Cheapest & Affordable Universities in Australia for Indian Students 2026-27

Looking for a way to study in Australia without spending too much? Affordable universities in Australia allow Indian students to access quality programs at reasonable costs. As of June 2025, there were over 739,000 international students enrolled in Australian institutions (Australian Government Department of Education).

Universities like Charles Sturt University, University of Southern Queensland, and University of the Sunshine Coast offer lower tuition fees, scholarships, part-time work options, and strong support for international students. Annual tuition ranges from AUD 17,500 to 40,200 (~₹10L to ~23L) depending on the course.

This guide highlights the most affordable universities in Australia for Indian students in 2026-27. You will find information on programs, fees, scholarships, and admission requirements to help plan your study abroad journey confidently.

For Indian students, studying in Australia doesn’t have to be expensive. Universities such as Charles Sturt University, University of Southern Queensland, University of the Sunshine Coast, Edith Cowan University, and Charles Darwin University offer programs with annual tuition starting at around AUD 15,000 (₹8,61,224), providing quality education at a lower cost.

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Below, we have listed some of the top universities in Australia with low tuition fees:

Also Read: Level 1 Universities in Australia

Studying in Australia can be affordable while still offering high-quality programs for Indian students. Bachelor’s degrees usually take 3 years, with professional courses such as Engineering or Health Sciences taking 4 years. Some programs also provide an optional Honours year for advanced study. Master’s programs generally take 1–2 years, with part-time or online options available at some universities.

Annual tuition at affordable universities typically ranges from AUD 15,000 - AUD 20,000 (~₹8,61,223 – ~₹11,48,298) for bachelor’s programs and AUD 15,000 - AUD 37,000 (~₹8,61,223 - ~₹21,24,352) for master’s programs. These universities focus on practical learning, employability, and career-ready skills while providing strong support for Indian students.

Here’s a closer look at the 10  top affordable universities in Australia:

Located across multiple campuses in New South Wales, Charles Sturt University is known for practical-focused courses and strong industry connections. Programs include Business, IT, Nursing, and Health Sciences.

Key Highlights:

• Intake: February & July
• Average Annual Tuition Fee: AUD 15,000 - AUD 20,000 (~₹8,61,223 - ~₹11,44,000)
• Type: Public

Founded in 1967 in Toowoomba, Queensland, USQ offers over 700 programs across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. The university emphasises practical learning and industry collaborations.

Key Highlights:

• Intake: February & July
• Average Annual Tuition Fee: AUD 15,000 - AUD 20,000 (~₹8,61,223 - ~₹11,44,000)
• Type: Public

Located in Queensland, USC is known for its student-friendly environment and flexible learning options. USC offers programs in Business, Cyber Security, Creative Industries, IT, and Health-related fields.

Key Highlights:

• Intake: February & July
• Average Annual Tuition Fee: AUD 15,000 - AUD 20,000 (~₹8,61,223 - ~₹11,44,000)
• Type: Public

Based in Perth, Edith Cowan University emphasises practical learning and employability. Programs include Commerce, Engineering, IT, Health Sciences, and professional master’s courses.

Key Highlights:

• Intake: February & July
• Average Annual Tuition Fee: AUD 15,000 - AUD 20,000 (~₹8,61,223 - ~₹11,44,000)
• Type: Public

Located in Darwin, CDU focuses on research-led learning with strong industry ties. CDU provides bachelor’s and master’s programs in Business, Nursing, IT, and Engineering.

Key Highlights:

• Intake: February & July
• Average Annual Tuition Fee: AUD 15,000 - AUD 20,000 (~₹8,61,223 - ~₹11,44,000)
• Type: Public

Situated in Queensland, Griffith University emphasises industry-relevant programs and employability skills.  Master’s programs include MBA, IT, Public Health, Engineering, and Education.

Key Highlights:

• Intake: February & July
• Average Annual Tuition Fee: AUD 20,000 - AUD 25,000 (~₹11,44,000 - ~₹14,35,373)
• Type: Public

 Based in Victoria, Federation University is known for its supportive learning environment and career-focused programs. It offers programs in Business, IT, Health Sciences, and professional master’s courses.

Key Highlights:

• Intake: February & July
• Average Annual Tuition Fee: AUD 15,000 - AUD 20,000 (~₹8,61,223 - ~₹11,44,000)
• Type: Public

 Located in New South Wales, UOW balances academic excellence with practical learning opportunities.  Programs include Engineering, IT, Business, and master’s courses in MBA and Health Management.

Key Highlights:

• Intake: February & July
• Average Annual Tuition Fee: AUD 20,000 - AUD 25,000 (~₹11,44,000 - ~₹14,35,373)
• Type: Public

Based in Sydney, WSU offers a wide variety of master’s programs with career-focused learning.  Master’s programs include MBA, Engineering, Health Management, and other professional courses.

Key Highlights:

• Intake: February & July
• Average Annual Tuition Fee: AUD 20,000 - AUD 25,000 (~₹11,44,000 - ~₹14,35,373)
• Type: Public

One of Australia’s leading research universities, UQ provides global recognition and strong career support.  Programs include Engineering, IT, Science, and master’s courses in MBA, Public Health, and IT.

