5 Cheapest Programs to Study in Australia

Imagine being able to study in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, where breathtaking landscapes and stunning beaches are just a short distance from highly regarded universities. Welcome to Australia, a land of opportunity and adventure, where international students can expect a unique and enriching higher education experience.

Studying in Australia gives students the chance to immerse themselves in a multicultural society, meet people from many parts of the world, and gain valuable knowledge and skills in their chosen field. However, despite its reputation as a popular study-abroad destination, studying in Australia can be expensive, with high tuition fees and living expenses.

But don’t let the high cost deter you from pursuing your dream of studying in Australia. In this article, we have researched and compiled a list of five relatively affordable study areas and programs for international students in Australia. From nursing and education to hospitality and commerce, these options can help students compare programs that may fit both their interests and budget.

Affordable Study Programs in Australia

1. Nursing

• Tuition Fee Range: AUD 34,280 – 44,300 annually
• Recommended Schools: University of Southern Queensland | Flinders University | Edith Cowan University

Do you dream of becoming a nurse, but worry about the cost of studying abroad? Nursing in Australia can still be a strong option, although current tuition fees are higher than the older figures often quoted for this field.

With a Bachelor of Nursing degree from Australia, you can receive training in nursing theory, clinical skills, and healthcare practice. Depending on the university, students may also complete simulation-based learning and clinical placements that prepare them for professional nursing practice.

If you’re interested in a Bachelor of Nursing program, check out the University of Southern Queensland, Flinders University, and Edith Cowan University. International fee examples checked for these universities are about AUD 34,280 per year at the University of Southern Queensland, AUD 44,300 at Flinders University, and AUD 44,000 at Edith Cowan University. Fees are indicative and may change each year, so always confirm the latest amount on the university’s official fee page before applying.

2. Education

• Tuition Fee Range: AUD 27,312 – 38,950 per year
• Recommended Schools: University of New England | University of Tasmania

If nursing doesn’t align with your career objectives, are you passionate about teaching and making a difference in the lives of young people? Pursuing a Bachelor of Education in Australia can be a worthwhile way to achieve your goals. Current international fee examples checked for the universities listed here range from about AUD 27,312 to AUD 38,950 per year, depending on the institution and course.

Universities such as the University of New England and the University of Tasmania offer teacher education pathways for students who want to prepare for teaching careers. Commonwealth Supported Places can significantly reduce tuition for eligible domestic students, but they generally do not apply to international students. International applicants should therefore rely on official international fee schedules, scholarships, and bursaries when estimating the real cost of study.

3. Social Work

• Tuition Fee Range: AUD 32,016 – 50,000 per year
• Recommended Schools: University of New England | Western Sydney University | University of New South Wales

The Bachelor of Social Work is another popular study program in Australia that prepares students for a career in social work. This program provides students with the knowledge and skills to work in various social settings, such as healthcare, education, and community services. It typically takes four years of full-time study to complete.

For current bachelor-level options, the University of New England, Western Sydney University, and the University of New South Wales are better examples than the University of Melbourne, whose current social work pathway is graduate-level through the Master of Social Work. Current international fee examples checked include AUD 32,016 per year at the University of New England, AUD 32,500 at Western Sydney University, and AUD 50,000 for the Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) at the University of New South Wales.

4. Diploma of Hospitality Management

• Tuition Fee Range: AUD 21,860 – 22,400 total course tuition
• Recommended Schools: TAFE Queensland | William Angliss Institute

The Diploma of Hospitality Management is an excellent choice for students seeking practical knowledge in the hospitality industry without committing to a full bachelor’s degree. Based on current 2026 fee examples checked for the listed providers, total course tuition is below AUD 23,000.

TAFE Queensland offers a one-year Diploma of Hospitality Management with international total tuition of AUD 22,400, while William Angliss Institute lists a 1.5-year Diploma of Hospitality Management with total 2026 course tuition of AUD 21,860. These diplomas can prepare students for roles in hotels, restaurants, event venues, and other hospitality businesses.

Moreover, with a focus on customer service, event management, and food and beverage operations, international students can gain practical skills through hands-on learning and, depending on the provider, work-integrated learning or placement opportunities.

5. Commerce in Finance

• Tuition Fee Range: AUD 52,500 – 54,096 per year
• Recommended Schools: University of Sydney | University of Queensland

If you are a student wanting to enter the field of commerce or business, we still have you covered. A Bachelor of Commerce with a Finance major can provide students with a comprehensive understanding of financial concepts, markets, and instruments. However, current fees at the listed universities are higher than the older AUD 28,000 to AUD 45,000 range.

The program is offered at several top universities in Australia, including the University of Sydney and the University of Queensland. These programs can cover topics such as financial markets, investments, corporate finance, and risk management, giving students a strong foundation for careers in the finance industry.

FAQs:Studying in Australia as an International Student

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience for international students, and choosing the right program can make all the difference. With a wide range of programs available in Australia, students can choose a program that fits their interests and budget. Whether it’s nursing, hospitality management, social work, education, or finance, Australia offers education options that can help students work toward their career goals. You can also apply for scholarships. Our Australia Scholarships Page covers information about funding opportunities, so take the time to explore the opportunities that await you in the Land Down Under.

We hope this article helps you choose an affordable program that fits your goals. For more information about studying in Australia, check out our Study in Australia and Available Programs for International Students!