It's possible to study in Australia without worrying about tuition and living expenses. Top universities like the University of Melbourne and Australian National University (ANU) offer scholarships that can help cover your tuition and living costs.
Scholarships like the Australia Awards ease the financial burden by covering tuition fees and travel expenses. If you have strong academic and leadership qualities, these scholarships could be a great opportunity for you.
Australia is home to over 600,000 international students, and it's one of the most welcoming countries for students worldwide. What’s even better? Many of these scholarships cover both tuition and living expenses, so you can focus entirely on your studies. And an Australian degree can open up career opportunities, both locally and internationally.
Ready to learn more about why study in Australia for free?
Australia is home to 8 universities ranked in the QS World Top 100 (2025) and attracts over 500,000 international students annually. It is one of the best study destinations. Here are 15 key reasons - why study in Australia:
1. Globally Recognized Universities and High-Quality Education
Australia is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, known for their academic excellence, strong research programs, and industry connections. In QS World University Rankings 2025, six Australian universities rank among the top 50 globally.
University of Melbourne – Ranked #14, offering top-tier business, law, and medical programs.
University of Sydney – Ranked #19, recognized for research excellence and industry partnerships.
Australian universities focus on practical, hands-on learning, ensuring students graduate with skills that match industry demands. Most programs integrate internships, work placements, and research projects, making graduates highly employable worldwide.
2. Wide Range of Courses and Specializations
With over 22,000+ courses across 1,100+ institutions, students in Australia have the flexibility to choose programs that align with their career goals.
Key Features of Australian Courses
Flexible Learning – Many universities allow students to combine majors, take interdisciplinary courses, or opt for hybrid learning (online + on-campus). Work-Integrated Learning – Courses emphasize practical training, industry projects, and internships to give students real-world experience.
Most Popular Fields of Study
Engineering & Technology – Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Software Engineering. Business & Management – MBA, Finance, Accounting, International Business. IT & Computer Science – Cybersecurity, AI, Data Science, Software Development. Healthcare & Medicine – Nursing, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Public Health.
3. Post-Study Work Opportunities and PR Pathways
Australia offers one of the best post-study work visa policies, allowing international graduates to stay and work after completing their degree.
Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)
Graduates can live and work in Australia for 2 to 6 years, depending on their qualification level:
Degree Level
Work Visa Duration
Bachelor’s Degree
2 – 4 years
Master’s Degree
3 – 5 years
PhD
6 years
Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)
Skilled Migration Program – Graduates in high-demand fields (IT, Engineering, Healthcare, Accounting) can apply for PR under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. Regional Migration Benefits – Studying in Designated Regional Areas (e.g., Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast) provides additional PR points and extended work rights.
4. High Employment Prospects and Industry Demand
Australia’s job market is strong, with 75% of international graduates finding employment within six months of completing their studies. The country’s economy is skills-driven, meaning degrees in high-demand sectors can lead to well-paying jobs and long-term career growth.
Industries with High Graduate Demand
Industry
Average Graduate Salary (AUD/Year) (INR in Brackets)
Information Technology
AUD 70,000 – 90,000 (₹38 – 49L)
Engineering
AUD 65,000 – 85,000 (₹35 – 46L)
Healthcare & Nursing
AUD 75,000 – 95,000 (₹41 – 52L)
Finance & Accounting
AUD 60,000 – 80,000 (₹33 – 44L)
Education & Teaching
AUD 65,000 – 85,000 (₹35 – 46L)
Post-Study Work Advantage
Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows students to work full-time in Australia for 2 to 6 years after graduation. High-demand occupations in IT, healthcare, and engineering make it easier for skilled graduates to secure jobs and permanent residency (PR).
5. Affordable Education Compared to Other Study Destinations
Compared to countries like the USA, UK, and Canada, Australia offers lower tuition fees while maintaining high education standards.
Tuition Fee Comparison: Australia vs. Other Countries
Country
Undergraduate Fees (Annual, AUD) (INR in Brackets)
Postgraduate Fees (Annual, AUD) (INR in Brackets)
Australia
AUD 20,000 – 45,000 (₹11 – 25L)
AUD 22,000 – 50,000 (₹12 – 28L)
USA
AUD 30,000 – 70,000 (₹17 – 39L)
AUD 35,000 – 80,000 (₹19 – 44L)
UK
AUD 25,000 – 55,000 (₹14 – 30L)
AUD 28,000 – 60,000 (₹15 – 33L)
Canada
AUD 22,000 – 50,000 (₹12 – 28L)
AUD 25,000 – 55,000 (₹14 – 30L)
Why Australia is More Cost-Effective
Public universities offer scholarships & financial aid to reduce tuition costs. Work rights allow students to earn while studying, covering living expenses. Lower healthcare and insurance costs compared to the USA and UK.
6. Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students
Australia offers over AUD 300 million (₹1650 crores) in scholarships every year for international students.
Top Government & University Scholarships
Scholarship
Coverage
Eligibility
Australia Awards Scholarships
Full tuition, stipend, airfare
Bachelor’s & Master’s students from eligible countries
Destination Australia Scholarship
AUD 15,000/year (₹8.3L)
Students studying in regional universities
Research Training Program (RTP)
Full tuition, research stipend
Master’s & PhD students
University of Melbourne Scholarships
Full tuition, living stipend
High-achieving students in all programs
Monash International Merit Scholarship
AUD 10,000/year (₹5.5L)
Bachelor’s & Master’s students
Additional Financial Aid Options
Most universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships. Students can work up to 48 hours/fortnight to cover living expenses. PhD and Master’s students can get paid research positions.
7. Work-Study Opportunities for International Students
Australia allows international students to work part-time while pursuing their studies, making it easier to manage living expenses and gain work experience.
Work Rights for Student Visa Holders
Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (24 hours per week). Students can work full-time with no restrictions. Many universities offer paid internships and research assistantships that count towards work experience.
Popular Part-Time Jobs & Average Pay
Job Type
Average Hourly Wage (AUD)
Retail (supermarkets, stores)
AUD 22 – 28 (₹1,200 – ₹1,500)
Hospitality (cafés, restaurants)
AUD 20 – 25 (₹1,100 – ₹1,400)
Tutoring & Academic Assistance
AUD 25 – 40 (₹1,400 – ₹2,200)
Administrative & Office Jobs
AUD 22 – 30 (₹1,200 – ₹1,700)
Delivery & Ride-Share (Uber, DoorDash)
AUD 25 – 35 (₹1,400 – ₹2,000)
Why Work-Study Benefits International Students
Many students cover 50-70% of living costs through part-time work. Work experience improves job prospects after graduation. Many jobs are designed to fit around class schedules.
8. Safe and Multicultural Study Environment
Australia is one of the safest countries in the world, ranking 12th on the Global Peace Index. It has a low crime rate and a strong focus on student welfare and support services.
Multicultural Diversity in Australian Universities
Over 750,000 international students from 180+ countries study in Australia every year. Universities have support programs, cultural clubs, and mentoring initiatives to help international students adjust. Anti-discrimination laws protect students from bias based on nationality, race, or religion.
Government & University Support for International Students
Many universities offer emergency and mental health support. The Australian government ensures minimum wages and fair treatment for student workers. Universities have security services, student housing assistance, and orientation programs.
9. High Quality of Life in Australian Cities
Australia consistently ranks among the top 10 best countries for quality of life, with cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane offering a great student experience.
Cost of Living in Major Student Cities
City
Average Monthly Living Cost (AUD)
Melbourne
AUD 2,000 – 2,800 (₹1.1L – ₹1.5L)
Sydney
AUD 2,200 – 3,000 (₹1.2L – ₹1.65L)
Brisbane
AUD 1,800 – 2,500 (₹99K – ₹1.4L)
Perth
AUD 1,700 – 2,400 (₹94K – ₹1.3L)
Adelaide
AUD 1,500 – 2,300 (₹83K – ₹1.27L)
Why Australia Offers a High Standard of Living
Efficient public transport, modern amenities, and healthcare facilities.
Discounts on public transport, entertainment, and groceries.
Access to beaches, national parks, and adventure activities.
10. Research and Innovation Opportunities
Australia is a global leader in research and development, ranking among the top 10 countries for innovation. It is home to some of the most prestigious research institutions and has made groundbreaking contributions in STEM, medicine, and technology.
Key Research Strengths in Australia
STEM & Technology – Universities contribute to advancements in AI, cybersecurity, and renewable energy.
Medicine & Healthcare – Australia has made major contributions in cancer research, vaccine development, and biotechnology.
