Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Tasmania is attracting more and more international students seeking a recognized degree, a safe environment, and an exceptional living setting. An island state of Australia, located 150 miles south of the mainland and surrounded by the Bass Strait, this territory combines a world-class university, a relatively affordable cost of living, and spectacular, largely protected nature (approximately 42% of the land is classified as protected areas or World Heritage sites).
This article covers all essential aspects for higher education in Tasmania: choosing university programs, the process for obtaining a student visa, post-study job prospects, an estimate of the local cost of living, activities and student life, as well as scholarship opportunities.
Understanding Tasmania as a Study Destination
Tasmania is both the smallest and the most southerly state in Australia. Its main island is the 26th largest in the world, surrounded by over 300 smaller islands. It features mountains, temperate rainforests, wild coastal areas, grassy plains, and alpine environments. This setting often leads it to be described as a “Natural State” and a gateway to Antarctica.
The capital, Hobart, is the second-oldest Australian capital after Sydney, located at the mouth of the Derwent River at the foot of kunanyi/Mount Wellington. Launceston, the state’s second city, is one of the country’s oldest settlements and a major center for higher education and research. The urban network is completed by Burnie and the northwest coast, forming human-scale communities.
With approximately 540,000 residents, Tasmania offers a small-region atmosphere where towns are neither overcrowded nor overwhelming. Most urban centers can be explored on foot or by bicycle, contributing to a sense of safety and community closeness rarely matched in major cities.
Climate, Quality of Life, and Local Culture
Tasmania enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, often compared to that of the United Kingdom, New Zealand, the northwestern United States coast, or Vancouver Island in Canada. Seasons are well-defined: summer from December to February, autumn from March to May, winter from June to August, and spring from September to November. Summers remain mild, averaging around 73°F, although some days can reach into the high 80s°F. Winters are cool but rarely freezing in the cities, with snow mostly confined to plateaus and peaks like kunanyi/Mount Wellington or Ben Lomond.
Cradle Valley receives nearly 2,700 mm (106 inches) of rainfall per year, making it one of the wettest areas in the region.
Beyond the climate, the quality of life is also based on a highly valued “Tassie” lifestyle: a more relaxed pace, a strong connection with nature, and importance given to community ties. Towns combine modern infrastructure, cafes, restaurants, weekly markets, designer boutiques with a rich historical past, notably linked to convict history and European settlement.
Tasmania has the highest concentration of artists per capita in Australia. Its major cultural hub is Hobart, home to the famous MONA, one of the world’s most intriguing museums of contemporary art. Cultural life is punctuated by unique festivals like Dark Mofo (winter solstice) and Mona Foma, as well as food and music events. The creative scene (visual arts, music, theater) benefits from a particularly favorable environment.
Why Choose Tasmania for Higher Education?
For a French-speaking student considering a degree abroad, Tasmania offers several key advantages.
First, the cost of living is among the lowest in the country. Hobart is consistently described as the most affordable university city in Australia among major centers, easing financial pressure compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The state itself promotes Tasmania as the country’s most affordable study destination.
Hobart is consistently ranked among the safest capitals in Australia. Tasmania as a whole is known for its low crime rate and relaxed atmosphere, a strong reassuring argument for parents whose child is going abroad to study.
The environmental aspect is another distinctive point. Tasmania boasts air reputed to be among the cleanest in the world and rainwater of rare quality. It is a pioneer in hydroelectricity, operates largely on renewable energy, and hosts leading research institutions on climate, Antarctica, oceans, and sustainable agriculture. This coherence between environment and academia strongly attracts students sensitive to ecological transition issues.
Finally, as the state is classified as a regional area by the Australian government, students benefit from specific advantages regarding post-study visas and skilled migration. For graduates considering medium or long-term settlement, this is a considerable argument.
The University of Tasmania: Cornerstone of Higher Education
The centerpiece of higher education in Tasmania is the University of Tasmania (UTAS), a public research university founded in 1890, the fourth oldest in Australia. It has over 30,000 students according to sources, including around 3,000 to 4,000 international students, representing nearly one-fifth of its student population. Its structure is based on several colleges (Arts, Law and Education; Health and Medicine; Sciences and Engineering; Tasmanian School of Business and Economics; University College) and three major research institutes.
UTAS is consistently ranked among the top 300 universities worldwide in major international rankings. It stands out particularly in fields such as oceanography, mining and minerals engineering, marine engineering, ecology, agricultural sciences, earth sciences, and remote sensing. In areas like marine, Antarctic, or environmental sciences, it ranks among the very best globally.
