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Cheapest Universities in Australia 2025 - Courses, Tuition Fees and Intakes
Edited By Prabhjyot Kaur | Updated on Jan 03, 2025 03:21 PM IST
List of affordable universities in Australia 2025: There are several cheapest universities in Australia for international students making Australia more affordable than studying in the UK or the USA. Many top Australian universities charge high fees which can disrupt a student's overall budget; Hence, these cheapest universities in Australia for masters and bachelors help students to study hassle-free. The top universities in Australia for international students 2025 include the Australian National University (ANU), University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Monash University, and University of New South Wales (UNSW). These universities are renowned for their academic excellence, research opportunities, and high global rankings. Also, the cheapest university in Australia is University of Divinity with a tuition fee of around AUD 15,000 per year. It is a little challenging to find out cheapest universities in Australia for international students as the country is popular and expensive.
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Recommended: Top Universities in Australia
This Story also Contains
- Cheapest Universities in Australia 2025
- Cheapest Universities in Australia and their Fees 2025
- Cheapest Bachelor's Degrees in Australia for International Students 2025
- Cheapest Master's Degrees in Australia for International Students 2025
- Why choose Australia for study?
While Australia's top universities are generally more expensive for international students compared to other study-abroad destinations, there are still affordable options. Some of the cheapest universities in Australia for international students in 2025 include the University of Southern Queensland with tuition fees of around AUD 22,500 per year, Federation University Australia with tuition fees of around AUD 18,000- 25,000 AUD per year, or even the University of the Sunshine Coast with tuition fees around AUD 20,000-30,000 AUD per year. They are also named as among the cheapest universities in Australia under 2000 dollars per month. Moreover, there are other benefits including the cheapest universities in Australia for international students without IELTS option where students can get enrolled in pathways programs that don't require IELTS/English test certificate for admission.
These top ten affordable universities in Australia offer quality education at an affordable price. Many international students can study in Australia at these universities. Additionally, most Australian universities are government-funded, making them the cheapest universities in Australia for international students 2025. Read further to learn about the various cheapest university in Australia for international students and choose the best university that meets your requirements.
Cheapest Universities in Australia 2025
Students can consider the below-mentioned cheapest university in Australia for international students to pursue a course within their budget. Almost all these least expensive universities in Australia offer research-oriented courses. These cheapest universities in Australia for bachelor degree and master degree are located in different student cities in the country offering the best campus experience for students. Also, some of the universities in the list are public universities in Australia for international students.
List of Cheapest Universities in Australia:
| University Name | Average tuition fee for UG (Per annum) (in AUD) | Average tuition fee for UG (Per annum) (in Rs) |
| University of Southern Queensland | AUD 22,500 | Rs 12,75,570 |
| University of Sunshine Coast | AUD 24,300 | Rs 13,77,600 |
| Griffith University | AUD 35,000 | Rs 19,84,200 |
| Western Sydney University | AUD 21,000 | Rs 11,90,500 |
| University of Divinity | AUD 15,000 | Rs 8,50,400 |
| University of Queensland | AUD 45,000 | Rs 25,51,100 |
| Edith Cowan University | AUD 25,000 | Rs 14,17,300 |
| Charles Sturt University | AUD 16,000 | Rs 9,07,100 |
| Federation University Australia | AUD 21,000 | Rs 11,90,500 |
| University of Wollongong | AUD 40,000 | Rs 22,67,700 |
Cheapest Universities in Australia and their Fees 2025
Australia is home to many affordable and cheap universities. A few of the top courses like business, leadership and management, and marketing are available at the cheapest university in Australia for international students under 2000 dollars. Additionally, the least expensive universities in Australia also have a good infrastructure to ensure a better learning environment for their students. Among the list, there are cheap public universities of Australia for Indian students which have its own benefits.
To give you even more flexibility in your tuition budget, some of the affordable universities in Australia offer scholarships for international students. This can further reduce costs. However, you must be eligible for these scholarships. We have given a list of universities in Australia that can be explored by prospective students seeking study abroad. Here are more details about the top ten low-cost universities in Australia:
List of Universities in Australia 2025: Most Affordable
1. University of Southern Queensland
The University of Southern Queensland (USQ), Australia's well-known higher education and research centre, was founded in 1967. Southern Queensland University offers more than 700 degrees to bachelor's, master's and doctoral students. The University of Southern Queensland consists of two faculties, each with six schools. It is also considered as of the cheapest universities in Australia for international students 2025.
