Study in Australia
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Last Updated: 19-08-2026
Study in Australia for Indians: Universities, Fees, Scholarships & Visa
Australia is one of the top study destinations for international students. More than 680,000 international students were studying in Australia in the year to May 2026. India is one of the largest sources of international students in Australia, making it a popular choice for Indian students. An Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows Indian students to study at Australian universities, colleges, and other approved institutions. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is running and can work full-time during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Australia offers many study options in areas such as information technology, engineering, healthcare, business, management, and other professional fields. Eligible graduates may also apply for post-study work options after completing their studies.
Planning your Student visa application carefully is important. Students need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and enough funds to cover their stay in Australia. The current minimum living cost requirement for a single student is AUD 29,710 per year, apart from tuition fees and travel costs. This guide explains everything Indian students need to know about studying in Australia, including popular courses, top universities, tuition fees, scholarships, Student visa requirements, financial requirements, work rights, and post-study work options.
MS | MBA | B.Tech | BS | Scholarships
Why Study in Australia?
- Highly ranked universities: More than 30 Australian universities are included in the QS World University Rankings, with several ranked among the world's top 100.
- 6 top student cities: Six Australian cities are among the world's top 50 student cities in the QS Best Student Cities 2026 ranking.
- Wide range of courses: Students can choose courses in popular fields such as IT, engineering, healthcare, business, science, technology, and management. Australia also offers vocational and skill-based courses.
- Practical learning: Many courses focus on practical skills and real-world learning. This helps students prepare for their future careers.
- Work while studying: International students can work while studying. This can help them gain work experience, earn money, and develop useful workplace skills.
- Multicultural environment: Students from many countries study in Australia. This gives international students the chance to meet people from different cultures and build an international network.
- Good research opportunities: Australian universities offer research opportunities in areas such as science, technology, healthcare, engineering, and other fields.
- Strong international education sector: Australia has set a 2026 National Planning Level of 295,000 new overseas student commencements. This shows the country's continued focus on international education. This is a planning level for visa processing and is not a fixed limit on student numbers.
- Globally recognised qualifications: Australian degrees and qualifications are recognised in many countries. They can help students build careers in Australia and other parts of the world.
Top Universities in Australia for Indian Students
Australia is home to many highly ranked universities and offers a wide range of courses for international students. Australian universities are known for their quality education, strong research, practical learning, modern facilities, and career opportunities.
For Indian students, universities in cities such as Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide are popular choices. They offer courses in areas such as IT, engineering, business, healthcare, science, technology, and management. Many Australian universities also have large international student communities.
Below are some of the top universities in Australia along with their QS World University Rankings 2026:
| University | QS World University Rankings |
|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | 22 |
| University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) | 19 |
| University of Sydney | 28 |
| Australian National University (ANU) | 29 |
| Monash University | 31 |
| University of Queensland | 40 |
| University of Western Australia | 77 |
| Adelaide University | 79 |
| University of Technology Sydney (UTS) | 87 |
| RMIT University | 119 |
Popular Courses to Study in Australia
Australia offers many courses for international students in sectors such as business, information technology, engineering, healthcare, medicine, law, science and social sciences. Australian universities perform strongly in global subject rankings, with several institutions recognised for their academic quality and research.
For Indian students, popular study areas include IT and computing, engineering, business and management, healthcare, data science, accounting and finance, and media and communication. Below are some popular courses in Australia and universities known for these subjects.
| Popular Course | Top Australian Universities |
|---|---|
| Business & Management | University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, UNSW Sydney, Monash University |
| Computer Science & IT | University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, UNSW Sydney, Monash University, University of Technology Sydney |
| Engineering | UNSW Sydney, University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Monash University, University of Queensland |
| Medicine & Healthcare | University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Monash University, University of Queensland |
| Law | University of Melbourne, UNSW Sydney, Australian National University, University of Sydney |
| Finance & Accounting | UNSW Sydney, University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Monash University |
| Data Science & Artificial Intelligence | University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, UNSW Sydney, University of Technology Sydney |
| Media & Communication | Queensland University of Technology, University of Sydney, RMIT University, University of Melbourne |
| Psychology | University of Melbourne, University of Queensland, University of Sydney, Monash University |
| Education | University of Melbourne, Monash University, University of Queensland, University of Sydney |
Australia has 37 education providers appearing 926 times across the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject, covering a wide range of study areas. Australian institutions are particularly strong in engineering, computer science, healthcare, law, business, data science and education.
Cost of Studying in Australia for Indian Students
The cost of studying in Australia depends on the course, university, level of study and location. Tuition fees are usually the biggest expense. Students also need to budget for accommodation, food, transport, health insurance, study materials and other personal expenses.
