Studying and working in Australia in 2025: Is it worth investing?
With stunning landscapes, exceptional quality of life, and a high standard education system, the country offers unique opportunities for those seeking personal and professional growth. But is it still worth investing in an Australian exchange in 2025?
Visa Processes: Changes and Requirements for 2025
To study in Australia, you will need to apply for a student visa (subclass 500), which allows you to stay in the country for the entire period of your course. In 2025, some important changes took effect, such as the limit of 270,000 new international students per year, making the process more competitive for Brazilians. The visa application includes a fee of approximately AUD 1,600 (about R$ 5,600) and requires proof of enrollment at a recognized Australian institution.
The Australian visa application process has become more judicious in recent years, with the implementation of the “Genuine Student” assessment since March 2024. This assessment analyzes your study intentions in detail, ensuring that the main focus of your trip to the country is truly educational. In addition, English proficiency requirements were high, generally requiring higher scores in exams such as IELTS or TOEFL, which may pose an additional challenge for Brazilians.
Financial proof: Essential planning
The Australian government requires international students to demonstrate financial capacity to afford their studies and stay. In 2025, the minimum amount required by the Department of Home Affairs is AUD 29,710 per year (approximately R$ 105,000), covering basic costs such as accommodation, food, and transportation. However, it's crucial to understand that this is just the minimum amount for visa purposes.
Plan financially by considering:
- Tuition fees (monthly fees) for the chosen course
- Mandatory Health Insurance (OSHC)
- Initial installation costs
- Emergency reserve for unforeseen events
- Possible exchange rate variations
Cost of living: Variations by city and region
The monthly cost of living in Australia for international students varies significantly by location. In 2025, an average monthly expenditure of between AUD 1,400 and AUD 2,500 (R$ 4,900 to R$ 8,750) is expected, with cities such as Sydney and Melbourne presenting the highest costs, while Adelaide and Gold Coast offer more economical options.
Accommodation represents the highest monthly expense, with weekly prices ranging from AUD 90 to AUD 440 (R$ 315 to R$ 1,540), depending on the type chosen. Options include student hostels, shared rooms, campus accommodation, homestay (living with a local family), or renting your own apartment. Through the program Study and Work in Australia, you receive personalized guidance to choose the best housing option within your budget, ensuring comfort and safety during your stay.
Job opportunities: Balance between study and income
One of the biggest advantages of studying in Australia is the possibility of working legally during the exchange. In 2025, international students can work up to 40 hours a fortnight during term periods and during school holidays, there is no limitation of hours, allowing for full-time work.
Wages for part-time jobs in Australia are attractive compared to Brazil, generally ranging from AUD 24.10 to AUD 30 per hour (R$ 80 to R$ 105), especially in sectors such as:
- Hospitality (restaurants, cafés, bars)
- Retail (stores and shopping centers)
- Customer service
- Part-time administrative services
- Seasonal jobs in tourism
In addition, after completing the studies, there are valuable post-study work visa extension opportunities, especially for high-demand areas such as health, education, engineering, and agriculture. Depending on the course taken, this extension can range from 2 to 6 years, creating an excellent platform for developing an international career or eventually seeking permanent residence.
Cultural Adaptation and Climate: Preparing for Significant Differences
Australian culture is renowned for its informality and relaxed approach, which may represent an interesting adaptation for Brazilians. A cultural aspect that many students are initially surprised by is the common practice of calling teachers by their first names, something considered very informal in Brazil. Australian society significantly values the balance between work and leisure, with an emphasis on outdoor activities and sports.
The Australian climate varies significantly depending on the region, and understanding these differences is essential for adequate adaptation:
- North (Darwin, Cairns): tropical climate with dry season (April to September) and rainy season (October to March)
- Center: arid or semi-arid climate, with extreme temperatures
- South (Melbourne, Sydney): temperate climate with four well-defined seasons
It is important to remember that the seasons are reversed compared to Brazil, with summer occurring from December to February and winter from June to August. Australian summers can be intense, especially in the northern and central regions, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C, requiring extra care with sun protection. The winters in the south, on the other hand, can surprise with low temperatures, requiring appropriate clothing.
Australian education system: Globally recognized quality
The Australian education system is structured around three main levels: school (primary and secondary), vocational education (VET), and higher education. For exchange students, courses are organized according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), which covers 10 qualification levels, ensuring international recognition and ease of transfer between institutions.
Australian institutions adopt teaching methodologies that value critical thinking, teamwork, and practical application of knowledge. This system differs significantly from the Brazilian one by its focus on:
- Active and participatory learning
- Lower number of students per class
- Continuous assessment instead of concentrated final exams
- Emphasis on practical projects and case studies
- Strong connection with the labor market
The quality of Australian education is recognized worldwide, this makes the Learning a language abroad in Australia an excellent way to add value to your curriculum, potentiating future opportunities.
Health insurance and essential services: Required planning
For international students, the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory throughout their stay in Australia. In 2025, the annual amount of this insurance varies between AUD 500 for singles (R$ 1,750) and up to AUD 4,200 for families (R$ 14,700), depending on the coverage chosen and the family composition. OSHC covers doctor visits, some hospital treatments, and subsidized medications.
The Australian healthcare system is renowned for its efficiency and quality, but it's critical to understand that some medical specialties and dental treatments may not be included in basic coverage. In addition to health care, it's important to consider other essential services, such as telephony, internet, and public transportation. Large Australian cities have efficient transportation systems, with student passes that offer significant discounts, reducing the monthly impact of this cost.
Be Easy
A Be Easy transforms your dream of studying and working in Australia into reality through comprehensive and personalized support. Our specialists offer guidance at every stage of the process, from choosing the ideal course to visa assistance, accommodation, and cultural integration. With years of experience in the exchange market, we guarantee a smooth and enriching experience, allowing you to make the most of all the opportunities that Australia offers. Get in touch today and start planning your international future!
