Cheapest University in Australia 2025: List, Fees and Courses

Studying in Australia is a dream for many international students due to its high-quality education, globally recognized degrees, and vibrant student life. However, tuition fees and living costs can be a major concern for students on a budget. Choosing the right university with affordable tuition can make a significant difference in managing finances while receiving an excellent education.

These top cheapest universities maintain high academic standards, provide great student support services, and offer scholarship opportunities to ease financial burdens. This article will explore the cheapest universities in Australia along with the comparison of tuition costs, and provide insights into scholarships, living expenses, and financial strategies for students.

Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Australia for International Students

Australia is home to several universities that offer cost-effective programs for international students. These universities not only provide affordable tuition but also offer world-class research opportunities, modern facilities, and strong industry connections. Many of them are located in regions where students can enjoy a lower cost of living, making it easier to budget while studying.

Here are some cheapest universities in Australia based on tuition fees:

University	Average Annual Tuition Fees	Popular Courses
University of the Sunshine Coast	AUD 24,000 – AUD 26,000	Business, IT, Health Sciences
University of Southern Queensland	AUD 25,000 – AUD 28,000	Engineering, Education, Sciences
Federation University	AUD 23,000 – AUD 26,500	Nursing, Business, IT
Charles Darwin University	AUD 22,000 – AUD 26,000	Accounting, Engineering, Social Work
Australian Catholic University	AUD 24,000 – AUD 27,500	Law, Education, Psychology
Western Sydney University	AUD 25,000 – AUD 29,000	Medicine, Humanities, Law
Victoria University	AUD 22,500 – AUD 27,000	Business, Hospitality, Sports Science
Edith Cowan University	AUD 23,500 – AUD 28,500	Cybersecurity, Data Science, Arts
Southern Cross University	AUD 24,000 – AUD 27,000	Marine Science, Agriculture, Business
Central Queensland University	AUD 23,000 – AUD 26,500	Health, Science, IT

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Why Study at Cheapest University in Australia?

Choosing an affordable university in Australia allows students to receive a world-class education without incurring excessive debt. Besides tuition fees, students also save money on accommodation, transport, and study materials when attending budget-friendly universities. 

Here are some key benefits of studying at one of the cheapest universities in Australia:

• Cost Savings: Lower tuition fees mean students can manage their expenses better.
• High-Quality Education: Many affordable universities in Australia are globally recognized and offer accredited programs.
• Scholarships & Work Opportunities: International students can access financial aid and part-time work to support themselves.
• Post-Study Work Visa: Graduates can stay in Australia and seek employment through the Post-Study Work Stream visa.

Cheapest Universities in Australia for Undergraduate Programs

Choosing a budget-friendly undergraduate program allows students to minimize debt while earning a globally recognized degree. Many universities also provide internships and work placements to help students gain hands-on experience.

Here are 10 of the most affordable universities for undergraduate degrees in Australia:

University	Popular Low-Cost Programs	Approximate Annual Tuition
Federation University	Nursing, Business, IT	AUD 22,000 – AUD 25,000
Charles Darwin University	Accounting, Engineering, Social Sciences	AUD 23,000 – AUD 26,000
University of Sunshine Coast	Health Sciences, Information Technology	AUD 24,000 – AUD 27,000
University of Southern Queensland	Arts, Communication, Psychology	AUD 23,500 – AUD 26,500
Central Queensland University	Hospitality, Agriculture, Digital Media	AUD 22,500 – AUD 25,500
Edith Cowan University	Cybersecurity, Business Analytics, Biomedical Science	AUD 24,000 – AUD 28,000
Victoria University	Sports Management, Computer Science, Social Work	AUD 23,000 – AUD 27,000
University of New England	Teaching, Environmental Science, Law	AUD 21,500 – AUD 26,000
Southern Cross University	Music, Marine Science, Indigenous Studies	AUD 22,000 – AUD 25,000
Western Sydney University	Criminology, Engineering, Public Health	AUD 24,500 – AUD 27,500

Cheapest Universities in Australia for Postgraduate Programs

Postgraduate degrees in Australia offer high return on investment, as many industries have strong demand for skilled professionals. Additionally, research-based programs often come with scholarships and assistantship opportunities, reducing costs further.