Tuition Fees in Australia
Tuition fees for international students vary between universities and courses. The following figures can be used as a general estimate when planning your study budget.
| Study Level | Estimated Tuition Fee per Year |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate/Bachelor's | AUD 20,000–45,000 |
| Postgraduate/Master's | AUD 22,000–50,000 |
| PhD/Doctoral | AUD 20,000–45,000 |
Note: Fees can be higher for courses such as medicine, dentistry and some specialised programs. Always check the university's current fee before applying.
Living Costs in Australia
Living costs depend on the city you choose and your lifestyle. Cities such as Sydney and Melbourne can be more expensive than some regional cities.
| Expense | Estimated Cost per Month |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | AUD 800–2,000+ |
| Food and groceries | AUD 300–600 |
| Transport | AUD 100–250 |
| Personal expenses | AUD 150–300 |
The actual cost can vary considerably depending on your accommodation, city and spending habits.
Other Costs to Consider
Apart from tuition and living expenses, students should also keep money aside for:
- Student visa fee: AUD 2,500 for the main applicant from 1 July 2026
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Cost depends on the provider and length of stay
- Books and study materials: Depends on the course
- Travel expenses: Depends on your location and travel plans
- Accommodation bond: Usually required when renting private accommodation
- English language test: Cost depends on the test provider and location
Financial Requirement for Australia Student Visa
Students applying for an Australian Student visa must show that they have enough money to cover their travel, tuition fees and living expenses. The current minimum living-cost amount for a single student is AUD 29,710 for 12 months. This is the amount used for the visa financial requirement; actual living expenses can be higher depending on the city and lifestyle.
Calculate Your Study Costs
Not sure how much you need to study in Australia? The Y-Axis Study Cost Calculator can help you estimate your total first-year expenses. You can calculate tuition fees, living costs and other expenses and also consider scholarships, part-time income and education loans to understand your overall study budget.
Use the Y-Axis Study Cost Calculator to plan your Australia study budget and estimate how much you may need before moving to Australia.
Scholarships to Study in Australia for Indian Students
Indian students can apply for scholarships offered by the Australian Government, universities, and other organisations. These scholarships can help reduce tuition fees and living costs. Some scholarships cover most or all study expenses, while others provide a partial fee reduction.
Some of the popular scholarships for Indian students are:
| Scholarship | Study Level | Scholarship Benefit | Estimated Scholarship Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia Awards Scholarships | Master's | Covers tuition fees, living expenses, air travel, health cover and other eligible costs | Full funding |
| Destination Australia Scholarships | Undergraduate & Postgraduate | Supports international students studying at eligible regional Australian institutions | Up to AUD 15,000 per year |
| Research Training Program (RTP) | Master's by Research & PhD | Can cover tuition fees and provide a living stipend for eligible research students | Full or partial funding |
| Monash International Leadership Scholarship | Undergraduate & Postgraduate | Covers tuition fees for selected high-achieving international students | Up to 100% tuition fees |
| University of Sydney International Scholarships | Postgraduate Research | Supports eligible international research students with tuition fees and a living stipend | Full tuition + stipend |
| University-specific Scholarships | Undergraduate & Postgraduate | Universities offer scholarships based on academic performance, course and eligibility | AUD 2,000–30,000+ |
Note: Scholarship amounts, eligibility rules and application dates can change each year. Students should check the latest requirements before applying.
*Want to apply for Scholarships in Australia? Contact Y-Axis for complete guidance
Intakes in Australia for Indian Students
Australian universities generally offer two main intakes during the year. Some universities and courses may also offer additional intakes. The February/March intake is the main intake and usually has the largest number of courses and universities. The July intake is another popular option for international students.
| Intake | Months | Details |
|---|---|---|
| February/March Intake | February–March | The main intake in Australia. It usually offers the widest choice of courses and universities. |
| July Intake | July–August | The second major intake. Many universities offer a good range of courses during this intake. |
| October/November Intake | October–November | A smaller intake with limited course options. Availability depends on the university and course. |
Which Australia Intake is Best for Indian Students?
The February/March intake is usually the best choice for students who want more course and university options. It also gives students more time to apply for scholarships and prepare for their move to Australia. The July intake is a good alternative for students who miss the February intake or need more time to prepare their application.
Tip: Start preparing your application 6–12 months before your preferred intake. This gives you enough time to choose a course, prepare documents, take an English language test if required, apply for scholarships, receive your offer and complete your Student visa application.
Eligibility to Study in Australia
Students need to meet the admission requirements set by their chosen Australian university and course. Common requirements include:
- A recognised academic qualification
- Required marks, percentage or GPA
- Required subjects for the chosen course
- Proof of English-language skills
- Work experience for some postgraduate or professional courses
- Meeting any additional course-specific requirements
Note: University admission requirements are different from Australian Student visa requirements.
