Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia, is a hidden gem for international students. Known for its relaxed lifestyle, welcoming community, and world-class education, Adelaide offers the perfect mix of academic pursuits, cultural exploration, and outdoor adventure. Whether you're studying at the University of Adelaide, Flinders University, or the University of South Australia, the city provides a fantastic environment to learn, make new friends, and experience Australian life.
But what does a typical day look like for an international student in Adelaide? Let’s dive into a day in the life of a student living in this vibrant, laid-back city.
7:30 AM – Waking Up in Adelaide’s Quiet Charm
The morning in Adelaide often starts with a gentle wake-up call. Whether you're living in student accommodation, shared housing, or a private apartment, you'll likely be greeted by a sense of tranquility that Adelaide is known for. The city’s relatively calm pace is one of the things that makes it a great place for international students.
After waking up, students typically prepare a light breakfast—cereal, toast, or a smoothie to fuel the day ahead. As Adelaide’s university campuses are spread across the city, many students opt for walking or cycling to campus, taking advantage of Adelaide’s extensive bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets.
For those living a little further out, Adelaide’s public transport system—buses, trams, and trains—makes commuting easy and affordable. The trams, which run from the northern suburbs all the way to Glenelg Beach, offer students convenient access to both the city and the coastline.
9:00 AM – Morning Classes and Lectures
By 9:00 AM, students are likely to be attending their first class of the day. Adelaide’s universities offer a mixture of large lecture halls and small group tutorials, making for a diverse learning experience. Depending on your course, lectures can be large, with hundreds of students, or more intimate, with just 10–20 people.
Lectures are often followed by smaller tutorials, where students engage in discussions, group activities, or hands-on projects. As an international student, one of the highlights of studying in Adelaide is the chance to meet and collaborate with peers from all over the world. These interactions help broaden perspectives and provide rich cultural exchanges that enhance the academic experience.
Many international students find the teaching style in Adelaide to be supportive and interactive, with professors encouraging questions and discussions. It's not uncommon for students to stay behind after class to chat with professors or fellow students about course material, assignments, or future career prospects.
12:30 PM – Lunch and Exploring the City
After a few hours of lectures and seminars, it’s time for lunch—and what better way to explore Adelaide than by diving into its food scene? Adelaide is a multicultural city, and that’s reflected in its diverse culinary offerings. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or something more elaborate, there’s something for every taste and budget.
The bustling Rundle Mall is a popular spot for grabbing lunch. Students flock to food courts, cafes, and street food vendors offering everything from Asian fusion dishes to Mediterranean delights. For those wanting to experience more international flavors, Gouger Street is the heart of Adelaide’s Chinatown, where students can indulge in dumplings, pho, sushi, or fresh noodle bowls.
For a more relaxed vibe, Victoria Square and Rymill Park are perfect spots to sit outside and enjoy lunch with friends. Adelaide’s Mediterranean climate means that most days are warm and sunny, perfect for eating outdoors or even enjoying a picnic in one of the city’s beautiful parks.
1:30 PM – Study Session or Practical Classes
Adelaide’s universities are known for their focus on practical learning, and many international students are engaged in hands-on workshops, labs, or studio-based sessions. Whether you’re studying engineering, medicine, design, or arts, this part of the day often involves diving into group projects, experiments, or developing creative work.
If you’re in a research-heavy program, you might find yourself in the university library, collaborating with fellow students on research, writing essays, or preparing for upcoming exams. Adelaide’s libraries are well-stocked and provide quiet study spaces, group study rooms, and even cafes where students can unwind between sessions.
For those studying subjects that require creative input, such as graphic design, film production, or architecture, the afternoon might be spent working on projects in the university’s specialized facilities or collaborative workspaces. Adelaide’s academic environment encourages students to think critically, apply their knowledge in practical scenarios, and develop a portfolio of work to carry forward into their careers.
4:30 PM – Outdoor Adventures and Fitness
One of the highlights of being an international student in Adelaide is the city’s accessibility to nature and outdoor activities. After a few hours of studying or attending practical classes, it’s time for some relaxation and recreation.
Adelaide is known for its easy access to beaches, hiking trails, and green spaces, offering students the chance to unwind and connect with nature. If you’re looking for a quick getaway from the city, Glenelg Beach is just a 20-minute tram ride from the CBD. Here, students can swim, walk along the jetty, or relax by the ocean, all while enjoying the sea breeze and the stunning sunset views.
For those who enjoy hiking or nature walks, Mount Lofty is a popular destination. Located just a short drive from the city, Mount Lofty offers panoramic views of Adelaide and its surrounding hills. Whether you’re looking to go for a jog, hike, or simply take in the beauty of the Adelaide Hills, this is a fantastic spot to clear your mind and recharge.
Adelaide’s universities also have excellent sports facilities, where students can play everything from basketball and tennis to soccer and swimming. Many international students join clubs or teams to make new friends and stay active.
6:00 PM – Dinner with Friends or Cooking at Home
As the evening sets in, it’s time for dinner—and in Adelaide, students love to enjoy this meal with friends. For some, dinner might mean cooking at home, with fresh ingredients bought from one of the city’s many farmers' markets or supermarkets. Adelaide is known for its local produce, and many international students enjoy cooking meals from their home countries or experimenting with new recipes.
Others might choose to dine out in one of Adelaide’s many vibrant neighborhoods, each offering a unique food culture. Hindley Street is great for grabbing a casual bite, while Leigh Street is home to trendy cafes and boutique eateries. For a fine dining experience, head to the East End or North Adelaide, where you’ll find a mix of modern Australian cuisine, Mediterranean dishes, and Asian fusion restaurants.
For those feeling homesick, Adelaide has plenty of international food stores where students can buy ingredients to recreate dishes from their home countries. Grocery shopping becomes an adventure of its own, as students explore the many food markets and specialty stores around the city.
8:00 PM – Socializing and Exploring Adelaide’s Nightlife
Evenings in Adelaide are filled with opportunities to socialize and unwind. Many international students head out with friends to explore the city's vibrant cultural scene. From live music venues and comedy shows to art galleries and outdoor festivals, Adelaide offers a range of experiences to suit everyone.
If you’re in the mood for a casual night out, Rundle Street is home to many student-friendly bars, where you can enjoy a drink, chat with friends, or dance the night away. For those interested in a quieter evening, there are plenty of cozy cafes and lounges where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or dessert while chatting with new friends.
Adelaide is also known for its festivals, with events like the Adelaide Fringe, WOMADelaide, and the Adelaide Festival offering something for everyone. International students often take the opportunity to experience the arts and culture scene, meeting locals and other students while enjoying some of the best performances and exhibitions the city has to offer.
11:00 PM – Relaxing at Home
After an exciting day, many international students in Adelaide wind down with some quiet time at home. Whether it’s catching up with family back home over a video call, watching a favorite show, or simply enjoying a quiet evening with roommates, it’s important to take time for yourself.
For some, Adelaide’s peaceful atmosphere means it’s easy to relax at the end of the day. The city’s compact size and serene surroundings make it an ideal place to reflect, recharge, and get ready for another day of studying, exploring, and living in this beautiful part of Australia.
Conclusion
A day in the life of an international student in Adelaide is an enriching blend of academic work, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventure. With its world-class universities, welcoming community, and easy access to nature, Adelaide offers international students an ideal environment to thrive both academically and personally. From attending lectures and enjoying delicious food to exploring stunning landscapes and connecting with people from around the world, life in Adelaide is truly a unique and fulfilling experience.