Here are 10 affordable universities for postgraduate degrees in Australia:

University	Popular Low-Cost Programs	Approximate Annual Tuition
University of Southern Queensland	Engineering, Education, Data Science	AUD 24,000 – AUD 28,000
Victoria University	Business, IT, Hospitality Management	AUD 25,000 – AUD 29,000
Central Queensland University	Research-based Master’s Programs, Psychology	AUD 23,500 – AUD 27,500
Charles Darwin University	Renewable Energy, Public Policy, Nursing	AUD 24,000 – AUD 28,000
University of Sunshine Coast	Biotechnology, Public Health, Social Sciences	AUD 25,500 – AUD 28,500
Edith Cowan University	Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, Healthcare	AUD 25,000 – AUD 29,000
Federation University	MBA, Artificial Intelligence, Teaching	AUD 23,500 – AUD 27,000
University of New England	Agriculture, International Relations, Environmental Science	AUD 23,000 – AUD 27,500
Western Sydney University	Urban Planning, Engineering, Finance	AUD 25,500 – AUD 28,500
Southern Cross University	Tourism, Creative Writing, Marine Science	AUD 24,000 – AUD 27,500

Tuition Fees at Budget-Friendly Universities in Australia

Studying in Australia doesn’t have to be expensive. Many universities offer high-quality education at affordable tuition rates, making them an excellent choice for international and domestic students. Below is a breakdown of tuition fees at some of the most budget-friendly universities in Australia for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Average Tuition Fees for Undergraduate Programs

The cost of studying for undergraduate programs in Australia varies depending on the university, program, and field of study. The table given below carries the comparison of affordable undergraduate programs across different universities in Australia along with tuition fees:

University	Popular Undergraduate Programs	Annual Tuition Fees
Federation University	Business, Nursing, IT	AUD 22,000 – AUD 25,000
Charles Darwin University	Engineering, Accounting, Social Sciences	AUD 23,000 – AUD 26,000
University of Sunshine Coast	Health Sciences, IT	AUD 24,000 – AUD 27,000
University of Southern Queensland	Arts, Psychology, Communication	AUD 23,500 – AUD 26,500
Central Queensland University	Hospitality, Agriculture, Digital Media	AUD 22,500 – AUD 25,500
Edith Cowan University	Cybersecurity, Biomedical Science	AUD 24,000 – AUD 28,000
Victoria University	Sports Management, Social Work, IT	AUD 23,000 – AUD 27,000
University of New England	Teaching, Environmental Science, Law	AUD 21,500 – AUD 26,000
Southern Cross University	Music, Marine Science, Indigenous Studies	AUD 22,000 – AUD 25,000
Western Sydney University	Criminology, Engineering, Public Health	AUD 24,500 – AUD 27,500

Average Tuition Fees for Postgraduate Programs

Postgraduate programs in Australia are relatively affordable, especially when students apply for research scholarships or government funding. Here’s a look at tuition fees for master’s programs at budget-friendly Australian universities:

University	Popular Postgraduate Programs	Annual Tuition Fees
University of Southern Queensland	Engineering, Data Science, Education	AUD 24,000 – AUD 28,000
Victoria University	Business, IT, Hospitality Management	AUD 25,000 – AUD 29,000
Central Queensland University	Psychology, Research-based Master’s	AUD 23,500 – AUD 27,500
Charles Darwin University	Renewable Energy, Public Policy, Nursing	AUD 24,000 – AUD 28,000
University of Sunshine Coast	Biotechnology, Public Health, Social Sciences	AUD 25,500 – AUD 28,500
Edith Cowan University	Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, Healthcare	AUD 25,000 – AUD 29,000
Federation University	MBA, AI & Machine Learning, Teaching	AUD 23,500 – AUD 27,000
University of New England	Agriculture, Environmental Science, Law	AUD 23,000 – AUD 27,500
Western Sydney University	Urban Planning, Engineering, Finance	AUD 25,500 – AUD 28,500
Southern Cross University	Tourism, Creative Writing, Marine Science	AUD 24,000 – AUD 27,500

Popular Programs at Affordable Universities in Australia

Many affordable universities in Australia offer high-quality education in various fields. These affordable programs provide students with excellent career prospects while keeping tuition costs low. Below is a breakdown of the most popular and cost-effective programs available at these universities.

