Many students dream about studying in Australia to build a remarkable career. Between January and September 2023, more than 1.22 lakh Indian students moved to Australia to fulfil their dreams.
There are many top affordable universities in Australia for Indian students, providing them with a top-notch education without breaking the bank. The country also ranks 8th out of 48 countries in the global measure for higher education.
There are many top and cheapest universities in Australia like Charles Sturt University, Edith Cowan University and Western Sydney University, which are well-known for their academic excellence and affordability.
So, are you ready to find your perfect spot without worrying about the finances? Let’s begin.
Key Highlights
- The average tuition fee in Australia is around AU$30,000 per year (around INR 16 lakhs).
- The average cost of living in Australia is around AUS$20,000 per year (INR 12 lakhs).
- The famous cities in Australia are Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane.
- Australia’s most affordable universities are the University of Divinity, the University of Southern Queensland, and the University of Sunshine Coast.
- The top three scholarships in Australia are Australia Awards Scholarships, University of Melbourne International Scholarships, and Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships.
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Why Study in Australia?
Imagine immersing yourself in a world where education isn’t just about textbooks but hands-on, practical learning experiences that prepare you for the real world.
That’s the transformative power of studying in Australia! With its renowned education system and emphasis on practical skills, choosing Australia as your destination is one of the wisest decisions you can make. But it’s not just about academics; it’s also about embracing vibrant cultures where people from all corners of the globe come together for work and study.
Here’s why Australia is a better place to study for International students:
- Communicate Easily: Australians speak English, facilitating accessible communication and student understanding.
- Explore Diverse Majors: With numerous universities, students can choose from various engineering to arts degrees.
- Gain Global Recognition: Graduate degrees from Australia hold worldwide recognition, smoothing the path for job applications globally.
- Access Work Opportunities: Australian universities facilitate internships and part-time jobs to support students during their studies.
- Pursue Post-College Careers: Students can apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa to work in Australia after graduation.
- Embrace Cultural Diversity: Australia celebrates a diverse culture, fostering a welcoming environment for students to assimilate.
- Attend Top Universities: Australia boasts six of the world’s top 100 universities, ensuring a high-quality education.
- Explore Varied Academic Programs: With so many affordable universities in Australia, students have many academic programs to explore.
- Engage in Internships and Employment: Certain institutes offer internships and paid employment options to enrich students’ experiences.
- Access Cutting-edge Research Facilities: Australia has innovative research facilities and advanced infrastructure, driving academic advancement.
In addition to the factors mentioned above, Australia is highly ranked for safety and stability. Its multicultural environment helps to promote tolerance and respect for each other’s cultures. These qualities, when combined, make Australia the best choice for Indian students.
Top 10 Affordable Universities in Australia
Many affordable universities in Australia are well known for their academic excellence and affordability. These universities, funded by the Australian government, provide over 2,200 courses in various disciplines, catering to international students. Many of these universities are also research-oriented, ensuring a strong focus on innovation and discovery in their programs, like the University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne.
The Australian government allocates significant funding to universities through scholarship programs like Australian Award scholarships, which help keep tuition fees competitive for international students compared to other countries.
Below, we have listed some of the best universities that can be a good choice for International students.
Top 10 Affordable Universities in Australia For International Students:
| University Name | Average Annual Fees (INR) |
| University of Southern Queensland | 16 – 25 Lakhs |
| University of the Sunshine Coast | 12 – 20 Lakhs |
| Charles Sturt University | 15 – 20 Lakhs |
| Charles Darwin University | 14 – 18 Lakhs |
| Southern Cross University | 12 – 22 Lakhs |
| Edith Cowan University | 13 – 16 Lakhs |
| Federation University Australia | 12 – 18 Lakhs |
| Western Sydney University | 12 – 19 Lakhs |
| University of Wollongong | 15 – 21 Lakhs |
| University of Divinity | 6 – 11 Lakhs |
Now, let’s discuss these affordable universities in Australia separately and learn about their top courses, fees, and scholarships.
Now, explore these affordable universities in Australia and learn about their courses and fees.
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1. University of Southern Queensland
The University of Southern Queensland is among the top-rated affordable universities in Australia. It offers courses in various disciplines, such as science, healthcare, engineering, business, education, and the arts.
The university has three campuses: Toowoomba (the main campus), Springfield, and Ipswich.
