Did you know: Over 93% of postgraduate students from the University of Tasmania (located in Australia) secure full-time employment within 4 months of graduating, as per the National Skills Commission’s 5-year projections from November 2020 to November 2025.
What’s more? By 2025, careers such as Business Administration Managers, Advertising, Public Relations, Sales Managers, and Corporate Services Managers are projected to experience significant growth in Australia.
Exciting, right? So what’s holding you back from pursuing an MBA in Australia now? Are you worried because you just graduated and have no work experience?
Well, here’s some good news for you – you can pursue an MBA in Australia without work experience. This makes it particularly appealing for recent graduates looking to advance their careers quickly.
Universities like RMIT University and the University of Tasmania are among some of the best MBA colleges in Australia without work experience. However, it is essential to note that executive MBA programs may require work experience.
This guide covers everything you need to know: the advantages of studying MBA in Australia without work experience, top universities to consider, tuition fees, and much more. Keep reading for details!
Key Highlights
Here is a snapshot of everything you will read in this detailed guide on pursuing an MBA in Australia without work experience.
| Particulars | Details |
| Top MBA Colleges in Australia Without Work Experience | The University of AdelaideRMIT UniversityUniversity of Tasmania |
| Average Total Tuition Fees at Top Universities in Australia Without Work Experience | INR 50L (AUD 60,643) |
| Top Scholarships Available For MBA Graduates | Australia Awards Scholarship MBA Scholarship Application by The University of Adelaide |
| Minimum English Proficiency | 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0) |
| Average Annual Salary of MBA Graduates In Australia | INR 1.3Cr (AUD 1,61,000) |
| Top Companies Hiring MBA Graduates in Australia | AdobeANZRest |
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Benefits of Studying MBA in Australia Without Work Experience
The Australian MBA market is worth about AUD 500 million annually, with over 20,000 students currently enrolled in MBA programs across the country.
Studying for an MBA in Australia without work experience not only boosts your career prospects but also allows you to experience the incredible lifestyle of one of the world’s most hospitable countries. Level 1 universities in Australia, such as the University of Melbourne and UNSW, are renowned for their top-tier MBA programs.
That said, these top Australian universities require international applicants to provide proof of work experience during the admissions process.
Need more reasons to study MBA from the Land Down Under? Let’s give you 4.
- Early Career Advancement: Opting for an MBA in Australia without work experience enables you to fast-track your entry into the business world. It offers you advanced business knowledge and management skills immediately after finishing your undergraduate studies, giving you a significant competitive edge.
- Academic Excellence: According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, the University of Adelaide is ranked 82nd globally, and RMIT University is ranked 123rd.
An MBA from an Australian institution offers significant global recognition, greatly enhancing career prospects and earning potential. These universities, along with others ranked within the top 500, are renowned for their academic standards.
- Diverse Networking Opportunities: Australian universities offer several avenues for networking opportunities for MBA students without work experience, including participating in networking events and conferences. With a significant number of MBA students coming from diverse cultural backgrounds, these universities provide a platform for interaction among peers globally.
Additionally, established alumni networks from Australian universities offer continuous networking opportunities for current MBA students. For instance, notable alumni such as Louisa Rose and Dr Jane Sloane from the University of Adelaide have actively used these networks to offer career advice to current MBA students.
- Affordable Education: There are several top affordable universities in Australia for Indian students, such as Charles Sturt University and Edith Cowan University. These universities offer excellent MBA programs without breaking the bank. The average cost of studying for an MBA in Australia is INR 50L (AUD 60,643).
Read more: MBA Fees in Australia
Top 5 Universities in Australia for MBA Without Work Experience
If you’ve recently graduated and haven’t started working yet, don’t worry—several Australian universities offer MBA programs designed specifically for students like you. These programs do not require work experience and emphasise your academic achievements and potential as a future business leader instead of looking for work experience.
According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, several universities in Australia are ranked within the top 500 that offer MBA programs without work experience. These institutions include RMIT University and the University of Tasmania. All these universities are renowned for their flexible MBA options, diverse student bodies, and strong industry connections.
Here is a list of the top MBA colleges in Australia without work experience.
| Top Universities to Study MBA in Australia Without Work Experience | QS World University Rankings 2025 | Annual Tuition Fees |
| The University of Adelaide | 82 | INR 41L (AUD 49,900) |
| RMIT University | 123 | INR 40L (AUD 48,000) |
| University of Tasmania | 293 | INR 56.5L (AUD 67,660) |
| University of South Australia | 340 | INR 33L (AUD 39,600) |
| James Cook University | 445 | INR 30L (AUD 36,200) |
Read on to explore each university in detail, including their entry requirements for MBA programs without work experience.
- The University of Adelaide
The 2 year MBA (International) Programme at the University of Adelaide is ideal for you if you are seeking the opportunity to specialise in a specific area, such as marketing or finance, helping you advance quickly into leadership positions.