Business and Management Programs

Australia offers a range of affordable options for students pursuing business and management programs. Many universities provide quality education at lower tuition costs, making it easier for international and domestic students to access business degrees. These business and management programs cover key areas such as skills in leadership, finance, and marketing, essential for global careers. 

Here is a list of business and management programs at the most affordable Universities in Australia with tuition fees:

University	Program	Annual Tuition Fee	Career Prospects
Federation University	Bachelor of Business	AUD 23,500	Business Analyst, Marketing Manager
University of Southern Queensland (USQ)	Master of Business Administration (MBA)	AUD 25,000	Financial Advisor, Operations Manager
Central Queensland University (CQU)	Bachelor of Accounting	AUD 24,000	Accountant, Financial Analyst

Information Technology (IT) and Computer Science

With the rise of digital transformation, IT programs offer strong career opportunities. Australia offers affordable options for students seeking Information Technology (IT) and Computer Science programs without compromising on quality education. 

These programs equip students with essential skills in programming, cybersecurity, data science, and artificial intelligence, preparing them for global career opportunities. Let’s explore some of the cheapest universities in Australia that offer these in-demand programs.

University	Program	Annual Tuition Fee	Career Prospects
Edith Cowan University (ECU)	Bachelor of Computer Science	AUD 24,500	Software Engineer, Data Analyst
Victoria University	Master of Information Technology	AUD 26,000	IT Consultant, Systems Analyst
University of Sunshine Coast	Bachelor of Cybersecurity	AUD 25,000	Cybersecurity Analyst, Network Administrator

Engineering and Technology

Engineering degrees provide practical skills and have a strong demand in Australia. For students seeking quality education at a more affordable cost, there are several budget-friendly options in Australia. Universities in Australia provide a range of undergraduate and postgraduate engineering and technology degrees that are both cost-effective and globally recognized.

Below is a comparison of tuition fees for engineering and technology programs at some of the cheapest universities in Australia:

University	Program	Annual Tuition Fee	Career Prospects
Charles Darwin University (CDU)	Bachelor of Engineering	AUD 26,000	Civil Engineer, Electrical Engineer
University of Southern Queensland (USQ)	Master of Engineering Science	AUD 27,000	Mechanical Engineer, Project Manager
Federation University	Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering	AUD 24,000	Design Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer

Nursing and Healthcare

Healthcare professionals are always in demand, Australia offers a range of affordable nursing and healthcare programs that provide high-quality education for students interested in pursuing a career in the medical field. Many universities offer competitive tuition fees, especially for those who take advantage of scholarships or government funding options.

Below is a comparison of tuition fees for nursing and healthcare programs at some of the cheapest universities in Australia.

University	Program	Annual Tuition Fee	Career Prospects
University of Sunshine Coast	Bachelor of Nursing	AUD 26,000	Registered Nurse, Healthcare Assistant
Charles Darwin University (CDU)	Master of Public Health	AUD 27,500	Health Consultant, Epidemiologist
Victoria University	Bachelor of Health Science	AUD 25,000	Clinical Researcher, Health Administrator

Arts, Social Sciences, and Education

Australia offers a range of affordable options for students interested in pursuing programs in Arts, Social Sciences, and Education. Many budget-friendly universities provide quality education in these fields at competitive tuition rates, making them an excellent choice for students seeking cost-effective higher education.

