Choosing to study in Australia is not just an educational decision-it’s a strategic investment in your future. According to Study Australia’s “Living and education costs” page, international students must budget for living expenses using the official Cost of Living Calculator tool (last updated November 2023) to estimate their lifestyle costs (Study Australia). Meanwhile, in terms of post-graduate returns, the Australian government’s “New survey highlights benefits of getting a degree” reports that postgraduate coursework graduates in Australia earn a median annual salary of AUD 96,600 (Ministers’ Media Centre). When you weigh upfront costs against such earning potential, the decision to invest in education “down under” becomes much clearer.
While these costs may seem high, scholarships such as the Australia Awards and ECU Vice-Chancellor’s Student Award can ease the financial burden. With an average graduate salary of AUD 77,919 per year (₹45.8 lakh) (Indeed Australia), studying in Australia offers a strong return on investment. Additionally, part-time work opportunities and careful financial planning can help students manage living expenses, making a study abroad journey in Australia both feasible and rewarding.
This comprehensive guide will break down the various factors involved in the cost of studying in Australia, including Australian university fees for international students, program costs, and more.
Key Highlights:
| Particulars | Description |
| Top University Tuition Fees | – University of Melbourne: AUD 30,000 – AUD 112,000 per year (₹17.6 lakh – ₹65.9 lakh) University of Sydney: AUD 49,200 – AUD 60,600 per year (₹28.9 lakh – ₹35.7 lakh) University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney): Approximately AUD 17,000 per year (₹10 lakh) |
| Monthly Living Expenses | Estimated between AUD 1,500 – AUD 2,500 (₹88,215 – ₹1.47 lakh) |
| Student Visa Costs | Subclass 500 (Student Visa): AUD 2,000 (₹1.18 lakh) Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate Visa): AUD 2,235 (₹1.32 lakh) |
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Cost of Studying in Australia for International Students
Your expenditure on tuition fees depends on the type of qualification and the university or school you opt for. For instance, veterinary and medical degrees cost substantially more than other degrees. Let’s find out the estimated tuition fees for each educational program.
Cost of Studying in Australia: Course and Level-wise Tuition Fees
The cost of tuition is a crucial consideration for international students planning to study in Australia. Tuition fees vary widely based on the course and university. Some courses, particularly those in business, law, and medicine, may have higher fees than others.
Here, we’ve outlined the cost of studying in Australia at different study levels:
Understanding these fee ranges can help students plan their finances and make informed decisions about their education in Australia.
| Study Program | Average Annual Fees (AUD) | Approximate Fees in INR |
| Bachelor’s Degree | $20,000 – $45,000 | ₹11.8 lakh – ₹26.5 lakh |
| Master’s Degree | $22,000 – $50,000 | ₹12.9 lakh – ₹29.4 lakh |
| Doctoral Degree | $20,000 – $42,000 | ₹11.8 lakh – ₹24.7 lakh |
(Source: Australian Government – Study in Australia)
Cost of Studying in Australia: Top Universities
Australia is home to several world-renowned universities, offering a diverse range of programs to international students. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, three Australian institutions are in the world’s top 20, with the University of Melbourne and the University of Sydney each climbing one position to 13th and 18th, respectively. Australia also dominates in ‘International research’ in the Asia-Pacific region, claiming nine of the top 10 positions.
Here is an overview of tuition fees for some top universities in Australia:
| University | QS World University Ranking 2025 | Annual Tuition Fees (AUD) | Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
| University of Melbourne | 13 | AUD 30,000 – AUD 112,000 | ₹17.6 lakh – ₹65.9 lakh |
| University of Sydney | 18 | AUD 49,200 – AUD 60,600 | ₹28.9 lakh – ₹35.7 lakh |
| University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) | 19 | AUD 17,000 – AUD 45,000 | ₹10 lakh – ₹26.9 lakh |
| Australian National University (ANU) | 30 | AUD 24,000 – AUD 45,000 | ₹14.2 lakh – ₹26.9 lakh |
| Monash University | 37 | AUD 20,000 – AUD 45,000 | ₹11.8 lakh – ₹26.9 lakh |
Cost of Living in Australia: Living Expenses & Other Costs
The cost of living in Australia depends on the city, lifestyle, and accommodation type. Having a clear understanding of these expenses helps international students plan their budget effectively. The following table provides an estimated weekly and monthly cost breakdown for students in 2025
| Particulars | Cost in AUD | Cost in INR (1 AUD = ₹58.81) |
| Tuition Fees (Average) | $32,500 | ₹19.1 lakh |
| Living Expenses (Rent, Food, Utilities, Transport, Entertainment, Clothing, Misc.) | $1,600/month × 12 = $19,200 | ₹11.3 lakh |
| Health Insurance (OSHC) | $1,000 | ₹58,810 |
| Student Visa (Subclass 500) | $2,000 | ₹1.18 lakh |
| Total Annual Cost (Tuition + Living + Visa + OSHC) | $54,700 | ₹32.2 lakh |
(Source: Study in Australia – Living Costs)
- Tuition Fees: Average cost across undergraduate and postgraduate programs, paid per year.
