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A Day in the Life of an International Student in Australia - Sydney Edition

A Day in the Life of an International Student in  Australia- Sydney Edition 

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Article written by Team @ Amber Student

Stepping into the life of an international student in Sydney isn’t just about hitting the books in a new city—it’s a whole adventure filled with its own set of challenges.  

In this blog, you’ll get a real taste of what a day looks like for students from around the globe who are making Sydney their new home. 

Morning Routine 

The alarm buzzes and it’s time to start another day in Sydney. Most students spend a few minutes in bed checking updates from friends and family on social media—WhatsApp or iMessage for the latest from family back home, Instagram to catch up with friends here. It’s a quick way to feel connected across continents. 

After some screen time, it’s time to get moving. It could be a quick run through the nearby park, a yoga session in their room, hitting the university gym if it’s not too crowded or just a few extra minutes of sleep in the bed.

Post-workout or post sleep, a quick shower sets the tone for the rest of the morning and prepares you for the upcoming hectic day. 

Then, they’re off to the shared kitchen to prepare some breakfast. A usual breakfast might be a bowl of Weet-Bix with milk and sliced bananas or scrambled eggs on toast. 

With breakfast done, it’s time to commute. Many students hop on a bus or a train; the ride from places like Redfern or Newtown to the university takes about 20 to 30 minutes.  

It’s a good time to pop in earbuds, listen to music or catch up on last night’s missed episode, and mentally prepare for the day’s classes. Public transport is usually reliable, but it’s also a daily lesson in patience during peak hours. 

University Time 

The university day really gets going with a casual meetup. It’s almost a tradition—before the first lecture, students gather around the campus, coffee in hand, to share a laugh or two, exchange notes, or just catch up on each other’s lives. 

As the clock strikes nine, it’s time to head to the first class of the day. Then it’s a dash to the library, the hub where all the after-lecture action happens.

Here, students spread out with their laptops and books. It’s not all silent or study either; there’s a buzz of whispered gossip and the clicking of instagram updates. 

Somewhere in between, there’s a quick bite to eat—maybe a grab-and-go wrap or some sushi from the food court. Lunch is quick; there’s just enough time to refuel before the next class or a return to the library. 

Afternoon Routine 

By the time afternoon rolls around, the pace really picks up. Students who’ve lined up part-time work go off to local cafés, bookstores, or even tutoring jobs.  

Those not clocking in for work often take a well-deserved break. This might mean heading back to their amber student accommodation or dorm to relax or finding a quiet corner in a campus lounge to decompress with earbuds in, catching up on their favorite music or just talking to friends.  

And then, it’s study time again. Libraries and study halls fill up again as students prepare for tests, or write essays. Coffee breaks and quick chats breaking up the sessions of heavy studying or gossiping. 

Evening Routine 

As the sun sets, students return to their student accommodation in Sydney to tackle the inevitable: chores. There’s no escaping the daily grind of cleaning up, doing the dishes, or sorting out laundry.

It’s not exactly fun, but keeping their place neat helps clear the mind and sets the stage for a relaxing night. 

Dinner is the main event. Roommates turn into makeshift chefs, tossing together whatever ingredients they have—like whipping up a quick pasta or a rice dish.

It’s relaxed, with everyone gathered around the table, sharing how their day went, and enjoying a break from their busy schedules. 

After dishes are done, students catch up with family through video calls, sharing updates and seeing familiar faces, which is always a comfort.  

Once they’ve said their goodnights, the rest of the evening is for chilling out. Some nights, that means heading out to meet friends for a drink; other nights, it’s just lounging around the apartment, and maybe watching a movie. 

Night Routine 

As the night rolls in, everyone settles into their own space to wind down. For some, it’s about losing themselves in a good book or writing down thoughts in a journal, a quiet escape that helps melt away the day’s stress.  

Others might turn to their screens for some downtime—scrolling through social media, or even gaming a bit. 

When it’s time to hit the bed, the routine is pretty straightforward. A little tidying up, and then it’s off to bed. 

Krish’s Experience as International Student in Australia

“Travelling to Australia for my undergraduate studies has been the most adventurous and fulfilling time of my life. As I embarked on a journey of independence, the learnings which came along the way are shaping how I will lead my life. Being an international student, there’s always a pressure of making the investment to come study abroad make much more rewarding which I’m sure will help me strive towards my aspirations. The combination of the environment, studies, opportunities and the  people I’ve met along the way have made my journey always be close to my heart.”- Krish

How can amber help you? 

amber helps you secure student accommodation of your choice on your study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), amber is your one-stop shop for all your accommodation needs. Download the amber app from the Google Play Store or App Store to book an affordable home for your adventure.

About author 

Archit is an avid writer who is keen to get his doctorate. When not writing, he can be found reading, taking the metro and then questioning this decision, and haunting local bookstores. 