Here’s a look at the tuition fees for Arts, Social Sciences, and Education programs at the cheapest universities in Australia:

University	Program	Annual Tuition Fee	Career Prospects
Edith Cowan University (ECU)	Bachelor of Arts	AUD 23,500	Journalist, Public Relations Officer
University of Southern Queensland (USQ)	Master of Education	AUD 25,500	Teacher, Academic Researcher
Central Queensland University (CQU)	Bachelor of Social Science	AUD 24,000	Social Worker, Policy Analyst

Studying on a Budget in Australia

Understanding these expenses allows students to plan ahead and seek financial aid, part-time jobs, or scholarships to reduce costs. Many universities also offer affordable student housing and meal plans to help international students save money.

Besides tuition fees, students must consider other expenses like accommodation, food, and transportation. Here’s an estimated budget:

Expense	Estimated Cost per Year
Tuition Fees	AUD 22,000 – AUD 29,000
Accommodation	AUD 10,000 – AUD 18,000
Food & Groceries	AUD 4,000 – AUD 7,000
Transport	AUD 1,500 – AUD 3,000
Miscellaneous	AUD 2,000 – AUD 5,000
Total Estimated Cost	AUD 39,500 – AUD 62,000

Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students in Australia

Applying early and maintaining a good academic record can increase the chances of receiving a scholarship. Additionally, universities often have dedicated financial aid offices to assist students in finding suitable funding options.

Many affordable universities offer scholarships to international students to further reduce costs.

Popular Scholarships:

• Australia Awards Scholarship – Covers tuition, airfare, and living expenses.
• Destination Australia Scholarship – Provides funding of up to AUD 15,000 per year.
• University-Specific Scholarships – Many universities offer merit-based scholarships.

Here’s the table carrying a list of scholarships and their coverage which can be helpful to students looking for cheap ways to study in Australia:

Scholarship Name	Coverage
Australia Awards Scholarships	Full tuition fees, travel allowance, living expenses, health cover.
Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship	Tuition fees, travel allowances, establishment allowance, health insurance.
University-Specific Scholarships	Varies from partial to full tuition coverage and living expenses.
Research Training Program (RTP)	Tuition fees, living stipends, relocation costs.
Destination Australia Program	Up to AUD 15,000 per year for living expenses.
ACU International Scholarships	Partial to full tuition fee coverage.
International Merit Scholarships	Varies; partial or full tuition coverage.
Private Scholarships	Varies; can include full or partial tuition fees.
Work Opportunities for International Students	Income from part-time work (up to 40 hours/fortnight during term).
Government Student Loan Programs	N/A

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Living Costs in Australia and How to Save Money as a Student

Australia is a popular destination for international students, but living expenses can be high. Understanding the costs and adopting smart saving strategies can help students manage their budget effectively.

Average Cost of Living for Students in Australia

The cost of living in Australia varies based on location, lifestyle, and accommodation type. Below is a general breakdown of expenses:

Expense Type	Monthly Cost
Rent (Shared)	AUD 600 – AUD 1,500
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet)	AUD 100 – AUD 200
Groceries	AUD 300 – AUD 600
Public Transport	AUD 100 – AUD 200
Mobile & Internet	AUD 50 – AUD 100
Entertainment	AUD 100 – AUD 300
Miscellaneous	AUD 100 – AUD 300
Total (Approx.)	AUD 1,350 – AUD 3,200

Ways to Save Money as a Student in Australia

Knowing ways to save money as a student in Australia is essential due to the high cost of living, including rent, food, and transportation. Many international students rely on personal savings or limited part-time income, making it crucial to manage expenses wisely. By adopting smart budgeting strategies, students can reduce financial stress, maintain financial independence, and focus on their studies while enjoying their time in Australia.

By implementing these following strategies, students can effectively manage their expenses while enjoying their study experience in Australia:

Choose Affordable Accommodation

• Opt for university housing or shared apartments to reduce rent.
• Consider homestays or student accommodation providers like UniLodge.

Use Public Transport & Student Discounts

• Many states offer student discounts on public transport.
• Get a concession card for cheaper travel fares.

