Study MBA in Australia: Top Colleges, Costs & Requirements

Pursuing an MBA in Australia is a smart choice for international students, especially from India, thanks to the country’s globally recognized universities, high graduate salaries, and strong post-study work opportunities. Home to four institutions ranked in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025, Australia offers world-class business education in a multicultural environment. With over 122,000 Indian students currently enrolled and around 80% international student participation in MBA programs, Australia remains one of the most sought-after destinations for management studies. MBA fees in Australia typically range from AUD 60,000 to AUD 126,000 per year, with average graduate salaries reaching AUD 105,000. Top MBA universities in Australia include the University of Melbourne, UNSW, and the University of Queensland, offering diverse specializations and program durations from 1 to 2 years.
 

Why Study an MBA in Australia?

Choosing an MBA in Australia for Indian students offers unique advantages that extend beyond acquiring theoretical knowledge. Australia has established itself as an education powerhouse with 9 universities featuring in the top 100 QS Global MBA rankings 2024. This exceptional educational quality, combined with specific benefits for international students, makes it a strategic choice for ambitious Indian professionals.

• Top-Ranked MBA Programs:

  • 9 Australian universities rank in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2024 top 100, making MBA in Australia highly prestigious.

  • Over 75 internationally recognized MBA programs available across the country.

• Globally Accredited MBA in Australia:

  • Australian MBA programs hold international accreditations from AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, ensuring worldwide recognition and quality education.

• Post-Study Work Opportunities for MBA Graduates:

  • The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) allows MBA graduates in Australia to work for 18 months to 4 years after graduation.

  • Enables international students to gain valuable work experience, earn competitive salaries, and explore pathways to permanent residency.

• Diverse and Inclusive Learning Environment:

  • Australian MBA institutions rank among the top 20 globally for cultural diversity in their student cohorts.

  • Australia offers a safe, high-quality lifestyle with excellent healthcare and education systems.

• Strategic Location with Asian Market Access:

  • Studying MBA in Australia provides unique access to emerging Asian markets due to its geographical and business ties.

  • Approximately 30% of international MBA students in Australia are from the Asia-Pacific region, fostering a global business network.

• Entry Requirements & Cost of MBA in Australia:

  • Admission typically requires a bachelor’s degree, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), and sometimes GMAT scores.

  • MBA tuition fees range from AUD 60,000 to AUD 126,000 annually depending on the institution and program.

• Strong Salary Outcomes for MBA Graduates:

  • Average salary after MBA in Australia ranges between AUD 80,000 and AUD 196,433, ensuring a strong return on investment for graduates.

Best Universities in Australia for MBA

When exploring the top MBA universities in Australia, you'll find world-class Australian business schools that consistently rank among global elite institutions. Australia houses several prestigious institutions offering exceptional MBA programs in Australia that combine academic rigor with practical business applications. These MBA courses in Australia provide diverse MBA specialisations in Australia, catering to various career goals and industries.

Explore the top 10 MBA colleges in Australia (Below table):

University Name	QS Global MBA Ranking 2025	Approximate MBA Fees (AUD)	Program Duration	Popular MBA Specializations
Melbourne Business School	32	90,000 – 110,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, International Business, Entrepreneurship
UNSW Business School (AGSM)	31	80,000 – 105,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Technology Management, Strategy
University of Sydney Business School	50	70,000 – 90,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Human Resources, Entrepreneurship
UQ Business School	75	60,000 – 85,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, International Business, Sustainability
Monash Business School	84	75,000 – 95,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Data Analytics, Leadership
Macquarie Business School	101–110	60,000 – 80,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Project Management, Analytics
Australian National University	111–120	85,000 – 100,000	1–2 years	Finance, Public Policy, International Business, Entrepreneurship
University of Western Australia	131–140	70,000 – 95,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, Leadership
University of Technology Sydney	151–200	60,000 – 85,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Digital Business, Entrepreneurship
University of South Australia	151–200	60,000 – 85,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Innovation, Supply Chain Management

1. Melbourne Business School (University of Melbourne)

Ranked as Australia's #1 MBA program according to QS Global MBA Rankings 2025, Melbourne Business School offers diverse program formats to suit your career stage. Their Full-time MBA stands as the country's top-ranked program, attracting students globally seeking a challenging experience in Australia's most vibrant city. For senior executives, they provide the Senior Executive MBA focusing on cutting-edge innovations shaping international business. 