Space & Aerospace – The Australian Space Agency is driving innovation in aerospace technology.
Agriculture & Sustainability – Research in climate change, water conservation, and food security is highly regarded.
Top Universities for Research & Innovation
University
Research Excellence Areas
University of Melbourne
Biomedical Science, Engineering, AI
Australian National University (ANU)
Astrophysics, Environmental Science
University of Sydney
Medicine, Robotics, Quantum Computing
Monash University
Pharmaceutical Research, Material Science
UNSW Sydney
Renewable Energy, Space Technology
11. Advanced Learning Facilities and Campus Infrastructure
Australian universities provide state-of-the-art facilities, including smart classrooms, high-tech libraries, and cutting-edge research labs to support academic excellence.
Why Australian Campuses Stand Out
Interactive learning environments with AI-assisted teaching tools.
Access to millions of digital resources, research papers, and academic journals.
Specializing in STEM, medicine, engineering, and business analytics.
Universities provide funding and mentoring for entrepreneurial projects.
Many institutions lead in environment-friendly campus designs.
Examples of Top Universities with Cutting-Edge Facilities
University
Notable Infrastructure
University of Melbourne
$500M investment in research and innovation precincts
University of Queensland
Advanced nanotechnology & AI research labs
University of Sydney
One of the largest university libraries in the Southern Hemisphere
Monash University
AI-powered robotics labs & business incubators
University of New South Wales (UNSW)
World-class medical research centers & 3D printing labs
One of the biggest advantages of studying in Australia is that English is the primary language of instruction, which makes it an easy transition for Indian students.
Why This is an Advantage for International Students?
Unlike Germany or France, international students don’t have to take additional language courses.
Australian degrees are respected worldwide, which makes it easier to work or pursue higher studies abroad.
Since English is widely spoken, students can adapt quickly to academics and daily life.
Universities offer IELTS and TOEFL support courses for students needing extra assistance.
13. Vibrant Student Life and Outdoor Lifestyle
Australia offers more than just academics—it provides an exciting student life with a balance of studies and outdoor experiences. With its beautiful beaches, national parks, and cultural events, students can enjoy a well-rounded lifestyle.
What Makes Student Life in Australia Unique?
Extracurricular Activities – Join sports clubs, student unions, and international student groups for networking and fun.
Adventure & Travel – Explore Great Barrier Reef, Blue Mountains, and Outback safaris on weekends.
Beach Culture & Water Sports – Surfing, snorkeling, and beach BBQs are part of the student experience.
Music & Art Festivals – Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane host world-famous music and film festivals.
Diverse Food Scene – Enjoy multicultural cuisine, from Indian and Thai to Italian and Mediterranean.
14. Strong Government Support for International Students
Australia is known for its student-friendly policies, ensuring international students feel safe and supported. The government actively promotes higher education through scholarships, visa benefits, and job opportunities.
How the Australian Government Supports International Students
The Australia Awards and Destination Australia Scholarships provide financial aid.
Fair pay, workplace safety, and legal work protections for student employees.
Universities have international student offices and government-backed helplines for assistance.
15. Global Recognition and Career Growth Post-Graduation
An Australian degree holds global value, which makes it easier for graduates to find jobs in top multinational companies or pursue further studies worldwide.
Why an Australian Degree Gives You an Edge?
Australian institutions are consistently in the top 100 globally (QS Rankings 2025).
Graduates from Australian universities are preferred by global employers.
Students can stay in Australia for 2-4 years on a post-study work visa or work in other countries.
Universities focus on practical learning, internships, and industry collaborations to make students job-ready.
Many graduates use their qualifications to apply for Australian PR, securing long-term career growth.
How to Apply to Australian Universities as an International Student
Step 1: Choose a Course and University
Research programs that align with your career goals. Check the CRICOS list for approved courses for international students.
Step 2: Check Admission Requirements
Academic qualifications (equivalent to Australian Year 12 for undergraduate, bachelor’s for master’s). Minimum GPA requirements vary by university. English language proficiency tests like IELTS (6.5+), TOEFL (80+), or PTE (58+).
Step 3: Prepare and Submit Your Application
Most universities accept applications via:
University Websites Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) Education Agents
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Explain why you want to study in Australia. Letters of Recommendation (LORs) – Usually 2–3 from professors or employers. Academic Transcripts – High school/college certificates translated into English. Proof of English Proficiency – IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores. Passport Copy – Valid for the duration of your studies.
