What challenges do Nepali students face while studying in Australia?

Australia remains the top choice for Nepali students seeking higher education. The country attracts students because it offers the chance to study desired subjects, work while studying, and pursue a career after graduation. But is it really as easy as it seems?

New students face several challenges in Australia. While the country is known for attractions like the Opera House, Darling Harbour, and beautiful coastlines, students also deal with high tuition fees, housing shortages, limited work opportunities, lower-than-expected earnings, cultural adjustment, and mental health challenges due to being away from family and friends.

According to Australia’s Department of Education, there are currently 723,000 international students in Australia, including 57,048 Nepali students. Nepali students are the third-largest group of international students and contributed about 4.1 billion AUD to the Australian economy last fiscal year.

Here are four key challenges Nepali students and their parents should understand before studying in Australia:

1. Housing problems
The Australian government recently reduced immigration quotas due to growing housing shortages. In 2023, only 130,000 of 328,000 international students had access to student housing provided by the government or universities. Other students must find private housing, which can be difficult for new arrivals. Landlords often prefer experienced tenants, and many Nepali students cannot rent from other Nepali families because homeowners live in their own properties. Students are advised to arrange housing before arriving in Australia.

2. Work challenges
The current unemployment rate in Australia is 4.3%, but new international students still struggle to find work. Many are unfamiliar with local work culture, lack prior experience, or do not understand interview processes. Students can work only 48 hours per two weeks, so employers often prefer full-time staff. Common jobs for students include cleaning, restaurants, and cafés, usually at low pay. Some may pursue aged care work, but training costs around $1,000 and does not guarantee a job. Experts recommend learning skills in demand before arriving.

3. High tuition fees
Tuition in Australia is very expensive compared to Nepal. Students pay between $20,000 (around 1.8 million NPR) and $50,000 (around 4.6 million NPR) per year. Working 48 hours per two weeks cannot cover all expenses, creating financial pressure for students and their families. Rent for a room can cost $150–$200 per week, and living expenses are high. The minimum wage is $24.95 per hour, allowing students to earn about $1,200 before taxes, but there is no guarantee of full hours or steady work. Experts suggest paying at least one year of tuition before arriving to reduce financial stress.

4. Increasing mental health issues
Nepali students in Australia increasingly face mental health challenges. Stress comes from limited work opportunities, study pressure, being away from family and friends, and financial burdens. A 2022 Victoria University study found that 20% of young people aged 16–24 experience mental stress, 30% of university students face depression, and 40% deal with anxiety. While free mental health support is available, new students often hide their problems due to social stigma. Lack of family support and difficulties in adapting to local culture, rules, and language add to their struggles.

Before coming to Australia, students must understand the country’s rules, daily life, and challenges to prepare for a smoother experience.