Australian institutions deliver internationally reputable educational programs to international students, although these programs typically entail substantial tuition fees. Fortunately, several affordable universities in Australia provide quality education without breaking the bank. This thorough report details the cheapest educational institutions, their learning programs, enrollment criteria, and ways to reduce Australian education costs.
Students can obtain degrees from top Australian universities while maintaining their financial stability. With tuition fees at affordable universities in Australia starting from just AUD 15,000 per year, your dream of studying in the land down under might be more achievable than you think. This essay examines multiple low-cost educational opportunities in 2025.
Latest Facts About Affordable Universities in Australia (2025)
Research shows that Australian universities received a new record 177,093 students in early 2024, while they currently educate more than 1 million international students. The average tuition fee for international students at affordable universities in Australia ranges from AUD 20,000 to AUD 45,000 (approximately INR 11,20,405 to 25,20,912) per year for undergraduate programs.
The University of Divinity is the least expensive establishment in Australia for international students because it charges yearly fees of about AUD 15,000. It is one of the most affordable universities in Australia. According to QS rankings, five Australian cities are among the top 30 student cities worldwide, with Melbourne in position 5.
As an educational benefit, Australia permits its international students to obtain part-time jobs which support their living costs while they gain professional experience. Public universities in Australia provide their domestic students with less expensive tuition costs than private educational establishments.
The average living expenses in Australia require students to maintain a budget of between AUD 1,700 and AUD 2,500 monthly for rent, food, transportation, etc.
What Makes a University Affordable in Australia?
To make universities affordable in Australia, various elements influence what makes higher education in Australia affordable, beyond charging reasonable tuition costs. Analysing important factors will help you identify which educational institution provides maximum value for your money.
Tuition Fee Structure
The first major determinant of affordability exists in the annual tuition charges. Australian universities charge different fees that range extensively according to the following three factors:
- The expenses for Business and engineering programs and medical courses surpass the rates of the arts and humanities division.
- Undergraduate and postgraduate students face different fees when studying for their degrees at Australian universities.
- University reputation is one key factor contributing to tuition fees because established institutions set their charges at higher points.
- University fees tend to be higher in major cities than in educational establishments located in regional areas.
- For international students, the most affordable universities in Australia charge between AUD 15,000 and AUD 30,000 per year for undergraduate programs, compared to the national average of AUD 30,000 to AUD 45,000.
Scholarship Opportunities
Affordable universities in Australia continue to offer comprehensive scholarship options to foreign students through dedicated programs that cut down on tuition expenses. These scholarships may be:
- Merit-based academic scholarships
- Need-based financial aid
- Country-specific scholarships
- Research grants and fellowships
- Industry-sponsored scholarships
Cost of Living Considerations
A university’s geographic position determines many expenses:
- Students’ housing expenses differ between staying in dormitories and looking for external residences.
- Students must consider how easily they will access public transportation and its price.
- The cost of buying food, together with everyday eating costs, forms part of educational expenses.
- Healthcare costs: Insurance requirements for international students
The overall living expenses at regional universities tend to be lower( as they are affordable universities in australia) than those at educational institutions located within the urban centres of Sydney and Melbourne:
| City | Average Monthly Rent (1BR) | Public Transport | Groceries | Dining Out |
| Sydney | AUD 2,000-2,500 | AUD 160 | AUD 400 | AUD 300 |
| Melbourne | AUD 1,800-2,200 | AUD 145 | AUD 380 | AUD 280 |
| Brisbane | AUD 1,600-1,900 | AUD 130 | AUD 350 | AUD 250 |
| Adelaide | AUD 1,300-1,600 | AUD 100 | AUD 320 | AUD 220 |
| Perth | AUD 1,400-1,700 | AUD 120 | AUD 340 | AUD 240 |
| Regional Areas | AUD 900-1,300 | AUD 80 | AUD 300 | AUD 200 |
Top 10 Most Affordable Universities in Australia for International Students
Based on comprehensive research on tuition fees, program quality, and overall value, here are the top affordable universities in Australia for international students in 2025.
1. University of Divinity
Based in Melbourne, Victoria, the University of Divinity is the least expensive Australian education institution offering theology, philosophy and ministry programs.
| Location: Melbourne, Victoria
Established: 1910 Average Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: AUD 14,939 (INR 8,00,000) Postgraduate: AUD 16,806 (INR 9,00,000) PhD: AUD 14,000 (INR 7,49,693) Popular Programs: Bachelor of Theology, Bachelor of Ministry, Master of Divinity English Requirements: IELTS 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 |
The University of Divinity succeeds in delivering superior academic quality to students while charging minimal tuition fees, according to reports from happy graduates who express satisfaction at a rate of 92%.
