Top 10 Affordable Universities in Australia for International Students (2025)

Australia is one of the most popular study destinations for international students. The country offers excellent education, a safe environment, and a welcoming culture. But tuition fees and living costs are often the biggest concerns. The good news? Some universities are much more affordable while still offering strong career opportunities.

Here are the top 10 affordable universities in Australia for international students, with fees, job prospects, and estimated expenses.

1. University of Divinity

• Average Tuition Fees: AUD 15,000 – 18,000 per year

• Popular Courses: Philosophy, Theology, Spirituality

• Job Opportunities: Graduates often work in teaching, community services, and non-profit sectors.

• Living Costs: Melbourne costs around AUD 1,500 – 2,000 per month.

2. Federation University Australia

• Average Tuition Fees: AUD 20,000 – 25,000 per year

• Popular Courses: Business, IT, Nursing, Engineering

• Job Opportunities: Graduates find roles in healthcare, IT, and regional industries.

• Living Costs: AUD 1,200 – 1,600 per month (regional campuses are cheaper).

3. Charles Darwin University (CDU)

• Average Tuition Fees: AUD 20,000 – 25,000 per year

• Popular Courses: Education, Business, Health Sciences

• Job Opportunities: Good demand in teaching, healthcare, and tourism in Northern Territory.

• Living Costs: Darwin averages AUD 1,400 – 1,800 per month.

4. University of Southern Queensland (USQ)

• Average Tuition Fees: AUD 20,000 – 24,000 per year

• Popular Courses: Business, Agriculture, Aviation, IT

• Job Opportunities: Regional demand for agriculture and aviation graduates.

• Living Costs: AUD 1,200 – 1,500 per month.

5. Southern Cross University (SCU)

• Average Tuition Fees: AUD 22,000 – 25,000 per year

• Popular Courses: Environmental Science, Arts, Nursing, Education

• Job Opportunities: Strong demand in healthcare, teaching, and environmental research.

• Living Costs: AUD 1,300 – 1,600 per month.

6. University of Sunshine Coast (UniSC)

• Average Tuition Fees: AUD 22,000 – 26,000 per year

• Popular Courses: Business, Nursing, Tourism, Communication

• Job Opportunities: Opportunities in healthcare, tourism, and local industries.

• Living Costs: AUD 1,400 – 1,700 per month.

7. Edith Cowan University (ECU)

• Average Tuition Fees: AUD 24,000 – 28,000 per year

• Popular Courses: Engineering, Media, Education, Arts

• Job Opportunities: High demand in engineering and teaching in Perth.

• Living Costs: AUD 1,600 – 2,000 per month.

8. Victoria University (VU)

• Average Tuition Fees: AUD 24,000 – 28,000 per year

• Popular Courses: Law, Business, Health, Education

• Job Opportunities: Melbourne offers great part-time work options for students.

• Living Costs: AUD 1,800 – 2,200 per month.

9. Australian Catholic University (ACU)

• Average Tuition Fees: AUD 24,000 – 29,000 per year

• Popular Courses: Nursing, Teaching, Psychology, Business

• Job Opportunities: Nursing and teaching graduates are in high demand across Australia.

• Living Costs: AUD 1,800 – 2,200 per month (depending on city).

10. University of New England (UNE)

• Average Tuition Fees: AUD 20,000 – 23,000 per year

• Popular Courses: Agriculture, Business, Humanities

• Job Opportunities: Strong placement in agriculture, research, and teaching.

• Living Costs: AUD 1,100 – 1,400 per month (regional city, very affordable).

Extra Tips for International Students

• Work While Studying: Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semesters, unlimited hours in holidays.

• Scholarships: Many of these universities provide international scholarships that reduce tuition costs.

• Regional Advantage: Studying in regional campuses often means cheaper living and extra points for permanent residency.

Final Thoughts

Studying in Australia doesn’t have to break your budget. These affordable universities in Australia for international students keep costs lower while opening doors to excellent careers in healthcare, business, teaching, IT, and more. With careful planning, you can manage tuition fees, living expenses, and still enjoy the Australian lifestyle.