Cost of Studying in Australia: Complete Budget Breakdown for 2025

Dreaming of studying in Australia? With world-class universities, stunning landscapes, and a welcoming culture, it’s no surprise that Australia is a top choice for students to study. However, if you’re wondering how much does it costs to study in Australia, this blog is a perfect read for you.

From tuition fees to student visa costs and budgeting tips, this blog will give you a complete breakdown of the cost of studying in Australia. Whether you’re planning to pursue an undergraduate degree, a master’s program, or a professional course, here you will find everything to plan your finances wisely.

Read on, uncover the real cost, and turn your dream into reality!

Overview of Education in Australia

Australia's education system is renowned for its high standards and comprehensive structure, which offers diverse learning opportunities at various levels. The country is home to some of the world’s top universities, providing students with an excellent blend of academic learning and practical experience.

Why Study in Australia?

• The country is home to 9 of the world’s top 100 universities. Some of the best ones are the University of Melbourne, the Australian National University (ANU), and the University of Sydney.
• You can pick from a diverse range of courses in almost every field, from engineering and medicine to arts and business.
• Australian qualifications are highly valued globally and lead the way to great career opportunities.
• Universities in Australia focus on cutting-edge research and hands-on learning experiences.
  

Tuition Fees in Australia

While understanding the cost of studying in Australia for Indian students, tuition fees are one of the biggest expenses to consider. The cost varies significantly depending on the university, course, and level of study you choose. In this section, we will understand the average tuition fees for different study levels and popular fields, giving you a clear picture of what to expect.

Average Tuition Fees by Study Level

The tuition fees in Australia can vary based on the level of study. Undergraduate programs are generally more affordable than postgraduate and doctoral degrees, with specialised programs like medicine, dentistry, and MBA being on the higher end.

Tuition Fees by Field of Study

The cost of tuition varies greatly depending on the field of study you choose. Here’s a detailed look at the average tuition fees by popular fields of study:

• Humanities and Arts—The cost of pursuing degrees in history, literature, or social sciences is relatively low compared to other fields. The average cost of these programs is AUD 20,000 – AUD 30,000 per year, i.e., ₹10,89,681 – ₹16,34,522.
  
  
• Business and Management—The cost of studying MBA in Australia can vary based on the university’s ranking and specialisation. Programs like executive MBA or the ones offered by top business schools are more expensive but offer excellent networking opportunities. MBA fees in Australia vary from AUD 40,000 – AUD 60,000 per year, i.e., ₹21,79,362 – ₹27,24,203.
  
  
• Medicine and Health Sciences—MBBS in Australia is considered to be one of the highest tuition fee courses among all programs. The MBBS cost in Australia for Indian students ranges from AUD 60,000 to AUD 80,000 per year, i.e., ₹32,69,043 – ₹43,58,725, offering top-tier training and clinical exposure. 
  Meanwhile, the fee for nursing courses in Australia is lesser, with AUD 25,000 – AUD 35,000 per year, i.e., ₹13,62,102 – ₹19,06,942.
  
  
• Engineering and Technology—Australia is known for its strong engineering and technology programs. Fields like civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering tend to have higher tuition fees but also excellent career prospects. Tuition fees range from AUD 30,000 – AUD 45,000 per year, i.e., ₹16,34,522 – ₹24,51,782.
  
  
• Information Technology—With an increasing demand for skills in computer science, cybersecurity, and data analytics, IT programs in Australia strike a balance between affordability and job opportunities. The cost ranges from AUD 25,000 – AUD 45,000 per year, i.e., ₹13,62,102 – ₹24,51,782.
  
  
• Law—Law remains a highly sought-after course in Australia, especially at prestigious universities, where tuition fees are on the higher side. The average law tuition fee is AUD 30,000 – AUD 55,000 per year, i.e., ₹16,34,522 – ₹29,96,623.
  
  
• Master’s Programs—If you’re planning to pursue a master’s in Australia, the cost will vary based on the field of study and university. Australia master’s fees for programs in business, IT, and engineering tend to be higher than those in arts and humanities, typically ranging from AUD 22,000 – AUD 50,000 per year, i.e., ₹11,98,649 – ₹27,24,203.

Top Universities in Australia and Their Fee Range

Australia is home to some of the world’s top universities, known for high academic standards and excellent research facilities. Tuition fees vary significantly depending on the university, the program you choose, and study level. Here are some of the top universities in Australia and their approximate fee ranges.

Additional Costs to Consider

The total cost of studying in Australia is beyond tuition fees. There are several other costs that can catch students off guard. These additional expenses may not be obvious at first but can add significantly to your overall budget. Here are some of the additional costs you must know about:

Student Visa Fees

To study in Australia, international students must apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500), which costs AUD 650 (₹35,000 approx.). The fee may vary depending on your nationality and whether you apply onshore or offshore. Since this fee is subject to change, always check the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website for updated information.

