Choosing to study in Australia means you are investing in much more than just your course content. It means embracing new cultures, building networks, exploring job pathways and perhaps planning for long-term residence. Yet these opportunities come at a cost. This blog walks you through the major cost components: tuition fees, living expenses, visa, scholarships, and part-time job opportunities. This detailed guide will help you estimate the total budget to study in Australia and make informed decisions.
Understanding Study in Australia Cost
Many Indian students ask: “What is the average cost of studying in Australia from India?” and “Is studying in Australia expensive?” The answer is yes, it can be significant, but with planning, smart choices, and scholarship support, it’s manageable. The average cost of studying in Australia from India varies depending on your course, city of residence, and lifestyle. On average, international students spend between AUD 25,000 to AUD 55,000 per year on tuition fees, while living expenses in Australia for students range from AUD 1,400 to AUD 2,500 per month.
Tuition Fees in Australia for International Students
For most international students, tuition contributes to the majority of their total study budget. Australian university tuition fees depend on the level of education, course, and type of institution (public or private).
| Level of Study | Average Annual Tuition Fees (AUD) | Approx. in INR (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Courses | 20,000 – 45,000 | 11 – 25 lakh |
| Postgraduate (Master’s) | 22,000 – 50,000 | 12 – 28 lakh |
| Doctoral (PhD) | 18,000 – 42,000 | 10 – 23 lakh |
| Vocational Courses (TAFE) | 5,000 – 20,000 | 2.8 – 11 lakh |
Cost of Undergraduate Courses in Australia
The cost of undergraduate courses in Australia varies across disciplines. Programs in humanities, arts, or social sciences are usually on the lower side, starting from AUD 20,000 per year, while specialized degrees such as engineering, medicine, or law can exceed AUD 45,000 annually.
Many affordable options are available for students who wish to minimize costs. Regional universities such as Charles Darwin University, Federation University, and University of the Sunshine Coast offer quality undergraduate degrees with lower tuition fees compared to larger metropolitan institutions in Sydney or Melbourne.
When evaluating costs, students should also consider additional expenses like laboratory charges, field trips, or materials, which may not be included in the base tuition fee.
Cost of MS in Australia
For students aiming to pursue advanced technical or research-oriented degrees, the cost of MS in Australia generally ranges from AUD 28,000 to AUD 45,000 per year. Universities such as Monash University, the University of Queensland, and RMIT University are well-known for their strong MS programs that combine research with industry exposure. While tuition can be relatively high at these top universities, the return on investment is often excellent due to post-study work opportunities and high employability.
Students looking for more economical options can explore regional universities that offer MS programs at a lower tuition rate without compromising on academic quality.
Cost of MBA in Australia
An MBA from Australia is particularly attractive for international students because of the practical business exposure, internship opportunities, and strong post-study work rights. The degree also allows graduates to build valuable networks and pursue managerial roles globally. The cost of MBA in Australia is typically higher than most other postgraduate programs due to the prestige and professional value associated with the qualification. MBA tuition fees range between AUD 35,000 and AUD 65,000 per year, depending on the university and specialization.
Other Essential Costs Beyond Tuition Fees
While tuition is the biggest expense, international students must also prepare for several other costs associated with studying in Australia. These include visa fees, health insurance, study materials, and living expenses, all of which contribute to your total study budget. Understanding these elements early helps you plan your finances realistically and avoid last-minute surprises.
1. Student Visa Fees
To study in Australia, you will need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). The current Australia student visa fee is approximately AUD 710 (about ₹40,000), as per recent government updates. In addition to the base fee, you may also incur extra costs for biometric verification, medical checkups, or visa renewal, depending on the duration of your course.
2. Student Health Insurance (OSHC)
All international students are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) during their stay. The student health insurance in Australia typically costs between AUD 450 and AUD 700 per year, depending on the provider and coverage level. This policy covers doctor visits, hospital care, and basic medicines, ensuring that you are protected from unexpected medical expenses.