A New Report finds International Students and Skilled Migrants are Boosting Australia’s Economy

A New Report Finds International Students and Skilled Migrants are Boosting Australia’s Economy

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Research conducted by Pearson Education on more than 3000 PTE test takers reveal compelling insights into experiences and outcomes of individuals pursuing their dreams in Australia.

The Pearson Australian Dreams White Paper also provides details of the significant contributions of skilled migrants and international students to Australia’s economic and social landscape. 

Here are some of the key findings of the contributions made by skilled migrants and international students in Australia:

  • 91% of respondents were employed.
  • 72% of PTE migrants on skilled visas reported working in skilled professions, showcasing their valuable contributions to the workforce.
  • The median income of these migrants on skilled visas was $93,000, surpassing the national average median income of $67,600.
  • 50% of workers aspire to start their own business in Australia, indicating a strong entrepreneurial spirit among migrants. 
  • More than 1 out of 10 are volunteering in the community.

Additionally, the survey finds out:

  • 9 out of 10 migrants reported feeling welcomed in Australia.
  • 81% of migrants have built community connections, indicating a sense of belonging and integration.
  • 89% of respondents have experienced acts of kindness, reflecting positive interactions and support from the local community.
  • 64% of respondents chose Australia due to the high quality of education.
  • Additionally, the research highlights the positive experiences and opportunities encountered by migrants in Australia, with 81% having access to opportunities not available in their home countries.

The study highlights specific instances where migrants felt welcomed, such as being referred to as ‘mate’ by Australians or receiving support from the healthcare sector after an accident.

The white paper showcases many stories of these skilled migrants and international students in Australia who, rather than giving up on their dreams, chose to get out of their comfort zones, move to Australia and now contribute to the Australian workforce and culture.

We had a chance to speak some of them 👇.

The study also highlights the importance of learning English with 97% of migrants recognising the importance of English for communication, employment opportunities, and social integration.

Despite the availability of English language support services, only around a quarter of student visa holders utilised these resources, indicating a potential area for improvement.

The study underscores the importance of English language proficiency for international students and migrants, with the PTE being preferred by 87% of respondents for its fast results, test format, and ease of preparation. 

In conclusion, the Pearson Australian Dreams White Paper showcases the transformative impact of skilled migrants and international students on Australia’s prosperity, emphasising the value they bring to the country’s workforce, communities, and national identity.

You can read the white paper and fact sheet here.



5 Reasons Every Healthcare Student Should Consider A Job in Care and Support 

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Article written By Divyangana Sharma

It is common to think the only options for tertiary students seeking part-time work are retail or hospitality gigs. 

While these jobs can be fun and a good way to meet new people, there are other flexible and rewarding roles available that you may not have considered.   

It’s the ultimate student dilemma: finding a job that’s flexible enough to work around your studies and social life, while still bringing in the income you need to get by.

Throw being an international student into the mix, and things can be even more challenging.  

But take it from someone who’s been in your shoes, there are more opportunities out there than you might think.  

I never imagined I would find myself working in aged care, or that it would turn out to be such a rewarding experience.

But as an international student studying nursing, I realised that gaining practical experience in care and support work could be a huge opportunity for my future career.   

That’s why I decided to take on a part-time job as a Personal Care Assistant, and it was the best decision I ever made.

I felt incredibly proud of the work I was doing and even went on to be named International Student of the Year by Study Melbourne in 2022.  

So, if you’re a TAFE or university student hoping to get a start in a healthcare profession, or just seeking a reliable and flexible gig to support yourself while you study, I’d suggest you take a look at the huge range of care and support roles out there. 

Here’s why:  

1. Gain invaluable hands-on experience 

Working in aged care gave me the chance to apply the clinical knowledge and skills I learned in nursing school to a real-world setting. 

As a Personal Care Assistant, I was able to provide support to all the nurses caring for older people, from supporting at meal times to helping with minor medical procedures. 

The experience gave me a deeper understanding of patient care and helped me build my clinical skills beyond what I was learning in the classroom.  

2. Making a real difference with meaningful connections  

Aged care and other personal support work is more moderately paced when compared to working in hospitals – you get the opportunity to observe and connect with patients one on one. 

This enabled me to develop a deeper understanding of their conditions, needs and preferences. I heard their stories and learnt about their lives, all while gaining a new perspective on how to provide the best possible care. 

I have no doubt this experience will set me in good stead to become a more compassionate and empathetic care provider in any profession. Additionally, when you know you’re making a real, positive impact on someone else’s life, it makes coming to work much more enjoyable. 

3. Flexibility around your study  

Working in care and support was a great way to earn a stable income while gaining valuable experience in my field of study. 