Requirements to Study in Australia
Students usually need the following documents when applying to an Australian university:
- Academic certificates and mark sheets
- Academic transcripts
- Valid passport
- English-language test score, if required
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) or personal statement, if required
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs), if required
- CV or resume for some courses
- Portfolio for courses such as design, architecture and arts
- Work experience documents, if required
- Other documents requested by the university
Exams Required to Study in Australia
International students may need to prove their English-language skills before admission. Common English tests accepted by Australian universities include:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- PTE Academic
- Cambridge English
- Duolingo English Test – accepted by some universities and courses
Some courses or universities may also require entrance or aptitude tests. For example, students applying for medicine, dentistry, law or other specialised courses may need to take additional tests depending on the university. The required score depends on the university, course and level of study. Not all Australian universities require the same exams, so students should check the requirements of their chosen university before applying.
Application Process to Study in Australia
Step 1: Choose a course based on your interests, education and career goals.
Step 2: Shortlist Australian universities by comparing courses, fees, rankings, location and career opportunities.
Step 3: Check the admission requirements and make sure you meet the eligibility criteria.
Step 4: Prepare your academic certificates, transcripts, passport, English test results, SOP, LORs and other required documents.
Step 5: Take IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or another accepted English-language test if required.
Step 6: Submit your application through the university website or the required application system.
Step 7: Wait for the university to assess your application and issue an offer letter.
Step 8: Accept the offer and pay the required tuition fee deposit.
Step 9: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and arrange the required Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Step 10: Apply for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) and provide the required documents.
Step 11: Arrange your accommodation, flights and other travel plans.
Step 12: Travel to Australia and begin your studies.
Australia Student Visa Process for Indians
The Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) is the main visa for international students who want to study a full-time course in Australia. Students must enrol in a course registered on CRICOS and meet the visa requirements before applying. The Student visa allows eligible students to study, travel to and from Australia, and work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session. Students studying a master's by research or doctoral degree are generally not subject to this work-hour limit.
*Want to apply for Masters in Australia? Contact Y-Axis for complete guidance.
Australia Study Visa Requirements
To apply for an Australia Student visa, you generally need to:
- Be enrolled in a full-time CRICOS-registered course
- Provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your education provider
- Meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement
- Meet the English-language requirement, if applicable
- Have a valid passport or other accepted travel document
- Show that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees, living costs and travel expenses
- Have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your stay
- Meet health and character requirements, if applicable
- Provide any other documents required for your individual application
Australia Student Visa Fee
The Australia Student visa application fee is AUD 2,500 for most primary applicants from 1 July 2026. Some applicants may be eligible for different visa charges depending on their course or circumstances.
Australia Student Visa Cost
| Cost Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Student visa application fee | AUD 2,500 |
| Living costs required for the main student | AUD 29,710 per year |
| Living costs for accompanying partner | AUD 10,394 per year |
| Living costs for accompanying child | AUD 4,449 per year |
| Travel costs for applicants outside Australia | AUD 2,000 |
| Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) | Depends on provider and policy length |
The total amount you need will depend on your tuition fees, course duration, accommodation, travel costs, family members and personal expenses. The AUD 29,710 amount is the current financial requirement used for the student's living costs. Actual living expenses can be higher depending on the city and lifestyle.
Australia Student Visa Proof of Funds
Students applying for an Australia Student Visa must show that they have enough money to cover their travel, tuition fees and living expenses in Australia. The current minimum living-cost amount for the main student is:
| Financial Requirement | Amount |
|---|---|
| Living costs for student | AUD 29,710 per year |
| Living costs for accompanying partner | AUD 10,394 per year |
| Living costs for accompanying child | AUD 4,449 per year |
| Travel costs for applicants outside Australia | AUD 2,000 |
Students may need to show evidence such as:
- Bank statements
- Fixed deposits
- Education loan documents
- Scholarship letters
- Evidence of financial support from parents or another eligible person
The amount required for tuition depends on the course and education provider. Students should also consider accommodation, travel and other expenses when planning their budget.
Australia Student Visa Processing Time
Australia does not have one fixed processing time for all Student visa applications. Processing times can change depending on the number of applications, the quality and completeness of documents, health and character checks, and other factors.
Temporary Graduate Visa: Post-Study Work Option
After completing an eligible qualification in Australia, international students may be able to apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). This visa allows eligible graduates to stay, work and study in Australia temporarily after completing their studies.
| Financial Requirement | Amount |
|---|---|
| Living costs for student | AUD 29,710 per year |
| Living costs for accompanying partner | AUD 10,394 per year |
| Living costs for accompanying child | AUD 4,449 per year |
| Travel costs for applicants outside Australia | AUD 2,000 |
The Temporary Graduate visa generally has an age limit of 35 years or under, although some exceptions apply, including for certain master's by research and doctoral graduates. The Temporary Graduate visa is a temporary visa and does not automatically provide permanent residency. However, eligible graduates may later explore other Australian work or skilled visa options if they meet the requirements.
