Cheapest Course Options for Studying in Australia

Dreaming of an international degree without drowning in debt? Finding cheap courses to study in Australia can help you turn that high-end dream into an affordable reality. According to Australian universities in 2025, tuition fees for international students start as low as AUD 16,000 per year (approx. ₹8.8 lakhs), and the best part is that they do not compromise on quality.

Whether you want to thrive in metro cities or a peaceful region down under, you’ll find courses that fit your budget. Plus, you can get part-time work rights, scholarship options, and extended post-study visas. Read along to find the most budget-friendly programs, affordable universities, and simple ways to manage your education costs while enjoying student life in Australia.

Why Choose Budget-Friendly Courses in Australia?

Choosing budget-friendly courses in Australia has many reasons behind it. 

• First, you still get a globally recognized degree without the heavy price tag. Australian education is known for its quality. Picking an affordable option doesn’t mean compromising on learning.

• Second, you are eligible to work part-time for up to 48 hours per fortnight. This means you can earn while you learn, helping you cover some living or tuition costs. Many students use their part-time job income to pay rent, groceries, and transport.

• Another benefit of studying in regional Australia is a longer post-study visa. If you study in a designated regional area, you could get up to 4 years of post-study work rights. This gives you more time to gain experience and potentially apply for permanent residency.

• Finally, smaller cities have cheaper living costs. Rent, food, and public transport are more affordable compared to cities like Sydney or Melbourne. This helps stretch your budget further while enjoying a great student life.

If you’re planning your higher education abroad, cheap courses to study in Australia are a great way to get excellent value without compromising your career goals.

Most Affordable Courses in Australia for International Students

Australia offers a wide range of courses that are easy on the pocket, especially for Indian students. Whether you're starting or upskilling, there are affordable programs that offer strong career outcomes without high tuition fees. No matter your academic level, you can find cheap courses to study in Australia that align with your goals and finances. Below are some of the most affordable and popular study areas for international students:

Hospitality

A great option for students who enjoy customer service and travel-related careers. Courses like Commercial Cookery and Hotel Management fall under this category. Fees range from AUD 6,000 to AUD 12,000 per year, which is approximately INR 3.3 to 6.6 lakh.

Human Resources Management

Perfect for students who wish to work in a corporate environment. HR diplomas or bachelor's degrees can cost around AUD 18,000 to AUD 22,000 per year (INR 9.9 to 12.1 lakhs).

Community Health Care

This includes aged care, disability support, and mental health programs. Often linked to PR pathways. AUD 7,000 to AUD 14,000 (INR 3.8 to 7.7 lakhs) is the range of fees.

Interior Design

For creatively inclined students, interior design diplomas and bachelor’s courses are offered by many TAFEs and private colleges at about AUD 12,000 to AUD 20,000 per year (INR 6.6 to 11 lakhs).

Aging Support

This is a growing field in Australia’s healthcare system. The cost of the Aging Support Certificates III and IV ranges from AUD 8,000 to AUD 13,000 (INR 4.4 to 7.1 lakhs).

Project Management

Available as diplomas or master's degrees, this course suits students targeting the business and IT sectors. Costs range from AUD 15,000 to AUD 25,000 per year (INR 8.2 to 13.7 lakhs).

Here’s a quick comparison of average fees:

Affordable Australian Universities for Indian Students

Some universities in Australia are well-known for offering affordable tuition while maintaining academic quality. These institutions are especially attractive to Indian students who are planning to study abroad within a budget.

Here are the top universities offering low-cost programs:

 

Eligibility Requirements for Affordable Universities in Australia

While affordable universities in Australia offer a wide range of low-cost programs, you must still meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements vary slightly by course level and institution, but here are the general expectations for 2025-2026 international applicants:

Academic Qualifications

• Undergraduate programs: Completion of Class 12 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 60% or as specified by the university. Some universities may accept 55% with strong English scores or relevant work experience.

• Postgraduate programs: A recognized bachelor’s degree in a related field, with at least 55%–60% aggregate (GPA may also be considered).

English Language Proficiency

• IELTS: 6.0–6.5 overall (with no band less than 6.0)

• TOEFL iBT: 60–90, as per the course requirement

• PTE Academic: Minimum score of 50–58 (varies by program)

Other Key Documents (2025 Update)

• Valid passport

• Genuine Student (GS) requirement: You must provide a personal statement that clearly explains your genuine intention to study in Australia. This should outline why you chose the specific course and institution, and how the program supports your long-term academic or career goals

• Proof of financial capacity (bank statements, education loan sanction, affidavit of support)

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Letters of Recommendation (if required by postgraduate programs)

• Academic transcripts and certificates

Program-Specific Requirements

Courses like Nursing, Education, and Social Work require work placements, background checks, or immunization records. Creative programs (e.g., Interior Design) require a portfolio.

Affordable universities follow the same academic and visa standards as top-tier institutions, so make sure your application is thorough and aligns with all current requirements. 

Scholarships That Make Courses More Affordable

Scholarships can make a huge difference when planning your studies abroad. If you’re looking for cheap courses to study in Australia, combining low tuition with financial aid can help reduce costs even more.

Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)

Students from underdeveloped nations are eligible to apply for these esteemed government-funded scholarships. The program supports future leaders who aim to bring positive change in their home countries. It compensates for living expenses, school, and other things.

Australia for ASEAN Scholarships

Open to students from ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste, these scholarships fund master’s degrees in areas like maritime, connectivity, economic development, and sustainable growth.

Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP)

This supports both domestic and international students pursuing research master’s and PhDs. Applications are submitted directly to participating universities.

The Quad Fellowship (STEM)

Open to students from India, Australia, Japan, and the U.S., this scholarship supports those in STEM fields pursuing master’s or PhD studies.

Regional Scholarships

Smaller cities often have their support programs:

• Study in Australia’s Northern Territory Scholarship
  
  

• Regional Bursary for TAFE International Students
  
  

• WA Government International Student Scholarships
  
  

• Scholarships in Adelaide, Canberra, and Tasmania

How to Study in Australia on a Low Budget

Studying abroad can get expensive for some people. But with some strategies in mind, you can easily find cheap courses to study in Australia and manage your lifestyle costs without stress. Here are some cost-cutting techniques: 

Choose Regional Cities

Universities located in regional cities usually offer lower tuition and living costs. You’ll also get an extended post-study work visa which adds long-term value.

Apply for Scholarships

Always check university websites for merit-based or entry-level scholarships. Some institutions waive 15% to 30% of your tuition fee right from the first semester.

Use Student Discounts & Share Housing

Use student cards for discounts on public transport, food, and entertainment. If you want to decrease your rent in half, think about living in shared housing.

Limit Course Load + Part-Time Work

Don’t overload yourself with too many subjects. Keep a balanced schedule so you can also work part-time to support your daily expenses.

Rounding Up

If you're looking for cheap courses to study in Australia, there are many smart options available, from low-cost diplomas to regionally discounted degrees. With the right course, location, and scholarship, your Australian education can be both affordable and career-boosting. Make sure to research your university choices, apply early, and take full advantage of student work rights and financial support. You don’t need to overspend to get a world-class education. Start planning today!