Studying Nursing in Australia: Fees, Courses & Requirements for International Students 2025

Did you know that the average salary for a Registered Nurse in Australia is INR 53.2L (AUD 94.3K)? Nursing is also the most in-demand healthcare job in the country, offering excellent career prospects. 

With high-quality education and practical training, studying nursing in Australia sets you up for a rewarding career. Whether you’re aiming for a diploma, bachelor’s, or master’s, you’ll find programs that focus on hands-on experience and real-world skills.

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This guide will walk you through the best universities, entry requirements, and tuition costs to help you take the first step toward your nursing career. Dive in!

Key Highlights

Nursing Courses in Australia

Studying nursing in Australia provides you with access to world-class education, hands-on training, and a supportive learning environment. 

Australia offers not only a world-class education but also a safe and supportive environment for international students. Ranked as the 9th safest country in the world, it is an ideal destination for those pursuing a career in nursing. 

Below are the main nursing degree pathways available.

Here is a more comprehensive look at the courses mentioned above.

1. Diploma of Nursing / Certificate IV in Nursing

The Diploma of Nursing typically takes 18 to 24 months to complete, qualifying you as an Enrolled Nurse. This 2-year nursing degree in Australia is an excellent option for those looking to enter the workforce while gaining essential healthcare skills quickly. It provides the vital skills required to begin working in healthcare settings and is a great stepping stone toward further nursing education.

Entry Requirements:

• Language, literacy, and numeracy skills as per the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF)
• Completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent
• Meet the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia’s (NMBA) English language skills registration standard

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2. Bachelor of Nursing

Although the standard Bachelor of Nursing program usually takes three years to complete, some universities offer accelerated options. These programs are ideal for those who already hold a related degree and are looking for a 1-year Bachelor of Nursing in Australia to fast-track their education.

Entry Requirements:

• Completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent
• English language proficiency as per NMBA standards
• Specific institution requirements may vary

3. Master of Nursing

The Master of Nursing is for Registered Nurses who want to advance their careers in specialised areas or move into leadership roles. It provides advanced clinical training and research opportunities.

Entry Requirements:

• Recognised nursing degree
• Current registration as a nurse in Australia
• Overseas nurses may need additional assessments

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What are the Top Universities for Studying Nursing in Australia?

With 42 universities, including public and private institutions, Australia offers plenty of options for international students. Choosing the best one for studying nursing in Australia can be crucial to your success.

To help you, here’s a list of the top universities with solid nursing programs and high acceptance rates, making it easier to start your nursing journey.

Here is a more detailed look at the universities mentioned above.

1. The University of Sydney

Established in 1850, the University of Sydney is one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious universities. It offers over 400 areas of study to its 70,000 students and has a global community of alumni in 170 countries. The university is known for research excellence and innovation and partners with major companies like Microsoft and GE.

Here are some of the top nursing courses available at this university.

• Bachelor of Nursing
• Master of Nursing
• Nursing Research Higher Degree Programs

Here are the English language requirements for this university.

2. Monash University

Monash University is Australia’s most prominent member of the prestigious Group of Eight universities. It’s a truly global institution with over 77,000 students from over 170 countries. 

Monash offers a wide range of programs, including the Bachelor of Nursing in Melbourne, and is consistently ranked among the world’s top 100 universities. It is an excellent choice for international students seeking quality education and diverse opportunities.

Here are some of the top nursing courses available at this university.

• Bachelor of Nursing
• Master of Nursing Practice
• Master of Advanced Nursing

Here are the English language requirements for this university.

3. The University of Queensland

Established in 1909, the University of Queensland (UQ) is a leader in education and research, offering over 390 programs across its 3 campuses. It is known for its world-class facilities, including Queensland’s most extensive research library and top-tier sporting amenities. 

UQ attracts students and researchers globally. With a strong focus on innovation, UQ has contributed to breakthroughs like the cervical cancer vaccine and biofuels from sugarcane. 

Here are some of the top nursing courses available at this university.

• Bachelor of Nursing
• Master of Nursing Science
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing

Here are the English language requirements for this university.

4. University of Technology Sydney

The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) is Australia’s top technology university. It offers industry-aligned degrees in engineering, health, and business fields. 

With over 28,500 students, including 24% international students, UTS provides hands-on learning in the heart of Sydney. Known for sustainable development and vital scholarships, it’s a popular choice for those studying nursing in Australia.

Here are some of the top nursing courses available at this university.

• Bachelor of Nursing
• Master of Nursing
• Graduate Certificate in Nursing

Here are the English language requirements for this university.

5. Deakin University

Deakin University, founded in 1974, is a top choice for studying nursing in Australia. With campuses in Melbourne, Geelong, Warrnambool, and an online cloud campus, Deakin offers a wide range of health programs, including the Bachelor of Nursing in Melbourne. 

The university has six research institutes and 13 strategic research centres. With over 36,000 students, 19% of whom are international, Deakin stands out for its strong academic and research focus.

Here are some of the top nursing courses available at this university.

• Bachelor of Nursing
• Master of Nursing Practice
• Graduate Diploma of Nursing

Here are the English language requirements for this university.

6. Griffith University

Griffith University is a leading institution known for its innovative approach to education and research. With five campuses across South East Queensland and over 50,000 students, Griffith offers a wide range of programs, making it an excellent option for studying nursing in Australia. 

