✔ Reviewed September 2026 by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518899). Official sources: Home Affairs: Student visa.
Adelaide is one of Australia’s most liveable cities and a growing choice for international students. As an Adelaide-based education consultancy, Study Mate Migration helps students from around the world choose a course here every year. This guide covers the universities and colleges, living costs, and the migration advantages of studying in South Australia.
General information only, current at the date of publishing. Visa rules and fees change often, so always check the official Department of Home Affairs website or get advice before you apply.
Why study in Adelaide?
- Relaxed, affordable city life: living costs are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne
- Quality education: universities, TAFE SA and private colleges across many fields
- Regional benefits for migration: Adelaide counts as a regional area for many migration purposes
- Welcoming, multicultural community with strong student support services
Where can you study?
Adelaide University
From 1 January 2026, the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia came together as Adelaide University, one of Australia’s largest universities and a member of the Group of Eight.
Flinders University
Known for health, medicine, education and technology, with a main campus in Bedford Park.
Torrens University and private colleges
Private higher education and vocational providers offer business, hospitality, IT, design and health courses, often with flexible intakes.
TAFE SA
South Australia’s public vocational provider, offering diplomas and trade qualifications that can lead to skilled occupations.
Migration advantages of studying in South Australia
- Regional study points: eligible qualifications completed while living and studying in Adelaide can earn 5 extra PR points
- Longer post-study work: graduates of regional institutions may qualify for the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream of the 485 visa
- State nomination pathways: South Australia offers dedicated options for its own graduates. See our SA skilled migration update
Living costs to plan for
Your budget should cover rent, groceries, transport, phone and internet, OSHC and study materials. Shared housing near the city or campus is the most common choice for students. Home Affairs also sets a minimum amount of money you must show for your Student visa, so check the current figure before you apply.
How to choose the right course
- Start from your career goal and your previous study or work
- Check the course level and whether it fits the Genuine Student requirement
- Compare fees, intakes, campus location and work-integrated learning
- Think ahead to post-study work and possible PR pathways, without choosing a course only for migration
Start with Study Mate
Our Adelaide counsellors offer course advice and admission support, and our Registered Migration Agent handles your visa. Explore our education consultancy or read our Student visa checklist.
Talk to Study Mate Migration
Study Mate Migration (also known as StudyMate) is an Adelaide-based education and migration consultancy. Our Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518899) can check your eligibility, explain your options and prepare a complete application.
