Top Affordable Universities in Australia: Fees, Eligibility & Scholarships

Australia is a top destination for international students due to its outstanding education system, various cultures, and vibrant lifestyle. However, one of the most common worries for international students is the cost of education. While tuition fees in Australia can be high, many affordable universities provide high-quality programs, making it possible for students to pursue higher education without costing a fortune. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most affordable universities in Australia in 2025, with details on eligibility, fees and scholarships for international students.

Why Choose Australia for Higher Education?

Australia has earned the honour of being one of the best countries for international education, and for good reason. The Australian education system is recognised worldwide for its quality, with many Australian universities consistently ranked among the top in the world. Apart from this, Australia boasts a multicultural environment, offering students the chance to meet people from all around the globe.

In addition to these facts, Australia is home to a number of low-fee universities that give students an affordable option to obtain a degree in a friendly and beautiful country. But let’s break down the eligibility, costs and scholarships available to help the students manage their expenses.

Affordable Universities in Australia

Here are some of the top affordable universities in Australia that give excellent education at lower tuition rates for international aspirants.

1. University of Tasmania (UTAS)

The University of Tasmania is one of the cheapest universities in Australia for international aspirants. Located in Hobart, Tasmania, it offers a wide range of postgraduate and undergraduate programs at competitive rates. The university’s affordable fees mingle with the lower cost of living in Tasmania, making it an attractive option for students on a limited budget.

• Tuition Fees: International undergraduate courses scale from AUD 21,000 to AUD 35,000 per year, while postgraduate programs range from AUD 23,000 to AUD 35,000 per year.
• Popular Courses: Education, Environmental Science, Arts and Business.

2. Southern Cross University (SCU)

Southern Cross University, located in New South Wales, offers great value for money with its range of affordable programs. With campuses in several attractive locations, including the Gold Coast, SCU provides quality education in fields such as education, environmental science, and business.

• Tuition Fees: International students look forward to paying between AUD 20,000 and AUD 28,000 per year for undergraduate courses and between AUD 23,000 and AUD 30,000 for postgraduate programs.
• Popular Courses: Education, Marine Science, Law and Music.

3. University of New England (UNE)

The University of New England is another low-fee university in Australia that offers affordable tuition fees for international students. Located in Armidale, UNE, New South Wales, offers flexible study options and an encouraging environment for both postgraduate and undergraduate students.

• Tuition Fees: International undergraduate fees are approximately AUD 21,000 to AUD 25,000 per year, and postgraduate courses cost between AUD 22,000 and AUD 30,000 annually.
• Popular Courses: Agriculture, Humanities Education and Science.

4. Charles Darwin University (CDU)

Situated in the Northern Territory, Charles Darwin University offers low tuition fees and is a great option for international students looking to study in a special Australian environment. CDU has a strong focus on Indigenous education, health sciences, and engineering, making it one of the cheapest universities in Australia for these disciplines.

• Tuition Fees: The fees for undergraduate courses range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 25,000, while postgraduate courses range from AUD 22,000 to AUD 29,000.
• Popular Courses: Nursing, Education, Law, and Engineering.

5. University of the Sunshine Coast (USC)

The University of the Sunshine Coast is one of the most affordable universities in Australia. It provides a range of postgraduate and undergraduate programs focusing on education, business, and health. USC’s location in Queensland, combined with its affordable tuition fees, makes it an attractive option for international students.

• Tuition Fees: Undergraduate programs range from AUD 22,000 to AUD 27,000 per year, while postgraduate courses cost between AUD 24,000 and AUD 30,000.
• Popular Courses: Health Sciences, Business, Education, and Engineering.

6. Griffith University

Griffith University, based in Queensland, is one of the most affordable universities in Australia, offering excellent education at low tuition fees. The university is known for its strong emphasis on research and diverse study options.

• Tuition Fees: International students pay between AUD 22,000 and AUD 33,000 per year for undergraduate courses and between AUD 25,000 and AUD 40,000 for postgraduate programs.
• Popular Courses: Music, Education, Business and Law.

7. University of South Australia (UniSA)

The University of South Australia, located in Adelaide, is another of the cheapest universities in Australia for international students. With a focus on practical learning and innovation, UniSA offers a wide range of postgraduate and undergraduate courses.

• Tuition Fees: International undergraduate fees are around AUD 25,000 to AUD 30,000 per year. Postgraduate programs range from AUD 28,000 to AUD 35,000 annually.
• Popular Courses: Engineering, Business and Health Sciences.

8. University of Western Sydney (UWS)

The University of Western Sydney, known for its affordable education, offers a wide range of programs at competitive tuition fees. The university is located in one of the most diverse regions in Australia, providing students with a special cultural experience.

• Tuition Fees: International undergraduate fees range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 27,000, while postgraduate courses range from AUD 23,000 to AUD 30,000.
• Popular Courses: Health Sciences, Business, Engineering, and Arts.

Scholarships for International Students in Australia

Many Australian universities offer scholarships for international students to help relieve the financial burden of studying globally. These scholarships mostly cover part or all of the tuition fees and sometimes include living allowances. Here are some well-liked scholarships available for international students:

1. Australia Awards Scholarships

This prestigious scholarship, provided by the Australian Government to students from eligible countries, covers tuition fees, living allowances, and travel expenses.

2. University-Specific Scholarships

Several Australian universities provide their own scholarships for international students. These include:

• The University of Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship
• Griffith University International Postgraduate Scholarship
• University of Queensland International Scholarship

3. Endeavour Leadership Program

This scholarship is focused on high-achieving international students pursuing postgraduate education. It provides capital for tuition fees, living expenses and travel.

4. Research Training Program (RTP)

Accessible for students pursuing research degrees, the RTP provides financial support for tuition fees and a living allowance.

Cheapest Universities in Australia for Indian Students

For Indian aspirants, the cost of living and education in Australia is a significant consideration. Many universities in Australia provide relatively affordable tuition fees compared to other countries like the USA or UK. Here are a few of the cheapest universities in Australia for Indian students:

• University of Tasmania (UTAS)
• Southern Cross University (SCU)
• University of New England (UNE)
• Charles Darwin University (CDU)
• University of the Sunshine Coast (USC)

The cheapest universities in Australia for Indian students have lower living costs as well, especially those situated in regional areas like Tasmania and New South Wales. This helps keep overall expenses down, making Australia a more affordable destination for higher education.

Eligibility Criteria for International Students

While each university may have specific admission criteria, the general eligibility process for international students applying to study in Australia is as follows:

1. Academic Requirements

Students must meet the minimum academic qualifications for the course they want to pursue. This generally includes a high school diploma or equivalent for undergraduate programs and a bachelor’s degree for postgraduate courses.

2. English Language Proficiency

Most Australian universities require proof of English proficiency, typically through tests such as the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. The minimum score required varies by university and program.

3. Visa Requirements

International students need a valid student visa (subclass 500) to study in Australia. This visa allows students to live in Australia for the period of their course, along with the possibility of working part-time.

Affordable universities in Australia – Conclusion

Australia provides a wealth of options for international students looking for high-quality education at affordable prices. From low-fee universities to the cheapest universities in Australia for Indian students, many institutions provide magnificent value for money. In addition, a wide range of scholarships and financial aid options can help make studying in Australia more approachable.

Whether you are aiming for the most affordable universities in Australia or exploring the cheapest universities in Australia, it is important to consider factors such as location, offerings, course and living costs to find the suitable fit for your academic and financial needs. With fair planning and research, studying in Australia can be both an affordable and enriching experience.

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