These cheapest universities in Australia for masters and bachelor's offer courses in a variety of fields, including engineering, science, communications, law, business, humanities, management, education, and the arts. The university offers a productive learning environment throughout the academic year. This is one cheapest universities in Australia 2025 for international students with low tuition fees.
University of Southern Queensland Courses and Fees:
Courses | Tuition Fees (Rs.) | Duration |
BBA | 13L | 3 years |
Engineering | 13L - 19L | 3 to 4 years |
| MS | 13L - 17L | 1 to 2 years |
MBA | 25L | 18 months |
| BSc | 14L - 19L | 3 years |
2. University of Sunshine Coast
Sunshine Coast University is known for its unconventional approach to education and is among the cheapest Australia universities for international students 2025. Located on the Sunshine Coast, this is one of the cheap universities in Australia 2025.
The University of Sunshine Coast is overall ranked as one of Australia's top universities. For undergraduate and graduate students, USC offers over 120 majors and 280 course options in seven major academic areas, including business, IT, and tourism, creative industries, education, etc.
University of Sunshine Coast Highlights:
Courses | Tuition Fees (Rs.) | Duration |
BBA | 13L - 15L | 3 years |
Engineering | 13L - 16L | 3 to 5 years |
MBA | 15L | 18 months |
3. Griffith University
This is one of the leading MBA universities in Australia and is well known for its research-based courses. Griffith University is among the top best cheapest universities in Australia 2025 and is among the first choice of students looking for the cheapest MBA in Australia for international students.
The university offers 200+ courses with over 50,000 student enrollments annually. Founded in 1975, the other specializations in this university include architecture, business, criminology and law. The average salary of a graduate from Griffith University is Rs 64 lakhs per annum making it one of the most affordable universities in Australia with high return on investment. It is among the cheap universities in Australia for international students as it offers n number of low tuition courses, aids, scholarships, and other bursaries.
The Griffith University Highlights:
Courses | Tuition Fees (Rs.) | Duration |
BBA/BA/BSc | 19L - 20L | 3 to 4 years |
Engineering | 16L - 21L | 3 to 4 years |
MBA | 20 - 23L | 2 years |
4. Western Sydney University
This is one of the cheapest universities in Australia 2025 for international students. Over 45,000 students from over 70 countries enrol at the university, making it a multicultural institution. Western Sydney University is located in Bankstown, Australia.
The Western Sydney offers specialised courses in law, medicine, and social sciences. Though the tuition fees are on a bit higher side Western Sydney University which is among the affordable universities in Australia, students can fulfil various expenses through part-time jobs and scholarships.
Western Sydney University Highlights:
Courses | Tuition Fees (Rs.) | Duration |
BBA/BA/BSc | 11L - 15L | 3 years |
Engineering | 14L - 16L | 3 to 4 years |
MBA | 18L - 20L | 2 years |
5. University of Divinity
University of Divinity in the city of Melbourne is one of the lowest cost universities in Australia. Founded in 1910, it has 11 universities and focuses on theology and theological studies. The seminary has an incredible faculty-student ratio. It is also the second oldest university in Victoria. It is one of the colleges in Melbourne Australia that offer international students a chance to study at affordable tuitions.
The university offer undergraduate degrees, postgraduate degrees, advanced degrees, degrees and diplomas. With a 92% alumni satisfaction rate, this university is voted the best institution in Australia. As the cheapest university in Australia for international students 2025, tuition fees are among the lowest for various courses.
University of Divinity Highlights:
Courses | Tuition Fees (Rs.) | Duration |
BBA/BA/BSc | 8L - 12L | 3 years |
Engineering | 13L - 14L | 3 to 4 years |
MBA | 8L | 1 to 2 years |
6. University of Queensland
The University of Queensland is a leading institution for international students and its faculty are well known for both research and teaching. The University of Queensland has over 58,000 students, including above 16,000 from abroad. This university is among the cheap colleges in Australia 2025.
UQ is a founding member of the Group of Eight (Go8) Universities and is one of the three institutions in Australia which is a member of the International Universities 21 at the same time comes out as the cheapest university in Australia for international students to take admission in.