Overview:
| Type of University | Public University |
| Founded | 1967 |
| QS Ranking 2024 | 410 |
| Admission Requirements | -Academic transcript –IELTS (5.5 Band Score) –TOEFL (95 score) –SOP –LOR |
| Intakes | Fall and Spring |
| Average Tuition Fees (UG) First Year | INR 12 – 20 Lakhs |
| Average Tuition Fees (PG) First Year | INR 17 – 30 Lakhs |
| Scholarship Options | -UniSQ International Student Scholarship -International Student Support Scholarship 2024 -Destination Australia Scholarship (International) |
| Top Courses | -Bachelor of Information Technology -Bachelor of Business -Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) -Bachelor of Education -Master of Business Administration |
2. University of the Sunshine Coast
The University of Sunshine Coast is a public university launched in 1994. It is one of the best low fee universities in Australia and has received high rankings for its quality education from the Good Universities Guide for the last 15 years.
The Australian Universities Quality Agency has also awarded UniSC for its learning and teaching excellence.
Overview:
| Type of University | Public |
| Founded | 1994 |
| QS Ranking 2024 | 1001-1200 |
| Admission Requirements | -Academic transcript – IELTS (6.0 Band Score) -TOEFL (100) -SOP -LOR |
| Intakes | Fall and Spring |
| Average Tuition Fees (UG) First Year | INR 12 – 16 Lakhs |
| Average Tuition Fees (PG) First Year | INR 15 – 20 Lakhs |
| Scholarship Options | -UniSc International Student Scholarship -Destination Australia Scholarship -English Excellence Scholarship |
| Top Courses | -Bachelor of Business -Bachelor of Information Technology -Bachelor of Computer Science -Master of Business Administration -Master of Public Health |
3. Charles Sturt University
Established in 1989, Charles Sturt University is a public university in New South Wales. It was formed by merging with many existing colleges, including Albury-Wodonga’s Riverina-Murray Institute of Higher Education, Wagga Wagga’s Riverina College of Advanced Education, and Bathurst’s Mitchell College of Advanced Education in Bathurst.
The university also offers online courses to help students learn without relocating to its campuses, making it among the top cheap universities in Australia for international students.
Overview:
| Type of University | Public |
| Founded | 1989 |
| QS Ranking 2024 | 801-1000 |
| Admission Requirements | -Academic transcript –IELTS (6.0 Band Score) –TOEFL (90) –SOP-LOR |
| Intakes | Fall and Spring |
| Average Tuition Fees (UG) First Year | INR 14 – 17 Lakhs |
| Average Tuition Fees (PG) First Year | INR 18 – 20 Lakhs |
| Scholarship Options | -International Student Support Scholarship -Bathurst Campus International Accommodation Scholarship -International Joint Cooperation Program Scholarship. |
| Important Courses | -Bachelor of Nursing-Bachelor of Business Studies -Bachelor of Accounting -Master of Business Administration (MBA) -Master of Information Technology |
4. Edith Cowan University
Edith Cowan University is a prestigious and one of the most affordable universities in Australia. It was launched in 1991 and has offered courses in various fields since then.
It has provided 400 courses across various disciplines, including computer science, healthcare, biomedicine, sports science, psychology, law, education, engineering, psychology, aeronautics, and the performing arts. The university also offers Ph.D. courses in science, commerce, and arts.
Overview:
| Type of University | Public |
| Founded | 1991 |
| QS Ranking 2024 | 529 |
| Admission Requirements | -Academic transcript -IELTS (6.0 Band Score) -TOEFL (80) -SOP -LOR |
| Intakes | Fall and Spring |
| Average Tuition Fees (UG) First Year | INR 12 – 16 Lakhs |
| Average Tuition Fees (PG) First Year | INR 18 – 22 Lakhs |
| Scholarship Options | -ECU International Scholarships -ECU Vice-Chancellor’s Student Award -ECU Coursework Specific Scholarships |
| Top Courses | -Bachelor of Science (Cyber Security) -Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) -Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) -Master of Arts (Performing Arts) -Master of Computing and Security by Research |
5. Charles Darwin University
Charles Darwin University is a public university located in Darwin, Australia. It is one of the best and cheap universities in Australia for masters degree. The university excels in engineering, humanities and social sciences, law and paralegal studies, psychology and social work.
It has evolved by merging with various institutions, including Darwin Community College, Menzies School of Health Research, University College of the Northern Territory, and Centralian College.
