When students choose a university course, most people focus on tuition fees. But for some degrees in Western Australia, the real cost of studying can climb well beyond $250,000 by the time you graduate.
Courses like medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science are among the most expensive. They take many years to complete and usually require full-time study, which makes it hard for students to work while studying. This means students are not only paying high fees but also covering years of living costs without a full income.
In WA, the most expensive course was a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Curtin University – an undergraduate course charging $444,756.
The most expensive non-medical degree is Edith Cowan University’s combined Bachelors of Law and Bachelor of Philosophy, costing just over $300,000.
For international students, the pressure can be even greater. On top of tuition, there are visa requirements, health insurance, accommodation, textbooks, equipment, and placement costs. These expenses add up quickly and can come as a shock if they aren’t planned for early.
Many graduates finish their degrees with very high debt or financial stress, which can affect their future — whether that’s applying for post-study visas, gaining work experience, or settling in Australia long-term.
There are increasing calls for reform, including better government support, fee restructuring, or loan caps for long and high-cost degrees. Supporters of change argue that while higher education is an investment, the current model places too much pressure on young people before they even enter the workforce.
That’s why choosing the right course matters, not just academically, but financially and for migration pathways too.
Contact us today to get free consultation for professional guidance and personalised visa support.
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