The school also offers flexible Part-time and Online MBA options with multiple annual intakes.

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, duration of the program, and program cost at Melbourne Business School, University of Melbourne:

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	2 years	AUD $112,500
Executive MBA	1.5 years	AUD $125,100
Part-time MBA	2+ years	AUD $5,150/Subject
Online MBA	3 years	AUD $90,000

 

2. AGSM - UNSW Business School (University of New South Wales)

UNSW's Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) ranks 33rd globally in the QS 2024 Global MBA Rankings, placing it in the top 10% of the world's best management schools for three consecutive years. AGSM excels particularly in Thought Leadership (scoring 89.2 – 38.3 points above global average) and Diversity (91.7 – 31.7 above average). 

Their Return on Investment score of 71.7 exceeds the global average by 10.2 points, making it an excellent choice for MBA in Australia for Indian students concerned about cost of MBA in Australia.

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at AGSM:
 

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	1 year	AUD $86,760
MBA Extension	2 years	AUD $113,160

 

3. University of Sydney Business School

University of Sydney Business School MBA program (Leadership and Enterprise) ranks first in Australia according to Financial Times MBA Rankings 2024. This 18-month full-time program with small class sizes features intensive formatting where students complete two units over nine-week periods. 

Beyond traditional MBA fundamentals, you'll learn leading teams in digital environments, harnessing big data, and exploring complex systems. With exceptional industry internships exposing you to global brands, the program requires minimum three years of relevant work experience.

The table below lists the MBA program offered, program duration and program cost and more:

Program Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	1.5 years	AUD $67,000

 

4. University of Queensland Business School, Brisbane

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at University of Queensland Business School:

 

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	1.5 years	AUD $63,984
Part-time MBA	2 years	AUD $63,984

 

5. Macquarie Business School, Macquarie University, Sydney

The table below lists the MBA program offered, program duration and program cost at Macquarie Business School, Macquarie University:

 

Program Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	1.5 - 2 years	AUD $46,500+

 

6. University of Western Australia Business School, Perth

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at University of Western Australia Business School:

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
MBA Intensive	1 year	AUD $86,400
MBA Flexible	Up to 5 years	AUD $60,800
MBA and Master of Laws	2 years	AUD $126,400

 

Note: The University of Western Australia (UWA), in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Management (IIM)-Kozhikode, offers an online Executive MBA. The two-year-long MBA program offers dual credentials, earning an MBA from UWA and a Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) certification from IIM-Kozhikode. The program cost is ₹560,000 (GST excluded).

 

7. RMIT University School of Business and Law, Melbourne

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at RMIT University School of Business and Law:

 

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	2 years	AUD $82,560
Executive MBA	2 years	AUD $112,500

 

UniSA Business School, Adelaide

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at UniSA Business School:

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
MBA	1.5 years	AUD $60,000
International MBA	2 years	AUD $80,000 - $120,000

 

9. University of Technology Sydney Business School

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at University of Technology Sydney Business School:

 

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	2 years	AUD $96,140
Part-time MBA	Up to 4 years	AUD $96,140
Executive MBA	1.5 years	AUD $66,700
Part-time Executive MBA	2 years	AUD $66,700
Online MBA	2 years	AUD $48,000

 

10. Sydney Business School, University of Wollongong

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at Sydney Business School, University of Wollongong:

 

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
MBA	1.5 years	AUD $67,600
MBA Advanced	Up to 4 years	AUD $90,144
Online MBA	1.5 years	AUD $67,600
Master of Business	2 years	AUD $55,650

 

Note: The advanced MBA program at University of Wollongong offers specializations in Accounting, Business Analytics, Finance, Human Resource Management, Marketing and Project Management.

 

MBA Tuition Fees in Australia for Indian Students (2025)

Australia offers world-class MBA programs with competitive fees compared to other popular study destinations. Here’s a detailed guide on MBA fees in Australia for Indian students at top universities along with program duration and rankings.

