Australia stands out as a top destination for students seeking higher education worldwide. As of 2024, over 10,18,799 international students are enrolled in Australian universities, drawn by a world-class education system and multicultural learning environment.
However, the cost of studying in Australia can be daunting for many. Fortunately, there are many cheap universities in Australia for international students, providing them with a top-notch education without breaking the bank.
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In 2025, the average tuition fee for international students in Australia at cheap universities ranges from INR 10,00,000 to INR 23,00,000 per year, which can vary depending on course and institution.
Institutions like the Charles Sturt University, Edith Cowan University and Western Sydney University are known for their reasonably priced programs. Whether you’re eyeing a degree in engineering, business or healthcare, you can find options that fit your budget with higher ROI.
Additionally, these universities offer scholarships, financial aid, and part-time work opportunities to help students offset living costs, which average around INR 10,00,000 to INR 14,00,000 annually.
In this guide, you’ll explore the most affordable universities in Australia for Indian students in 2025, providing you with a comprehensive overview of their programmes, fees, and admission requirements.
Affordable Universities in Australia for Indian Students
Australia offers many budget-friendly options for Indian students, including competitive tuition fees and diverse study programs. Whether you’re interested in pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies, these universities balance affordability with academic excellence.
Below, we have listed some of the affordable universities in Australia for international students and the programs they offer:
| Affordable Universities in Australia for Indian Students | Average Tuition Fees (Bachelor’s) | Average Tuition Fees (Master’s) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Southern Queensland | INR 12,00,000 | INR 13,00,000 |
| University of the Sunshine Coast | INR 13,00,000 | INR 12,00,000 |
| Charles Sturt University | INR 8,56,792 | INR 10,70,990 |
| Edith Cowan University | INR 13,00,000 | INR 15,00,000 |
| Charles Darwin University | INR 14,39,417 | INR 15,59,263 |
| Griffith University | INR 19,16,888 | INR 16,00,000 |
| University of Queensland | INR 24,00,000 | INR 22,00,000 |
| Western Sydney University | INR 11,45,685 | INR 31,00,000 |
| Federation University Australia | INR 11,00,000 | INR 16,00,000 |
| University of Wollongong | INR 22,00,000 | INR 10,91,128 |
Also Read: Level 1 Universities in Australia
Popular Programs at the Low Fee Universities in Australia
The affordable universities in Australia offer over 2,200 courses in various disciplines for both UG and PG, catering to international students. These programs emphasise practical, industry-relevant learning, providing value for money.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular programs for both UG and PG offered at the affordable universities in Australia for Indian students:
Popular UG Programs
| Undergraduate Programs | Offered By | Average Tuition Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration (BA/BS) | University of Sunshine Coast Charles Sturt University | INR 15 L- INR 35 L |
| Computer Science (BSc) | Charles Darwin University University of Southern Queensland | INR 15 L – INR 19 L |
| Engineering (BEng) | Charles Darwin University Edith Cowan University | INR 16 L – INR 17 L |
| Health Sciences (BSc) | Federation University Australia | INR 16 L – INR 16.8 L |
| Creative Arts and Design (BA) | University of the Sunshine Coast Western Sydney University | INR 14 L – INR 35 L |
Popular PG Programs
| Postgraduate Programs | Offered By | Average Tuition Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts (MA) | University of Wollongong | INR 16 L – INR 19 L |
| Master of Science (MSc) | All Universities | INR 13 L – INR 17 L |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | All universities | INR 17 L – INR 25 L |
| Master of Information Technology | Charles Darwin University | INR 15 L – INR 16.5 L |
Also Read: Scholarships for Masters in Australia
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Admission Requirements for Affordable Universities in Australia
Getting admission to affordable universities in Australia is quite straightforward for international students as long as they meet the academic requirements and language proficiency standards.