This program focuses on building specialised skill sets in areas such as Marketing, Wine Business, Project Management, and International Trade and Development.
Entry Requirements
- You must have completed a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 4.5.
- You must achieve one of the following English proficiency scores.
| English Proficiency Tests | Score Requirements |
| IELTS | 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0) |
| TOEFL | TOEFL (IBT) score of 79 overall with specific section scores: Reading: 13Listening: 13Speaking: 18Writing: 21 |
| PTE | Minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50) |
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- RMIT University
Next on the list of the top universities in Australia for MBA without work experience is RMIT University. If you’re starting your career and aiming for rapid advancement in management, RMIT’s MBA program is ideal for helping you enter the professional world with confidence.
Offered at RMIT’s Melbourne city campus or online, the MBA program teaches you essential business management skills and how to solve problems creatively. During your programme, you’ll learn from top industry experts and receive guidance from experienced lecturers who are committed to your success. The duration of the programme is 2 years or 1.5 years accelerated.
Entry Requirements
- You can apply for this programme with an Australian Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognised institution, with a minimum GPA of 1.0 out of 4.0.
- Alternatively, you can also apply with an Australian Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and achieve a minimum GMAT score of 550.
- In addition to the mentioned requirements, you can apply for the 1.5-year program duration upon successful completion of the RMIT Graduate Certificate in Business Administration.
- You must achieve one of the following English proficiency scores.
| English Proficiency Tests | Score Requirements |
| IELTS | 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0) |
| TOEFL | TOEFL (IBT) score of 79 overall with specific section scores: Reading: 13Listening: 12Speaking: 18Writing: 21 |
| PTE | Minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50) |
- University of Tasmania
To earn a Master of Business Administration (Global) degree at the University of Tasmania, students must complete 150 credit points of study. This includes 50 credit points for core units, 50 credit points for specialisation units, and 50 credit points for research or capstone project units.
It is important to note that all courses consist of various units (alternative term for subjects). Each unit is assigned a credit point value (typically 12.5 credits per unit, though this can vary). A standard full-time study workload amounts to 100 credit points per year. In order to successfully finish a course, you must fulfil the minimum credit points for that course.
The programme must be completed within a minimum of 2 years and can extend up to a maximum of 5 years.
Entry Requirements
- You must have completed an *AQF level 7 bachelor’s degree or above or approved equivalent.
- Here are the requirements for English proficiency scores.
| English Proficiency Tests | Score Requirements |
| IELTS | 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0) |
| PTE | Minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50) |
*Please note: AQF refers to the Australian Qualifications Framework. Bachelor’s degree qualifications are classified at level 7 of the AQF.
- University of South Australia (UniSA)
UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International and EFMD (EQUIS), the world’s leading accreditation bodies. The 2-year MBA programme will help you gain knowledge about business strategy, leadership, data analytics, global marketing, and accounting for management.
The mode of study is both on-campus and online, with the campus located at City West. Upon completion of the course, graduates can pursue careers as Global Business Managers, General Managers, or Corporate Affairs Managers.
Entry Requirements
- Students must hold either a completed bachelor’s degree, graduate diploma, or graduate certificate from a recognised higher education institution.
- You must achieve one of the following English proficiency scores.
| English Proficiency Tests | Score Requirements |
| IELTS | 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0) |
| PTE | Minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50) |
- James Cook University (JCU)
Did you know that James Cook University is ranked #1 in Australia for full-time employment and #1 in Queensland for student support, according to the 2024 Good Universities Guide for PG Business?
At JCU, the 2-year MBA degree will prepare you with the skills and confidence to lead in diverse commercial management scenarios. After completion of the course, your extensive knowledge and leadership abilities will prepare you for careers such as management consultant, operations manager, chief financial officer, and market research analyst.
Entry Requirements
- You must have completed an AQF level 7 bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
- You must achieve one of the following English proficiency scores.
| English Proficiency Tests | Score Requirements |
| IELTS | 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0) |
| TOEFL | TOEFL (IBT) score of 86 overall with no component less than 21 |
| PTE | Minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 54) |
Australia is renowned for its world-class education system, which includes its prestigious MBA programs. Are you looking for expert guidance on pursuing an MBA in Australia as an Indian student who can help you select the best university? At LeapScholar, we are proud to have a highly qualified team of counsellors with 50+ years of combined experience assisting students to study abroad. Schedule a free counselling session today!
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Eligibility Criteria for MBA Without Work Experience in Australia
Did you know that international students make up as much as 80% of the student body in some MBA courses in Australia? Not to forget, India is among the top 5 countries for international students studying in Australia.
If you, too, are considering studying for an MBA in Australia without prior work experience, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria. Universities offering MBAs without work experience typically have similar admission requirements to those requiring work experience. The specific criteria may vary by university, but the basic requirements remain consistent.
