get ready.