Already regarded as one of the most livable cities in the world, Adelaide is now making a push to be regarded as one of its educational capitals as well. Home to some 30,000 international students annually, South Australia’s capital continuously attracts a globally diverse student body to its doorstep. With some of the continent’s best schools and research centers, along with a never-ending supply of enriching cultural and outdoor adventure opportunities, it is no wonder why so many choose to study abroad in Adelaide!
Subjects & Courses
There are a handful of prestigious universities where you can study abroad in Adelaide, including Adelaide University, Flinders University, and University of South Australia, which are all internationally ranked. Enrolling at one of these schools will give you access to a comprehensive course catalogue to select from; some of the most commonly pursued subjects among foreign students in Adelaidean universities tend to include Australian studies, anthropology, engineering, international business, and the liberal arts.
Some foreign universities and study abroad programs in Adelaide also have their own satellite campuses in the city, which will allow you to take classes in a smaller format designed specifically for international students. Most classes at international schools such as these are taught by local faculty and are designed to provide students an introductory context to Adelaide and Australia at large.
It’s possible to study abroad in Adelaide for a single semester, full academic year, or over summer and winter breaks (remember that seasons are reversed from the northern hemisphere in Australia, making the latter option an opportunity to experience the city in full bloom). Begin planning early on, and also talk with your home school about what time frame is the most feasible option to study abroad in Adelaide while remaining on target with your degree track.
Life in Adelaide
Located on Australia’s southern coastline just north of the Fleurieu Peninsula beneath the Lofty Mountain Ranges, Adelaide is from the outset notorious for its scenic beauty. Having been inhabited by the aboriginal Kaurna nation for many centuries, the area was settled on by British colonialists in the early 19th century, who then established the planned city of Adelaide as a new capital of the South Australian province.
Today Adelaide is home to nearly 2 million citizens, making it officially the fifth largest city in Australia. It is perennially ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world because of its laid back culture, economic prosperity, cultural richness, and efficient city planning. Home to many important global companies and financial institutions as well as the government of South Australia, Adelaide is also a very important commercial and administrative hub to the region.
Foreign students who study abroad in Adelaide may experience a degree of culture shock at first as they adapt to their new surroundings, but the relaxed culture and overwhelming friendliness of locals will have you feeling right at home in no time. With a vibrant nightlife along with many great museums, theaters, galleries, concert venues, and the like, Adelaide boasts endless opportunities for both work and play.
Scholarships & Costs
In case you haven’t heard, Australia is an expensive place to live. Adelaide is no exception. Because on-the-ground costs can mount up, it’s good idea to plan a budget ahead of time and make your best effort to stick to it while studying abroad. Shop locally, utilize public transportation, take advantage of all the city’s free entertainment opportunities, and you should be fine (also, check out our Scholarship Directory, where you can learn about all the promising opportunities for financial aid to study abroad in Adelaide).
Accommodation & Visas
You will likely face a variety of different housing options while you study abroad in Adelaide. Most students who are enrolled at a local university choose to live in the dormitories, where they can meet peers from around the world and become fully immersed in campus life. Living in an off-campus apartment with other international students is another option, and homestays are further offered by many study abroad programs in Adelaide as well.
You will generally need to apply for a student visa in order to study abroad in Adelaide, so it’s best to get the ball rolling on this process early. The exact documentation you need will vary depending on your home country and the duration of your stay in Adelaide; for more details regarding your individual situation, check out our Australian Embassy Directory.
Benefits & Challenges
Quality of Life. Adelaide has cracked the top ten in global livability rankings for many years in the 21st century, and it only continues to build upon that reputation. Come here to experience a taste of the good life.
Go Outback. There are a ton of adventure travel opportunities throughout South Australia, and Adelaide is a great port to launch from. Dig deeply into your urban surroundings, but also don’t ignore the great outdoors in your backyard!
Beyond Education. Decide for yourself how much you will focus on school while studying abroad in Adelaide, but don’t miss out on the chance to learn from the city itself. Uprooting and placing yourself in a new cultural context can be an incredible growth experience.
