Costs and Financial Aid

There are costs associated with studying overseas but you may be eligible for a scholarships and assistance available from the government and Flinders University to help fund your international experience.

Costs

Scholarships

New Colombo Plan (NCP) funded opportunities

Flinders Travel Insurance

OS-HELP

Centrelink

Costs

There are a number of costs associated with studying overseas. Creating a preliminary budget before embarking on your international experience will ensure you can afford and get the most out of your time overseas.

Tuition fees

Student Exchange

As a student exchange participant, you will continue paying your tuition fees at Flinders University while you're on exchange and will not have to pay tuition fees at your exchange university.

Study Abroad

Students undertaking studies at a university that does not have an exchange agreement with Flinders University will pay tuition fees directly to their host university.

Short-term Program

Tuition fees are typically included in the overall program cost of many short-term opportunities.

Living costs

The cost of living during your exchange can vary significantly depending on your destination, the length of your exchange, and any additional travel you plan to undertake while overseas.

Proof of Funds

Many universities require you to provide proof of funds to demonstrate that you have enough financial resources to support yourself during your exchange. This is also a key part of most student visa applications.

For example, if you are applying to study in the USA, you will typically need to provide a letter from your bank showing that you (or your financial sponsor) have a certain amount of money. The required amount can vary, but most U.S. universities request proof of funds ranging from US$8,000 to US$15,000 for a full academic year. Some institutions may require a higher amount, depending on their location and living costs.

Financial Plan

As part of your Flinders University exchange application, you will need to submit a financial plan. Most students budget approximately AU$10,000 - $18,000 for a semester abroad. You can view a sample financial budget to guide your planning.

Estimating Your Living Costs

When planning your exchange, it's important to research the cost of living in your chosen country and city. Numbeo is a helpful resource for comparing living expenses worldwide.

Key expenses to consider include:

Accommodation: Rent, utilities, and internet
Food: Groceries and dining out
Travel Costs: Local transport and any additional travel during weekends or study breaks
Books and Stationery: Academic materials
Health and Travel Insurance: Required by most universities
Personal Expenses: Entertainment, clothing, and other personal items

Make sure you are familiar with exchange rates when calculating your estimated costs, as currency fluctuations can affect your budget.

Learn from Past Students!

You can also view returned student reports from previous exchange participants. These reports provide insights into real-life expenses and offer helpful tips on budgeting for your time abroad.

By preparing a detailed financial plan and understanding the costs involved, you can set yourself up for a successful and stress-free exchange experience.

Visas

When planning your exchange program, it's essential to understand the visa requirements of your host country. Visa costs and application processes vary depending on the destination. Below are examples for some exchange destinations:

United States

Students intending to study in the USA must obtain a student visa, typically an F-1 or J-1 visa. The application process includes an in-person interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, located in Melbourne, Sydney, or Perth. Applicants are responsible for all associated costs.

United Kingdom

Starting from 8 January 2025, the UK requires visitors from visa-free countries, including Australia, to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for short-term stays up to six months. The ETA is a digital permission to travel, not a visa, and can be applied for online.

Canada

For study programs longer than six months, students need a study permit. The application process involves providing a letter of acceptance from a Canadian educational institution, proof of sufficient funds, and other documentation. Processing times and fees vary, so it's advisable to consult the official Government of Canada website for the most current information.

Japan

Students accepted by a Japanese institution need to obtain a Student Visa. The process typically requires a Certificate of Eligibility from the host university, along with other supporting documents. Once in Japan, you cannot switch from a visa-free status to a Student Visa without leaving and re-entering the country. Applicants should reach out to the Embassy of Japan in Australia and the Immigration Bureau of Japan for specific guidance.

Vietnam

Australian students must apply for an eVisa online, which allows stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business, with single or multiple entries. Visas on arrival are not available for Australian passport holders, and it is recommended to print a hard copy of your visa approval and admission letter from a Vietnamese educational institution. Apply only through the official Government of Vietnam website to avoid scams. It's advisable to contact the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in Australia for detailed information on application procedures and associated costs.

Important Note!

Visa regulations are subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to ensure they have the most up-to-date information. Flinders University does not manage visa applications. Students are strongly encouraged to consult the official embassy or consulate websites of their destination country well in advance to understand specific requirements and application timelines.

Scholarships

There are a number of scholarships and financial assistance available from the government and Flinders University to help fund your international experience. Please note, scholarships are subject to eligibility and availability, and successful recipients will be notified by the Global Experience team.