Application Fees

When applying to Australian universities, students must pay application fees and various administrative charges during their course. Application fees typically range from AUD 50 to AUD 150 (₹3,000 – ₹9,000) per application. Depending on the program and university, the administration cost can add up to AUD 100 – AUD 500 per year (₹5,443 – ₹27,218). Always check the fee breakdown in your offer letter to budget accurately for these additional expenses.

Books & Study Materials

The cost of books and study materials is another expense that you must consider. It varies depending on your course and field of study. For example, programs like medicine, law, and engineering may require expensive textbooks, lab manuals, or specialised materials, while humanities courses often have lower costs.

On average, students spend around AUD 500 – AUD 1,500 per year (₹5,443 – ₹81,655) on books and study supplies.

Health Insurance

The Australian Government mandates that students holding an Australian visa must have valid overseas student health cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay in the country. This ensures you have access to healthcare services when needed. The cost of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) varies based on the provider, duration of coverage, and whether you require single, dual-family, or multi-family coverage. 

Annual premiums for single coverage start at approximately AUD 768 (₹41,807), while for dual family coverage, annual premiums start at around AUD 3,536 (₹1,92,488). For multi-family coverage, it reaches to approximately AUD 6,369 (₹346707).

Accommodation

Accommodation is a significant part of the total cost of studying in Australia for international students, and expenses vary depending on the type of housing and city. An average international student spends around AUD 1,400 to 2,500 (₹79,800 to ₹1,42,500) per month, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, and leisure activities.

Get a comprehensive view of:  Cost of living in Australia

Scholarships and Financial Aid

The cost of studying in Australia is indeed high, but the good news is that there are plenty of scholarships available to help reduce the burden. These opportunities are provided by the Australian government, educational institutions, and other organisations, aiming to attract talented individuals from around the globe.  

Here are some of the popular scholarships:

In addition to scholarships, students can explore financial aid options such as education loans or on-campus job opportunities to manage expenses. Some universities also offer emergency financial grants for students facing unexpected challenges.

Also, Check Out:

• Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students
• How to Write a Scholarship Application Letter
• How to get scholarship to study abroad
• Fully Funded Scholarships For Indian Students

How to Reduce Costs as a Student in Australia?

Managing expenses as a student in Australia can be challenging, but with strategic planning and mindful spending, you can make your budget work effectively. Here are some effective tips to help you save money:

• Scholarships are one of the best ways to reduce your tuition fees. Research and apply for one.
• While in Australia, always carry your student ID, as many businesses offer discounts to students.
• You can purchase used textbooks, clothing, and furniture from second-hand stores or online marketplaces, which can lead to significant savings.
• Students can explore part-time job opportunities that can provide additional income without overwhelming their study schedule.
• Create a monthly budget for essentials like rent, food, transport, and entertainment or use apps to track expenses and avoid overspending.
  

Must Read: How to Save Money While Studying Abroad

Conclusion

Studying in Australia offers a fantastic opportunity to receive a world-class education while experiencing a vibrant culture and lifestyle. However, understanding the cost of studying in Australia is essential for effectively planning your finances. Tuition fees, application costs, and additional expenses can add up, but scholarships, part-time work, and smart budgeting can help you manage them. Research thoroughly, explore funding options, and plan ahead to make the most of your experience.

FAQs

Q. How much does it cost to study in Australia?

A. The cost of studying in Australia varies by program and university. Tuition fees for international students typically range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 50,000 per year (₹10,89,681 - ₹27,24,203), while living expenses are estimated between AUD 1,400 and AUD 2,500 per month (₹79,800 to ₹1,42,500).

Q. Is studying in Australia worth it?

A. Yes, studying in Australia is worth it due to its world-class education, global recognition, and excellent career opportunities. It offers a vibrant student life, high-quality research facilities, and strong job prospects after graduation.

Q. Can I study in Australia for free?

A. While studying for free isn’t common, you can significantly reduce costs through fully-funded scholarships, grants, and bursaries. These are offered by the Australian government, educational institutions, and other organisations to support international students financially.

Q. Is studying in the UK cheaper than in Australia?

A. When comparing the cost of studying in Australia vs the UK, tuition fees in both countries are relatively similar. However, the cost of living in the UK, especially in cities like London, is generally higher than in regional areas of Australia.

Q. Is Australia expensive to study?

A. Studying in Australia can be considered relatively expensive, especially in cities like Sydney and Melbourne. However, the investment is often justified by the quality of education, multicultural environment, and post-graduation opportunities.

Q. How much does it cost to study master's in Australia?

A. The cost of studying master’s in Australia is dependent on the university, program, and location. On average, tuition fees for Master’s programs range from AUD 22,000 – AUD 60,000 per year (₹11,98,649– ₹32,68,942).

Read Further: 

• Cost Of Studying In Ireland
  
• Cost of Studying in the USA
  
• Cost of Studying in the UK
  
• Cost of Studying in Germany