Overview:
| Type of University | Public |
| Founded | 2003 |
| QS Ranking 2024 | 601 – 610 |
| Admission Requirements | -Academic transcript -IELTS (6.0 Band Score) -TOEFL (80) -SOP -LOR |
| Intakes | Spring and Fall |
| Average Tuition Fees (UG) First Year | INR 15 – 18 Lakhs |
| Average Tuition Fees (PG) First Year | INR 16 – 20 Lakhs |
| Scholarship Options | -Vice-Chancellor’s International High Achiever Scholarship -CDU Global Merit Scholarship 2023-2024 -2024 CDU International College Pathway Scholarship |
| Top Courses | -Bachelor of Technology -Bachelor of Science -Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication -Bachelor in Pharmacy -Master of Business Administration |
These affordable universities in Australia pay equal attention to practical learning and course content. They conduct sessions to let the students learn and experience the world around them.
In addition, the universities have collaborated with many companies to provide internship and training opportunities to the students.
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General Eligibility Criteria for Affordable Universities in Australia in 2024
To study at affordable universities in Australia, then these are the general eligibility criteria that you should meet:
Academic Requirements
- Academic Scores: While a 60% minimum might be expected, it’s best to avoid generalisations. Specific programs and universities might have higher requirements.
- Language Requirements: The minimum IELTS scores are 6.0 and 80 for the TOEFL. For masters, the minimum IELTS score is 6.5 and 90 for the TOEFL.
- Bachelor’s Course: You should have completed your higher secondary education to be admitted to a bachelor’s course.
- Masters Course: You should have completed your bachelor’s course.
- Ph.D. Course: You should have completed the master’s course in the related field.
Visa Requirements:
It would be best if you opted for an Australian Student Visa to enrol in the affordable universities in Australia.
Scholarships for Studying in Affordable Universities in Australia
Many scholarships are available from both the government and private organisations in Australia. These scholarships will help you to pursue your academic goals at top universities nationwide. They cover tuition fees and living expenses, making education more accessible and affordable.
Using these scholarships, you can start your academic journey at some of Australia’s best universities without worrying about money.
Here are some of the best scholarship opportunities for affordable universities in Australia.
| Scholarship Program Name | Type of Scholarship | Benefits Covered |
| UniSQ International Student Scholarship | University Funded | Tuition fee reduction |
| Destination Australia Scholarship | Government funded | -Full tuition fees-Travel allowance-Living stipend |
| Bathurst Campus International Accommodation Scholarship | Government funded | Accommodation costs |
| International Joint Cooperation Program Scholarship | University funded | -Tuition fee-Living stipend-Travel expenses |
| ECU Vice-Chancellor’s Student Award | University funded | Tuition fee reduction or 100% coverage |
| Australia Awards Scholarships | Government funded | -Tuition fees-Travel allowance-Living stipend-Health insurance |
| CDU Global Merit Scholarship 2023-2024 | University funded | Tuition fee reduction |
| Australian Government Research Training Program | Government funded | -Tuition fees-Living stipend |
| University of Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship | University funded | -Tuition fees |
| 2024 CDU International College Pathway Scholarship | University funded | -Tuition fees-Living expenses |
By applying to these scholarships, you can cover your education expenses fully or partially.
Also Read: 10 Easy Steps to Get a Study Abroad Scholarship 2024
Highest Paying Jobs in Australia
Australia is a one-destination country that offers quality education and job opportunities. Whether you are a graduate, post-graduate or research pass-out, you will have access to lots of job opportunities, which are created every year by lots of companies located in Australia.
Medicine, finance, engineering, and management are some of Australia’s top professions paying the highest salaries. We will see the average salary for these jobs, but before that, let’s look at Australia’s average cost of living.
Cost of Living in Australia
| Particulars | Cost (per month) in INR |
| Average Rent (1 Bedroom Apartment in City Centre) | INR 1.2 L |
| Average Transportation | INR 9 T |
| Average Utilities | INR 21 T |
| Average Living Expenses (food, clothing, misc.) | INR 70 T |
Sourced By: Numbeo
Here are some of the highest-paying jobs to which you can apply after studying in affordable universities in Australia:
| Top Paying Jobs | Salary (in INR) |
| Surgeon | 2.25 Cr – 2.50 Cr |
| Anaesthetist | 2 Cr – 2.25 Cr |
| Cardiologist | 1.8 Cr – 2.15 Cr |
| Project Manager | 1.90 Cr. – 2.25 Cr |
| Financial Analysts | 1.50 Cr – 1.75 Cr |
| Portfolio Manager | 1.40 Cr – 1.75 Cr |
| Software Engineer | 73 Lakhs – 1.30 Cr |
| Legal Professionals | 1.10 Cr – 1.25 Cr |
| Mining Engineer | 1.05 Cr – 1.20 Cr |
| Information Technology Manager / Executive | 95 Lakhs – 1.10 Cr |
| Sales Manager | 70 Lakhs – 1 Cr |
| Supply Chain Manager | 65 Lakhs – 80 Lakhs |
The mentioned salary has been extracted from various sources like Glassdoor, Indeed, etc.