- Living Expenses: Includes rent, groceries, utilities, transport, mobile/internet, entertainment, clothing & personal care, and miscellaneous expenses, calculated annually.
- OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover): Mandatory for all international students, typically paid once per year along with the visa application or separately.
- Student Visa (Subclass 500) Fee: A one-time payment required to obtain the visa.
- Total Cost: Provides a realistic estimate for Indian students to plan their finances in 2025, combining annual recurring expenses and one-time costs for a clearer picture of the overall investment.
Costs can vary significantly depending on the city (Sydney and Melbourne are generally more expensive than regional cities), accommodation type, and personal lifestyle. Students can save money by sharing accommodation, cooking at home, using public transport, and taking advantage of student discounts.
Ways to Save on Cost of Living in Australia
Money management can effectively help Indian students studying in Australia to understand the expenses. That is the first step to saving on the cost of living. There are scholarships available. So, make sure to check out all the available scholarship options before applying to universities to save on tuition fees and follow the tips to save money on overall living expenses.
Scholarships To Reduce The Cost Of Studying In Australia For Indian Students
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 is a quick overview of major scholarships for Indian students in Australia.
| Scholarship | Coverage / Amount | Duration | Eligibility |
| Australia Awards Scholarships | Full tuition fees + AUD 34,500 (₹20.3L) annual stipend + travel + health insurance | Up to 2 years | Students from developing countries, including India, for full-time UG or PG study at participating universities |
| Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships | Depends on the research degree | Depends on research degree | Domestic and international students in research-based postgraduate programs |
| Deakin University Scholarships | AUD 28,600/year stipend + relocation allowance + health insurance | Program duration | International postgraduate students |
| University of Sydney International Scholarships | Up to AUD 100,000 for postgraduate coursework students | Program duration | Indian students starting PG coursework at the University of Sydney |
| University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships | Full tuition + living allowance + other allowances | Program duration | High-achieving international students enrolling in graduate research degrees |
| Macquarie University India Scholarship | AUD 10,000/year | Program duration | Indian students applying for UG or PG coursework degrees |
(Source: Australian Government – Study in Australia Scholarships)
Read more: Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students 2024: Benefits & Eligibility
Affordable Universities to Study in Australia
While Australia does not offer free education for international students, several universities provide quality education at competitive tuition fees. These institutions are particularly appealing to Indian students seeking high-quality education without the hefty price tag.
Here is an overview of affordable universities in Australia
| University | Location | Average Annual Tuition Fees (AUD) | Approximate Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
| University of Southern Queensland | Toowoomba, Queensland | $22,500 – $24,000 | ₹13.2 lakh – ₹14.1 lakh |
| Federation University Australia | Ballarat, Victoria | $18,000 – $25,000 | ₹10.6 lakh – ₹14.7 lakh |
| University of Sunshine Coast | Sunshine Coast, Queensland | $20,000 – $30,000 | ₹11.8 lakh – ₹17.7 lakh |
| Griffith University | Brisbane, Queensland | $33,500 – $38,500 | ₹19.7 lakh – ₹22.6 lakh |
| Western Sydney University | Sydney, New South Wales | $30,000 – $35,000 | ₹17.7 lakh – ₹20.6 lakh |
Note: Tuition fees are approximate and may vary based on the program and course duration.