University of Tasmania (UTAS)
The university also boasts a remarkable reputation for sustainability. In the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, it has been ranked number 1 in the world for climate action for several consecutive years. It has been carbon neutral since 2016 and is committed to halving its emissions by 2030. Many degree programs directly incorporate these issues, with, for example, a major in sustainability accessible in most undergraduate degrees.
Campuses and Geographic Locations
UTAS relies on a network of campuses covering Tasmania’s three main regions:
The University of Tasmania is present on several sites across the state, offering varied study environments.
Main Sandy Bay campus (~250 acres), with sites in the city center, on the waterfront, and in the medical and scientific precinct.
Newnham campus (home of the Australian Maritime College) and Inveresk campus, developed in a rehabilitated industrial site.
Cradle Coast campus located on the waterfront of Tasmania’s northwest coast.
Specialized facilities complement this setup: the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) on Hobart’s waterfront, the Hedberg for performing arts, the Menzies Institute for Medical Research at the heart of the medical precinct, a radio observatory at Mount Pleasant, an observatory at Greenhill, a university farm at Cambridge, etc.
The university is also undertaking a major project to relocate its activities from Sandy Bay to central Hobart over about a decade to bring teaching, research, urban life, and the economic fabric closer together.
Programs and Study Areas: A Very Broad Spectrum
UTAS offers over 100 undergraduate programs and more than 150 postgraduate coursework or graduate diploma programs, not including short certificates, online programs, and research degrees (Master by Research, PhD).
Major study areas notably include: history, geography, literature, social sciences, humanities, economics, and philosophy.
– Business and law.
– Creative arts and design.
– Earth, sea, Antarctic, and environmental sciences.
– Education, humanities, and social sciences.
– Health and medicine.
– Science, technology, and engineering.
Several programs are unique in Australia or highly specialized. The Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic Science, for example, is presented as the only one of its kind in the country, benefiting from Tasmania’s strategic position for Antarctic and maritime research. Degrees like Natural Environment and Wilderness Studies or masters such as the Master of Marine and Antarctic Science, Master of Environmental Geospatial Science, or Master of Protected Area Conservation illustrate this grounding in environmental and conservation sciences.
In engineering and technology, the Australian Maritime College, integrated into UTAS, offers world-class specializations in maritime engineering, logistics and supply chain, maritime management, or naval architecture. Masters such as the Master of Maritime Engineering (Advanced or Professional) or the Master of Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management draw on concrete partnerships with the maritime and port industry.
In health and medicine, the offerings are also very rich: medicine, pharmacy, biomedical science, nursing, physiotherapy, public health, clinical psychology, speech pathology, medical laboratory science, etc. Many programs have professional accreditation in Australia and often international recognition.
Social sciences, education, communication, tourism, heritage, and social work offer practice-oriented programs. These degrees include mandatory placements in schools, social services, cultural institutions, or NGOs.
Finally, double degree options allow combining two fields (e.g., business and information technology, environment and communication) and reduce the overall study duration compared to two separate degrees.
Overview of Some Iconic Masters and Their Fees
The table below illustrates some representative master’s programs and their indicative annual tuition fees (in Australian dollars):
| Field | Program (example) | Typical Duration | Main Location | Indicative Annual Fees* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business & Accounting | Master of Business Administration (Global) | 2 years | Hobart | ~32,000 – 40,000 AUD |
| Professional Accounting | Master of Professional Accounting | 2 years | Hobart / Online | ~36,000 AUD |
| Maritime Engineering | Master of Maritime Engineering (Advanced/Professional) | 1.5–2 years | Launceston / Online | ~36,000 AUD |
| Information Technology & Systems | Master of Information Technology and Systems | 2 years | Hobart | ~39,950 AUD |
| Marine & Antarctic Science | Master of Marine and Antarctic Science | 2 years | Hobart | ~46,250 AUD |
| Environmental Science | Master of Environmental Geospatial Science | 2 years | Hobart | ~40,950 AUD |
| Urban Planning & Development | Master of Planning | 2 years | Hobart | ~39,450 AUD |
| Public Health | Master of Public Health | 2 years | Hobart / Online | ~36,950 AUD |
| Clinical Psychology | Master of Psychology (Clinical) | 2 years | Hobart / Launceston | ~43,950 AUD |
| Physiotherapy | Master of Physiotherapy | 2 years | Launceston | ~47,250 AUD |
Amounts are indicative and subject to annual review.