Step 5: Receive Offer and Accept Admission
Universities issue Conditional or Unconditional Offers based on eligibility. Accept the offer by paying the initial tuition deposit and submitting the signed acceptance letter.
Step 6: Apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Apply via the Australian Immigration Website – Requires Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from your university. Show Proof of Funds – Bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsor details covering tuition and living expenses (~AUD 24,505 per year). Health Insurance (OSHC - Overseas Student Health Cover) – Mandatory for all international students.
Step 7: Prepare for Arrival in Australia
Book accommodation in advance (on-campus, homestay, private rentals). Understand work rights (20 hours per week during studies, full-time during holidays). Join university orientation sessions for a smooth transition.
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Study in Australia
Planning to study in Australia? We make it simple. From picking the right university to finding scholarships, we guide you through every step.
Top Universities You Can Explore
Australia is home to some of the best universities in the world. Here are a few you can consider:
Whether you’re looking for a research-intensive program or a career-focused degree, we’ll help you find the right fit.
Save Money with Smarter Study Options
Want to lower your costs? Hybrid and accelerated programs let you start online from India and complete your degree in Australia. This means you save on living expenses while still earning a degree from a top university.
What are the basic eligibility criteria to study in Australia?
To study in Australia, you generally need to meet the following requirements:
Valid Passport.
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE).
Academic qualifications (based on your course level).
Financial proof to cover tuition and living costs.
Student Visa.
Are there tuition-free universities in Australia for international students?
Unfortunately, there are no tuition-free universities in Australia for international students. However, there are numerous scholarships available that can cover a significant portion of tuition fees.
What English proficiency tests are required for admission?
The most common English proficiency tests accepted by Australian universities include:
IELTS (International English Language Testing System).
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).
PTE (Pearson Test of English).
How much does it cost to live in Australia as a student?
Living costs can vary based on the city and lifestyle. On average, students spend:
AUD 1,200 - AUD 2,500 per month (₹66,000 – ₹1,36,000). This includes accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Can international students get full scholarships in Australia?
Yes, international students can apply for fully funded scholarships in Australia. Universities like University of Melbourne, ANU, and University of Sydney offer full scholarships, covering tuition fees and living expenses.
Which Australian cities are the most affordable for students?
Affordable cities for students in Australia include:
Adelaide: Generally lower living costs.
Hobart: One of the most affordable student cities.
Brisbane: Offers a balance of affordability and quality of life.
Do Australian universities accept students without work experience for MBA programs?
Yes, some Australian universities do accept students without prior work experience for MBA programs. However, it may be required for certain universities and programs, especially for competitive ones like University of Melbourne and University of Sydney.
What are the best part-time jobs for international students in Australia?
Some popular part-time jobs for international students include:
Retail (supermarkets, clothing stores).
Hospitality (barista, waiter).
Tutoring (if you’re good in a specific subject).
Internships related to your field of study.
Is it easy to get a PR (Permanent Residency) after studying in Australia?
Australia has a clear pathway to PR for international students, especially if you graduate in a field on the Skilled Occupation List. Many graduates apply for a Post-Graduation Work Visa (PGWV), which allows you to work and eventually apply for PR.
How long does it take to process a student visa for Australia?
The processing time for an Australian student visa is typically 4 to 6 weeks. However, it’s always best to apply well in advance to avoid delays.
What is the difference between a TAFE institution and a university in Australia?
TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutions focus on vocational education and training, offering diplomas and certificates in practical fields. Universities, on the other hand, provide undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and are more academic-focused.
Can I switch my course or university after arriving in Australia?
Yes, you can change your course or university after arriving in Australia, but it may require you to apply for a new student visa. Be sure to check visa conditions with the Department of Home Affairs.
What is the average salary for graduates in Australia?
On average, Australian graduates earn:
AUD 55,000 - AUD 70,000 per year (₹30,00,000 – ₹38,50,000) depending on the industry and job role.
How can students apply for post-study work visas?
International students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Visa (subclass 485) after completing at least two years of study in Australia. This visa allows graduates to work in their field for up to 4 years (depending on the qualification).
Are there hybrid or online degree programs available for international students?
Yes, many Australian universities now offer hybrid or online degree programs that allow you to study remotely and then complete your degree on campus. These programs provide flexibility and help you save on living costs.
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