Studying in Perth (2026)
— Guide for Indian Students
Studying in Perth 2026 — UWA, Curtin, Murdoch universities, living costs, Indian community, Subclass 485 regional visa for Indian students.
Quick Overview
Perth is Australia's westernmost major city and home to UWA (Group of Eight), Curtin University, and Murdoch University. As a designated regional area, Perth graduates receive an additional 2 years on their Subclass 485 post-study visa — creating one of the strongest PR pathways in Australia.
Why Study in Perth?
- Perth designated as regional area: Subclass 485 extended to 5 years for Perth-based graduates
- UWA (Group of Eight, #93 QS) — strong mining, engineering, medicine, and marine sciences
- Curtin University — top-ranked globally for mining, petroleum, and resources engineering
- Western Australian resources boom: Rio Tinto, BHP, Woodside, Chevron Australia all headquartered in Perth
- Australia's sunniest capital city (3,200 sunshine hours/year) — exceptional quality of life
Universities in Perth
| University | Type | QS Rank | Intl. Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Western Australia (UWA) | Group of Eight | #93 | 28% |
| Curtin University | Technology-focused | #201–250 | 30% |
| Murdoch University | Comprehensive | #401–450 | 22% |
| ECU (Edith Cowan University) | Teaching-focused | #501+ | 20% |
Cost of Living in Perth
| Item | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| On-campus housing | AUD 900–1,400/month |
| Private room (Mirrabooka / Cannington) | AUD 550–850/month |
| Transperth monthly pass | AUD 100–130/month |
| Food (self-catering) | AUD 280–400/month |
| OSHC | AUD 50–70/month |
Best Neighbourhoods for Indian Students
Mirrabooka / Balga
AUD 550–750/monthNorth Perth, affordable, growing South Asian community, good bus links.
Cannington / Bentley
AUD 600–800/monthNear Curtin University. Diverse, affordable.
Mount Lawley / Subiaco
AUD 950–1,300/monthNear UWA. Upmarket, walkable, vibrant.
Student Life in Perth
Perth's Indian student community has grown significantly — large Punjabi and South Indian communities in Mirrabooka and surrounding northern suburbs. Part-time work: 48 hours/fortnight on Subclass 500.
Visa Information
Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500). Perth is classified as a regional area under Subclass 485 — graduates receive 5 years post-study work (vs 2–3 years in Sydney/Melbourne). OSHC required. Western Australian State Nomination (WASN) offers additional PR pathway for resources, engineering, and healthcare graduates.
Written & reviewed by
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Resources
Ready to Study in Perth?
Get a free profile evaluation and a personalised action plan — university shortlisting, visa guidance, and application support.