University of Queensland Highlights:
Courses | Tuition Fees (Rs.) | Duration |
BBA | 16L - 18L | 3 years |
Engineering | 17L - 21L | 3 years |
| MS | 17L - 19L | 2 years |
MBA | 17L - 18L | 2 years |
7. Edith Cowan University
Edith Cowan University is one of the most affordable and cheap universities in Australia 2025 for international students. With over 31,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students and one of Australia's most diverse student bodies, ECU regularly admits 7,000 international students from over 100 countries.
As can be learned from the data below, tuition fees are AUD 28,500 for MS courses making the university a good choice for the cheapest master's degree in Australia for international students. All these factors make this university a part of some of the affordable universities in Australia.
Edith Cowan University Highlights:
Courses | Tuition Fees (Rs.) | Duration |
MIM | 16L - 21L | 2 years |
Engineering | 13L - 16L | 3 to 4 years |
| MS | 10L - 19L | 1 to 2 years |
MBA | 17L - 18L | 2 years |
8. Charles Sturt University
Charles Sturt University is one of Australia's low-fee, multi-campus public universities, established in New South Wales in 1989. Students can choose from a variety of graduate and undergraduate programs. It is one of the cheapest universities in Australia for international students, yet the quality of its teaching is top-notch. The institution also offers distance learning opportunities among all the cheapest uni in Australia.
Charles Sturt University Highlights:
Courses | Tuition Fees (Rs.) | Duration |
BBA | 16L - 17L | 3 years |
MS | 15L - 17L | 1 to 2 years |
MBA | 18L | 18 months |
9. Federation University Australia
Federation University is among the best colleges in Australia for international students. Founded in 1870, Federation University Australia is highly progressive and offers world-class professional education. Students from a wide range of countries pursue higher education at this affordable university in Australia.
The Federation University has achieved the highest possible ranking in the Australian Excellence in Research (ERA) ranking. Tuition fees are affordable for Master's programs making the university one of the cheapest universities in Australia for international students.
Federation University Australia Highlights:
Courses | Tuition Fees (Rs.) | Duration |
BBA | 13L - 15L | 3 years |
Engineering | 13L - 16L | 3 to 4 years |
MBA | 17L | 2 years |
| MS | 12L - 17L | 2 years |
10. University of Wollongong
This public university is one of the cheapest universities in Australia and offers about 300 undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate programs. Three of Australia's nine campuses (Sydney CBD, Loftus and Liverpool) are located in the Greater Sydney region. University of Wollongong offers a hands-on learning experience.
It is one of the low-cost universities in Australia for international students providing various degrees that include arts and humanities, engineering, health and medicine, mathematics, physics, etc. Tuition fees are in the affordable range as mentioned below making it the cheapest university in Australia for international students.
University of Wollongong Highlights:
Courses | Tuition Fees (Rs.) | Duration |
BA/BSc/BBA | 20L - 23L | 3 years |
Engineering | 20L - 24L | 3 to 4 years |
| MS | 11L - 12L | 2 years |
MBA | 25L | 18 months |
Note: There are several prestigious and high-ranking universities in Australia such as Monash University. Although these universities does not come under the cheapest university in Australia, students looking to study abroad can still select these universities as they are renowned for their educational excellence all over the world. They can also use the help of scholarships, financial aid, educational loans, bursaries, and more to cover the tuition fees of universities such as Monash University.
Students can find the cheapest universities; but not the top university in the majority of cities in Australia. There are several cheapest universities in Adelaide and other locations for example.
Cheapest Bachelor's Degrees in Australia for International Students 2025
Studying in Australia can be a rewarding experience, but tuition fees can vary significantly depending on the institution and the course. Here are some of the cheapest bachelor's degrees in Australia for international students:
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Business
- Bachelor of Education
- Bachelor of Nursing
- Bachelor of Information Technology
Cheapest Master's Degrees in Australia for International Students 2025
Studying for a master's degree in Australia can be a rewarding experience, but tuition fees can vary widely depending on the university and the course. Universities in Adelaide are some of the cheapest for master degrees as well. Some colleges are cheap colleges in Australia, especially for postgraduate degrees. Australia Master degree fees are quite affordable when compared with the master's fees in other similar study abroad countries. Here are some of the cheapest master's degrees in Australia for international students:
List of Low Australia Master Degree Fees
- Master of Arts (MA)
- Master of Science (MSc)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Education (MEd)
- Master of Nursing
- Master of Information Technology
Why choose Australia for study?
