Affordable Universities in Australia for Indian Students
Introduction
Australia is one of the top study destinations in the world, known for its high-quality education, multicultural environment and post-study work opportunities. For Indian students, Australia offers globally recognized degrees, modern campuses and a vibrant student lifestyle. However, the cost of studying in Australia can be a concern for many students. That’s why finding the most affordable universities in Australia is important for those who wish to receive world-class education without straining their finances. Study Masters abroad
In this guide, we will explore the most budget-friendly universities in Australia for Indian students, along with their tuition fees, course offerings, scholarships, admission processes and cost of living. Masters in abroad
Why Study in Australia?
Before diving into affordable universities, here are key reasons why Indian students choose Australia: Masters abroad for Indian students at low cost
World-class universities ranked globally
Degrees recognized worldwide
Strong Indian student community
2–6 years post-study work visa options
Part-time work while studying (up to 48 hours/fortnight)
Multicultural and safe society
Wide range of scholarships
Understanding the Cost of Studying in Australia
1. Tuition Fees (Approximate per year)
| Course Level | Fee Range (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $20,000 – $45,000 (Approx.) |
| Postgraduate | $22,000 – $50,000 (Approx.) |
| Doctoral | $25,000 – $55,000 (Approx.) |
| VET/Diploma | $6,000 – $20,000 (Approx.) |
2. Living Costs (per year)
Approx. AUD $18,000 – $22,000/year
Major cities (Sydney, Melbourne) are more expensive
Regional cities are more affordable
Most Affordable Universities in Australia for Indian Students
Let’s look at the most cost-effective and reputable universities across Australia that offer quality education at relatively lower tuition fees. Top universities for Masters in abroad
1. University of the Sunshine Coast (USC)
Location: Queensland
Regional campus advantages (cheaper accommodation and work visa benefits)
Offers business, IT, health, engineering, and education programs
Indian student support groups
Flexible start dates
2. University of Southern Queensland (USQ)
Location: Toowoomba, Queensland
Known for online and flexible learning
Regional university offering additional post-study work years
Offers engineering, agriculture, IT, business, and education
3. Charles Darwin University (CDU)
Location: Darwin, Northern Territory
Regional status offers extra 1–2 years post-study work visa
Diverse and inclusive campus
Offers business, nursing, education, and IT
Generous scholarships for Indian students
4. Federation University Australia
Location: Ballarat, Victoria
One of the lowest tuition fees among Australian public universities
Courses in IT, engineering, business, and nursing
Popular among Indian students
Excellent employment support
5. Southern Cross University (SCU)
Location: Lismore, Gold Coast, Coffs Harbour
Regional benefits, flexible study options
Strong in tourism, business, education, and marine science
Scholarships of up to 30% for Indian students
6. Central Queensland University (CQU)
Location: Rockhampton, Brisbane, Sydney
Largest regional university with many campuses
Focus on applied learning and employability
Good nursing, engineering, and business programs
7. University of New England (UNE)
Location: Armidale, NSW
High graduate satisfaction rating
Offers online and flexible options
Strong in education, humanities, and sciences
8. Victoria University (VU)
Location: Melbourne
Offers block model of teaching (one subject at a time)
Scholarships for international students
Excellent for MBA, IT, and sports science
9. Australian Catholic University (ACU)
Location: Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne
Offers health, education, and social work programs
Ranked highly for employability
Scholarships and regional benefits in some campuses
10. Torrens University Australia
Location: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane
Career-focused private university
Offers hospitality, design, business, and health science programs
Flexible start dates and online options
Admission Requirements for Indian Students
Undergraduate Programs:
12th-grade certificate (min. 60%)
IELTS/TOEFL/PTE score
Passport copy
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
Postgraduate Programs:
Bachelor's degree (min. 55–60%)
IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) or equivalent
Academic transcripts
Resume/CV
SOP & LOR
Scholarships for Indian Students in Australia
Government Scholarships:
Australia Awards Scholarship
Destination Australia Program (regional universities)
Research Training Program (RTP)
University-Specific Scholarships:
Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships
Global Excellence Scholarships
Merit-based fee reductions (10–30%)
Apply early for maximum scholarship opportunities
Maintain high academic scores
Provide strong SOP and recommendation letters
Work Opportunities in Australia
Students can work 48 hours/fortnight during study periods
Full-time work allowed during holidays
Common jobs: hospitality, admin, customer service, retail
Hourly wage: approx. AUD $20–$25
Visa Process for Indian Students
Get Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from university
Pay Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Apply for Subclass 500 Student Visa
Submit documents: passport, SOP, bank statements, English score
Attend medical test and biometrics
Wait for visa approval
Tips to Make Studying in Australia More Affordable
Choose regional or low-cost universities
Apply for early-bird scholarships
Stay in shared accommodation
Do part-time jobs
Budget monthly expenses carefully
Opt for accelerated or short-duration courses
Conclusion
Australia offers a diverse range of affordable universities that deliver high quality education while keeping costs relatively low for international students. For Indian students dreaming of an Australian education without high financial burden, universities like Federation University, USQ, CDU and SCU present excellent options. Best country for Masters for Indian students
By choosing regional universities, applying for scholarships and working part-time, Indian students can make their Australian education both achievable and rewarding. Start preparing now for 2025 intakes and explore the most budget-friendly paths to earning your degree in Australia.