International

Study in Darwin

Undertake your studies in the tropical north capital of Australia

Darwin is a unique tropical city famous for its beautiful sunsets, spectacular natural scenery, cosmopolitan markets, vibrant multiculturalism, Indigenous culture, and fascinating history and engagement with Asia.

Located in the Northern Territory, Darwin is Australia’s northernmost capital city within close proximity to Asia. In fact, Darwin is just a few hours away from most capital cities in South East Asia and just six hours from southern China. 

Darwin attracts thousands of tourists every year from all over the world who come to experience our beautiful tropical climate, Indigenous culture and visit the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park.

Living in Darwin

  • Darwin has an extensive public bus system that services most suburbs from the inner city to Palmerston. As a student (concession), you can purchase $1 tickets for three hours of travel, or better still buy a weekly ticket for only $7.

    Flat terrain and cycling paths make for easy, safe, walking and cycling in Darwin and surrounds. More information on Darwin's bicycle paths can be found on the NT Government.

    Driving a car or motorbike is another option. Alternatively, Uber and other ride-sharing services are also readily available in Darwin.

  • Share accommodation in Darwin can vary in prices depending on the suburb but is likely to cost between $168 and $250AUD per week. For more information, visit our Accommodation pages. 

  • The cost of living in Australia varies from person to person depending on where you live and your lifestyle choices. Students should not expect to fund their studies or living costs in Australia through part-time employment only.

    During your studies, you will need to purchase textbooks and other items required to study. Textbooks can vary from $200 - $500 per semester. Other expenses might include: stationary, printing, purchasing a laptop or computer, protective clothing, work materials, travel and accommodation for placement, working with children clearances and computing programs, find out more about additional fees and expenses here. These will depend on your course.

    The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has financial requirements you must meet in order to receive a student visa for Australia. As of October 2019, the 12-month living cost (per person) as suggested by the DHA are:

    • Individual student - $21,041
    • Partner or spouse - $7,362
    • Child - $3,152

    For an approximate guide on Education and living costs visit the Study in Australia website.

  • Find out more about the cost of living and studying in Australia.

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Campuses in Darwin

CDU has campuses and centres across Darwin.

Darwin Waterfront is located in the Darwin City Centre - close to the famous Mitchell street and the Darwin waterfront.

Fifteen minutes from the city, our Casuarina campus is located in the lush tropical surrounds and nearby Casuarina beach. You can catch one of our many student groups here during the week for a workout or to relax.

Palmerston campus is located twenty minutes from Darwin city.

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Students meeting in front of a campus building. Modern architecture.

Things to see and do

There are plenty of things to do while you are studying and living in Darwin, from weekly markets, weekend festivals and nature tours. While you are here, we encourage you to explore the area (known by locals as the Top End). To find out what’s on, visit the following sites:

A couple exploring mindil beach market
2 international students at orientation 2019

Culture

Darwin is a vibrant and multicultural city with over a hundred nationalities and many social, cultural and religious organisations. There are a variety of local markets, multicultural festivals, outdoor films and alfresco concerts happening weekly through the dry season (May to September).

In the wet season (December to March), there are fewer local events but this is when nature springs to life with the waterfalls, rivers and local trees coming alive with water and colour. It’s the perfect time to get out of the city and go exploring.

  • cdu brand blue

    Climate

    Darwin has a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, although the average temperature remains mostly the same all year round (approximately 31.9 degrees Celsius or 85 degrees Fahrenheit). 

    The dry season runs from May to September and is affectionately known by locals as “The Dry”. In The Dry, every day is warm and sunny with minimal chance of rain and Darwin comes alive with outdoor dining, markets, festivals, and fun.

Have you got any questions?

Are you thinking about studying, but not sure which course or campus is the one for you? Unsure of the entry requirements, study options, or how to apply to CDU? Submit your details below, and we'll be in touch.

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