2. University of Southern Queensland
USQ has a balanced enrollment size and is distinguished by its numerous inexpensive academic programs in multiple subject fields.
| Location: Toowoomba, Queensland
Average Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: AUD 22,500 (INR 12,75,570) Postgraduate: AUD 24,300 (INR 13,77,600) Popular Programs: Law, Health, Engineering, Business, Education English Requirements: IELTS 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 |
Students who want flexible learning combined with affordable education through distance programs should choose USQ because of its exceptional distance education structure.
3. University of the Sunshine Coast
USC offers a quality education at competitive rates in a beautiful coastal setting.
| Location: Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Average Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: AUD 24,300 (INR 13,77,600) Postgraduate: AUD 22,500 (INR 12,75,570) Popular Programs: Business, IT, Tourism, Creative Industries, Health When applying to programs at this institution, students must achieve IELTS results between 6.0 and 7.0. |
The University of the Sunshine Coast maintains over 120 programs in eight academic schools while supporting its 25,000 worldwide alumni through 120 programs.
4. Charles Sturt University
The public university, CSU, maintains campuses across multiple locations while providing students with cost-effective education and specialised hands-on learning experiences.
| Location: New South Wales (multiple campuses)
Average Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: AUD 16,000 (INR 9,07,100) Postgraduate: AUD 20,000 (INR 10,70,990) MBA: AUD 28,011 (INR 15,00,000) Popular Programs: Accounting, Agricultural Science, Pharmacy, Psychology The English proficiency requirement for all programs depends on program selections between IELTS 6.0 and 7.0. |
The university stands out for allowing students to study from a distance and for its robust connections to industry professionals.
5. Federation University Australia
Federation University continues its tradition of offering affordable educational programs since its founding in 1870 through a practical curriculum focus.
| Location: Victoria (multiple campuses)
Average Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: AUD 21,000 (INR 11,90,500) Postgraduate: AUD 29,879 (INR 16,00,000) MBA: AUD 22,409 (INR 12,00,000) |
Applied Mathematics is the institution’s most popular program, alongside Environmental Science, Nursing and Business.
Multiple disciplines at Federation University receive the maximum “Well Above World Standard” rank in the Excellence in Research Australia assessments.
6. Edith Cowan University
ECU offers affordable education focusing on teaching quality and student satisfaction.
| Location: Perth, Western Australia
Average Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: AUD 25,000 (INR 14,17,300) Postgraduate: AUD 28,500 (INR 16,00,000) Popular Programs: Business, Nursing, Education, Performing Arts English Requirements: IELTS 6.0-7.5 |
The university has maintained superior teaching quality standards at the five-star level for the past 16 years and welcomes 31,000 students from more than 100 countries, and 7,000 international students.
7. Western Sydney University
WSU offers affordable education in Australia’s largest city region.
| Location: Sydney, New South Wales
Average Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: AUD 21,000 (INR 11,90,500) Postgraduate: AUD 56,821 (INR 31,00,000) MBA: AUD 32,993 (INR 18,00,000) Popular Programs: Business, Computing, Education, Humanities, Law English Requirements: IELTS 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 |
As a local institution, WSU relies on its applied teaching methods and extensive professional network in Western Sydney’s developing region.
8. Griffith University
Griffith University resides in South East Queensland, with competitive educational costs and top-quality education.
| Location: Queensland (multiple campuses)
Average Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: AUD 35,000 (INR 19,16,888) Postgraduate: AUD 29,000 (INR 16,00,000) MBA: AUD 40,169 (INR 22,00,000) Popular Programs: Business, Law, Health, Engineering, IT English Requirements: IELTS 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 |
Griffith University distinguishes itself because of its exceptional research capabilities, focusing on malaria vaccine production at the Institute of Glycomics.
9. University of Queensland
Though fees are slightly higher than those of others on this list, UQ offers excellent value for its prestigious reputation.
| Location: Brisbane, Queensland
Average Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: AUD 41,120-45,000 (INR 25,51,100) Postgraduate: AUD 22,480-48,160 (INR 12,32,446-28,01,013) Popular Programs: Business Analytics, Arts, MBA English Requirements: IELTS 6.5-7.0 |
UQ positions itself as a leading Australian university, presenting excellent research capabilities and industrial networking resources.