Country specific scholarships

Available to students travelling to:

Country	Scholarship	Funding	Availability	More information
China, Hong Kong SAR (PRC), Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, and Singapore	Destination Australia Cheung Kong Exchange Program	Scholarships available AUD$2,000 - $7,000	AY 2025/2026	No separate application required, if students are accepted into the exchange program for a maximum of one semester. Eligible Universisites; The University of Hong Kong, University Gadjah Mada, Chuo University, Hiroshima University, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), The National University of Malaysia (UKM), LASELLE College of the Arts and Nanyang Technological University.
France	Universite de Tours Partner Scholarship	1 x up to $500 EURO grant	TBC	No separate application required, if students apply to and are accepted into the exchange program.
France	Nicholas Baudin Travel Grant	Up to the value of $2500AUD to cover a return flight ticket between Australia and France	S2 exchange only	Apply directly to Campus France *note opening and closing application period. Subject to availability, Campus France will administer the Baudin Travel Grant.
Germany	DAAD Scholarship for European University Viadrina	360 EURO per month	TBC	DAAD Scholarship recipients are not eligible to receive additional Flinders scholarships. No separate application required provided students are accepted into the semester exchange program.
United Kingdom	Matthew Flinders Statute Scholarship	1 x up to AUD $5,000 each semester	AY 2025/2026	Available to an eligible Flinders student particpating in an exchange to Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Leicester or University of East Anglia (UK). No separate application required provided students are accepted into the semester exchange program.
USA	Northern Arizona University Scholarship	USD $700 scholarship	AY 2025/2026	No separate application required, if students are accepted into the semester exchange program.

RA Simpson International scholarship

The RA Simpson International scholarship was established to assist students to undertake part of their course of study overseas. Subject to the availability of funding, one or more scholarships valued at either $1,000 (for semester) or $500 (for short term) will be awarded in each semester.

Learn more about RA Simpson International scholarship

New Colombo Plan (NCP) funded opportunities

The New Colombo Plan offers Australian undergraduates the chance to study, learn a new language, and gain real‑world experience through internships across the Indo‑Pacific.

Why get involved?

Immerse yourself in new cultures
Build international networks and friendships
Develop skills that strengthen your career
Join a community shaping Australia’s engagement with the region

NCP funded opportunities for Flinders students are advertised throughout the year on the Global Experience website, on our Instagram, Facebook, Flinders Screens, Ping! or via email. Funding applies only to selected Study Overseas programs, which vary annually.

NCP Short Term Programs

The NCP Mobility Program offers short, credit‑earning trips (4–9 weeks) where you can build your skills in the Indo‑Pacific. These experiences can include classes, internships, mentorships, practicums, or research projects—giving you real‑world learning while exploring the region.

Search "Short-Term Program (Faculty Led)" in our Programs and Partners page and refer to the "Important Information" to see if NCP funding is available.

NCP Semester Program

The NCP Semester Program lets you spend one semester studying in the Indo‑Pacific through your university’s partner institutions. You can build your regional knowledge while taking classes, learning a language, and even completing an internship as part of your experience.

For 2027 we have $15,000 scholarships available to study in Japan, South Korea, China and Indonesia! Search our Programs and Partners page to see the Host Universities available. Scholarships are limited and will be allocated by the Global Experience Team.

NCP Scholarships Program

The NCP Scholarships Program supports Australian undergraduates to build their knowledge of the Indo‑Pacific and improve their Asia literacy through study, language learning, and internships. Scholarships can fund programs lasting up to 19 months, giving you the chance to deeply immerse yourself in the region.

Is a New Colombo Plan Scholarship for you? Visit our NCP Scholarships page for more information on eligibility and the selection process.

Flinders travel insurance

Flinders students are eligible to obtain no cost Flinders travel insurance to study overseas.
Register online through the Student Travel Insurance portal once you've received college credit approval.
Log an insurance query or call on 8201 3793 if you have questions about cover for pre-existing conditions.

Government assistance

The Australian Government's OS-HELP loans, allowing eligible students to receive funding to assist with the costs of their travel/study expenses.

OS-HELP loans are then repaid with your accumulated HELP debt (including HECS) after your graduation from Flinders University.

For more information regarding eligibility and how to apply, click the OS-Help link provided

OS-HELP Application Instructions

OS-HELP loan

Need help?

Submit an Ask Flinders request to the finance & scholarships team.

Centrelink

Can I still receive Centrelink payments?

If you receive Centrelink payments (Austudy or Youth Allowance), you may still be eligible for payments while you're on exchange. However, it is important to check how your overseas travel might affect your payments. For specific details, visit the Services Australia website. If you have any concerns or need clarification, we recommend contacting Centrelink directly.

Once you're accepted into the exchange program and officially enrolled at your host university, we will provide a confirmation letter for Centrelink. This letter will confirm:

You are enrolled full-time at Flinders University
You will be completing a full-time study load overseas
Your overseas study will be credited towards your home course
We approve your overseas study.

You must remain enrolled full-time at Flinders for the duration of your approved overseas course to keep receiving Centrelink payments. Please note that enrolment in Semester 1 and 2 does not automatically extend to periods outside these dates. If your program falls outside of semester dates, you will not be considered enrolled. Your enrolment for a specific period must be reflected on your transcript.