In the section above, we have covered the CGPA and English language requirements for top universities. Read on to explore the additional essential eligibility criteria.
- Without work experience, a minimum GMAT score of at least 550 is required to get admission at most MBA colleges in Australia.
- A letter of recommendation from academic professors can support your admission to popular MBA programs. It is recommended that you submit at least 2 to 3 letters of recommendation.
- Furthermore, a strong and well-crafted Statement of Purpose (SOP) outlining your motivation for pursuing an MBA in Australia without work experience is needed.
- Preparing a detailed resume or CV that highlights your academic achievements, internships, projects, and relevant experiences can further increase your chances for admission.
How to Apply for an MBA in Australia Without GMAT and Work Experience?
Did you know: India remains the second-largest source country for international student enrolments in Australia, with 1,22,391 Indian students studying there from January to September 2023? Yes, that’s right!
Now that you’re familiar with the top universities and eligibility requirements, it’s crucial to understand the application process if you also want to join the community of Indian students studying in Australia.
Here are the steps involved in applying for an MBA in Australia without work experience.
- Research and Shortlist: The first and foremost step is to conduct thorough research and identify MBA programs in Australia that do not require work experience and align with your career goals.
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria set by your chosen MBA colleges in Australia without work experience.
- Document Preparation: The next step is to collect necessary documents such as language test scores, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters. It is important to note here that an MBA in Australia without GMAT is possible. Some universities might accept GRE scores (Graduate Record Examination) instead of the GMAT. The GRE score required is above 310.
- Application Submission: Complete and submit applications through the official university website.
- Interviews: Keep in mind that some universities may conduct interviews as part of their selection process.
Cost of Pursuing an MBA in Australia Without Work Experience
Studying for an MBA in Australia without work experience includes various costs beyond tuition fees. These include living expenses, health insurance, and study materials. Australia’s availability of scholarships and finances makes it an attractive destination for pursuing MBA.
On average, the cost of living in Australia for Indian students is approximately INR 92L (AUD 1,671)
Here are some of the key costs you will incur while studying for an MBA in Australia without work experience, excluding the tuition fees.
| Expenses | Cost of Living in Australia for Indian Students |
| Rent | INR 1.2L (AUD 2,224)/ month |
| Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant | INR 1.3k (AUD 25)/ meal |
| Transportation (Monthly Pass) | INR 9.3k (AUD 168) |
| Other Basic Utilities | INR 17k (AUD 307)/ month |
To understand the specifics of living expenses in Australia and how they might impact your budget, you must read this blog on the Cost of Studying in Australia for Indian Students.
Scholarships Available for Indian Students Pursuing MBA in Australia
Australia offers numerous scholarships for Indian students pursuing an MBA without prior work experience. These scholarships, offered by government bodies and universities, help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs.
For instance, the Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) program is prestigious and competitive. It offers government-funded grants and fosters links between Australia and its partner nation, India.
Here are a few notable scholarships for Indian students pursuing MBA in Australia without work experience.
| Scholarship Programme | Offered By | Benefits |
| Australia Awards Scholarships | Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) | Total Tuition Fees for up to 2 years Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE)* |
| MBA Scholarship Application | University of Adelaide | Up to 50% of the MBA tuition fees for a maximum of 12 courses (36 units) of study. |
*Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE) provides a fortnightly stipend for basic living costs determined by the department.
Career Opportunities for Indian Students Studying MBA in Australia
Did you know: It is projected that nearly 14 million people in Australia will be employed by 2024? Undoubtedly, this makes Australia a promising destination for Indian students seeking employment opportunities.
After completing an MBA from Australia without work experience, graduates can explore numerous career opportunities in a competitive Australian job market. Graduates typically can expect to earn an annual salary of INR 1.3Cr (AUD 1,61,000).
Here are some popular job profiles for MBA graduates, along with their average salaries.
| Job Profiles | Average Annual Salaries |
| Marketing Director | INR 1Cr to INR 1.5Cr (AUD 1,29,500 to AUD 1,87,500) |
| Business Administrative Manager | INR 50L to INR 60L (AUD 60,000 to AUD 75,000) |
| Chief Financial Officer | INR 1.7Cr to INR 1.9Cr (AUD 2,15,000 to AUD 2,35,000) |
| Supply Chain Manager | INR 1Cr to INR 1.2Cr (AUD 125,000 to AUD 145,000) |
| Human Resource Manager | INR 1Cr to INR 1.1Cr (AUD 120,000 to AUD 140,000) |
Please note: The average salary will vary based on your skill set and the company you apply to.
Top Companies for MBA Graduates in Australia
Cisco, Hilton, and Atlassian are among the top 3 of Great Place To Work’s 2023 list of the best large companies in Australia to work for.