To study at cheap universities in Australia, there are a few key requirements that you should meet:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualifications | Minimum 60-70% in relevant subjects for UG and PG programs. |
| English Proficiency | IELTS: 6.0 for UG, 6.5-7.0 for PG (or TOEFL/PTE equivalent). |
| Standardised Tests | SAT, GRE, GMAT |
| Application Documents | Academic transcripts, SOP, LORs, CV (for PG). |
| Visa Requirements | Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE), proof of funds, passport. |
| Other Criteria | Some universities accept Medium of Instruction (MOI) in place of IELTS. |
IELTS Requirements in the Affordable Universities in Australia
The IELTS requirements for affordable universities in the USA can vary based on the program you choose.
| Program Level | Minimum IELTS Band |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Programs | 6.0 – 6.5 |
| Master’s Programs | 6.5 – 7.0 |
| Study Visa | 6.0 |
Read more: IELTS Score for Australia
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Do Universities Accept Admission Without IELTS?
Yes, some Australian universities offer without IELTS scores, provided that students must meet certain criteria:
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate: A certificate from your previous institution stating that the medium of instruction was English may be accepted.
- University-specific English assessments: Some universities offer their own English language programs to help students meet English requirements.
- Alternative Tests: Such as TOEFL, PTE, CAE, or Duolingo.
Below are some universities allowing IELTS waivers:
| University | Alternative Admission Criteria |
|---|---|
| Swinburne University of Technology | English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS), TOEFL iBt, Duolingo, CAE |
| University of Queensland | Medium of Instruction Certificate, TOEFL iBt, PTE |
| University of Adelaide | TOEFL iBt, PTE, CAE, Internal English Language Course |
| University of Southern Queensland | Internal English Language Course |
Read more: Study in Australia without IELTS
Are These Universities Best for Indian Students?
Several Indian students who have graduated from these universities have reached remarkable milestones. Here are a few examples:
- Akhilesh Yadav: An Indian politician and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, studied at the University of Sydney.
- Pallavi Sharda: A well-known Bollywood actress, associated with the University of Melbourne.
- Kaushaliya Vaghela: First Indian-born member of the Victorian Parliament, alumni of RMIT University.
Why are the Affordable Universities in Australia a Great Fit for You?
Affordable Universities in Australia offers excellent academics, great career prospects and a safe and multicultural environment.
Here’s why Australia is a better place to study for Indian students:
- 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.
- Pocket-friendly: Australia offers a range of scholarships for international students, including those sponsored by the Australian government and by universities.
- Post-study work opportunities: 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.
- Access Cutting-edge Research Facilities: Australia has innovative research facilities and advanced infrastructure, driving academic advancement.
Connect With Our Counselors
Choosing the right university can be an overwhelming process. Reach out to India’s leading advisors for guidance at every step. We offer:
- Access to a curated list of study options tailored to your budget.
- Personalised counselling based on your academic and financial goals.
- Guidance on scholarships and financial aid options
- Assistance with university applications and visa procedures.
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. 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?
A. 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 in Australia has the lowest fees?
A. The Charles Sturt University has the lowest fees in Australia. The fee ranges from INR 8 – INR 10L, 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 it cheaper to study 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. 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 Australian universities fees for international students?
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 cheapest course in Australia for international students?
A. Many cheap 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 studies?
A. Studying in Australia can be expensive, with costs ranging from INR 12L – INR 27L per year, depending on the course and institution. While some vocational courses may be less expensive, overall, Australia is considered one of the costlier destinations for education compared to countries like Canada and the USA.
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Q. Is living in Australia expensive for Indian students?
A. Yes, living in Australia is generally expensive for Indian students, with monthly expenses estimated between AUD 1,000 and 3,680 (INR 55,800 to 2.03 lakhs)24. Factors such as accommodation, food, and transportation contribute significantly to these costs, making it essential for students to budget accordingly.
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Q. What are cheap universities in Australia for masters?
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. How much is the cheapest MBA in Australia for international students?
A. The cheapest MBA programs in Australia for international students generally range from INR 11L – INR 28L per year. Victoria University offers one of the lowest fees at about INR 12L annually. Students should also consider an additional INR 1.3L per month for living expenses.
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