Introduction
Australia is consistently ranked among the world’s best study destinations, attracting international students with its globally recognised degrees, high academic standards, and strong career outcomes. However, many students still believe that studying in Australia is only possible with a large budget. In reality, this is a misconception. There are several cheapest universities in Australia that offer high-quality education at surprisingly affordable tuition fees for international students.
Choosing from the cheapest universities in Australia does not mean compromising on education quality or future opportunities. Australian universities operate under strict national regulations, ensuring that even lower-cost institutions deliver internationally accredited degrees, modern learning facilities, and industry-relevant programs. For budget-conscious students, this makes Australia one of the few countries where affordability and academic excellence can go hand in hand.
Many of the cheapest universities in Australia are public institutions or regionally located campuses, where tuition fees and living costs are significantly lower than those in major metropolitan universities. These universities also provide access to part-time work, scholarships, and post-study pathways, allowing international students to manage expenses while gaining valuable work experience.
In this detailed guide, we have carefully researched and shortlisted the top cheapest universities in Australia for international students, focusing on tuition affordability, academic reputation, campus location, and overall value for money. Whether your goal is to reduce study costs, earn a globally recognised degree, or build a strong long-term career pathway, this list will help you make an informed and confident decision about studying in Australia.
1. Torrens University
Torrens University is a modern private university established in 2013 and is widely recognised for offering competitive tuition fees alongside industry-focused education. Despite being a private institution, it remains one of the cheapest universities in Australia for international students in several study areas.
The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Business, Communication, Media Design, Hospitality, and Management. Torrens has campuses in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, giving students flexibility in choosing their preferred city.
One of Torrens University’s biggest strengths is its industry-aligned curriculum. Courses are designed with input from employers, helping students develop practical skills that translate directly into the workforce. Tuition fees typically start from around AUD 25,000 per year, which is relatively affordable compared to many other private universities.
For international students looking for smaller class sizes, strong academic support, and practical learning at a lower cost, Torrens University represents excellent value.
2. Victoria University (VU)
Victoria University, commonly known as VU, is a public university located in Melbourne and is well known for its applied learning approach. It consistently ranks among the cheapest universities in Australia while maintaining strong academic standards.
VU offers programs in Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Law, Information Technology, Education, and Sports Science. One of its standout features is the block teaching model, where students study one subject at a time instead of juggling multiple units simultaneously. This model is particularly beneficial for international students adjusting to a new education system.
International tuition fees at Victoria University generally start from around AUD 30,000 per year. Given its Melbourne location, strong industry links, and public university status, VU offers excellent value for students seeking affordable education in a major Australian city.
3. Charles Darwin University (CDU)
Charles Darwin University (CDU) is widely regarded as one of the most affordable public universities in Australia. Located in Darwin, in the Northern Territory, CDU offers a unique dual-sector model that combines vocational education with university degrees.
CDU provides programs in Business, Law, Engineering, Health, Education, Environmental Science, and Indigenous Studies. Tuition fees for international students often start from around AUD 24,000 per year, making it one of the cheapest universities in Australia.
Another advantage of CDU is its regional location. Studying in a regional area can offer lower living costs, smaller class sizes, and additional post-study migration benefits for some students. For those open to living outside major cities, CDU is an excellent low-cost option.
4. Australian Catholic University (ACU)
Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a respected public university with campuses across Australia, including Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Canberra, and Adelaide. It also operates an international campus in Rome.
ACU specialises in Education, Nursing, Health Sciences, Law, Social Work, and Theology. It is well known for producing highly employable graduates, particularly in healthcare and education sectors.
International tuition fees at ACU typically start from around AUD 25,000 per year. This combination of affordability, strong academic reputation, and multiple campus options makes ACU one of the best affordable universities for international students in Australia.
5. University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC)
Founded in 1996, the University of the Sunshine Coast is known for quality education at affordable costs. It offers programs in Business, Tourism, IT, Creative Arts, Engineering, Education, and Health Sciences.
Located in Queensland, UniSC provides a relaxed lifestyle and tuition fees starting from AUD 25,000 per year.
6. Western Sydney University (WSU)
Western Sydney University operates multiple campuses across Sydney and is one of Australia’s largest public universities. It offers a wide range of programs including Business, Computing, Law, Medicine, Nursing, and Social Sciences.
With a diverse student population, WSU’s tuition fees usually start from AUD 26,000 per year, making it affordable for international students.
7. University of Wollongong (UOW)
The University of Wollongong is a globally recognized public research university offering some of the lowest tuition fees in Australia. Undergraduate fees can start as low as AUD 14,000, depending on the course.
UOW offers programs in Business, Engineering, IT, Health, Law, and Social Sciences and attracts students from over 130 countries.
8. Southern Cross University (SCU)
Southern Cross University operates campuses in Lismore, Coffs Harbour, and the Gold Coast. It offers programs in Arts, Business, Education, Environment, Health, and Law.
Graduate tuition fees generally start around AUD 24,000 per year, making SCU a solid affordable option.
9. University of New England (UNE)
Located in Armidale, the University of New England is known for flexible study options and affordable tuition. It offers programs in Humanities, Social Sciences, Education, and Health.
Tuition fees usually start from AUD 27,000 per year for undergraduate programs.
10. Federation University Australia
Federation University Australia is one of the oldest institutions in the country and offers strong programs in Engineering, Nursing, IT, Education, and Business.
With tuition fees starting at approximately AUD 23,491 per year, it is among the cheapest universities in Australia for international students.
Comparison Table: Cheapest Universities in Australia
| University | Location | Starting Tuition (AUD/year) | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Torrens University | Multiple cities | From 25,000 | Private |
| Victoria University | Melbourne | From 30,000 | Public |
| Charles Darwin University | Darwin | From 24,000 | Public |
| Australian Catholic University | Multiple cities | From 25,000 | Public |
| University of the Sunshine Coast | Queensland | From 25,000 | Public |
| Western Sydney University | Sydney | From 26,000 | Public |
| University of Wollongong | NSW | From 14,000 | Public |
| Southern Cross University | NSW & QLD | From 24,000 | Public |
| University of New England | Armidale | From 27,000 | Public |
| Federation University Australia | Victoria | From 23,491 | Public |
Final Thoughts: Studying in Australia on a Budget
Studying in Australia does not have to be financially overwhelming. The cheapest universities in Australia offer internationally recognised degrees, high academic standards, and strong employment outcomes—often at a fraction of the cost of more prestigious institutions.
Before applying, international students should always check official university websites for updated tuition fees, scholarships, entry requirements, and intake dates. With careful planning, it is entirely possible to study in Australia affordably while building a globally competitive career.
Choosing the right university is not just about cost—it is about value. And these affordable Australian universities deliver both.