10. University of Wollongong
The University of Wollongong presents approximately 300 educational programs for undergraduate and postgraduate students across different study areas.
| Location: Wollongong, New South Wales
Average Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: AUD 40,000 (INR 22,67,700) Postgraduate: AUD 20,000 (INR 10,91,128) MBA: AUD 43,991 (INR 24,00,000) Popular Programs: Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Arts English Requirements: IELTS 6.5-7.5 |
The University of Wollongong provides international students with flexibility by having campuses in Sydney CBD, Loftus and Liverpool.
Popular Programs at Affordable Universities in Australia in 2025
Affordable universities in Australia offer over 2,200 courses across various disciplines for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Students gain excellent educational value through industry-specific programs focusing on applied learning methods.
Undergraduate Programs
| Program | Universities | Average Tuition Fee | Employment Rate |
| Business Administration | University of Sunshine Coast, Charles Sturt University | INR 15L-35L (AUD 26,000-62,000) | 85% |
| Computer Science | Charles Darwin University, University of Southern Queensland | INR 15L-19L (AUD 26,000-33,000) | 92% |
| Engineering | Charles Darwin University, Edith Cowan University | INR 16L-17L (AUD 28,000-30,000) | 89% |
| Health Sciences | Federation University Australia | INR 16L-16.8L (AUD 28,000-29,500) | 94% |
| Creative Arts and Design | University of the Sunshine Coast, Western Sydney University | INR 14L-35L (AUD 24,500-62,000) | 78% |
Postgraduate Programs
| Program | Universities | Average Tuition Fee | Duration |
| Master of Arts | University of Wollongong | INR 16L-19L (AUD 28,000-33,500) | 1-2 years |
| Master of Science | All Universities | INR 13L-17L (AUD 22,800-30,000) | 1.5-2 years |
| MBA | All Universities | INR 17L-25L (AUD 30,000-44,000) | 1-2 years |
| Master of Information Technology | Charles Darwin University | INR 15L-16.5L (AUD 26,300-29,000) | 2 years |
Admission Requirements for Affordable Universities in Australia in 2025
While admission requirements vary between universities and programs, some common prerequisites exist for international students applying to affordable universities in Australia.
Academic Requirements
Completing secondary education requires undergraduate admission to affordable universities in Australia.
- Bachelor’s degree (for postgraduate programs)
- Minimum GPA requirements (usually 60-70%)
Particular subjects become necessary prerequisites for particular study programs, particularly in science and engineering.
English Language Proficiency
Most affordable universities in Australia require proof of English language proficiency through standardised tests:
- IELTS: Generally 6.0-7.0 overall, with minimum band scores of 5.5-6.5
- TOEFL: Typically 79-100, with minimum section scores
- PTE Academic: Usually 50-65, with minimum section scores
- Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) or Proficiency (CPE) with appropriate scores
Each university follows different standards for language proficiency requirements, and the standards increase when studying medical, legal, or educational programs.
Visa Requirements
The academic study requires international students to have a student visa (Subclass 500), enrollment confirmation documentation, financial resources to pay tuition and living expenses, and overseas student health coverage.
- Confirmation of Enrollment (Coe) from an Australian institution
- Every applicant must show proof of funds covering educational fees and living costs.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Character and health requirements
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement
Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students in 2025
Many affordable universities in Australia offer scholarships to help international students further reduce their education costs.
University-Specific Scholarships
International students of affordable universities in Australia can obtain scholarships through university-based awards.
- Federation University International Scholarship: Up to 25% reduction in tuition fees
- Charles Sturt University International Achievement Scholarship: Up to AUD 5,000 per year
- Edith Cowan University International Scholarships: 10-20% reduction in tuition fees
- University of Southern Queensland International Scholarship: Up to 25% of tuition fees
Australian Government Scholarships
Multiple Australian government scholarship programs exist as opportunities for international students to study in the country.
- The Australia Awards system provides entirely funded scholarships for students from developing nations.
- Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships: Merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students
- The Research Training Program (RTP) is an Australian government scholarship for international students wanting to pursue research degrees.
External Funding Options
Universities and government agencies provide multiple scholarship programs that international students can consider apart from institutional and governmental scholarships.
- Home country government scholarships
- International organisations’ funding (e.g., Fulbright, Rotary)
- Industry-sponsored scholarships
- Home countries provide bank institutions that offer education loans to students.