University Name	QS Global MBA Ranking 2025	Approximate MBA Fees (AUD)	Program Duration	Popular MBA Specializations
Melbourne Business School	32	90,000 – 110,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, International Business, Entrepreneurship
UNSW Business School (AGSM)	31	80,000 – 105,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Technology Management, Strategy
University of Sydney Business School	50	70,000 – 90,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Human Resources, Entrepreneurship
UQ Business School	75	60,000 – 85,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, International Business, Sustainability
Monash Business School	84	75,000 – 95,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Data Analytics, Leadership
Macquarie Business School	101–110	60,000 – 80,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Project Management, Analytics
Australian National University	111–120	85,000 – 100,000	1–2 years	Finance, Public Policy, International Business, Entrepreneurship
University of Western Australia	131–140	70,000 – 95,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, Leadership
University of Technology Sydney	151–200	60,000 – 85,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Digital Business, Entrepreneurship
University of South Australia	151–200	60,000 – 85,000	1–2 years	Finance, Marketing, Innovation, Supply Chain Management

MBA Courses in Australia:

Navigating through the diverse range of MBA courses in Australia requires understanding their various formats and timeframes. Australian business schools offer flexible study options tailored to different career stages and professional goals, enabling you to choose a program that aligns perfectly with your aspirations.

Full-time MBA programs (1-2 years)

The traditional full-time MBA in Australia typically spans between 15 months to 2 years, providing an immersive educational experience. The University of Sydney offers an 18-month full-time MBA course in Australia with small class sizes where students complete two units over nine-week periods. This intensive format develops your personal skills, business knowledge, and enterprise leadership abilities. Similarly, Melbourne Business School's full-time program can be tailored to your needs—study over two years for the complete experience or accelerate your pace to allow more time for internships and exchange opportunities.

Part-time and online MBA options

For professionals unwilling to pause their careers, part-time MBA in Australia presents an ideal solution. Most students complete these programs within 2.5 to 3.5 years. The University of Sydney's part-time MBA is specifically designed for busy managers with 3-5 years of relevant experience looking to advance into senior positions.

Alternatively, online MBAs offer maximum flexibility. UNSW's AGSM delivers MBAX programs with eight specializations that can be completed in as little as two years or extended across six years. These programs typically require only 10-12 hours of weekly study, making them suitable for MBA in Australia for Indian students with existing commitments.

Executive MBA programs

The Executive MBA in Australia targets seasoned professionals with significant management experience. Melbourne Business School's Executive MBA condenses the program into 10 on-campus residential weekend modules over 18 months, minimizing disruption to your professional responsibilities. These programs focus on developing leadership capabilities for significant organizational roles and often include international modules in Asia to broaden your global perspective.

MBA with specializations

Australian institutions offer numerous specialized MBA in Australia programs catering to specific career trajectories. Common specializations include:

• Finance (focusing on financial management and investment analysis)
• Marketing (developing skills in market research and brand management)
• International Business (navigating global business environments)
• Healthcare Management (preparing for leadership in healthcare organizations)
• Technology Management (focusing on IT strategy and digital transformation)

The cost of MBA in Australia varies by program type, with international students paying between AUD 60,000 and AUD 126,000 annually. Therefore, choosing the right program format and specialization is crucial for maximizing your return on investment and achieving your career goals.

Living expenses in major Australian cities

Beyond MBA course in Australia tuition, living expenses constitute a substantial portion of your budget. Accommodation typically costs between AUD 1,500-2,000 monthly, while food and groceries add another AUD 800-1,200. 

Transportation expenses range from AUD 300-600 monthly, with utilities adding AUD 270-490. Internet services cost approximately AUD 70-90 monthly. Alternatively, monthly accommodation expenses range from AUD 297-743 for housing, AUD 208-416 for food, and AUD 44-89 for transportation.

Health insurance and additional costs

The requirements for MBA in Australia include mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). This insurance costs between AUD 500-600 annually for basic single coverage, though more comprehensive figures indicate between AUD 609-3,438 annually depending on coverage type. 

Basic OSHC covers doctor visits, some hospital treatments, ambulance services, and limited pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, visa fees (AUD 630) and pre-arrival costs like application fees (AUD 133) should be factored into your budget.