Often students look for cost-friendly study abroad options; Australia is the best country for them. There are tons of cheap colleges in Australia for international students. There are various reasons why one should choose Australia for study:
- Wide Range of Courses: Australia offers a wide range of courses and degrees, making it a great destination for students with diverse interests and career goals.
- Work Opportunities: Australia allows international students to work part-time during their studies and full-time during vacations, which can help cover living expenses and gain valuable work experience.
- Quality Education: Australian universities are renowned for their high-quality education and research opportunities. They consistently rank high in global university rankings. These colleges in Australia for international students are renowned for cutting-edge research facilities, technical assistance, highly skilled faculty and more.
- Post-Study Work Options: After completing their studies, international students have the option to stay and work in Australia temporarily through post-study work visas, which can lead to permanent residency.
- Quality of Life: Australia offers a high quality of life with its beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, and excellent healthcare and transportation systems.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Australia cheap to study for international students?
Yes, there are many least expensive universities in Australia which are to get higher education. Australia has some relatively good universities for international students that offer quality education.
2. Which university has the lowest fees in Australia?
The cost of studying in Australia can vary depending on the university and the program. However, some universities are known for offering relatively lower tuition fees compared to others. The University of Southern Queensland (USQ) is considered one of the cheapest universities in Australia for international students. Tuition fees at the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) start around AUD 22,000 per year for undergraduate programmes and AUD 24,000 per year for postgraduate programmes, making it one of the most affordable universities in Australia for international students.
3. Which course has the lowest fees in Australia?
The lowest-cost course in Australia varies depending on the university and level of study. However, in general, fees for courses in the following fields are lower than fees for courses in other fields: Arts and humanities, Social sciences, Education, Business, and Engineering.
4. What is the minimum fees for international students in Australia?
The minimum fees for international students in Australia are approximately AUD 20,000 per year for undergraduate studies and AUD 22,000 per year for postgraduate studies. However, the actual fees charged may vary depending on the university, the course of study, and the student's nationality.
5. Is Australia too expensive to study?
Yes, Australia is expensive to study for Indian Students after the USA, UK, and Canada. The average tuition fee for a bachelor's degree can range from Rs 10 Lakhs to 25 Lakhs.
6. Is it cheaper to study in Canada or Australia?
Australian universities charge higher tuition fees than Canada. Considering other terms like the cost of living and education, Canada is cheaper. Additionally, housing taxes and food costs are more costly in Australia than in Canada. So, students have the opportunity to study at a lower cost in Canada among Canada Vs Australia.
7. Is university education cheaper in UK or Australia?
When we compare the university education costs of Australia and the UK, the cost is more or less the same for both the countries with the UK slightly on the higher side.
8. Which are the best affordable universities in Sydney?
Some of the best affordable colleges include Western Sydney University, University of Technology Sydney, and University of New South Wales. Students looking to study abroad in Sydney, Australia can explore these universities.
9. Which state in Australia is cheapest for international students?
Adelaide is considered to be the cheapest university in Australia for international students. The cost of living in Adelaide is very low compared to some major Australian cities like Melbourne and Sydney. According to the QS Best Student Cities Rankings, Adelaide is the 29th most affordable city in the world for students. Adelaide is also the home of various world-class educational institutions that provide quality education to all.
10. Which university is the cheapest in Australia?
Western Sydney University which is located in Bankstown, Australia is the cheapest university in Australia for international students. The university offers specialized courses in law, medicine, and social sciences. Western Sydney University charges approximately AUD 21,000 to AUD 56,000 tuition fees per annum for undergraduate, master's, and MBA students. Students can cover a variety of costs by working part-time jobs and applying for scholarships.
11. Is it cheaper to study in Australia or the USA?
Yes, studying in Australia is considered to be cheaper than that in the USA both in terms of tuition fees and living expenses. For international students, the United States of America is more expensive to live in and continue higher education due to the higher cost of living and tax charges. The tuition fees USA universities are also comparatively higher than in Australia.
12. What is the cheapest degree to study in Australia?
Bachelor of Business is considered to be the cheapest degree to study in Australia for international students. Business degrees are in high demand among both domestic and overseas learners and are relatively low-cost to study. Charles Sturt University, University of Queensland, and Federation University Australia are among the business universities in Australia that provide affordable study opportunities for international students.
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Jan 20, 2025
Questions related to
Get answers from students and experts
To get Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia, it's not required to pursue a master's degree on a student visa. You can apply for PR through different visa pathways like the Skilled Independent visa or Skilled Nominated visa, which are based on points. These visas assess factors like your age, education, work experience, and English proficiency.
