If you’re one of the 1.4 million students choosing to study at an Australian university, you may be wondering what your experience will be like.1
In this article, we explore what to expect when you study in Australia at Curtin University. From the ‘Aussie’ student lifestyle to exceptional learning resources, we take you through seven key aspects of student life to help you picture your future at Curtin.
1. Lots of course options
One of the biggest advantages of studying in Australia is the wide range of university courses.
At Curtin, you can choose from courses across nine study areas – from arts and creative industries to engineering, business, health and cutting-edge fields like information technology and computing. Since we’re ranked in the top 1% of universities globally, you’ll receive a world-class education no matter which study area you choose (ARWU 2025).
Want to see what international students at Curtin are studying right now? Watch this reel for a snapshot:
2. Industry experiences and practical learning
You might be wondering, “What are university classes like in Australia?” and “What’s unique about studying at an Australian university?”
Australian universities often feature class discussions, group learning, and collaborative lecturers and tutors.
At Curtin, most of our courses also integrate Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) – a learning style that builds your skills and confidence through practical experience.
Many degrees include WIL through internships, fieldwork, industry projects or placements. These experiences, delivered in partnership with industry and under the guidance of academic staff, allow you to immerse yourself in the workforce and strengthen your résumé while you’re still studying.
You’ll also have access to industry-standard equipment in advanced facilities like engineering labs, nursing clinics, media studios and simulation suites. These spaces replicate real-world environments, so you can practise your skills from early on in your studies.
For Shivani, who studied Innovation and Entrepreneurship, this blend of practical learning and theory shaped her whole career direction:
I like that [Curtin’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship course] integrates theory with real-world application, and the units are designed to encourage strategic thinking through hands-on engagement with contemporary business case studies.
I’ve also gained valuable skills through opportunities such as the Startup Weekends – I’ve won three so far, which has been incredible for my entrepreneurial journey, and has led to me mentoring at one of the Weekends.
Shivani Kartik Sheth
Home country: India
Master of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
3. A vibrant campus life
Before studying in Australia, many international students wonder “What is the social life like at Australian universities?” or “Is it easy to make friends?”
The short answer is yes. Australian university culture is active, welcoming and full of opportunities to connect.
When you study at Curtin, you’ll join a vibrant, multicultural student community. With market days, street parties, picnics, pop-ups, barefoot lunches, community festivals and Pasar Malam, you’ll have chances to make lasting memories on campus.
For Phu Le, Guild-run events were a highlight of his university experience:
One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about being a Curtin student is participating in the diverse range of Guild events and on-campus activities.
These events have provided great opportunities to meet new friends, engage with different student communities, and experience the vibrant campus life.
Phu Le
Home country: Vietnam
Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours)
If you’re looking for more tips on making friends at Curtin, watch this video for Ravish’s advice:
4. Outstanding facilities
Standout Australian universities, like Curtin, offer facilities that make studying convenient, engaging and enjoyable.
From beautiful gardens and buzzing food spots to fitness, wellness and creativity, Curtin is where you’ll enjoy an unforgettable student life.
On campus, you can:
- enjoy our bustling cafes, eateries and food trucks
- train, compete or just have fun at Curtin Stadium
- study at the bright, modern and spacious TL Robertson Library
- get delicious grab-and-go meals or a full range of groceries at the Tucker Fresh IGA supermarket
- utilise our medical centre, physiotherapy clinic and wellness centre
- chat with our friendly Curtin Connect team in Building 102 for any help you need.
You might say the Curtin campus is its own self-sufficient city (just on a smaller scale).
Here’s how Hernan, a Master of Professional Engineering student, describes life on campus:
At Curtin I love how I have everything I need on campus.
The TL Robertson Library has outstanding amenities. I exercise at the Curtin Stadium gym, shower, and head for a coffee and snack in one of the many cafes all over campus.
My advice to future Curtin students is to check out all the clubs, sports and cafes – you’ll find something that will help your experience at Curtin to be the best of your life.
Hernan Bermudez Bergano
Home country: Colombia
Master of Professional Engineering, Electrical (Telecommunications and Networking Engineering)
With everything on the Curtin campus designed to support your studies, you can focus on building a routine that works for you.
5. A balanced routine
Adjusting to a new study routine is a big part of settling into university life in Australia.
As an international student at Curtin, you’ll study full-time (3-4 units per semester or trimester), which equates to approximately 30 hours of learning per week.
Your weekly workload will be a mix of different learning formats, such as:
- lectures
- tutorials and workshops
- laboratories or practical sessions
- fieldwork or work placements
- independent study.
You will have the flexibility to design a timetable that works for your lifestyle – whether you prefer early starts, busy days or spacing out your classes.
You’ll also be supported by unit coordinators, tutors and a range of student services to help you succeed.
Here’s how Antony, a postgraduate student, describes finding balance:
The flexibility of the course means that I can substitute units, credit experience and do Work-Integrated Learning. The course coordinator is also very supportive.
If you ask help early on and follow the recommended 10 hours of self-study a week per unit, you can balance study, home and work responsibilities.
Antony Villanueva
Master of Computing (Cyber Security)
6. Opportunities to earn (and save) money
In Australia, 80% of university students work while studying. Having a part-time or casual job is a great way to supplement living costs, gain relevant experience, meet new people and practise your English.
At the time of this publication, international student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during recognised study periods, and unlimited hours during study period breaks.
Typical student jobs include hospitality, retail, admin and tutoring. At Curtin, our Careers team will help you find employment that suits your skills, lifestyle and goals.
Learn more about working while you study.
If you’re wondering, “How expensive is life in Australia?” read our guide to the cost of living – it’s a helpful starting point when budgeting for student life.
7. Amazing weather and adventures
Studying in Australia means you can enjoy some of the best weather and adventures in the world, all while completing your studies.
Curtin is based in Perth, Western Australia (WA), a location known for its beautiful summers, vibrant urban experience and incredible natural beauty. Perth is:
- the sunniest capital city in the country
- known for warm, dry summers, cool winters and an adventurous outdoor lifestyle
- surrounded by incredible road trip destinations – like Margaret River, Broome, the Ningaloo Coast and Rottnest Island
- a multicultural location that offers a diversity of restaurants and cuisine to try, and cultural festivals to enjoy
- serviced by reliable trains and buses, making commuting easy.
For Evangeline, who transferred to Curtin Australia from Curtin Singapore, WA’s landscapes and climate quickly became one of her favourite parts of living in Perth:
One of the things I have enjoyed most has been Perth’s beautiful weather and ‘road trip’ destinations.
I’ve been fortunate enough to travel north and explore deserts, spot wild kangaroos, meet quokkas and even swim with dolphins in the wild.
Evangeline Tanoto
Bachelor of Information Technology
Explore a day in the life
Discover a day in the life of an international student at Curtin and picture yourself studying in Australia.
Interested in studying in Australia with us?
1 Universities Australia (n.d.) Facts and Publications, UA website, accessed 26 November 2025.