Total investment comparison

The total MBA in Australia cost for international students combines tuition fees averaging AUD 69,186 annually with approximately AUD 20,000 yearly living expenses. Factoring health insurance and other miscellaneous expenses, the comprehensive investment for a two-year MBA in Australia for Indian students ranges between AUD 150,000-200,000. Nevertheless, with graduates earning average salaries of AUD 105,000 annually (approximately INR 56 lakhs), the master of business administration Australia programs deliver strong returns on investment.
 

Requirements for MBA in Australia for Indian Students: 

Meeting the requirements for MBA in Australia demands careful attention to several crucial criteria that vary across universities. For MBA in Australia for Indian students, understanding these eligibility factors will significantly improve your chances of admission to your preferred program.

Students Academic Qualifications Requirements

A bachelor's degree serves as the fundamental requirement for MBA in Australia with most institutions expecting a minimum score of 60% in your undergraduate studies. For prestigious schools like the University of Sydney, a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 65% or equivalent is typically required. Your academic achievements become even more critical if you're pursuing an MBA in Australia without work experience. In such cases, a strong undergraduate performance, particularly in business-related subjects, can substantially strengthen your application.

Work experience requirements (if Applicable)

Most MBA courses in Australia require at least three years of relevant work experience. However, the landscape is diverse—universities can be classified into three main categories: those requiring both GMAT scores and significant work experience; those requiring either good GMAT scores or work experience; and those granting admission based primarily on academic and English proficiency scores. For those lacking professional experience, universities like the University of Tasmania and RMIT University offer specially designed programs.

English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)

Since MBA in Australia programs are conducted in English, proving your language proficiency is essential. The standard requirement is an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0. Alternatively, equivalent scores from TOEFL iBT, PTE, Cambridge C1 Advanced, or Cambridge C2 Proficiency are accepted. Remember that these tests must be no more than two years old at the date of course commencement.

GMAT/GRE score expectations

For top universities for MBA in Australia, GMAT scores significantly impact your application. While the minimum required score is around 550, a competitive score exceeding 650 substantially increases admission chances. Elite institutions set higher benchmarks—Melbourne Business School expects at least 695, whereas Monash Business School requires approximately 670. Nevertheless, some universities offer flexibility based on your professional experience.

Application documents and deadlines

A complete application package for master of business administration Australia typically includes:

• Statement of motivation (maximum two pages)
• Academic qualification details
• Employment history
• Two confidential professional references

Additionally, for applicants without work experience, recommendation letters from academic professors can strengthen your application. Most universities have multiple admission rounds, with earlier applications generally receiving priority consideration.
 

Scholarships and Financial Aid for MBA in Australia

Financing your MBA in Australia just became easier with numerous scholarship opportunities and financial aid options available specifically for international students. Despite the high cost of MBA in Australia, many universities offer substantial merit-based scholarships covering between 25% to 100% of tuition fees.

• Melbourne Business School MBA Scholarships: partial to full tuition coverage based on overall profile for all MBA programs
• Adelaide MBA Scholarship: Covers full tuition fee on merit basis
• UNSW Business School Scholarships: Covers partial tuition fee on merit basis
• UQ Business School MBA Scholarships: Covers partial tuition fee based on overall profile
• Macquarie University MBA Scholarship: Covers partial tuition fee on merit basis
   

University-specific scholarships

Each of the best universities for MBA in Australia provides dedicated scholarship programs for exceptional candidates. Melbourne Business School offers Management Education scholarships for applicants demonstrating impact in their field. Meanwhile, UNSW's AGSM provides the Global Reach Scholarship worth up to INR 43.6L. Notably, Monash University features the MBA International Women in Leadership Scholarship covering 100% of course fees, making master of business administration Australia programs more accessible for female professionals.

Government scholarships for Indian students

The Australian Government extends valuable financial support through specialized programs. The Australia Awards Scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs for students from developing countries, including India. Equally important, the Endeavor Awards present internationally competitive, merit-based scholarships for Asia-Pacific students pursuing study, research, and professional development in Australia.

