University of South Australia students reveal the cost of studying in Adelaide

Adelaide, a vibrant, culturally diverse city with high-quality education, attracts students from all over the world to study. However, for many students in the South Australian region, the journey to study in Adelaide is not smooth sailing. They face challenges from rent, living expenses, and living away from home, while also enjoying a rich and colorful university life and learning opportunities.

According to a report from the South Australian Regional Student Equity and Success Centre, in this city that has been ranked among the top ten most livable cities in the world for many years, students living in remote areas are less likely to obtain a degree. This indicates that one of the challenges for students from the South Australian region to study away from home in Adelaide is economic barriers.

Students starting university studies in Adelaide not only need to balance studies and internships but also face the city's median weekly rent of $565. This can be a huge expense for some students, especially those from remote areas. However, many schools are located in the city center, making it a convenient option to live around the campus, making life and study more convenient.

Some students choose to rent in the suburbs of Adelaide because the rent is relatively cheaper there. Although it takes more time to commute to school by public transport, it also provides them with an economical option.

For some students, the cost of moving and living away from home is a significant barrier. Sophie Nottage is one of them, who needs to drive 160 kilometers back and forth every week. To cope with the weekly rent and living expenses as high as $650, she eventually chose to return home to study. However, for students like Sophie, having an employer who can support them in arranging work flexibly is crucial.

To help address this issue, the Rural Education Foundation has provided assistance to 53 students at six locations in South Australia, with a total donation of approximately AUD 200,000. These funds help students cope with living expenses and housing issues, allowing them to better adapt to life in Adelaide.

Despite the challenges, university life in Adelaide is still full of opportunities and rich experiences. Charlize Flett, a student from the Riverland in South Australia, shared her experience of living on campus, impressed by the social activities organized by the university, and said that the rent includes food, bills, laundry fees, and gym membership fees, which is quite good.

Facing these challenges, students from the South Australian region still maintain hope and aspirations for the future. They are committed to realizing their dreams and contributing to society through hard work and overcoming difficulties.