Cost of Living for PTE Destinations: A Complete Guide for International Students
Studying abroad is one of the most rewarding experiences for international students, opening doors to academic excellence, global exposure, and career opportunities. However, along with tuition fees, the cost of living is a crucial factor to consider before deciding on a study destination.
For students planning to take the PTE Academic and pursue higher education abroad, understanding the living expenses in top destinations such as Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States is essential.
This blog explores the typical cost of living in popular PTE destinations, highlights practical tips for saving money, and warns students about common financial pitfalls to avoid.
1. Australia
Australia remains a top choice for PTE test takers because of its welcoming student environment and wide range of post-study opportunities.
Average Monthly Costs:
Accommodation: AUD 600–1,200 (shared apartment or student housing)
Food and groceries: AUD 300–600
Transportation: AUD 100–200 (with student concession)
Utilities & internet: AUD 150–250
Miscellaneous/personal expenses: AUD 200–400
Estimated total: AUD 1,500–2,500 per month
Tips for Students:
Opt for on-campus or shared housing to reduce rent.
Use public transport passes instead of taxis.
Buy groceries in bulk from budget-friendly chains like Aldi or Coles.
Look for part-time jobs (up to 48 hours per fortnight permitted).
Things to Avoid:
Overspending on eating out regularly; restaurant meals are expensive.
Signing long-term housing leases without proper inspection.
2. Canada
Canada is renowned for its affordable education, multicultural society, and excellent quality of life.
Average Monthly Costs:
Accommodation: CAD 700–1,200
Food and groceries: CAD 300–500
Transportation: CAD 100–150 (student discounts available)
Utilities & internet: CAD 150–250
Miscellaneous/personal expenses: CAD 200–400
Estimated total: CAD 1,500–2,300 per month
Tips for Students:
Choose accommodation close to your campus to save on commuting.
Use meal plans provided by universities, which can be cheaper than cooking individually.
Take advantage of student discounts for public transport, entertainment, and shopping.
Things to Avoid:
Purchasing unnecessary electronics or clothing upon arrival; many items are more affordable online.
Relying heavily on credit cards, as interest rates in Canada are high.
3. United Kingdom
The UK continues to be a prestigious destination for international students, particularly for its world-class universities and short-duration postgraduate programs.
Average Monthly Costs:
Accommodation: GBP 500–900 (outside London); GBP 800–1,500 (in London)
Food and groceries: GBP 200–400
Transportation: GBP 100–200
Utilities & internet: GBP 100–200
Miscellaneous/personal expenses: GBP 200–400
Estimated total: GBP 1,100–2,300 per month (London being significantly higher)
Tips for Students:
Use student Oyster cards for cheaper transportation in London.
Cook meals at home instead of eating out; groceries are affordable at Tesco, Aldi, and Lidl.
Choose university-managed housing in the first year to save on upfront costs.
Things to Avoid:
Living in central London if your budget is tight; opt for zones 3–5 with good transport connections.
Ignoring weather-related costs; winter clothing can add to expenses if not planned in advance.
4. United States
The U.S. offers unmatched academic diversity, with thousands of universities and a flexible education system. However, living costs vary greatly depending on the state and city.
Average Monthly Costs:
Accommodation: USD 800–1,500 (higher in New York, California, Boston)
Food and groceries: USD 300–600
Transportation: USD 100–250
Utilities & internet: USD 150–300
Miscellaneous/personal expenses: USD 300–500
Estimated total: USD 1,800–3,200 per month
Tips for Students:
Share accommodation with roommates to cut down on rent.
Use campus meal plans where available.
Explore student discounts for software, travel, and retail.
Buy used textbooks or access free online resources instead of paying full price.
Things to Avoid:
Relying on cars in big cities; public transport or campus shuttles are more affordable.
Ignoring healthcare costs; ensure you purchase a comprehensive student health insurance plan.
General Strategies to Manage Living Costs
Regardless of the country, students can follow these universal strategies to manage expenses:
Budgeting: Create a monthly budget to track your expenses.
Part-Time Jobs: Explore opportunities allowed under your visa conditions.
Meal Preparation: Cook in batches and avoid frequent takeaways.Student Networks: Join student groups to share resources like books, furniture, and travel tips.
Avoid Impulse Spending: Differentiate between essentials and luxuries.
Common Financial Pitfalls to Avoid
Currency exchange losses: Use student-friendly money transfer services.
Ignoring hidden costs: Factor in visa fees, insurance, and semester breaks.
Overestimating income from part-time work: Jobs are not always guaranteed.
High mobile and internet bills: Opt for student or prepaid plans.
Final Thoughts
The cost of living varies considerably across PTE destinations, influenced by location, lifestyle, and individual preferences. Australia and the UK often demand higher monthly expenses, particularly in metropolitan areas, while Canada is relatively more affordable. The U.S., with its vast geographical diversity, requires careful planning depending on the city or state chosen.
For aspiring international students, understanding these costs in advance can prevent financial stress and enable a smooth academic journey.
Take the First Step with Gurully
Before you finalize your study destination, it is important to secure the required PTE score. Practicing with real exam-like tools can significantly boost your confidence and performance. Gurully’s Free PTE Mock Test is designed to help you experience the test environment, identify your strengths, and improve your weaknesses effectively. Start practicing today and take a confident step toward studying in your dream destination.
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