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Cheapest Universities in Australia for International Students 2024: Fees, Intakes

Cheapest Universities in Australia for International Students 2024: Fees, Intakes

Edited By Sareena Kaur Sethi | Updated on Oct 11, 2024 03:41 PM IST

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 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. It is a little challenging to find out cheapest universities in Australia for international students as the country is popular and expensive.

While Australia is 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 2024 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 for admission.

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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 2024. 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 2024

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.

List of Cheapest Universities in Australia:

University NameAverage tuition fee for UG (Per annum) (in AUD)Average tuition fee for UG (Per annum) (in Rs)
University of Southern QueenslandAUD 22,500Rs 12,75,570
University of Sunshine CoastAUD 24,300Rs 13,77,600
Griffith UniversityAUD 35,000Rs 19,84,200
Western Sydney UniversityAUD 21,000Rs 11,90,500
University of DivinityAUD 15,000Rs 8,50,400
University of QueenslandAUD 45,000Rs 25,51,100
Edith Cowan UniversityAUD 25,000Rs 14,17,300
Charles Sturt UniversityAUD 16,000Rs 9,07,100
Federation University AustraliaAUD 21,000Rs 11,90,500
University of WollongongAUD 40,000Rs 22,67,700

Cheapest Universities in Australia and their Fees 2024

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.

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. Here are more details about the top ten low-cost universities in Australia:

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 2024.

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 2024 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

MS13L - 17L1 to 2 years

MBA

25L

18 months

BSc14L - 19L3 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 2024. Located on the Sunshine Coast, this is one of the cheap universities in Australia 2024.

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 2024 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 2024 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.

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 2024, 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.

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

MS17L - 19L2 years

MBA

17L - 18L

2 years

7. Edith Cowan University

Edith Cowan University is one of the most affordable and cheap universities in Australia 2024 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.

Edith Cowan University Highlights:

Courses

Tuition Fees (Rs.)

Duration

MIM

16L - 21L

2 years

Engineering

13L - 16L

3 to 4 years

MS10L - 19L1 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

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

MS12L - 17L2 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

MS11L - 12L2 years

MBA

25L

18 months

Cheapest Bachelor's Degrees in Australia for International Students 2024

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 2024

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. Here are some of the cheapest master's degrees in Australia for international students:

  1. Master of Arts (MA)
  2. Master of Science (MSc)
  3. Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  4. Master of Education (MEd)
  5. Master of Nursing
  6. Master of Information Technology

Why to choose Australia for study?

There are various reasons why one should choose Australia for study:

  1. Quality Education: Australian universities are renowned for their high-quality education and research opportunities. They consistently rank high in global university rankings.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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 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 AU$ 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

  • Engineering

4. What is the minimum fees for international students in Australia?

The minimum fees for international students in Australia are approximately AU20,000peryearforundergraduatestudiesandAU22,000 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. 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. As of my last update, universities like Charles Darwin University, University of Southern Queensland, and Central Queensland University are known for their comparatively lower tuition fees for international students. 


6. Is Australia or Canada cheaper to study?

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?

Which are the best affordable colleges in Melbourne? include the Western Sydney university, University of technology Sydney, and University of New South Wales.

9. Which city is the cheapest for international students in Australia?

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 2023 ranking of QS Best Student Cities, 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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Questions related to

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.

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.


For migrating to Australia with a high visa success rate, both commerce and medical fields offer strong opportunities, but they differ significantly:

  1. Medical Field :

    • High Demand : Healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, allied health) are in high demand.
    • Visa Success : Higher chances due to skill shortages.
    • PR Pathway : Clear pathways for permanent residency.
    • Career Options : Wide range of opportunities with good pay.
  2. Commerce Field :

    • Opportunities : Demand for accountants, finance professionals, and business analysts.
    • Visa Success : Good, but dependent on specific roles and skill shortages.
    • PR Pathway : Viable but might require additional qualifications or experience.
    • Career Options : Diverse opportunities in finance, business, and management.

Choose based on your interests, skills, and long-term career goals.

hope this helps you!!

Hy,

Studying veterinary courses in Australia and securing a scholarship can be an excellent opportunity. Here’s a guide on how to pursue veterinary studies in Sydney and find scholarships:

Choosing a Veterinary Program in Sydney

Several universities in Sydney offer veterinary programs, including:

  • University of Sydney : Offers a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program.
  • University of New South Wales (UNSW) : Offers related programs but does not have a veterinary program. Check for related courses or alternative pathways.
  • Western Sydney University : Offers a Bachelor of Veterinary Science.

Applying to Universities

  • Research Programs : Visit the websites of these universities to understand their veterinary programs, entry requirements, and application deadlines.
  • Meet Entry Requirements : Ensure you meet the academic and English language requirements for the veterinary programs. This usually includes high school qualifications, English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL, and sometimes an interview or entrance test.

Scholarships

University-Specific Scholarships

  • University of Sydney : Offers scholarships for international students, such as the Sydney Scholars Program. Check their scholarships page for specific awards related to veterinary science.
  • Western Sydney University : Offers various scholarships for international students, including those for specific programs or merit-based scholarships.

External Scholarships

  • Australian Government Scholarships : Look for scholarships offered by the Australian government, such as the Australia Awards Scholarships, which cover tuition fees, living costs, and other expenses.
  • Private and Non-Governmental Organizations : Various organizations offer scholarships for international students. Websites like Scholarship Portal, Study in Australia, and the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) often list opportunities.

Applying for Scholarships

  • Identify Opportunities : Start by identifying scholarships that you are eligible for. This can include university-specific scholarships, government scholarships, and private scholarships.
  • Prepare Documents : Common requirements include academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay.
  • Submit Applications : Follow the application process outlined by the scholarship provider. Be mindful of deadlines and ensure all required documents are submitted accurately.

Additional Tips

  • Contact University Admissions : Reach out to the admissions office of the universities you are interested in for guidance on scholarships and the application process.
  • Stay Organized : Keep track of scholarship deadlines and requirements to ensure you don't miss any opportunities.
  • Prepare Financially : Even with a scholarship, you may need to cover some expenses. Plan your budget accordingly.

Useful Resources

  • University Websites : For specific scholarship information and application procedures.
  • Study in Australia Website : For comprehensive information about studying in Australia, including scholarships.
  • Scholarship Portals : Websites like Scholarship Portal and Studyportals for finding scholarships and financial aid.

By carefully researching programs, preparing your application materials, and applying for scholarships, you can enhance your chances of securing funding for your veterinary studies in Sydney.

If you have completed a master's degree in the UK, you might still need to take the IELTS test to qualify for a Permanent Residency (PR) or Work Visa in Australia. While your degree from an English-speaking country like the UK may demonstrate your proficiency in English, Australian immigration authorities typically require a standardized English language test score, such as IELTS, to assess your language skills formally.

For better guidance, Invicta Institute can provide you with detailed information and assistance regarding the specific English language requirements for Australian PR or Work Visa applications. Invicta's experienced counselors can help you navigate the process and determine if your UK degree suffices or if you need to take the IELTS test.

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