Pursuing a Masters degree in Australia can cost international students around AUD 25,000 to AUD 60,000 (approximately INR 17.0-40.8 lakh) per year in tuition fees. Premium programs such as MBAs and specialised medical degrees at top universities may cost AUD 60,000 to AUD 90,000 or more per year (approximately INR 40.8-61.2 lakh+), making the cost of MS in Australia an important factor to consider.
The total expense depends on the university, course, city, and lifestyle. For Indian students, understanding the cost of MS in Australia in Indian rupees can help estimate the amount needed for tuition, accommodation, food, transport, and other daily expenses.
In this article, you will learn how tuition fees vary across universities, explore affordable options, and understand living expenses in major Australian cities. It also covers additional costs, scholarships, and practical ways to plan your budget for studying an MS in Australia.
Tuition Fees for MS in Australia
Generally, the largest component of the cost of doing MS in Australia is tuition fees. International tuition fees vary depending on the education provider, level of study and location. Additional course-related expenses, such as learning materials and equipment, may also apply.
For most international students planning to study in Australia, master's tuition fees generally range from AUD 32,000 to AUD 60,000 per year (approximately INR 21.8 lakh to INR 40.8 lakh). However, highly specialized programs and degrees offered by leading Australian universities may have higher tuition costs.
The following table provides indicative annual tuition ranges for popular MS programs in Australia:
MS Specialization
Approximate Annual Tuition Fee (AUD/approximately in INR)
Note: These are indicative planning ranges. Actual tuition fees vary by university, course structure, study load and intake. Students should check the exact fee on the university's official website before applying.
Affordable Universities for MS in Australia
Students looking to manage the cost of MS in Australia can consider universities that offer comparatively lower tuition fees, scholarships and programs outside Australia's most expensive cities.
For international students, master's tuition fees in Australia generally vary by university, course and specialisation. Students can find relatively affordable options with annual tuition fees starting from around AUD 25,000-AUD 40,000 (approximately INR 16.3-26.1 lakh), although specialised programs may cost more.
Approximate Annual Tuition Fee (AUD/approximately in INR)
Popular MS Fields
Charles Darwin University
AUD 25,000-35,000 (INR 17.0-23.8 lakh)
IT, Engineering, Data Science
Federation University Australia
AUD 25,000-35,000 (INR 17.0-23.8 lakh)
IT, Engineering, Business
University of Southern Queensland
AUD 28,000-38,000 (INR 19.0-25.8 lakh)
Engineering, IT, Data Science
CQ University Australia
AUD 28,000-38,000 (INR 19.0-25.8 lakh)
IT, Engineering, Business
University of the Sunshine Coast
AUD 28,000-38,000 (INR 19.0-25.8 lakh)
IT, Engineering, Health
University of Tasmania
AUD 30,000-42,000 (INR 20.4-28.6 lakh)
Engineering, IT, Science
Western Sydney University
AUD 30,000-42,000 (INR 20.4-28.6 lakh)
IT, Engineering, Data Science
University of Canberra
AUD 30,000-42,000 (INR 20.4-28.6 lakh)
IT, Engineering, Business
Flinders University
AUD 30,000-45,000 (INR 20.4-30.6 lakh)
Data Science, Engineering, Biotechnology
Deakin University
AUD 32,000-45,000 (INR 21.8-30.6 lakh)
IT, Data Science, Engineering
Note: Tuition fees are indicative and can vary by program, specialisation, study load and academic year. The cost of MS in Australiain Indian rupees can also change with currency exchange rates. Students should check the university's official fee page before applying.
Students should not judge affordability based only on tuition fees. Accommodation, transportation, food and other living expenses can significantly affect the overall cost of MS in Australia for Indian students.
Cost of Living in Australia for MS Students
Tuition is only one part of the cost of MS in Australia for Indian students. Students also need to budget for accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, health insurance and personal expenses.