Cook at Home & Shop Smart

• Buy groceries in bulk from supermarkets like Coles, Woolworths, or Aldi.
• Cook meals instead of eating out to save on food expenses.

Find Part-Time Jobs

• International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight.
• Look for jobs in retail, hospitality, or tutoring.

Utilize Student Deals & Free Resources

• Use websites like UniDays and Student Edge for discounts.
• Take advantage of free Wi-Fi in libraries and campuses.

Manage Finances Wisely

• Create a monthly budget to track expenses.
• Open a student bank account with low fees.

Save on Entertainment

• Enjoy free or low-cost activities like beaches, parks, and student events.
• Use student discounts for movie tickets and streaming services.

Part-Time Work Opportunities for International Students in Australia

One of the best ways for international students to manage their expenses while studying in Australia is through part-time jobs. The Australian government allows international students to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their academic term and full-time during scheduled breaks.

The minimum wage in Australia is approximately AUD 23.23 per hour, allowing students to earn a decent income to cover living expenses. Additionally, universities have career support services that help students find suitable part-time work aligned with their skills and schedule.

Popular Part-Time Jobs for Students:

• Retail Jobs: Working in supermarkets, department stores, or local shops.
• Hospitality Jobs: Restaurants, cafes, and bars often hire students as servers or kitchen assistants.
• Tutoring: Students with strong academic skills can offer tutoring services.
• Freelancing: Skills in graphic design, content writing, or digital marketing can be used for online gigs.

Cheapest Cities in Australia for International Students

Choosing a smaller city over Sydney or Melbourne can save students thousands of dollars per year. These cities still offer quality education, excellent student support services, and a vibrant social environment.

Studying in the cheapest city can significantly reduce living costs. Below are some of the most affordable cities in Australia for international students:

City	Average Monthly Living Cost	Why Choose This City?
Hobart	AUD 1,200 – AUD 1,800	Low rent and great student community
Adelaide	AUD 1,300 – AUD 1,900	Affordable housing and good universities
Darwin	AUD 1,400 – AUD 2,000	Less competition for part-time jobs
Gold Coast	AUD 1,500 – AUD 2,200	Beach lifestyle and budget-friendly options
Wollongong	AUD 1,400 – AUD 2,000	Close to Sydney but lower cost of living

Cheap Student Accommodation Options in Australia

Accommodation costs make up a large portion of a student’s budget. Choosing shared housing or homestays can significantly cut down expenses of living in Australia. Many universities also assist students in finding affordable and safe accommodation.

Following are some cheap student housing options which students must consider while studying in one of the cheap universities of Australia:

Accommodation	Location	Price/week
Sunset House	2/10 Finch St, Burwood, Melbourne, VIC 3125	AUD 74.69
Park Lane House	24 Goold St, Burwood, Melbourne, VIC 3125, Australia	AUD 350
La Trobe University Regional Housing – Melton	43 Leafy View Esplanade, Melton West, VIC 3337	AUD 240
UniLodge Victoria University	101 Ballarat Road, Footscray, Melbourne, VIC 3011	AUD 249
University Square	85 Barry Street, Carlton, 3053	AUD 289

How to Apply to Affordable Australian Universities?

Applying to universities in Australia requires careful planning. Follow these steps to apply for cheap Australian universities. Applying early with these steps increases the chances of getting accepted and securing financial aid:

Step 1: Shortlist Universities

Choose affordable universities based on tuition fees, course offerings, and location.

Step 2: Check Entry Requirements

Most universities require:

• Academic transcripts
• English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation

Step 3: Apply Online

Most universities accept applications through their official websites or platforms like Study in Australia and Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).

Step 4: Apply for Scholarships & Financial Aid

Students should research and apply for available scholarships before submitting their application.

Step 5: Get Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Once accepted, students must apply for an Australian student visa, which allows them to study and work part-time.

Hope you liked reading our blog about Cheapest Universities in Australia. Fly Homes is your trusted platform to find the best student accommodation abroad. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal accommodation abroad with ease.

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