The flexibility in the shifts meant that I could work around my classes and assessments, without sacrificing either. 

I was gaining skills that would look great on my resume while supporting myself with a secure and stable job.  

4. Beat the boredom with plenty of variety 

One of the things I loved about working in care and support was that no work day was ever the same. 

I got to do a myriad of tasks – from assisting with walks and meals to observing nurses performing medical tasks, such as providing medication and administering injections. 

The variety kept me engaged and motivated to continue learning. 

5. Spearhead your career progression 

Working in care and support roles can open up many doors for future career opportunities.  

For me, it paved the way for a career as a nurse, but it could also lead to roles in allied health, community care and many other areas of healthcare. 

The knowledge I’ve learnt has proven to be invaluable in my current role, but I know I’ve also gained people, management and organisational skills that are essential for succeeding in any job, any where.  

Find what works for you 

Whether you’re studying a related field like health, nursing or medicine, or keen for a stable, flexible job that will offer you the flexibility to focus on your coursework, I highly recommend considering work in the care and support sector. 

Not only will you gain valuable clinical experience and get flexible hours to enable an effective work-study balance, you’ll also learn transferable skills that will serve you well in your future career.  

The care and support sector is full of opportunity and in need of new workers. So, jump in, keep learning and kick-start your career with care and support.  

Learn more: https://www.careandsupportjobs.gov.au/why-choose-care-and-support   



How to Avoid the Debt Trap as an International Student in Australia?

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The idea is that other people’s mistakes and successes can teach you whether you should behave the same way, or differently. 

So in this article, I will  give tips to avoid the debt trap as an international student in Australia.

Avoid Credit Cards / Buy Now Pay Later Offers

It’s spending money that you don’t have yet. It is very lucrative to buy the latest gadgets and think that you will pay easily in installments but as an international student unexpected things can happen.

If you miss one of those installments, these companies and services will start charging you interest rates and late fees and that’s how the cycle of debt trap starts, and it just keeps on growing, and you feel trapped and helpless. That latest $1000 smartphone can cost you double the amount plus your lost sleep and mental health.

Keep in mind that if you are unable to pay and considered as a defaulter, it will affect your credit score, which can ultimately affect your borrowing capacity.

Buy Now, Pay Later vs. Credit Cards 

Understand Your Finances

Check where your money is going and where it is coming from. Create a budget on a spreadsheet, write on paper or whatever is easier for you.

It will give you an exact idea of how much you are spending and how much you are earning and importantly, how much money you are saving.

Keeping Budget in Control

When your income increases, don’t increase your expenses. Use your spreadsheet that was made earlier and keep a regular check of expenses, earnings and savings. I would suggest that you should update your spreadsheet at least once a month.

If you aren’t sure, then I recommend you check the Australian Government’s Moneysmart website, which talks about how to create a budget for yourself. 

Create an Emergency Funds

Financial experts recommend that you keep at least 3 months’ worth of expenses, but you can start from $1000 or start building up your emergency funds any time you can. But this fund is only for Emergencies like paying excess for insurance.

Save for an emergency fund – Moneysmart.gov.au 

Learn Finance

Everyday Finance should be taught in schools but unfortunately, it’s not. Everyone should learn everyday Finance as soon as they can. You don’t have to be a financial wizard but you should know the basics about your money so you can get its worth.

You should have a basic knowledge of budgeting, saving, taxation and how to keep your money safe. Here’s one book recommendation to start with – The Barefoot Investor by Scott Pape.

I also encourage you to do your own research on YouTube and Google.

Barefoot Investor Rules

Here’s one of the core basics from the book. The book makes setting up the buckets easy for you, but basically, this is how you should be allocating your income each time you get the paycheck: 

  • 60% to your Blow Bucket. (This is your everyday expenses)
  • 20% to your Fire Extinguisher Bucket. (This is to pay for your debt)
  • 10% to your Splurge Bucket. (This is to spend on yourself, like buying new shoes or treating yourself)
  • 10% to your Smile Bucket (This is your long-term savings account)
barefoot investor bucket rules - overseasstudentsaustralia.com

Important Resources for getting help

National Debt Helpline:

1800 007 007. If you are already suffering from the debt I would highly recommend you to call and get FREE information and advice. You can get help from this helpline even if you are an international student in Australia.

Moneysmart: – Visit this website (https://moneysmart.gov.au/ ) to find tools and information for your journey.

Please note that this is not financial advice, the information presented here is based on personal life experiences of the author. 

Always do your own research and cross-check information as the information might change or improve as time passes.  If needed, please seek professional advice.

Article written by: Gursewak Singh

Gursewak is an ex-international student living in Newcastle, Australia. When he is not working, he likes to do photography. His favourite food is Pancakes. 

You can reach out to him via Instagram @sidhu.au



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