Cost of Living in Australia for International Students in 2025
The actual price of living plays a bigger role than tuition expenses in determining the affordability of study for international students who pursue education in Australia.
- Accommodation Options
- On-campus housing: AUD 150-280 per week
- Shared rentals: AUD 95-215 per week
- Homestay: AUD 235-325 per week
- Private rentals: AUD 185-440 per week
The housing prices in regional areas remain lower than those found in Sydney and Melbourne, among other major cities in Australia.
- Food and Daily Expenses
- Groceries: AUD 80-150 per week
- Eating out: AUD 10-50 per meal
- Public transport: AUD 15-55 per week
- Mobile phone and internet: AUD 15-30 per week
- Health Insurance
- Students outside Australia must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
- Single coverage: Approximately AUD 500-700 per year
- Family coverage: Approximately AUD 1,700-2,500 per year
Tips for Making Your Australian Education More Affordable in 2025
After selecting a university based on affordability, international students can apply different methods to minimise their educational expenses in Australia.
Work While Studying
During semesters, international students in Australia can perform up to 48 hours of weekly work, but can work without restrictions during their academic break periods. Students in Australia benefit from a high minimum wage of AUD 21.38 per hour in 2023, thus supporting their basic living needs.
Popular part-time employment choices for international students in Australia consist of:
- Retail positions (AUD 22-25/hour)
- Hospitality roles (AUD 23-28/hour)
- Administrative assistants (AUD 25-30/hour)
- Tutoring (AUD 30-50/hour)
- Campus jobs (AUD 22-28/hour)
Choose Regional Universities
- The Australian government motivates international students to enrol in regional education through multiple benefits:
- The Government extends work authorisation to international students who study in regional universities for 1 to 2 additional years.
- Regional scholarships and grants
- The daily expenses in regional areas are lower than in big city centres.
- The regional locations of Charles Sturt University and the University of Southern Queensland correspond with the affordability of living expenses.
Apply for Scholarships Early
You must apply for scholarships in advance due to their early deadline, which appears at least 6 to 12 months before the course starts. Early scholarship application and establishing a scholarship calendar enhance your opportunity to receive financial help.
| Scholarship | Application Deadline | Value | Eligibility |
| Australia Awards | April-June (varies by country) | Full tuition + living expenses | Developing country citizens |
| Endeavour Leadership Program | Usually April-May | Up to AUD 272,500 | High academic achievers |
| University International Scholarships | 2-6 months before intake | 10-50% tuition reduction | Academic merit |
| Research Training Program | With a PhD application | Full tuition + stipend | Research excellence |
Consider Pathway Programs
The pathway programs serve as an economic pathway that leads students toward Australian university degrees.
- Foundation programs (6-12 months)
- Diploma programs (8-12 months)
- Associate degrees (2 years)
Students can enrol in these programs because they accept applicants who meet minimal qualifications at reduced costs and ensure admission to bachelor programs if they complete the program.
Conclusion
Higher education in Australia exists within the financial reach of students seeking a quality degree. With numerous affordable universities in Australia offering quality education at reasonable prices, international students have plenty of options. International students pursuing their Australian education goals without heavy financial strain can achieve their dreams by picking universities based on cost-quality balance, applying for scholarships, and working part-time while selecting regional study locations.
Consider the complete expenses, including tuition and living costs, scholarships and expected jobs after graduation, because affordability requires analysis of the full investment. This guide identifies the best affordable learning institutions that offer education to international students who plan to study in Australia in 2025.
The affordable Australian universities allow students to pursue any major, including business, engineering, healthcare, and creative arts, leading to worldwide accreditation and career advancement potential.
FAQS About Affordable Universities in Australia
Q1. Which is the least expensive university for international students in Australia?
Undergraduate international students studying at the University of Divinity can access studies at the most competitive fees in Australia because tuition fees start from AUD 14,939 per year.
Q2. Can students from abroad work during their studies in Australia?
Students from abroad can perform up to 48 hours of weekly labour during their academic period and work without restriction during their official school break time.
Q3. Which university in Australia charges the lowest tuition fees compared to other institutions?
The education costs at Charles Sturt University (CSU) fall within a yearly range of INR 8–10 lakhs. The institution delivers numerous options for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Q4.Are affordable universities in Australia of good quality?
Australian low-cost university education combines exceptional academic quality with international recognition levels.
Q5. Where should I visit to seek scholarships at Australian universities?
You should access international student scholarships by checking university websites that serve as your official destinations.
