Moving to Sydney as a Student: 2026 City Guide

Best universities in Sydney

Sydney has several universities with courses across a wide range of subjects. Some of the main choices for international students include:

• University of Sydney
• University of New South Wales
• University of Technology Sydney
• Macquarie University
• Western Sydney University

Your course is likely to be your main priority when choosing a university, but the campus location matters too. Sydney is spread out, so check how far your accommodation will be from campus before you make a decision.

Best localities to live in Sydney

Rent is one of the biggest expenses you need to plan for in Sydney. Living in the city centre can be convenient, but moving a little further out can give you more accommodation choices and potentially lower rent.

Some areas students can consider include:

1. Parramatta– A busy area with shops, restaurants and good transport connections.
2. Newtown– Known for its cafés, food spots and lively atmosphere.
3. Kensington– A popular choice for students studying at UNSW.
4. Ryde– A more residential option with access to Macquarie University and public transport.
5. Canterbury– A quieter area with links to other parts of Sydney.

You can also look at places such as Redfern, Chippendale, Haymarket, Randwick and Marrickville. The best area for you will mainly come down to your university, budget and how much travel you are comfortable with.

Student accommodation in Sydney

Once you know where you are studying, accommodation is probably the next big thing on your list.

You can choose from university residences, private student accommodation, shared houses and apartments. Your budget and how much privacy you want will usually determine which option works best.

On-campus housing

Living on campus can make your first few months easier. You are close to your classes and have other students around you, which can also make it easier to meet people.

Depending on the residence, you may have access to Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, common areas and food facilities.

Off-campus housing

Living off campus gives you more choice. You could rent a room in a shared house, choose a private room in student accommodation or get your own studio.

Sharing a place can be useful if you want to keep your rent down and do not mind having a shared kitchen or living area.

En-suites: You get your own bedroom and bathroom, while shared areas such as the kitchen are used by other residents.

Non-en-suites: You have your own bedroom but share the bathroom with other students.

Studios: You get a private space with your sleeping, living and study areas in one room, along with your own bathroom and usually a kitchenette.

Cost of living in Sydney

Sydney is not a cheap city, so it is worth working out your basic monthly budget before you arrive.

Your accommodation will usually take up the biggest part of your budget. You will also need to account for groceries, transport, phone bills, eating out and other everyday expenses.

The figures in the original guide put groceries at around 120 a week and travel at around 65 a week. Your actual spending can be higher or lower depending on where you live and how you spend your money.

It is also worth keeping some extra money aside for your first few weeks. Things such as your accommodation deposit, household essentials and setting up your phone can add to your initial costs.

Things to do in Sydney

University life is not all about lectures and assignments. Sydney gives you plenty of ways to spend your free time, and you do not have to travel far to find something to do.

Places to visit

Sydney Harbour Bridge: Walk across the bridge or find a spot nearby to take in the harbour views.

Bondi Beach: A popular place to spend a sunny afternoon, especially if you want a break from the city.

Taronga Zoo: Located in Mosman, it is a good option for a day out and has views across Sydney Harbour.

Darling Harbour: Head here for restaurants, waterfront views and plenty of activity, particularly in the evening.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium: A handy option when you want to see marine life without leaving the city.

Food and coffee

You will not run out of places to eat in Sydney. From small cafés and takeaway spots to restaurants serving food from around the world, there is plenty of choice.

Haymarket is a good place to check out for cheap Asian food if you’re on a student budget. There are plenty of casual dining options in Newtown and the CBD has cafes and takeaway joints that are good for a quick bite between classes.

For Coffee, you can try Gloria Jean’s Coffees, Jamaica Blue and The Coffee Club.

Museums, theatres & beyond

If you’re a history buff, enjoy art or live performances, Sydney has plenty to keep you busy.

Museums

You can visit:

• Museum of Sydney
• Powerhouse Museum
• Hyde Park Barracks Museum
• Justice and Police Museum

Theatres

For live shows and performances, some of the well-known venues include:

• Sydney Opera House
• Capitol Theatre
• State Theatre
• Sydney Lyric Theatre

Festivals and events

Sydney has events on throughout the year so there is always something new to see.

Vivid Sydney is known for its light installations, music and events across the city.

Sydney Festival is held in January and features music, theatre, dance and arts performances.

If you’re a film buff, the Sydney Film Festival is a good choice. Screenings are held at venues across the city.

There are also smaller food, music, art and community events throughout the year. Keep an eye on local event listings once you arrive.

How can students earn in Sydney?

If your visa allows you to work whilst studying then a part-time job can help you earn some extra money and gain work experience.

Hospitality is an industry where students can often find work, with casual and part-time opportunities in cafés, restaurants, bars and hotels. Other areas to look at are retail, customer service, admin, tutoring and event work.

You can look for vacancies online, visit the careers services at your university or approach local businesses directly with your CV.

Check your visa for the current work conditions before taking a job so you know how many hours you can work.

Adjusting to student life in Sydney

The first few weeks in a new city can be overwhelming. You’re finding your feet, getting used to university and probably meeting loads of new people at the same time.

Get the basics right first: choose accommodation within your budget and commute, know your regular expenses and work out your usual route to campus.

Once those things become part of your routine, you can start enjoying the rest of Sydney at your own pace. Grab coffee with your new classmates, try a different neighbourhood, head to the beach or check out an event happening that weekend. That’s when Sydney starts to feel less like a new city and more like your student home.