3. Study Materials and Academic Supplies
Your tuition fee does not cover books, software, or laboratory equipment. The cost of study materials in Australia may range between AUD 500 and AUD 1,500 per year, depending on your course. For instance, engineering and design students often spend more on tools or software licenses than those studying business or humanities. To save money, students can buy second-hand books, share materials with peers, or use the university’s digital library resources.
4. Living Expenses in Australia
The living expenses in Australia for students vary based on lifestyle, location, and housing type. On average, students spend around AUD 1,400 to AUD 2,500 per month.
This includes:
- Accommodation: AUD 600–1,500/month (shared apartments or student housing)
- Food and Groceries: AUD 300–600/month
- Transport: AUD 100–200/month
- Utilities and Internet: AUD 100–200/month
- Leisure and Miscellaneous: AUD 150–250/month
Managing your lifestyle smartly, such as cooking at home and using public transport, can significantly lower your monthly spending.
Estimated Additional Costs of Study in Australia
| Expense Category | Average Annual Cost (AUD) | Approx. Annual Cost (INR) | Details / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Visa (Subclass 500) | AUD 710 | ₹39,000 – ₹42,000 | Mandatory for all international students; excludes medical tests or renewals. |
| Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) | AUD 450 – AUD 700 | ₹25,000 – ₹39,000 | Health insurance covering doctor visits, hospital care, and prescriptions. |
| Study Materials & Supplies | AUD 500 – AUD 1,500 | ₹28,000 – ₹84,000 | Books, lab equipment, and software vary by course type. |
| Accommodation | AUD 7,200 – AUD 18,000 | ₹4,00,000 – ₹10,00,000 | Based on shared housing, on-campus rooms, or private rentals. |
| Food & Groceries | AUD 3,000 – AUD 7,200 | ₹1,70,000 – ₹4,00,000 | Depends on diet and eating habits; cooking at home is more economical. |
| Transport | AUD 1,200 – AUD 2,400 | ₹67,000 – ₹1,35,000 | Public transport passes or local commute costs vary by city. |
| Utilities & Internet | AUD 1,200 – AUD 2,400 | ₹67,000 – ₹1,35,000 | Electricity, water, internet, and mobile bills. |
| Leisure & Miscellaneous | AUD 1,500 – AUD 3,000 | ₹85,000 – ₹1,70,000 | Includes entertainment, clothing, personal care, etc. |
Cheapest Cities to Study in Australia
When planning your education abroad, choosing the right city can make a significant difference in your overall cost of studying in Australia. The city you live in directly affects your living expenses, accommodation costs, and daily budget. Fortunately, Australia offers several affordable cities that provide a quality education experience without the high price tag of major metros like Sydney or Melbourne.
Adelaide
Adelaide is one of the most affordable cities for international students, offering lower rent, food, and transport costs than Sydney or Melbourne. It also hosts leading institutions like the University of Adelaide and Flinders University.
Canberra
Australia’s capital city offers moderate living costs, reliable transport, and budget-friendly housing near top universities such as ANU, making it ideal for students seeking a peaceful, balanced lifestyle.
Hobart (Tasmania)
Hobart stands out for its low living costs and calm environment. The University of Tasmania provides diverse programs at affordable tuition rates, making it an attractive choice for cost-conscious students.
Gold Coast & Regional Queensland
The Gold Coast combines affordability with a relaxed lifestyle. Universities like Griffith and Bond offer strong academic programs, while regional Queensland areas provide extra work opportunities and lower living expenses.
Part-Time Work for Students & How It Impacts Your Budget
Working part-time while studying is a practical way to offset some costs. Key points:
- International students in Australia are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and full-time in breaks (subject to visa conditions).
- Hourly wages for casual student jobs typically fall around AUD 23-30/hour, depending on role and location.
- While part-time work is helpful, it rarely covers both full tuition and full living costs. It is best viewed as a supplement.
Working strategically (in campus jobs, internships, or student-friendly work) can ease pressure and build experience, but don’t rely on it solely for financial planning.
Scholarships for Studying in Australia
Reducing tuition through scholarships is a smart move. Some key paths:
- The Australia Awards Scholarships (government-funded) can cover tuition and living costs.
