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Cheapest Universities in Australia: Top 10 Choices 2023

Cheapest Universities in Australia: Your Guide to Affordable Education in Australia

Australia is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and high-quality education system. Many international students dream of pursuing their higher education in this beautiful country, but the cost of education can be a significant concern. However, the good news is that there are several affordable options for international students to study in Australia, starting with a minimum fee of $21,000 AUD per year.

In this article, we'll explore the top 10 cheapest universities in Australia, highlighting their unique features, application requirements, and tuition fees, making it easier for you to plan your educational journey in Australia.

Cheapest Universities in Australia

We listed the top 10 cheapest universities in Australia for international students, providing essential details for each university. This information includes the type of university, available intakes, application fees, English language proficiency requirements (IELTS and TOEFL), and the starting tuition fees.

Each university on the list offers unique advantages, allowing students to select the one that best aligns with their academic goals, budget, and personal preferences.

Griffith University
Type of University: Public
Intakes: Fall and Spring
Application Fee: $50 USD
IELTS Requirement: 6.5
TOEFL Requirement: 83 (iBT)
Tuition Fee: Starting at $25,000 AUD per year

Griffith University is a reputable institution known for its comprehensive programs and research excellence. With its reasonable tuition fees and multiple intake options, it's a great alternative for international students seeking affordable education in Australia.

Central Queensland University

Type of University: Public
Intakes: Fall and Spring
Application Fee: $100 AUD
IELTS Requirement: 6.0
TOEFL Requirement: 77 (iBT)
Tuition Fee: Starting at $22,500 AUD per year

Central Queensland University is known for its strong focus on distance education and offers a range of affordable programs for international students. With multiple intake options and a reasonable tuition fee, it's an excellent choice for those on a budget.

Southern Cross University

Type of University: Public
Intakes: Fall and Spring
Application Fee: $75 AUD
IELTS Requirement: 6.0
TOEFL Requirement: 61 (iBT)
Tuition Fee: Starting at $21,000 AUD per year

Southern Cross University is renowned for its high-quality education and diverse student community. Its reasonable tuition fees, combined with multiple intakes, make it an attractive option for international students.

University of Southern Queensland (USQ)

Type of University: Public
Intakes: Fall and Spring
Application Fee: $100 AUD
IELTS Requirement: 6.0
TOEFL Requirement: 79 (iBT)
Tuition Fee: Starting at $21,600 AUD per year

University of Southern Queensland is a respected institution known for its strong emphasis on online education. With multiple intakes and competitive tuition fees, it's a popular choice for international students seeking affordable options.

Federation University Australia

Type of University: Public
Intakes: Fall and Spring
Application Fee: $100 AUD
IELTS Requirement: 6.0
TOEFL Requirement: 60 (iBT)
Tuition Fee: Starting at $22,600 AUD per year

Federation University Australia offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programs at an affordable cost. Its multiple intakes allow students to join throughout the year, providing flexibility in planning their education.

University of Tasmania

Type of University: Public
Intakes: Fall (February) and Spring (July)
Application Fee: $100 AUD
IELTS Requirement: 6.0
TOEFL Requirement: 72 (iBT)
Tuition Fee: Starting at $28,950 AUD per year

The University of Tasmania, with its picturesque campuses and quality education, offers an excellent balance between affordability and educational excellence.

Charles Darwin University

Type of University: Public
Intakes: Fall and Spring
Application Fee: $100 AUD
IELTS Requirement: 6.0
TOEFL Requirement: 79 (iBT)
Tuition Fee: Starting at $28,944 AUD per year

Located in the Northern Territory, Charles Darwin University is known for its affordability and a variety of course options. The multiple intakes provide students with flexibility in planning their studies.

Western Sydney University

Type of University: Public
Intakes: Fall (February) and Spring (July)
Application Fee: $75 AUD
IELTS Requirement: 6.5
TOEFL Requirement: 79 (iBT)
Tuition Fee: Starting at $27,000 AUD per year

Western Sydney University offers a range of programs and is known for its cultural diversity. While the IELTS requirement is slightly higher, the tuition fees are reasonable.

University of Western Australia (UWA)

Type of University: Public
Intakes: Fall (February) and Spring (July)
Application Fee: $100 AUD
IELTS Requirement: 6.0
TOEFL Requirement: 82 (iBT)
Tuition Fee: Starting at $36,800 AUD per year

University of Western Australia is one of Australia's prestigious universities, and while it's not the cheapest on the list, it offers quality education at a relatively affordable price compared to other top-tier institutions.

University of Newcastle

Type of University: Public
Intakes: Fall (February) and Spring (July)
Application Fee: $100 AUD
IELTS Requirement: 6.0
TOEFL Requirement: 76 (iBT)
Tuition Fee: Starting at $29,450 AUD per year

The University of Newcastle is a well-regarded institution, and its competitive tuition fees make it a strong choice for international students looking for a balance between quality education and affordability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which university is cheapest in Australia?

The title of the cheapest university in Australia can vary, but Central Queensland University (CQUniversity) is often considered one of the most affordable options for international students.

2. What is the minimum tuition fee in Australia?

The minimum tuition fee range in Australia for bachelor's and master's degrees can vary depending on the university and the specific program. However, as a rough estimate:

  • For bachelor's degrees, the minimum tuition fee range is typically between $20,000 to $45,000 AUD per year.
  • For master's degrees, the minimum tuition fee range is usually between $22,000 to $50,000 AUD per year.

3. Which intake is best for Australia?

The best intake in Australia depends on your program and personal preferences, but many universities offer multiple intakes in both Fall and Spring.

4. How much money required for Australia student visa?

To obtain an Australian student visa, you generally need to show proof of sufficient funds for living expenses, which can be around $20,290 AUD for a year of study.

5. Is Australia cheap or expensive to study?

The cost of studying in Australia can vary widely based on your location, lifestyle, and choice of university, but it is generally considered moderately expensive due to tuition fees and living costs, though the quality of education and the overall experience can make it worthwhile.

Final Words

Studying in Australia doesn't have to be prohibitively expensive. With a wide range of cheapest universities in Australia, international students can pursue high-quality education without breaking the bank.

Whether you opt for online universities or choose institutions with multiple intakes and competitive tuition fees, there are plenty of options available. Additionally, Australia's welcoming and multicultural environment provides an enriching experience for students from all over the world.

Before making your decision, it's important to research and compare these universities based on your preferences and academic goals. Consider factors like course offerings, location, campus facilities, and scholarship opportunities to make an informed choice that aligns with your educational aspirations. With the right planning and information, you can turn your dream of studying in Australia into a reality without draining your finances.


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