However, studying in Australia can still help your PR chances. After completing a master's degree, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa, allowing you to work in Australia temporarily. This work experience can boost your points for a PR application.
It's important to know that recent changes in Australian immigration policies have led to an increase in student visa fees and stricter rules. From July 2024, the student visa fee was raised to A$1,600, and stricter measures are in place to prevent students from switching visas frequently.
In short, while studying in Australia can improve your PR prospects, it’s not the only way to apply for PR. You can still apply for PR through the points-based visa system without studying there. However, recent policy changes have increased fees and added regulations, so it’s a good idea to stay updated and consult with a migration expert to choose the best option for you.
Poral Siddartha (siddu) 19 January,2025
Hello,
Here’s a brief overview of your questions regarding higher studies in physiotherapy in Australia:
-
Difference between Doctorate (DPT) and Masters :
- Doctorate in Physiotherapy (DPT) : Typically a clinical doctorate, focused on advanced clinical practice, research, and patient care. It’s a professional degree for those seeking higher clinical expertise and leadership roles.
- Masters in Physiotherapy : More research-oriented and can be specialized in areas like sports, musculoskeletal therapy, or neurophysiotherapy. It’s ideal for expanding knowledge in specific fields.
-
DPT without a Master's : Yes, you can pursue a DPT directly after a BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy). Some universities offer direct entry into the DPT program without requiring a Master's degree.
-
Residency in Australia : Physiotherapists in Australia can apply for residency through the Skilled Migration Program if they meet the qualifications and requirements, including obtaining registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) .
-
Requirements for University Admission :
- Academic qualifications : A BPT degree with good academic standing.
- English proficiency : IELTS or TOEFL scores.
- Work experience : Some programs may require clinical experience.
- AHPRA Registration : For practice in Australia, you must register with AHPRA to work as a physiotherapist.
These are general points; individual university requirements may vary.
To get list of top colleges in Australia, visit : https://studyabroad.careers360.com/australia/universities-in-australia-unvlst
Hope it helps !
Prachi Kumari 18 November,2024
Australia is home to several prestigious universities offering Aerospace Engineering programs. These programs are designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in designing, developing, and maintaining aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. Some of the top universities for Aerospace Engineering in Australia include:
1. **University of Sydney**: Known for its comprehensive aerospace program, the University of Sydney offers a Bachelor's and Master's in Aerospace Engineering. It provides hands-on learning through state-of-the-art facilities and industry partnerships.
2. **Monash University**: Monash is renowned for its research in engineering and offers a well-rounded Aerospace Engineering program that includes both theoretical and practical components.
3. **University of New South Wales (UNSW)**: UNSW is one of the leading engineering schools in Australia and offers a top-tier Aerospace Engineering program, emphasizing innovation and cutting-edge technology.
4. **RMIT University**: RMIT in Melbourne offers a Bachelor of Engineering (Aerospace Engineering) (Honours), focusing on the practical aspects of aeronautical and space systems.
These programs usually require students to have strong backgrounds in physics and mathematics. Admission typically involves meeting specific academic criteria and, in some cases, interviews or entrance exams. Graduates have excellent job prospects in both the aviation and space sectors, within Australia and globally.
monag2673 15 October,2024
Hi there,
Hope you are doing fine.
Yes it is possible to pursue a Masters in Education (M.Ed) in Australia with a bachelor’s degree in engineering (B.E). Australian universities have flexible entry requirements and value diverse academic backgrounds. However you will need to meet specific admission criteria set by the universities you are interested in.
To enhance your application you can highlight any relevant experience you have in teaching, training or educational projects. Some universities might also require you to submit a statement of purpose explaining your interest in transitioning to education and how your background in engineering could contribute to your study and future career in education.
You should review the specific requirements for each university and program by reaching out to the admissions offices of the universities you are interested in to confirm their acceptance criteria and discuss your unique background.
Hope this resolves your query.
Abhishek 27 August,2024
A B.Ed. from IGNOU may be recognized but requires additional assessments in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
- UK : Assessment by UK ENIC and possibly additional qualifications like a PGCE.
- Australia : Evaluation by AITSL and meeting state-specific criteria.
- New Zealand : Assessment by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand, including possible English proficiency and practical teaching requirements.
Further qualifications or training might be necessary in each country.
monag2673 18 July,2024
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