A practical monthly budget helps students plan for the cost of living in Australia, which generally includes the following expenses:
Expense
Approximate Monthly Cost (AUD/approximately in INR)
Accommodation
AUD 1,000-2,200 (INR 68,000-1.5 lakh)
Food & Groceries
AUD 400-700 (INR 27,000-48,000)
Transportation
AUD 100-250 (INR 6,800-17,000)
Utilities
AUD 100-200 (INR 6,800-14,000)
Phone & Internet
AUD 40-100 (INR 2,700-6,800)
Entertainment & Personal Expenses
AUD 150-400 (INR 10,000-27,000)
Note: These are indicative monthly planning estimates. Actual costs may differ depending on the city, accommodation arrangement, lifestyle and whether expenses such as rent and utilities are shared.
Cost of MS in Australia in Major Australian Cities
The city you choose can have a significant impact on the overall cost of MS in Australia. Tuition fees are primarily determined by the university and course, while accommodation and everyday expenses vary considerably between cities.
Let’s look at some of the popular cities for pursuing masters in Australia for international students.
Sydney
This city is one of Australia's most popular destinations for international students and offers a large selection of universities and employment opportunities. However, accommodation and everyday expenses can be relatively high.
Approximate Monthly Living Cost: AUD 1,800-3,000+ (INR 1.22-2.04 lakh)
Best For:
Business
Technology
Finance
Engineering
Melbourne
It is known for its universities, research opportunities and student-friendly environment. While tuition fees depend on the course, accommodation in central areas can increase the overall budget.
Approximate Monthly Living Cost: AUD 1,700-2,800+ (INR 1.16-1.90 lakh)
Best For:
IT
Business
Engineering
Data Science
Research
Brisbane
This city can offer a comparatively balanced combination of education, lifestyle and living costs. It is also a popular destination for students interested in technology, engineering and business.
Approximate Monthly Living Cost: AUD 1,400-2,400+ (INR 95,000-1.16 lakh)
Best For:
Engineering
IT
Business
Healthcare
Perth
It is popular among students interested in engineering, technology and related fields. Accommodation costs vary depending on the location and type of housing.
Approximate Monthly Living Cost: AUD 1,400-2,400+ (INR 95,000-1.63 lakh)
Best For:
Engineering
Mining and resources
Technology
Business
Adelaide
This can be a relatively affordable option compared with some of Australia's larger metropolitan cities. It also offers universities, research opportunities and a growing technology sector.
Approximate Monthly Living Cost: AUD 1,300-2,200+ (INR 88,000-1.50 lakh)
Best For:
Engineering
IT
Research
Healthcare
When calculating the cost of MS in Australia in Indian rupees, students should compare both tuition and city-wise living expenses. A university with slightly lower tuition may not always be cheaper overall if accommodation and daily expenses are significantly higher.
Additional Costs of Studying MS in Australia
Besides tuition and living expenses, international students should budget for several one-time or recurring costs. These expenses can have a noticeable impact on the first-year cost of doing MS in Australia, so they should be included in the initial financial plan.
Students should not assume that the visa financial requirement represents their complete living budget. Student visa applicants must provide evidence of at least AUD 29,710 (approximately INR 68.01 lakh), while actual living costs can be higher depending on the location and lifestyle.
Funding can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. Australian universities, government and other organizations offer scholarships for international students.
These scholarships may provide partial or full tuition fee waivers, living allowances, travel support or research funding, depending on the scholarship and eligibility criteria.
The following are some options students can explore:
Minimum 18 years old; English proficiency and other requirements apply.
100% tuition fees, return air travel, establishment allowance, living stipend of approximately AUD 30,000-35,000(approximately INR 20.4-23.8 lakh) per year and OSHC health cover
Research Training Program (RTP)
Masters by Research or PhD candidates with a strong academic background.
Full tuition fee offset, tax-free living stipend of approximately AUD 32,500-41,753 (approximately INR 22.1-28.4 lakh) per year and OSHC
Destination Australia Scholarships
Full-time students
Up to AUD 15,000(approximately INR 10.2 lakh) per year toward study and living expenses
Vice-Chancellor's / Global Excellence Awards
High-achieving international students.