Conclusion
Australia is a top pick for international students, coming in third place, and it’s known for being budget-friendly. If you’re considering studying abroad, Australia is the perfect choice for affordable, quality education. Thanks to Australia’s mix of high standards and reasonable prices, you’ll get an excellent education without spending a fortune. So, why not study in Australia and enjoy an excellent education without the hefty price tag?
If you want to know more about this, you can talk to our consultants, who will guide you in studying in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Which courses are affordable in Australia?
A. Many courses are available to students who wish to study in Australia. The most popular ones in our list include the BBA, B.Tech, BA, and Diploma Courses in Management, Technology, and Hospitality. The most affordable colleges in Australia provide all these courses.
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Q. Is Australia cheap for international students to study in?
A. Many cheap colleges in Australia provide many courses for International students. So whether you want to pursue a bachelor’s, master’s, or research studies, you will find many options. There are so many variable factors like city, courses, and fees that you can consider when choosing the right institutions that meet your educational goals. Your cost of living may depend on the city where you will stay.
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Q. Where is the affordable university in Australia?
A. The cheapest universities in Australia are spread across different regions all across the country. We have the University of Sunshine Coast (located in the Sunshine Coast), Western Sydney University University (located in Penrith), the University of Southern Queensland (located in Queensland), and many more.
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Q. Which is the cheapest university in Melbourne?
The University of Divinity is one of the most affordable universities in Australia. It offers 11 undergraduate and 21 postgraduate courses in different fields such as life sciences and medicals, arts, social sciences, management, spirituality, philosophical, and theological studies.
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Q. Which university has the lowest fees in Australia?
A. The Western Sydney University has the lowest fees in Australia. The fee ranges from INR 12 – 19 Lakhs, depending on your course type (bachelor’s, master’s, research) and field of study (science, engineering, management, etc). The university accepts admission twice a year, one in the Autumn season, which starts from Feb/March, and the other in the spring season, which begins from July/August.
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Q. Is university education cheaper in the UK or Australia?
A. The cost of education in Australia is lower than that of the UK. The cost of living and travelling in Australia is also more affordable than in the UK. This makes Australia one of the best options for students who want to study abroad and are looking for the best countries which provide a high-quality education at an affordable cost.
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Q. Which city is the cheapest for international students in Australia?
A. Adelaide is the cheapest and most economical option for international students in Australia. Many affordable universities, such as the University of South Australia and Flinders University, are in the city. It is also the hub of healthcare, medical science, manufacturing, and retail. Brisbane and Perth are the other affordable cities you can look forward to.
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Q. Do affordable universities in Australia provide master’s programs?
A. Many affordable universities in Australia offer master’s courses. The University of Southern Queensland, Charles Darwin University, University of Western Australia, and Victoria University are the most prominent and affordable universities for international students pursuing master’s degrees.
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Q. Which city in Australia is best for Indian students?
A. Sydney is one of the best places where many Indian students prefer to study. Every year, thousands of Indian students flock around this city to pursue higher education. It has many affordable universities in Australia, like the University of Sydney, the International College of Management, and the University of Technology. Other than this, Melbourne is another popular choice, too.
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Q. What are the minimum fees for international students in Australia?
A. There is a wide range of affordable courses available for International students. The minimum fee, on average, is around INR 10 Lakhs to 18 Lakhs per year, but it varies from different universities and courses. For example, the average fee for pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the University of the Sunshine Coast is 13 Lakhs, whereas at Charles Sturt University, it is 15 Lakhs.
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Q. What is the most affordable degree to study in Australia?
A. The diploma and bachelor’s degree in business, management, and administration are the most low-budget courses provided by affordable universities in Australia. They cost around INR 8 – 12 Lakhs per year to pursue. However, this is an average estimation, and the fees may be higher or lower than that, depending on the university. But don’t worry, as the universities offer scholarship options to reduce costs. For example, the University of Sydney and the University of Southern Queensland have various scholarship opportunities.
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Q. What are the required admission documents to get admitted into top affordable universities in Australia?
A. If you wish to study at affordable universities in Australia, keep some documents handy to get admission to your dream colleges. These documents include the passing certificate for previous academics, such as Class 12th and 10th, an English Proficiency Scorecard, such as IELTS, a National Identity Card, a Passport, and a Student Visa.