For undergraduate degrees, the annual fee range generally varies from around 22,000–23,000 AUD for the least expensive programs to over 80,000 AUD per year for highly specialized degrees like medicine (Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery).
Admission Requirements and Language Proficiency
Admission depends on the target level (undergraduate or postgraduate) and country of origin. For a candidate with a baccalaureate or equivalent French-speaking qualification, the university typically requires a qualification equivalent to the Australian Year 12 for entry into an undergraduate degree, with satisfactory academic performance in relevant subjects.
For master’s programs, you generally need to hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent to an Australian bachelor’s, with a minimum grade (often at least a 50% average, but higher for very competitive programs like medicine, clinical psychology, or certain health degrees).
The most recognized English language tests for admission to undergraduate or postgraduate programs are IELTS, TOEFL iBT, and PTE Academic.
– IELTS: overall score of at least 6.0, with minimum band score requirements (often no less than 5.5 or 6.0).
– TOEFL iBT: from 72.
– PTE Academic: from 50.
IELTS score required for a Master of Teaching in Australia, a significantly higher level than average.
For students who do not directly meet these criteria, the University of Tasmania International Pathway College offers pathway programs (foundation, first-year diplomas, pre-masters) as well as a language center with academic English pathways. These routes allow strengthening both language proficiency and academic skills before entering the main degree.
The university has an acceptance rate around 70–75%, meaning it is selective but not closed, with particular attention paid to the coherence of the study plan and academic level.
Tuition Fees, Cost of Living, and Overall Budget
Studying abroad requires careful cost planning. In Tasmania, three main expense categories must be distinguished: tuition fees, living expenses, and visa-related costs (including the proof of funds required by the Australian government).
Tuition Fees
Fees vary significantly depending on the program and level:
– Undergraduate: approximately 22,000 to over 80,000 AUD per year, with the high range concerning notably medicine (over 80,000 AUD/year) or certain highly technical degrees.
– Postgraduate: most often between 22,000 and 50,000 AUD per year. For example, a Master of Business Administration often falls within the 34,000 to 40,000 AUD range, a master’s in engineering between 29,000 and 45,000 AUD, and a master’s in IT around 39,000–40,000 AUD.
Many programs are slightly cheaper in Tasmania than equivalents in major cities, particularly in business, engineering, and science fields.
Cost of Living in Tasmania
Even with varying lifestyles, Tasmania remains the most affordable Australian state for students. Hobart, despite its reputation for expensive residential real estate, is still less costly than major capitals in terms of overall student budget.
This is the minimum realistic weekly student budget amount in AUD in Australia.
| Expense Category | Indicative Weekly Range (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Food & basic outings | 80 – 200 |
| Shared accommodation / Rented room | 150 – 300 |
| One-bedroom unit (full lease) | 238 – 380 |
| Utilities (water, electricity, gas) | 30 – 50 |
| Internet | 15 – 25 |
| Mobile phone | 25 – 35 |
| Public transport | 15 – 55 |
| Recreation and entertainment | 60 – 150 |
By monthly estimates, a student living in Hobart can expect a budget in the order of 1,300 to 1,800 AUD per month, including accommodation, which remains competitive compared to major Australian cities, often over 2,000 AUD monthly for a comparable standard of living.
As an indication, some reports place median rents in Hobart around 410 AUD per week for a full house and 360 AUD for an apartment (2018 data). In shared housing or university accommodation, the cost is naturally more moderate.
Total Annual Cost and Visa Requirements
To obtain an Australian student visa (subclass 500), the authorities require proof of sufficient funds to cover at least one year of living costs and tuition. The minimum base for a single student’s living expenses has been set at 29,710 AUD per year. In addition:
Main costs to plan for an international student preparing for a stay in Australia.
Cost of the first year of tuition at the chosen Australian institution.
Budget for international flights from your home country to Australia.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory health insurance for the entire duration of your student visa.
For a strong visa application, it is therefore advisable to budget the following total (order of magnitude):
| Budget Items | Indicative Annual Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Cost of living (minimum visa requirement) | 29,710 |
| Tuition fees (undergraduate/postgraduate) | 23,000 – 50,000 (depending on program) |
| OSHC health insurance | Varies (by duration and insurer) |
| Travel & setup costs | Varies (flights, bond deposit, etc.) |
The total annual cost can therefore vary widely from around 55,000 to nearly 100,000 AUD depending on the degree, accommodation mode, and lifestyle. Tasmania, however, stands out for an overall cost of living lower than that of major cities, partially offsetting the high level of tuition fees.
Tasmania offers a range of housing options suited to the budgets and preferences of international students.
