Studying abroad is a dream many cherish as it unfolds a world of opportunities for cultural exploration and career advancement. However, pursuing the right university and obtaining an education in Australia remains a pivotal decision for both domestic and international students. It is particularly significant when considering the financial aspects, encompassing the cost of living and tuition fees.

In this blog, we will discover some of the most affordable universities in Australia that offer a wide range of academic programs while being mindful of students’ financial constraints.

Affordable Cities in Australia for International Students

Gold Coast: A vibrant city in Queensland and a top choice for international students, known for its high-quality education and affordable cost of living. The city is surrounded by stunning beaches and popular attractions like theme parks, making it an engaging and enjoyable place to live. It is the sixth-largest city in Australia.

  • Student population: 28,586
  • Universities located: Bond University | Griffith University | Southern Cross University
  • Average cost of living (annually): AUD 34,000

Canberra: Australia’s capital, established on 12th March 1913, is one of the most affordable and livable cities for international students. Students make up 30% of the population, and it regularly ranks as one of the best student cities in the world (QS Best Student Cities Ranking). Canberra offers some of the most affordable universities for international students in Australia.

  • Student population: 20,000
  • Universities located: Australian National University | University of Canberra
  • Average cost of living (annually): AUD 31,000

Adelaide: The capital of South Australia, renowned for its food and wine, offers an ideal environment for studying and living. Known for its green spaces and coastal beauty, students can enjoy attractions like Glenelg Beach while pursuing their studies.

  • Student population: 30,000
  • Universities located: University of South Australia | Flinders University |University of Adelaide
  • Average cost of living (annually): AUD 36,288

Brisbane: As Australia’s third-largest city and the state capital of Queensland, Brisbane is known for its affordability and world-class education. With a strong international student community, the cost of living remains accessible. The city also boasts cutting-edge biotechnology and research facilities.

  • Student population: 557,836
  • Universities located: University of Queensland | Griffith University | Queensland University of Technology
  • Average cost of living (annually): AUD 39,600

Melbourne: Consistently ranked as one of the most affordable and livable cities in Australia, Melbourne has been a top choice for seven consecutive years. Despite high living costs, suburban areas such as Brunswick offer relatively lower housing expenses.

  • Student population: 170,000
  • Universities located: RMIT University | Deakin University
  • Average cost of living (annually): AUD 31,824

Affordable Australian Universities Offering Bachelor’s

University of Southern Queensland

Established in 1967 in Toowoomba, Queensland, the University of Southern Queensland is a medium-sized regional university committed to providing quality education at an affordable price, making it a top choice for students. Ranked 410th in the QS World University Rankings 2024, UniSQ has a 69% acceptance rate and offers various student services, including personal counselling and medical check-ups.

Griffith University

One of Australia’s oldest and most affordable public universities, Griffith University was founded in 1971 in South East Queensland. It ranks 243rd in the QS World University Rankings 2024 with a 50% acceptance rate. Griffith is renowned for its scientific achievements, including the development of a malaria vaccine at the University of Glycomia.

Edith Cowan University

Edith Cowan University is an excellent choice for students seeking affordable education in Australia. With a global ranking of 529 in the QS World Rankings 2024 and an acceptance rate of 61%, ECU offers internationally accredited courses. Known for going beyond traditional teaching methods, ECU has earned a solid reputation as an appealing educational institution.

Charles Darwin University

Established in 2003, Charles Darwin University is a public institution with a growing network of over 70,000 alumni worldwide. Ranked 601-610 in the QS World University Rankings 2024 and 501-600 in the Times Higher Education rankings, CDU boasts a 66% acceptance rate. International students benefit from an innovative study culture and a well-structured education system.

Affordable Australian Universities Offering Master’s

University of Canberra

The University of Canberra, a public research university founded in 1967, is located in Bruce, Canberra. Ranked 421st in the QS World University Rankings 2024, UC has an acceptance rate of 89%. The university offers postgraduate programmes across five faculties: Health, Art and Design, Business, Government and Law, Education, and Science and Technology. It is known for offering numerous scholarships, making it one of Australia’s most affordable universities.

RMIT University

RMIT University, a public research institution founded in 1887 in Melbourne, ranks 140th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2024, with a 22% acceptance rate. Offering a range of scholarships and bursaries, RMIT supports international students with living costs, books, and accommodation. Career services are also available to assist students with job placements. Notable alumni include Robin Hill, Jonathan Ling, and Sean Godsell.

University of Wollongong

The University of Wollongong, a public research university established in 1951 in New South Wales, ranks 162nd globally in the QS World University Rankings 2024. Known for its world-class education and state-of-the-art facilities, UOW has an acceptance rate of 22%. It is one of the most affordable institutions for international students. Notable alumni include Kate Bell, David Hurley, and Graham West.

Cost of Living in Australia for International Students

Candidates can check the breakdown of the average weekly expenses for international students.

Expenses Type Per Week in AUD
Accommodations 150-400
Groceries 150-250
Utilities 12-20
Transportation 25-75
Recreation 75-150
Academic expenditure 20-30
Entertainment 25-30

Australian Education System

Australia consistently ranks among the top three countries globally for its education system, boasting a quality index of 70.5. Its education system is widely recognised for its well-structured, organised, and disciplined approach, making it a magnet for students worldwide seeking a forward-looking educational experience. The Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) further enhances the appeal, offering a comprehensive spectrum of education levels, ranging from certificates to doctoral degrees.

What makes the Australian education system particularly advantageous for international students is its stringent regulation of all educational institutions operating in the country. The system establishes a clear equivalency framework, enabling you to smoothly transition to an Australian educational institution after completing high school in your home country.

Whether you aspire to pursue a diploma, an advanced diploma, or a bachelor’s degree, Australia offers a seamless path to achieve your educational goals.

Study in Australia

If you want to study in Australia and keep costs low, contact StudyIn today, and our experienced team can take you through all your available study options.

FAQs

Which university in Australia is the most affordable?

Several Australian universities offer quality education at lower costs compared to others. Among the most affordable are Federation University, University of Southern Queensland, and Charles Darwin University. These institutions provide a range of affordable programmes without compromising on the quality of education, helping students manage expenses while pursuing higher education.

Where is the most affordable place to study in Australia?

Canberra and Adelaide are considered some of the most affordable cities for students in Australia, offering a lower cost of living compared to other major cities. While Melbourne is highly ranked for liveability, Canberra and Adelaide provide more budget-friendly options, with an average monthly living cost of AUD 1,900 to AUD 2,500, depending on lifestyle choices.

Which are the best, most affordable universities in Sydney?

Some of the top affordable universities in Sydney include Western Sydney University, Australian Catholic University, and Torrens University Australia. These institutions offer a variety of budget-friendly programmes, particularly appealing to international students looking to balance cost and education quality.

Which are the best affordable universities in Melbourne?

Victoria University, RMIT University, and La Trobe University are among the most affordable universities in Melbourne. These institutions are known for offering competitive tuition fees alongside a high standard of education, making Melbourne a great choice for students seeking an affordable academic experience.