- The Destination Australia Scholarship supports students studying in regional campuses.
- University-specific scholarships (for example, at Macquarie University) offer large tuition waivers for Indian students.
Applying early, meeting eligibility criteria (academic performance, English proficiency, etc) and targeting less competitive courses/cities may improve your chances of winning scholarship support.
How to Reduce the Cost of Studying in Australia
Here are practical tips to help you keep your budget in check:
- Choose a university in a regional area or a smaller city where accommodation and living costs are lower.
- Opt for shared housing or student residences rather than private single apartments.
- Cook at home rather than eating out frequently — food costs add up fast.
- Use public transport or student discount passes rather than driving.
- Take advantage of early-bird enrolment discounts, scholarships, bursaries and fee waivers.
- Monitor currency exchange rates and consider locking in foreign exchange early or using forward contracts.
- Keep non-essential spending like leisure, travel and shopping in check during the study period.
- Before accepting an offer, check the fee escalation policy at the university (some universities increase tuition each year).
- Review the field of study: humanities/social sciences tend to cost less than professional courses like medicine or engineering.
Cost of Studying in Australia vs USA / Canada / UK
When comparing globally:
- The US typically has higher tuition and living costs than Australia; many programmes exceed USD 45,000/year.
- UK tuition for international students is sometimes comparable, but many master’s courses are just one year long, which reduces the total cost.
- Canada may offer slightly lower living costs, but some cities are still pricey, and job pathways differ.
Australia offers a balance: relatively high educational quality, strong job opportunities post-study, and living costs that, while not low, are predictable and manageable with planning.
Final Thoughts
Choosing to study in Australia is an exciting decision filled with opportunity. The key is this: the cost of studying in Australia is real and significant, but not prohibitive if you plan carefully. From selecting the right university, choosing the right city, estimating living costs, applying for scholarships, and working smartly, you can build a realistic and manageable budget.
For Indian students in particular, the INR conversion reminds you of the magnitude: tens of lakhs of rupees per year in many cases. Use the table above as a starting point, but make sure you check the exact current exchange rates, university-specific fees, and living costs for the city you plan to live in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is studying in Australia expensive for international students ?
Studying in Australia can be moderately expensive compared to some countries, but it offers high-quality education and a strong return on investment. The average cost of studying in Australia for international students ranges from AUD 30,000 to AUD 65,000 per year, including tuition and living expenses.
How much does it cost to study in Australia per year?
The yearly study costs in Australia vary by course and city. On average:
- Undergraduate: AUD 20,000 – AUD 45,000 per year
- Postgraduate (MS): AUD 22,000 – AUD 50,000 per year
- MBA: AUD 30,000 – AUD 60,000 per year. Living expenses add about AUD 18,000 – AUD 25,000 annually, depending on location.
Which are the cheapest cities to study in Australia?
Some of the most affordable cities for students are Adelaide, Hobart, Canberra, and the Gold Coast. These offer lower accommodation costs, cheaper transport, and a good quality of life compared to Sydney or Melbourne.
Can I work while studying in Australia?
Yes. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during breaks. Working part-time can help manage living expenses in Australia for students.
What are the student visa fees for Australia?
The Australian student visa (Subclass 500) currently costs around AUD 710 (₹40,000). Additional expenses like medical exams or biometrics may apply.
What is the cost of student health insurance in Australia?
International students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), costing between AUD 450 and AUD 700 per year, depending on the plan and provider.
What is the average accommodation cost in Australia for students?
Accommodation costs range from AUD 600 to AUD 1,500 per month, depending on the city and housing type. Shared apartments and on-campus residences are usually more affordable options.
How does the cost of studying in Australia compare to the USA, UK, or Canada?
Australia is often more affordable than the USA and UK, and slightly higher than Canada. However, Australia offers a faster visa process, part-time job opportunities, and post-study work rights, making it an attractive destination overall.
Are there scholarships available for Indian students to study in Australia?
Yes. Many universities and government programs offer scholarships for Indian students, such as the Australia Awards, Destination Australia, and university-specific merit scholarships that can reduce tuition fees significantly.