The University of Tasmania manages several university residences on and near its campuses: Christ College, Hytten Hall and University Apartments at Sandy Bay/Hobart, St John Fisher College and Jane Franklin Hall in Hobart, Investigator Hall and Inveresk Apartments in Launceston, West Park Apartments in Burnie, not to mention residences linked to the Australian Maritime College like Norfolk Hall at Newnham.
These accommodations typically offer furnished single rooms (bed, desk, storage), shared kitchens, common areas, laundry facilities, internet connection, and 24/7 security. Programs like the National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS) can provide rents below market prices.
Rents in university residences typically range from about 165 to 236 AUD per week for basic accommodation but can reach or exceed 500 AUD weekly for more luxurious studios or apartments. Accommodation scholarships or relocation assistance sometimes exist to reduce these costs.
Shared housing in the private rental market is a popular and often more economical alternative, particularly outside city centers. To find a room, you can use specialized platforms, contact real estate agencies, or check local social groups.
For younger students or those seeking cultural immersion, homestay is an interesting option. In Tasmania, this type of accommodation is notably regulated for high school students, with vetted host families and specific support.
In all cases, it is strongly recommended to book temporary accommodation (hostel, hotel, or short-stay residence) for the first few days, allowing time to visit in person and sign a lease with full knowledge.
Working During Your Studies in Tasmania
With a student visa (subclass 500), it is possible to work in Tasmania to supplement income and gain local experience. Since July 2023, the general rule in Australia allows up to 48 hours of work per fortnight when the course is in session, and unlimited hours during official holidays. PhD and Master by Research students are exempt and can work full-time.
The most common jobs for international students are in hospitality (cafes, bars, restaurants), retail, aged care, delivery, administration, tutoring, and some on-campus positions (library, research assistant, etc.).
The national minimum wage is around 24–25 AUD per hour, often supplemented by higher “penalty rates” for nights, weekends, and public holidays, as well as a “casual loading” for casual jobs without paid leave. By working the maximum 48 hours allowed per fortnight, a student can earn a gross weekly income close to 600 AUD, which could cover a significant portion of their living expenses. However, one should not rely on this income to fund the entirety of tuition fees: the government in fact requires proof of independent resources during the visa application.
In Australia, international students are entitled to the same minimum legal protections as citizens, including base wage, payslips, workplace safety, and protection against discrimination and harassment. In case of abuse, it is possible to contact the Fair Work Ombudsman without jeopardizing visa status.
Student Visas, Post-Study Stay, and Skilled Migration
Before going to study in Tasmania, it is essential to obtain a student visa (subclass 500). This visa allows you to live, study, and work (within the prescribed limits) in Australia for the duration of the program, with a validity of up to five years. The application is made online via the Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount platform, after receiving a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the chosen institution.
The authorities notably require:
Minimum amount in Australian dollars required for living expenses when applying for a student visa for Australia.
Once the degree is obtained, many students choose to extend their stay through the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), which allows living and working in Australia for a set period. The duration depends on the qualification level (bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate) and the area where the studies took place.
Graduates who have studied and resided for at least two years in a regional area of Tasmania (like Hobart, Launceston, or Burnie) can benefit from additional years on their post-study visa. Hobart, in particular, allows for an extension of up to two years, bringing the total potential stay duration to five years after graduation.
This regional status also opens privileged pathways to permanent residency via the skilled migration program. The Tasmanian government can nominate candidates for visas such as the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190, permanent) or Skilled Work Regional (Provisional – subclass 491). These nominations grant extra points (5 points for the 190, 15 for the 491) in the Australian points system, provided the candidate commits to living in Tasmania for at least two years after obtaining the visa and meets federal criteria (age, English proficiency, skills assessment for an in-demand occupation, etc.).
For a student considering a longer-term career in Australia, completing a full degree in Tasmania, gaining local professional experience with a 485 visa and then seeking state nomination is a realistic and structured strategy.
Scholarships and Financial Aid: Reducing the Cost
Aware that tuition fees can be a barrier to international study plans, the University of Tasmania has developed one of the most generous scholarship systems in the country.
Tasmanian International Scholarship (TIS)
The TIS is the flagship scholarship for international students in undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees. It takes the form of a 25% reduction in tuition fees for the entire duration of the degree. Assessment is automatic when applying for the program: no separate application is needed. Selection is based primarily on academic merit (secondary school results, previous degree, etc.).
Some very specific programs, such as the medicine degree (Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine), the Bachelor of Dementia Care, or certain AMC navigation courses, are excluded.
