Australia is a popular study abroad destination for Indian students, with world-class education, a dynamic campus life, and a diverse cultural landscape. But before you start packing your bags, you need to grasp the financial elements of studying in Australia. The cost of studying in Australia for Indian students varies depending on a number of criteria, including program, university, location, and lifestyle preferences.
This blog will break down all the costs involved, including tuition fees, living expenses, and other hidden expenditures, to help you organize your money and make the best choices.
The Costs Of Study In Australia For Indian Students In 2025
Tuition Fees for Indian Students in Australia
The biggest expense you’ll face while studying abroad is the tuition fee. Tuition fees in Australia depend on the type of program, the university, and your level of study. Let’s dive into the specifics of tuition fees for undergraduate, postgraduate, and other specialized courses.
1. Undergraduate Program Fees
As an international student from India, tuition fees for undergraduate courses can range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 45,000 per year (approximately INR 11,40,000 to INR 25,70,000). The cost varies significantly based on the course and university. Here’s a breakdown:
- General Courses (Arts, Business, Social Sciences, etc.): AUD 20,000 to AUD 30,000 (INR 11,40,000 to INR 17,10,000)
- STEM Courses (Science, Engineering, IT): AUD 25,000 to AUD 40,000 (INR 14,30,000 to INR 22,80,000)
- Health-related Programs (Nursing, Physiotherapy): AUD 30,000 to AUD 45,000 (INR 17,10,000 to INR 25,70,000)
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2. Postgraduate Program Fees
For postgraduate courses, the fee structure is typically higher. You can expect to pay between AUD 22,000 and AUD 50,000 per year (INR 12,50,000 to INR 28,50,000), depending on the program and university. Here’s a detailed look:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA): AUD 30,000 to AUD 60,000 (INR 17,10,000 to INR 34,20,000)
- Master’s in Data Science, Engineering, and IT: AUD 25,000 to AUD 45,000 (INR 14,30,000 to INR 25,70,000)
- Master of Science (MSc) & Other Programs: AUD 22,000 to AUD 40,000 (INR 12,50,000 to INR 22,80,000)
3. Specialized Programs (Medical, Dentistry, etc.)
If you plan to pursue a professional program in medicine, dentistry, or veterinary science, tuition fees are considerably higher. These programs can cost anywhere from AUD 50,000 to AUD 75,000 per year (INR 28,50,000 to INR 42,70,000), making them among the most expensive fields of study in Australia.
Affordable Universities in Australia for Indian Students
While the cost of study in Australia can be high, several universities offer relatively affordable education without compromising on quality. Here are some universities with more affordable fees:
- Federation University Australia: Tuition fees range from AUD 18,000 to AUD 32,700 (INR 10,26,000 to INR 18,56,000) for undergraduate programs and AUD 22,700 to AUD 31,100 (INR 12,90,000 to INR 17,70,000) for postgraduate programs.
- Charles Sturt University: Tuition fees range from AUD 20,800 to AUD 32,128 (INR 11,86,000 to INR 18,30,000) for undergraduate courses, and AUD 23,000 to AUD 31,000 (INR 13,10,000 to INR 17,70,000) for postgraduate programs.
- University of the Sunshine Coast: Undergraduate tuition fees range from AUD 24,400 to AUD 29,600 (INR 13,90,000 to INR 16,80,000).
These universities offer a great balance between cost and quality, making them an excellent choice for Indian students who want to manage their expenses while studying abroad.
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Living Expenses in Australia
Apart from tuition fees, living expenses form a major part of your study abroad budget. The Australian government estimates that international students should budget around AUD 21,041 per year for living expenses (approximately INR 12,00,000). However, the actual cost may vary depending on your lifestyle and the city you choose to live in. Here’s a breakdown of typical living costs:
Accommodation
The cost of accommodation depends largely on where you live. The major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane have higher rental costs than smaller cities. Here’s a rough estimate:
- On-Campus Accommodation: AUD 110 to AUD 280 per week (INR 6,300 to INR 16,000)
- Private Rentals (1-bedroom apartment): AUD 150 to AUD 500 per week (INR 8,500 to INR 28,500)
- Homestay (Living with a local family): AUD 235 to AUD 325 per week (INR 13,500 to INR 18,500)
Food and Groceries
The cost of food varies depending on where you shop and your eating habits. On average, Indian students spend around AUD 3,000 to AUD 5,000 per year on groceries and eating out (INR 1,70,000 to INR 2,85,000). Cooking at home can help reduce food costs.
Transportation
Public transport is widely available in Australian cities, and students can avail discounted travel passes. The average cost of transportation is about AUD 1,000 to AUD 2,000 per year (INR 57,000 to INR 1,14,000). This includes bus, train, and tram services.
Personal Expenses and Leisure
Personal expenses, including shopping, entertainment, and other leisure activities, can cost between AUD 2,000 and AUD 4,000 annually (INR 1,14,000 and INR 2,28,000).
Additional Costs for Indian Students in Australia
- Student Visa: The cost of a student visa is approximately AUD 606 (INR 34,500), but it can vary depending on your visa category. The latest fee can be found on the official Australian government website.
- Health Insurance: All international students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which costs about AUD 500 to AUD 600 per year (INR 28,500 to INR 34,200). This insurance covers basic medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital treatments, and ambulance services.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
The cost of study in Australia for Indian students can be burdensome, but there are plenty of scholarships available to help ease the financial load. Both Australian universities and the Australian government offer scholarships to international students. Some of the notable scholarships include:
- Australia Awards Scholarships: This scholarship, funded by the Australian government, covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.
- University-Specific Scholarships: Many Australian universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships. Some universities offer up to 25% off tuition fees for international students.
- Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship: Aimed at students pursuing postgraduate courses, this scholarship covers travel expenses, tuition fees, and a living stipend.
Working While Studying in Australia
As an international student in Australia, you can work part-time to support yourself financially. The current work rights allow international students to work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the semester and unlimited hours during university breaks. Working part-time can help you cover some of your living expenses, but it’s important to strike a balance between work and study.
Conclusion
The cost of study in Australia for Indian students can be quite high, but it’s important to remember that the investment in your education is an investment in your future. With high-quality education, the chance to gain international exposure, and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth, studying in Australia offers exceptional value.
To manage the costs effectively, it’s essential to plan ahead, explore scholarship opportunities, and find a budget-friendly lifestyle. By carefully considering your options and choosing the right university, program, and city, you can ensure that your study abroad experience in Australia is both affordable and rewarding.
Make sure to consult with the best study abroad consultancy for Australia to get personalized advice and guidance on the cost of study, visa processes, scholarships, and more. With the right preparation, your Australian education journey can be a life-changing experience.
FAQs
How much does it cost to study in Australia for Indian students?
The total cost of studying in Australia ranges from INR 11,40,000 to INR 42,70,000 per year, depending on the program and university. Living expenses typically range from INR 12,00,000 to INR 16,00,000 annually.
Can I work while studying in Australia?
Yes, international students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the semester and unlimited hours during university breaks.
Are there any scholarships available for Indian students in Australia?
Yes, many Australian universities and the Australian government offer scholarships for international students, covering tuition fees and living expenses.
What are the best affordable universities in Australia for Indian students?
Some affordable universities include Federation University Australia, Charles Sturt University, and the University of the Sunshine Coast.