External funding opportunities

Beyond university and government options, numerous external organizations offer financial assistance. Industry-specific scholarships like the Kraft Heinz Scholarship (worth up to INR 6.7L) at the University of Melbourne support students interested in the food and beverage sector. Furthermore, diversity-focused scholarships aim to increase representation from underrepresented groups in MBA courses in Australia.

Education loans from Indian banks

For many Indian students, education loans provide vital financing for MBA in Australia fees. Nationalized banks like State Bank of India offer education loans up to INR 40 lakhs for Australian education. These loans typically cover tuition fees, accommodation, travel expenses, laptop purchases, and other reasonable academic expenses. Importantly, repayment periods extend up to 10 years for loans between INR 5-10.5 lakhs and up to 20 years for larger amounts, making the requirements for MBA in Australia financially manageable for Indian students.
 

Post-Study Work Opportunities for MBA Graduates in Australia

One of the biggest advantages of studying MBA in Australia is the generous post-study work rights in Australia offered through the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485 - Post-Study Work Stream). This visa allows graduates from MBA programs in Australia to stay and work for 2 to 3 years after completing their degree, with some eligible passport holders allowed up to 5 years. The application fee is AUD 2,235 and must be submitted online within six months of finishing the course.

Graduates from top MBA universities in Australia located in regional areas can extend their stay by 1 to 2 years through the Second Post-Higher Education Work visa. To be eligible, students must meet the MBA eligibility criteria in Australia, including completing recognized MBA courses in Australia at Australian business schools and demonstrating English proficiency.

The diverse MBA specialisations in Australia—such as MBA in Finance Australia, MBA in Marketing Australia, MBA in Entrepreneurship Australia, and MBA in International Business Australia—enhance career prospects in a variety of fields. These opportunities, combined with competitive MBA fees in Australia and available MBA scholarships in Australia, make the investment worthwhile.

Beyond academics, MBA internship opportunities in Australia and practical experience gained through post-study work rights strengthen your resume and open doors to permanent residency. The strong MBA job prospects in Australia and attractive MBA salary in Australia further establish Australia as a prime destination for Indian students seeking international business education.

Overall, Australian universities for MBA offer world-class education recognized globally and in India, transforming an MBA course in Australia into a comprehensive career launchpad.

Get Free Counseling for MBA in Australia: University Shortlisting, Application & Visa Support

Starting your MBA in Australia journey is easier with expert guidance. Leading education consultancies like IDP offer free counseling to help Indian students with university shortlisting, application preparation, scholarship advice, and visa processes.

Professional counselors assess your profile to recommend the best universities for MBA in Australia that fit your career goals, budget, and preferences. They assist with crafting strong application documents, including CV and Statement of Purpose, and provide updates on MBA fees in Australia and admission requirements.

Free services often include support with scholarship applications to reduce costs, detailed guidance on the Australian student visa, and pre-departure briefings. Counselors also help with education loan options from Indian banks covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.

While you can apply for a student visa yourself, expert counseling significantly boosts your chances of admission to top MBA programs in Australia, saving time and ensuring a smoother process.

 

Final Thoughts on Pursuing an MBA in Australia

MBA in Australia stands as a strategic investment in your future, offering world-class education through globally ranked business schools and exceptional career prospects. The diverse range of MBA courses in Australia allows you to choose programs matching your career goals, whether through full-time, part-time, or specialized tracks.

The cost of MBA in Australia, though substantial, delivers strong returns through high graduate salaries and extensive post-study work opportunities. Best universities for MBA in Australia consistently rank among global leaders, providing internationally recognized qualifications that open doors worldwide.

Australian business schools understand the unique needs of international students, offering comprehensive support systems and diverse learning environments. The requirements for MBA in Australia remain competitive yet achievable, with multiple pathways available based on your academic background and professional experience.

Therefore, choosing Australia for your MBA means joining a thriving business education ecosystem that combines academic excellence with practical industry exposure. Your MBA journey can transform into a stepping stone toward permanent residency, thanks to generous post-study work rights extending up to four years.

Ultimately, pursuing an MBA in Australia positions you at the intersection of Asian and Western business cultures, preparing you for leadership roles in the global marketplace. With strong employment outcomes and countless opportunities for professional growth, Australian MBA programs offer the perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for success in today's business world.