Early Acceptance Scholarship and Combinations
For recent intakes, an Early Acceptance Scholarship offers an additional reduction (e.g., 15%) for students who accept their offer and pay the deposit before a deadline. Combined with the TIS, this scholarship can lead to a cumulative reduction of up to 35% of tuition fees, significantly reducing the total cost of the degree.
Research Scholarships (Masters and PhDs)
For students aiming for research, the Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) is a very attractive funding opportunity. It covers not only tuition fees but also provides an annual stipend (over 34,000 AUD, indexed annually) and a relocation allowance of up to 2,000 AUD. The standard duration is three and a half years for a PhD and two years for a research master’s. Selection is based on academic excellence, research potential, and alignment with the university’s strategic research themes (environment, Antarctic and oceans, health, etc.).
Many targeted scholarships exist beyond general awards. They may reward merit, be linked to a specific pathway (e.g., a TasTAFE program), or pertain to certain study areas (Earth sciences, environment, health) or demographics (Aboriginal students, women in finance). Government programs like the Australia Awards Scholarships or Destination Australia are also accessible for studying in Tasmania.
This system, combined with the relatively moderate cost of living, allows students from diverse backgrounds to consider studying in Tasmania with a more accessible budget than might initially seem possible.
Student Life, Support, and Career Prospects
Studying in Tasmania is more than just attending classes. The University of Tasmania promotes the idea that “the whole island is your campus.” Many course units include field trips to islands like Maria Island or Bruny Island, or even national parks. Students in environmental science, biology, geography, or marine ecology thus spend part of their time in direct immersion in unique ecosystems.
The university offers over 140 clubs and societies, covering sports, culture, professional groups, and volunteering. Participation helps develop your network, improve your English, and acquire cross-disciplinary skills valued by employers, such as leadership, teamwork, and project management.
Support services are numerous: advisors for international students, health and wellbeing services, academic and language support, assistance with finding placements and jobs, support for students with disabilities, etc. Orientation programs are organized to facilitate arrival and integration, with information sessions on studies, practical life, safety, and local opportunities.
Nearly 96% of master’s degree graduates find full-time employment shortly after their studies.
Sectors with strong recruitment in Tasmania include healthcare, information technology, construction, hospitality, financial services, professional services, education, research, and industries related to agrifood, energy, and resources. Many local and national companies (including large mining or consulting groups) have graduate recruitment programs specifically targeting graduates, including internationals.
How to Approach Your Study Project in Tasmania
For a French-speaking student seriously considering Tasmania, it is useful to structure the process into a few key steps, even though details vary by profile:
First, clarify your academic project: target level (undergraduate, master’s, PhD), field of interest (sciences, business, health, arts, environment, etc.), and language of instruction (all programs are in English). The university and Study Tasmania websites allow you to browse course descriptions, career outcomes, and entry requirements.
Next, assess your academic and language level against entry requirements. If your English or academic background is not yet sufficient for direct admission, you should consider a pathway program via the International Pathway College or language enhancement.
Check the tuition fees for the program, estimate a living budget, research eligible scholarships (TIS, merit scholarships, research scholarships, etc.), and explore loan or savings options if necessary. Also inquire about the amount of funds required as proof for the visa application.
The university application is generally made online, with no application fee for most courses, and the possibility of submitting multiple preferences. Once an offer is received, you must confirm your acceptance, pay the required deposit, and obtain the Confirmation of Enrolment needed for the visa. OSHC enrollment must be completed at this stage.
The student visa application via ImmiAccount is the most sensitive administrative phase. It is prudent to start this at least three to five months before the semester begins, gathering all supporting documents (finances, health, police clearance, English level, Genuine Student statement, etc.). Even though many students handle this process themselves, support from an education counselor or registered migration agent can be useful to secure the application.
Good organization of accommodation, insurance, airport transfer, and the first week on-site greatly facilitates settling in. The temperate climate, modest city size, and friendliness of residents often make adaptation easier than expected.
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Studying in Tasmania is therefore much more than earning an Australian degree. It’s about living for a few years in an exceptional natural environment, breathing some of the world’s cleanest air, benefiting from a university highly committed to climate and sustainability, enjoying a warm student life in safe and welcoming cities, and building an academic and professional profile that is highly valued, particularly in sectors related to the environment, the sea, health, and technology.
For French-speaking students ready to immerse themselves in an English-speaking context, who seek a balance between academic quality, manageable cost, safety, and unprecedented hands-on experiences, Tasmania clearly deserves a place at the very top of the list of possible destinations.
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Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