25%–100% tuition fee reduction or fixed grants of AUD10,000-40,000(approximately INR 6.8-27.2 lakh)
A realistic plan can help students manage the cost of doing MS in Australia without putting unnecessary pressure on their finances. Students should account for tuition, accommodation, food, transportation, insurance, visa expenses and other personal costs. It is also advisable to keep an emergency fund for unexpected expenses.
The following is step-by-step guidance on how to plan your budget:
Step 1 - Estimate tuition fees: Check the exact annual and total course fee on the university's official website before applying.
Step 2 - Calculate living expenses: Estimate rent, food, transportation, utilities, phone bills and personal expenses according to your chosen city.
Step 3 - Compare cities: Consider the complete cost rather than choosing a university based only on tuition fees.
Step 4 - Apply for scholarships: Search for university and government scholarships early to reduce your overall tuition burden.
Step 5 - Choose affordable accommodation: Shared accommodation can help reduce monthly rent and utility expenses.
Step 6 - Plan transportation: Use public transport and check whether your city or institution offers eligible student concessions.
Step 7 - Keep an emergency fund: Set aside money for medical expenses, travel, unexpected accommodation costs and other emergencies.
Step 8 - Calculate the cost in rupees: Indian students should convert their expected expenses into INR while keeping some buffer for exchange-rate fluctuations.
For Indian applicants, understanding how much does it cost to do MS in Australia before applying can help them decide whether a particular university, course and city fit their financial plan.
Conclusion
The cost of MS in Australia depends on the university, specialization, course duration and city. International students can generally expect tuition fees of around AUD 30,000-60,000 (approximately INR 21.8-40.8 lakh) per year, while living and other expenses can add significantly to the total budget.
Understanding the cost of MS in Australia in rupees, comparing universities and cities, applying for scholarships and planning additional expenses can help students make informed financial decisions. Students should always verify current tuition fees, visa charges and other costs before making payments, as these figures can change.
An MS in Australia can be worthwhile for students seeking globally recognised education, practical learning, and international career exposure. Its value depends on university choice, specialisation, tuition fees, living expenses, career prospects, and post-study work opportunities.
Is Australia costly for Indians?
Australia can be relatively expensive for Indian students because tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, and daily expenses are higher than in India. However, scholarships, part-time employment, shared accommodation, and careful budgeting can help manage overall study and living costs.
Can I get PR after doing masters in Australia?
Completing a Masters in Australia does not automatically lead to permanent residency. However, graduates may become eligible for skilled migration pathways depending on their occupation, qualifications, work experience, age, English proficiency, points, and prevailing immigration policies.
What skills are in demand in Australia?
Australia commonly has demand for skills across healthcare, information technology, engineering, construction, education, and other specialised fields. Demand changes with labour-market conditions, so students should check current occupation lists and industry requirements when choosing an MS specialisation.
Is it better to live in Australia or India?
Australia may offer higher average salaries, international work exposure, and strong public infrastructure, while India generally offers lower living costs and closer family connections. The better choice depends on career goals, lifestyle preferences, finances, and long-term settlement plans.
Which job is best for students in Australia?
Common student-friendly jobs in Australia include retail assistant, hospitality worker, customer service representative, administrative assistant, and tutoring roles. The best option depends on your skills, study schedule, location, previous experience, and applicable work-hour restrictions under your student visa.
Which job is easiest to get in Australia?
Entry-level jobs in hospitality, retail, cleaning, customer service, and warehousing can be relatively accessible for international students. However, availability depends on location, experience, communication skills, and work rights. No job can be guaranteed as the easiest for everyone.
How much does it cost to do MS in Australia?
The cost of an MS in Australia generally includes tuition and living expenses. International students may typically pay around AUD 22,000-55,000 (approximately INR 14.39-35.98 lakh) annually for tuition, depending on the university and program.
Is cost of MS in Australia higher than other countries?
The cost of an MS in Australia can be higher than some destinations but comparable to countries such as UK, USA, and Canada for certain programs. Tuition varies by university, specialisation, course duration, and location.
Sr. Content Writer & Study Abroad Expert |109 articles published
Kanika has 5+ years of experience as a writer and content developer. She has written for a wide range of industry verticals, including hospitality, restaurants, non-profits, finance, IT, HR, technolog...
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