To find MBA jobs in Australia, you can explore job sites, engage in on-campus networking events, and apply via LinkedIn or directly through company job portals.
Here is a list of the top companies offering jobs to MBA graduates in Australia.
| Company | Industry Type |
| Rest | Financial Services |
| Danaher Corporation | Medical Equipment Manufacturing |
| Adobe | Software Development |
| ANZ | Banking |
| Medtronic | Medical Equipment Manufacturing |
To Conclude
Did you know that pursuing an MBA in Australia without work experience can open up numerous opportunities for you? In fact, you can do so even without GMAT at certain universities such as James Cook University and the University of South Australia.
The country provides a variety of MBA programs tailored for young professionals like you, offering in-depth education in business management combined with practical insights.
At Leap Scholar, we are here to support your journey with valuable resources, including study abroad guides, visa assistance, university selection, and scholarship information. We aim to help you pave the way to a lucrative career in a dynamic industry. Interested in starting your MBA journey in Australia? Contact Leap Scholar today!
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Q. How much work experience is required for an MBA in Australia?
A. The requirement for work experience can vary depending on the MBA program and the university in Australia. Generally, full-time MBA programs in Australia may require you to have some work experience, typically ranging from 2 to 3 years. However, there are also MBA programs in Australia that do not require any prior work experience.
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Q. Can one get an MBA in Australia without work experience?
A. Yes, it is possible to pursue an MBA in Australia without prior work experience. Several universities in Australia, like the University of Tasmania and RMIT University, offer MBA programs specifically designed for recent graduates with no professional experience. These programs are crafted to cater to the academic achievements of those transitioning from undergraduate studies to graduate-level programs.
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Q. Is Australia good for MBAs?
A. The Australian MBA market is worth about AUD 500 million annually, with over 20,000 students currently enrolled in MBA programs across the country. Renowned for its high-quality education system, dynamic business environment, and multicultural society, Australia attracts students globally seeking to enhance their career prospects in business and management.
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Q. What is the salary for an MBA without work experience?
A. Graduates with an MBA without prior work experience typically have the potential to earn competitive annual salaries. In Australia, for instance, MBA graduates can expect to earn a yearly salary of INR 1.3Cr (AUD 1,61,000). However, please note that the salary can vary significantly based on several factors, including the city where you work, the industry sector, and your individual skills.
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Q. How do you get admission for an MBA in Australia without work experience?
A. To gain admission for an MBA in Australia without work experience, you need to meet the academic requirements set by the university. This may include having a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification, meeting English language proficiency standards, and fulfilling any additional criteria specific to the university. The minimum IELTS score requirement is 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0).
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Q. Is an MBA in Australia expensive?
A. The average cost of studying for an MBA in Australia is INR 50L (AUD 60,643). However, the fees will vary depending on the institution opted by a student. Top universities are usually much more expensive than mid-ranking universities. Most Australian universities offer scholarships that can significantly reduce the cost of your studies.
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Q. Is it possible to do an MBA in Australia without IELTS?
A. Absolutely! It is possible to pursue an MBA in Australia without IELTS. Some universities may accept alternative English language proficiency tests such as TOEFL or waive the requirement completely based on your previous education in English-speaking countries or other qualifications.
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Q. Does the University of Melbourne require work experience for an MBA?
A. Yes, the University of Melbourne’s MBA program requires at least two years of professional work experience. This experience is often demonstrated via a CV submitted as part of the application process. Meeting this criterion is important as entry to the program is highly competitive, and having relevant work experience can strengthen one’s application.
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Q. Is it easy to get a job after an MBA in Australia?
A. After completing an MBA in Australia, international students often find jobs at a reputed firm in Australia. That said, possessing strong communication skills and relevant experience can make the process of finding job opportunities in Australia hassle-free. Potential roles after completing the course include Chief Finance Officer, Marketing Director, and Human Resource Manager.
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Q. How long does an MBA take in Australia?
A. Although the duration of an MBA programme can vary by institution, a full-time MBA degree in Australia generally spans over six trimesters or about two years on average. However, some universities, such as the University of Tasmania, offer flexibility in MBA programs, allowing students to complete the course in a minimum of 2 years and extend it up to a maximum of 5 years.
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Q. Is GMAT compulsory for an MBA in Australia?
A. Many Australian universities offer MBA programs that do not require GMAT scores for admission. Instead, they often consider factors such as work experience, GRE scores, academic qualifications, and professional achievements to assess your suitability for their programs.
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Q. How many bands are required for an MBA in Australia?
A. Students are required to have an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no band score below 6.0 (reading, writing, listening, and speaking), for admission to an MBA programme in Australia without work experience. This proficiency in English ensures that students can effectively communicate in English, which is essential for participating in lectures, discussions, groups, and other academic activities.
