Sydney regularly ranks among the world's most liveable cities, and it is easy to see why. The harbour sparkles, the coffee is exceptional and the cultural calendar never takes a break. For international students, it also offers a safe, multicultural environment that makes practising English feel less like homework and more like everyday life. Here is a practical overview to help you settle in quickly and enjoy every moment of your time in Australia's largest city.
Finding Accommodation
Sydney's rental market moves fast, so start looking early. Many students initially book a short-term hostel or homestay and then transition to shared housing once they arrive and can inspect properties in person. Popular suburbs for students include Ultimo, Chippendale, Surry Hills, Redfern and Ashfield — all within easy reach of the CBD by train or bus. Expect to pay between AUD 200 and AUD 350 per week for a room in a shared apartment, depending on the suburb and proximity to transport.
Getting Around
An Opal card is your key to Sydney's integrated public transport network. Trains, buses, ferries and light rail all accept the same card, and fares are capped daily and weekly so you never overpay. If you live within a few kilometres of your school, a bicycle is another excellent option — the city has been steadily expanding its cycle path network. Our campus in Haymarket is a five-minute walk from Central Station, the largest transport hub in the city.
Working While You Study
Students on a valid student visa are generally permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Common part-time roles include hospitality, retail and tutoring. Our student services team can help you prepare your resume and connect you with local employers who regularly hire international students.
Staying Healthy
All student-visa holders must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. OSHC covers visits to general practitioners, hospital treatment and most prescription medications. Many GPs bulk-bill OSHC patients, meaning you pay nothing out of pocket. If you need mental health support, organisations such as Headspace and Beyond Blue offer free or low-cost counselling services.
Free and Low-Cost Activities
Sydney is generous with free entertainment. The Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Australian Museum all offer free general admission. Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is one of the most photographed trails in the country and costs nothing. Weekend markets at Paddington, Glebe and Marrickville serve as both cultural experiences and affordable shopping destinations. For live music, keep an eye on free gigs at The Rocks, Darling Harbour and Barangaroo.
Building a Social Circle
One of the fastest ways to make friends in a new city is through organised activities. At NSSORS, we host weekly social events — movie nights, harbour picnics, cooking classes and city scavenger hunts — designed to help students connect outside the classroom. Language exchange meetups at local cafés are another great option: you practise English while helping someone else with your native language.
Moving to a new country is a big step, but Sydney rewards the adventurous. If you have questions about living and studying here, our team is always happy to help.