These universities offer a variety of programs across disciplines such as business, engineering, health sciences, and humanities, making them ideal for Indian students aiming for a high-quality yet affordable education in Australia.
Tips to Manage the Cost of Studying in Australia
Managing expenses and saving money is crucial for international students studying in Australia. Here are some practical tips to help you budget effectively and maximise your finances.
1. Opt for Shared Accommodation
Living costs are one of the biggest expenses in Australia. Sharing a house or apartment with other students, or staying in university dormitories or homestays, can significantly reduce rent. Shared housing also allows you to split utilities and other household costs, making it a budget-friendly choice for students.
2. Cook at Home
Dining out frequently can quickly inflate your monthly expenses. Preparing meals at home using fresh produce from local markets or supermarkets is much more economical. Cooking your own food also gives you control over portion sizes and nutrition, helping you maintain a healthy lifestyle on a budget.
3. Use Public Transport and Student Discounts
Transportation can be expensive, especially in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Using public transport and taking advantage of student discounts on monthly passes, buses, trains, or trams can save a lot of money. Walking or biking for short distances further reduces travel costs while keeping you active.
4. Take Advantage of Student Discounts
Australia offers numerous discounts for students across entertainment, shopping, dining, and travel. Always carry your student ID and look for student offers online or at stores. Even small savings on regular purchases add up over the course of a year.
5. Work Part-Time
International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester and full-time during breaks. Part-time jobs in retail, hospitality, or on-campus positions not only help cover living expenses but also provide valuable work experience and improve English communication skills.
6. Plan and Budget Carefully
Tracking expenses, setting a monthly budget, and prioritizing essential costs can prevent overspending. Use apps or spreadsheets to record daily spending and identify areas where you can cut costs, such as entertainment, groceries, or shopping.
By following these tips, Indian students can effectively manage their expenses, save money, and enjoy a more affordable and fulfilling experience while studying in Australia.
Conclusion
By implementing these strategies, Indian students can manage their expenses effectively, save money, and make their study abroad journey in Australia more affordable and rewarding. Understanding tuition, living costs, scholarships, and part-time work opportunities ensures a well-planned and financially sustainable experience.
If you’re ready to start your journey to studying in Australia, book a free consultation with Leapscholar experts today! Our team will help you identify the best universities and courses that match your goals, budget, and career aspirations, giving you personalized guidance for a smooth and successful application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the total cost to study in Australia?
The total cost of studying in Australia for Indian students depends on the program and city. On average, annual tuition fees range from AUD 20,000 to 45,000 (₹11.8 lakh – ₹26.5 lakh), and living expenses, including rent, food, transport, and personal care, range from AUD 16,000 to 24,000 per year (₹9.4 lakh – ₹14.1 lakh). Adding student visa and health insurance costs, the total annual cost can range from ₹21 lakh to ₹44 lakh.
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Is Australia costly for Indians?
Australia is considered moderately expensive for Indian students, especially in cities like Sydney and Melbourne. However, compared to the quality of education, global exposure, scholarships, and post-study work opportunities, the return on investment is strong. Careful planning, part-time work, and shared accommodation can reduce costs significantly.
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Is Australia a cheap country to study?
Australia is not the cheapest study destination, but it offers world-class education and strong career prospects. Costs can be managed by choosing affordable universities, regional cities, scholarships, and budget-friendly living options.
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Is it worth studying in Australia for Indian students?
Yes. Studying in Australia provides high-quality education, global recognition, diverse student life, and excellent career opportunities. The country also allows part-time work and post-study employment, helping students offset costs and gain international experience.
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Is education free in Australia for Indian students?
No, education is not free for international students. Tuition fees vary by program and institution, and living expenses are additional. Scholarships like Australia Awards, RTP, and university-specific awards can significantly reduce the financial burden.
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Is it expensive to study in Australia?
Studying in Australia can be expensive, with tuition and Australia visa fees varying depending on the course and institution. Students must budget for living expenses, accommodation, health insurance, and other costs. However, scholarships, grants, and part-time work opportunities are available to help offset these expenses.
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What is the average monthly cost of studying in Australia for international students?
The average monthly cost of studying in Australia for international students can vary depending on factors like location and lifestyle. On average, students should budget around ₹76,405 per month for expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal costs.
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