Griffith focuses on practical learning, offering students hands-on experiences through placements and internships. Ranked in the top 2% of universities worldwide, it also provides a vibrant campus life and a strong sense of community.

Here are some of the top nursing courses available at this university.

• Bachelor of Nursing
• Master of Advanced Nursing Practice
• Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing

Here are the English language requirements for this university.

What are the Cheapest Nursing Courses in Australia?

If you’re planning to study nursing in Australia but are mindful of the costs, plenty of affordable options are available. You can find courses that offer quality education without putting a massive dent in your budget. 

These nursing programs still provide you with the essential skills and training needed to kick-start your nursing career, making it easier to focus on your studies without worrying about high tuition fees.

Here are some of the cheapest nursing courses in Australia for international students.

What are the Admission Requirements and Application Process for Studying Nursing in Australia?

Australia remains a leading destination for international students pursuing nursing education, with over 453,000 nurses currently working in the healthcare sector. 

If you’re planning to study nursing in Australia, here’s a step-by-step guide to the admission process at universities with high acceptance rates.

1. Research and University Selection

The first step in studying nursing in Australia is researching universities with high acceptance rates that align with your academic goals. You can use global ranking platforms like QS and THE to make informed decisions.

2. Understanding Entry Requirements

Before applying, ensure you understand the requirements for a bachelor of nursing degree in Australia. These typically include the following.

• Meeting the minimum grade requirements for your previous studies.
• Proof through IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. For example, La Trobe University requires an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 with no band below 6.5.
• Depending on the program, some universities may require GRE, GMAT, or other test scores. For example, the University of Melbourne requires a GMAT score of 695+ for its MBA.

3. Document Preparation

Once you meet the requirements for a bachelor of nursing degree in Australia, you should prepare your documents, as mentioned below.

• Academic transcripts such as high school diploma
• Standardised test scores
• Personal statement
• Two to three letters of recommendation
• Resume/CV
• English proficiency test scores

4. Application Submission

Submit your application via the university’s portal or a centralised system like UAC. Before applying, ensure that your documents are complete and accurate.

5. Application Fees

Application fees vary. For example, the University of Adelaide charges INR 8.5K (AUD 150).

6. Offer and Next Steps

Once your application is processed, you may receive either of the offers mentioned below.

• Conditional Offer: You’ll need to fulfil certain conditions before final acceptance.
• Unconditional Offer: You’ve met all the requirements, and the offer is confirmed.

7. Applying for a Student Visa

After accepting an offer, apply for a student visa (subclass 500). Here is a quick overview of the visa name, cost and processing time.

Scholarships For Studying Nursing in Australia

In early 2024, Australia welcomed over 700,000 international students. If you’re studying nursing in Australia, you can use various scholarships to help cover tuition and living costs.

Here is a quick overview of some significant scholarships to counter nursing fees in Australia.

Read more about Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students in Australia

Cost of Living in Australia

As an international student studying nursing in Australia, you’ll need to manage various living expenses. On average, monthly costs—excluding rent—amount to around INR 96K (AUD 1.7K). Planning your budget carefully is critical to managing these day-to-day costs during your studies.

Here is a quick overview of the monthly cost of living in Australia.

Read more about Cost of Living in Australia for International Students 2024

Job Opportunities After Studying Nursing in Australia

In 2024, job vacancies in Australia reached 388,800. This offers plenty of opportunities for nursing graduates. The demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow. 

If you’ve completed nursing in Australia, you can expect promising career options in public and private healthcare.

Here is a quick overview of the top nursing jobs after studying nursing in Australia.

Why You Should Be Studying Nursing in Australia?

Australia is known for its world-class universities, with six rankings in the top 50 globally, according to the QS World University Ranking 2025. 

In the previous year, over 970,000 international students chose Australia because of its strong academic reputation and excellent support for students. 

Studying nursing in Australia gives you access to top-tier education and valuable opportunities. The reasons why you should choose Australia for nursing are mentioned below.

1. Work Opportunities

While studying nursing in Australia, you can work part-time to manage your living expenses. You’re allowed 40 hours of work every two weeks during the term and unlimited hours during breaks, earning an average of INR 1.2K (AUD 21)per hour.

2. Diverse Nursing Programs

Australian universities offer a range of specialised nursing programs, preparing you for a successful healthcare career. With over 22,000 courses available, you’ll find a program that suits your goals.

3. Flexible Working Hours

Nursing offers flexibility that few other professions can match. You can work days, nights, or weekends, fitting your job around your life. Whether you want full-time hours or part-time shifts, nursing lets you choose what works best for you. It’s a great fit if you’re juggling work with other commitments or just looking for extra freedom in your schedule.

4. High Demand for Nurses

Nurses are in high demand across Australia, which is expected to increase over the next 10 to 15 years. With an ageing population and a growing need for healthcare services, the country faces a shortage of skilled nurses, especially in rural and remote areas. This means you’ll find opportunities almost everywhere, from busy hospitals in the city to quieter healthcare centres in the countryside.

Studying nursing in Australia provides high-quality education, diverse programs, and excellent career opportunities in a top destination for healthcare aspirants.

Ready to start your nursing journey in Australia? Let Leap Scholar guide you through every step. From choosing the right university to helping with your visa application and scholarships, we’re here to make the process easier. Get in touch with us today!

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