About Brisbane
Brisbane is a city full of sunshine, friendly faces, and a layback lifestyle with all the bustle of a city, but still calm and comfortable. Brisbane is multi-cultural; you will meet people from all parts of the world. Brisbane has top universities such as The University of Queensland (UQ), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), and Griffith University, so it is a great place to be a student.
Student accommodation is easy to find, with areas like South Bank, Kelvin Grove, and St Lucia. These student-friendly areas are close to campuses and have everything a student needs in walking distance; shops, cafes, everything. Whether you are enjoying the riverside coffee at a café, visiting the Gallery of Modern Art, or going for a short road trip to the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, or Toowoomba, Brisbane is a nice balance between study and lifestyle.
Best Student Accommodation in Brisbane
At Alphaway, we provide you with the best student accommodation in Brisbane, from luxury studios to budget-friendly shared student apartments. Each property is safe, verified, and trusted by thousands of students around the world. Whether you are looking for an ensuite student room in Brisbane or a private student studio in Brisbane, we can help you find the right accommodation option. Start exploring the best-fit student homes in Brisbane today:
Why Choose Brisbane for Higher Education
Brisbane, Australia is an excellent higher education destination with top universities and modern campuses. Students will benefit from a supportive academic community and participate in internships with international companies and will have access to great support services. The diverse range of cultures, inviting lifestyle, and vibrant job market make this city an ideal environment for personal and professional growth.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Brisbane
Here is some of the best areas for finding Student housing in Brisbane:
- South Bank: With its riverside, museums, cafes, and excellent public transport, South Bank is close and easily reachable to QUT and Griffith University.
- St Lucia: St Lucia is home to The University of Queensland and a tranquil, green, and student-accommodation-filled part of Brisbane.
- Kelvin Grove: With proximity to QUT’s creative industries campus, Kelvin Grove is an excellent area for student accommodation and enjoyable local markets.
- Toowong: Toowong is a popular suburb with UQ students due to its access to the campus and shopping centers, along with train access.
- Fortitude Valley: Fortitude Valley is a trendy and vibrant suburb ideal for students who enjoy their short commute to nightlife, eating spots, and central campuses.
Different Types of Student Accommodation in Brisbane
- Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA): Brisbane has purpose-built student accommodation that offers the highest-rated student accommodation with furnished rooms. You can choose between shared student apartments (communal kitchen and communal bathroom), ensuite student rooms in Brisbane (private bathroom, communal kitchen), or a private student studio in Brisbane (all to yourself). These options all come with inclusive rent, utilities, high-speed Wi-Fi, on-site laundry, study areas, gym membership, security, and much more.
- University Halls: Usually managed by the university and located either on campus or a short distance away. Facilities vary for each institution.
- Shared Apartments: shared student apartments in Brisbane are great for students who want to be more independent and share the cost of rent. Generally unfurnished and rented from private landlords.
Cost of Living in Brisbane for International Students
Here’s a quick look at the average cost of living in Brisbane for students:
- Rent: €200 - €400/week depending on room type and location. Generally, PBSAs include bills & Wi-Fi.
- Groceries: €150 - €200/month when shopping at Coles, Woolworths, or local market.
- Transport: €50 - €80/month with a student Go Card for buses, trains, and ferries.
- Dining Out: €10 - €25 per meal, depending on location.
- Entertainment & Shopping: €60 - €100/month, depending on the lifestyle.
Transportation in Brisbane
The transportation in Brisbane makes it super easy for student to get around:
- Buses: Frequent and reliable, great for travelling between suburbs and campuses.
- Trains: Ideal for longer commutes, connects Brisbane to outer suburbs and nearby cities.
- Ferries: A scenic way to travel, especially around UQ and South Bank.
- Airports: Brisbane Airport offers both domestic and international flights.
- Student Go Card: Offers 50% off fares for eligible full-time students.
Student Life in Brisbane
Brisbane offers the perfect mix of academics and lifestyle: safe, sunny, and social.
- Restaurants & Cafés: Try local Aussie brunches, bubble tea, or multicultural street food.
- Student Clubs & Events: Join societies or attend music and cultural events on campus.
- Markets & Malls: Explore South Bank Markets or shop at Queen Street Mall.
- Weekend Getaways: Quick trips to the Gold Coast, Byron Bay, or Sunshine Coast.
- Libraries & Study Spots: UQ, QUT, and Griffith have world-class libraries and quiet zones.
- Live Music & Art: Check out Fortitude Valley for gigs or visit GOMA for contemporary art.
Universities in Brisbane
- The University of Queensland (UQ): As one of Australia's and the world's leading universities, the University of Queensland is known for its research, academic standing, and great student experience. UQ is strong in biotechnology, medicine, engineering, and social sciences. UQ has outstanding support services for international students, including mentoring programs, career development, and language support.
- Queensland University of Technology (QUT): QUT is a lively and innovative university that aims to connect theory with practice. With a strong emphasis on technology, business, creative industries, and health, it was one of the first universities to develop a set curriculum that included work placement through partnerships with industry leaders.
- Griffith University: Griffith has a solid overall reputation for offering an interdisciplinary way of learning, as well as its focus on sustainability, and being supportive of international students. Griffith has strong programmes for business, hospitality, creative and performing arts, health, and environmental sciences. Griffith is preferred by students looking for a top-quality academic experience while also looking for a more relaxed and diverse campus environment.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- University Scholarships: UQ, QUT, and Griffith offer merit-based scholarships for international and domestic students.
- Government Support: International students can explore the Australia Awards and Research Training Program (RTP).
- GCC Scholarships: Students from the Gulf can apply via embassies and ministry-funded schemes.
- External Scholarships: Options include Destination Australia and private foundation scholarships.
Tips for International Students
- Open a Local Bank Account: Helps you pay rent and bills more easily.
- Grab an Aussie SIM: Check out Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone for affordable prepaid plans.
- Learn Aussie Slang: "No worries" and "mate" will help you feel more at home.
- Budget Smart: Remember all the student discounts and check Alphaway’s budgeting tips to save money.
- Alphaway Support: We provide airport pickup, essentials kits, and ongoing local support and tips to help you settle in easily.
Health & Safety Tips
- Register for Medicare/NHS Equivalent: International students with eligible visas can access healthcare.
- Emergency Numbers: Call 000 in emergencies. Save your uni’s security hotline.
- Stay Safe: Stick to well-lit areas at night, and use trusted rideshare apps.
- Mental Health Support: All Brisbane universities offer counselling, wellness apps, and peer support programs.