Key Highlights:

• Intake: February & July
• Average Annual Tuition Fee: AUD 25,000 - AUD 30,000 (~₹14,35,373 - ~₹17,22,448)
• Type: Public

Many affordable universities in Australia also offer scholarships for Masters in Australia to help reduce tuition costs for Indian students.

For Indian students, understanding tuition costs is crucial when planning to study in Australia. Affordable universities provide quality education without excessive fees, particularly public institutions.

• Bachelor’s Degrees: AUD 15,000 - AUD 20,000 (~₹8,61,223 - ~₹11,44,000) per year.
• Master’s Degrees: AUD 15,000 - AUD 37,000 (~₹8,61,223 - ~₹21,24,352) per year.

Living costs in Australia vary by city. Regional cities are generally cheaper than Sydney or Melbourne.

Approximate Monthly Expenses (2026-27):

Tips to manage expenses for Indian Students:

• Live in regional cities or shared housing to save on rent.
• Cook meals, use student transport, and plan a simple lifestyle to manage expenses.
• Don’t forget OSHC insurance and small monthly extras.

Indian students must meet specific academic and language requirements to study at affordable universities in Australia. Requirements vary by program level (Bachelor’s or Master’s) and university.

To study at the cheapest universities in Australia, there are a few key requirements that you should meet:

Tip: Always check the official university website for program-specific requirements to avoid surprises during the application.

Applying to affordable universities in Australia is straightforward if planned step by step. Most universities offer February and July intakes.

1. Shortlist Universities & Courses – Check tuition, programs, and eligibility.
2. Prepare Documents – Academic transcripts, SOP, LORs, CV (PG), English proof (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo), passport. Some courses may require portfolios or tests (SAT, GRE, GMAT).
3. Submit Application – Online via the university portal or recognised agents.
4. Receive Offer Letter – Usually in 4–6 weeks (UG) or 6–8 weeks (PG). Accept and pay the deposit if required.
5. Get Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) – Needed for student visa.
6. Apply for Student Visa (Subclass 500) – Submit CoE, GTE, financial proof, passport, and OSHC.

Tip: Apply 3–4 months before intake to secure scholarships and complete visa processing smoothly.

Australia offers several prestigious scholarships to make higher education more affordable for Indian students. These are funded by the Australian Government and universities, covering both bachelor’s and master’s programs.

Check out the fully funded scholarships in Australia for Indian students for more details.

International students in Australia can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during semesters and unlimited hours during breaks. Part-time work helps manage living expenses and gain practical experience.

Key Points for Indian Students (2026-27):

• Minimum Wage: AUD 23.23/hour (~₹1,334)
• Average Monthly Earnings: AUD 1,000 - AUD 1,500 (~₹57,200 - ~₹85,800) depending on hours and job type
• Popular Student Jobs: Retail, hospitality, tutoring, campus roles
• Requirements: Valid student visa, TFN (Tax File Number), and adherence to work-hour limits

Tip: Combine part-time work with scholarships to reduce overall study costs. Regional universities often have more local job opportunities with lower competition.

Managing finances is crucial for Indian students studying at a low cost university in Australia. Beyond tuition, it is important to plan for rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and leisure.

Practical Tips:

• Shared Housing: Rent is cheaper when living with 2-3 students.
• Cook at Home: Reduces food costs compared to eating out.
• Use Student Discounts: Transport, software, and entertainment often have student rates.
• Plan Monthly Budget: Track all expenses to avoid overspending.
• Emergency Fund: Keep at least 1-2 months of living costs aside.

Tip: Combining scholarships, part-time work, and careful budgeting can make studying in Australia affordable without compromising lifestyle or academics.

Studying in Australia opens strong post-study opportunities for Indian students, including work experience and pathways to permanent residency.

• Duration: 2-4 years, depending on the qualification.
• Eligibility: Must complete a recognised Australian degree and hold a valid student visa.

• Studying in regional universities can earn extra points toward PR.
• Skilled migration programs allow graduates to apply for PR based on occupation, work experience, and regional study.

Tip: Choosing affordable universities in regional cities can lower living costs, increase work opportunities, and improve PR eligibility after graduation.

Choosing affordable universities in Australia offers Indian students a blend of quality education and financial prudence. Here are the top five benefits:

1. Lower Tuition Fees

• Annual tuition fees at affordable universities start from AUD 15,000 (~₹8.61 lakh), making higher education more accessible.

2. Regional Study Advantages

• Studying in regional areas like Charles Sturt, Federation, Newcastle, and Charles Darwin offers lower living costs, smaller class sizes, and additional post-study work rights.

3. Strong Industry Connections

• Affordable universities often have partnerships with industries, providing students with internships and job placement opportunities.

4. Scholarship Opportunities

• Many institutions offer scholarships to international students, reducing the financial burden and rewarding academic excellence.

5. Supportive Learning Environment

• Smaller class sizes and personalised attention foster a supportive learning environment, enhancing academic success.

Affordable universities in Australia help Indian students access quality education without overspending. Regional campuses, scholarships, and part-time work make studying abroad more manageable while enhancing career and PR opportunities.

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