PR After Study in Australia
Studying in Australia does not automatically give you permanent residency (PR). However, eligible international graduates may explore different PR pathways after completing their studies.
- Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485): Eligible graduates may stay in Australia temporarily after completing their studies and gain work experience.
- Skilled visas: Graduates with an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list may be able to apply for visas such as Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189), Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) or Skilled Work Regional visa (Subclass 491), if they meet the requirements.
- Employer-sponsored visas: Graduates may be able to move to an employer-sponsored pathway if they find an eligible job and meet the visa requirements.
- State or territory nomination: Australian states and territories may nominate skilled graduates for certain skilled visas based on their current requirements.
- Regional pathways: Studying, living and working in regional Australia can provide access to some additional visa options.
Important: PR is not guaranteed after graduation. Your age, qualification, occupation, English skills, work experience, points, location and state nomination can affect your eligibility.
*Want to migrate to Australia? Let Y-Axis guide you with the steps.
Jobs After Graduation in Australia
International students who complete an eligible course in Australia may be able to stay and work through the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). This visa allows eligible graduates to live, work and study in Australia for a limited period after completing their studies.
- The Post-Higher Education Work stream generally allows eligible graduates to stay for 2–3 years, depending on their qualification.
- The Post-Vocational Education Work stream generally allows eligible graduates to stay for up to 18 months.
- Graduates who meet the regional study and residence requirements may be able to apply for a Second Post-Higher Education Work stream for 1–2 additional years.
- Graduates may later apply for other skilled or employer-sponsored visas if they meet the requirements.
- The Temporary Graduate visa does not guarantee a job or permanent residence.
- The general age limit for this visa is 35 years or under, although some exceptions apply, including for certain master's by research and doctoral graduates.
*Read about: Australia Student Dependent Visa
Popular Fresher Jobs and Average Salaries
Starting salaries in Australia depend on the job, location, employer, qualification and skills. Technology, engineering, healthcare, business and finance are some of the popular areas for graduates.
| Fresher Job | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Software Engineer | AUD 70,000–90,000 |
| Data Analyst | AUD 65,000–85,000 |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | AUD 70,000–90,000 |
| Business Analyst | AUD 70,000–90,000 |
| Accountant | AUD 60,000–75,000 |
| Marketing Executive | AUD 60,000–75,000 |
| Graduate Engineer | AUD 65,000–85,000 |
| Financial Analyst | AUD 70,000–90,000 |
| Consulting Analyst | AUD 70,000–95,000 |
| Graduate Trainee | AUD 60,000–75,000 |
*Read more: In-demand Jobs in Australia
Part-Time Jobs in Australia for International Students
International students who are allowed to work under their Student visa can take part-time jobs while studying. This can help them earn extra money, gain work experience and improve their communication skills.
- Eligible international students can usually work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session.
- Students can generally work unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.
- Students studying a master's by research or doctoral degree are generally not subject to the 48-hour work limit.
- Common part-time jobs include retail assistant, restaurant staff, cashier, receptionist, tutor, delivery worker and university assistant.
- Pay depends on the type of job, location, age and employment conditions.
- Students must follow the work conditions on their visa.
- Students should not depend on part-time work to pay their full tuition fees and living expenses.
Best Cities for International Students in Australia
Australia has several student-friendly cities with good universities, public transport, job opportunities and a multicultural environment. Living costs can vary between cities.
| City | Major Universities | General Living Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Melbourne | University of Melbourne, Monash University, RMIT University | High |
| Sydney | University of Sydney, UNSW Sydney, University of Technology Sydney | High |
| Brisbane | University of Queensland, Queensland University of Technology, Griffith University | Medium–High |
| Adelaide | Adelaide University, Flinders University, University of South Australia | Medium |
| Perth | University of Western Australia, Curtin University, Edith Cowan University | Medium–High |
| Canberra | Australian National University, University of Canberra | Medium–High |
| Gold Coast | Griffith University, Bond University | Medium |
Melbourne is one of the most popular student cities in Australia and has a large international student community. It offers many universities, courses and job opportunities. Sydney is another popular choice for international students. It has leading universities and many job opportunities, but the cost of living is generally higher.
Cities such as Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth can be good alternatives for students who want quality education and a different lifestyle. These cities also offer universities, employment opportunities and a large international student community. Overall, the best city depends on your course, budget, career goals and lifestyle preferences.
How Can Y-Axis help you?
- Free Counseling, avail professional counseling to help you choose the right course and college in Australia
- Campus Ready Program is a Y-Axis initiative that counsels every student to navigate in the right direction during and after the study program.
- Coaching services assist you in acing your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE test scores.
- Australia Student Visa, get counseling and advice from proven experts to advise you in all the steps.
- Course Recommendation, get unbiased advice with Y-Path that puts you on the right path to success.
