Australia is known for its world-class education, welcoming cities, and vibrant international student life. But if you’re dreaming of studying Down Under, the cost can feel overwhelming, especially when tuition fees at some universities reach over AUD 45,000 a year.
The good news? You don’t need a bottomless bank account to study in Australia. There are several cheap universities to study in Australia for international students that offer high-quality degrees, post-study work opportunities, and even migration advantages, all without draining your family’s savings. At IMM Consult, we help students every day find budget-friendly universities that align with their career goals and financial needs, and we’re here to help you do the same.
Here are five of the most affordable universities in Australia for international students, complete with true tuition details, course strengths, and regional advantages.
1. University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)
Approx. annual tuition: AUD 27,400 – 37,080
Top programs: Engineering, IT, Education
Location: Toowoomba, Queensland (regional)
Located in one of Queensland’s most peaceful and affordable towns, UniSQ offers a solid academic reputation with a refreshingly down-to-earth lifestyle. Tuition is lower than major metro universities, and many students enjoy flexible learning modes and generous scholarships.
Why it’s a smart choice: Toowoomba qualifies as a designated regional area, meaning you may be eligible for additional PR points under Australia’s migration rules.
2. Charles Darwin University (CDU)
Approx. annual tuition: AUD 20,000 – 38,000
Top programs: Health, Environmental Science, Business
Location: Darwin, Northern Territory (regional)
CDU is one of the most cost-effective universities in the country. With its tropical setting and close-knit learning environment, CDU is ideal for students seeking both academic excellence and PR-advantaged locations.
Scholarships: CDU offers a range of international scholarships, including the Global Merit Scholarship.
3. Federation University Australia
Approx. annual tuition: AUD 25,000 – 39,000
Top programs: IT, Business, Nursing
Location: Ballarat and other regional Victoria campuses
Federation University is known for hands-on learning, a diverse student community, and strong ties to local industries. Students benefit from lower living costs and proximity to Melbourne without paying city-level tuition fees.
Scholarships: Federation University International Excellence Scholarships are available for high-achieving applicants.
4. University of New England (UNE)
Approx. annual tuition: AUD 22,000 – 26,000 (indicative range)
Top programs: Education, Agriculture, Psychology
Location: Armidale, New South Wales (regional)
Set in a scenic, rural region of NSW, UNE combines academic quality with an extremely affordable cost of living. With over 20 years of experience delivering distance education, it’s a great option for students who want flexible study modes.
5. Southern Cross University (SCU)
Approx. annual tuition: AUD 25,000 – 26,000 (Access25 plan)
Top programs: Tourism, Marine Science, Business
Locations: Gold Coast, Lismore, Coffs Harbour (all regional)
SCU’s Access25 initiative guarantees that most international undergraduate degrees remain at AUD 25,000 per year, making it one of the best tuition deals in the country. The university is also situated along the coast, giving you an unbeatable study-and-surf lifestyle.
Why regional matters: SCU campuses offer regional visa advantages and potential migration points while keeping you close to beachside hubs.
Why Choose IMM Consult?
We don’t just show you your options, we help you make them happen.
As a trusted education and migration consultancy, IMM Consult offers:
- University shortlisting tailored to your goals and budget
- Scholarship assistance to reduce your tuition costs
- Visa application support, with a high success rate
- PR pathway advice for regional universities
Studying in Australia doesn’t have to be expensive. These five universities demonstrate that affordable tuition, regional advantages, and strong academic support can be mutually beneficial. Partner with IMM Consult; we’re with you every step of the way.
