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Are you intrigued by the quality of education Australia offers to international students? If yes, this blog is everything you are looking for. If you want to pursue your higher studies in Australia, here is a list of popular and affordable cities, which are best for international students. According to the recent QS ranking, Australia has 7 top universities that are included in the top 100 universities in the world. Let’s get started with the list of the cheapest cities in Australia for international students.
This Blog Includes:
List of Cheapest Cities in Australia for International Students
Also Read: Why Study in Australia?
1. Canberra
It is the first city on our list, which is also the national capital of Australia. Surprisingly, its 23% population is composed of students and it is one of the best cities in Australia for international students to study and live. It has various cultures that foreign students enjoy while they stay.
According to a latest survey, Canberra is 23rd world’s best student city and serves best opportunity seeking city in Australia for international students.
List of Popular Universities in Canberra
| Popular Universities | Top Programs | Estimated Annual Fees |
| Charles Sturt University | Agriculture, Accounting & Environmental Science | AUD 25,000 – 31,000 |
| Australian Catholic University | Sports-Related Subjects, Nursing, Education & Psychology | AUD 23,000 – 31,000 |
2. Brisbane
Despite being one of the cheapest cities in Australia, the quality of education is world-class. It is the second most affordable city on our list, which has a quality of education and high standard of living. It is also a hub of some of the best universities in the world.
If you are looking for a city that provides top-notch education quality while keeping the prices lower, it is perfect for you. Let’s have a look at the popular universities in Brisbane.
Popular Universities in Brisbane
| Popular Universities | Top Programs | Estimated Annual Fees |
| James Cook University Brisbane | Business, Information Technology & Hospitality | AUD 30,400 – 33,000 |
| Queensland University of Technology | Communication, Nursing, Sports-Related Subjects & Education | AUD 31,000 – 48,000 |
Also Read: Duolingo Accepted Universities in Australia
3. Gold Coast
This city is located in Queensland and is one of the most wanted destinations for international students. Here also, you will find high-quality education at an affordable price.
Moreover, the living cost in this city for the students is also not very high, but that doesn’t mean you get cheap quality of living. In addition to high education, a standard of living can be achieved at affordable rates.
There are various popular tourist spots where students can go during their breaks.
Popular Universities in Gold Coast
| Popular Universities | Top Programs | Estimated Annual Fees |
| Griffith University | Hospitality Management, Pharmacy, Nursing & Business | AUD 28,000 – 35,000 (INR 15,28,458- 19,10,650) |
| Southern Cross University | Nursing, Midwifery, Psychological Science & Information Technology | AUD$26,800 – 33,000 |
4. Hobart
Another cheapest city on our list for international students in Hobart. It is a regional area of Australia that has the cleanest air quality in Australia. Interestingly, it is the safest city in Australia, where people can roam around at any time without any fear.
Hence, it is considered one of the best and cheapest cities for international students in Australia.
Each student gets perfect attention to acquiring deep knowledge about their courses.
Popular Universities in Hobart
| Popular Universities | Top Programs | Estimated Annual Fees |
| University of Tasmania | Environmental Science, Agriculture & Education | AUD$ 33,000 – 75,000 (INR 18,01,684- 40,94,250) |
Also Read: How to Apply for Australia Visa: A Step by Step Guide
5. Perth
As this city receives the most students from the world, it is considered the Education City of Australia. Things that make this city the favourite of students is the best transportation system and the affordability in living, and education.
The universities in this city are the best and offer world-class learning with the help of highly qualified teachers who are always ready to help students in any difficulty.
Popular Universities in Perth
| Popular Universities | Top Programs | Estimated Annual Fees |
| Edith Cowan University | Performing Arts, Cybertechnology, Information Technology & Business | AUD 30,000 – 34,000 |
| Murdoch University | Agriculture, Education, Environmental Studies & Social Science | AUD$ 26,000 – 33,000 |
Also Read: Student Life in Australia
6. Darwin
If you want to secure a job right after finishing your studies, this city is best for you. Given its highest employment rate in Australia, it is one of the best options for international students. It is ideal for those who like to explore nature along with their studies, as there are many things to do during the weekends and semester breaks.
If you choose this city for your studies, you are guaranteed tons of adventure and quality of education at a very low price.
Popular Universities in Darwin
| Popular Universities | Top Programs | Estimated Annual Fees |
| Charles Darwin University | Engineering, Environmental Science, Accounting & Education | AUD$ 26,000 – 36,000 (INR 14,19,318- 19,65,209) |
7. Adelaide
Known as the city of festivals, Adelaide is an ideal option for students who like a little leisure while studying. Various festivals take place throughout the year that never let a student get bored.
It is also essential to see that various successful people, such as Editor in Chief Vogue China, Angelica Cheung, former President of Singapore, Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam, and many more have done their education from this city.
So, when it comes to the quality of education, you can rest assured.
Popular Universities in Adelaide
| Popular Universities | Top Programs | Estimated Annual Fees |
| University of South Australia | Nursing, Architecture, Environmental Studies & Education | AUD$ 28,000 – 40,000 |
| Flinders University | Nursing, Education & Sociology | AUD$ 30,000- 39,000 |
Also Read: Top 5 Highest Paying Part-Time Jobs in Australia
8. Wollongong
Wollongong is also another popular and affordable city in Australia. It is only 80 km away from the famous city, Sydney, which makes this a popular choice for international students who can’t afford to live in Sydney.
But, while living in this city, students can easily visit and enjoy a short stay in Australia’s largest city.
Also, the quality of education at an affordable price makes it an ideal destination for international students.
Popular Universities in Wollongong
| Popular Universities | Top Programs | Estimated Annual Fees |
| University of Wollongong | Engineering, Environmental Science, Accounting & Education | AUD$ 26,000 – 40,000 (INR 14,19,630- 21,84,047) |
9. Melbourne
Melbourne has a lot to offer to international students. You will be intrigued to know that for seven years in a row it has been named the most livable city in the world. This makes it the best option for international students to study.
Although it is not as cheaper as the above-mentioned cities, you can still find it affordable if you could get the right funding options.
The world-class emerging facilities in the universities, help you find a job in any country.
Popular Universities in Melbourne
| Popular Universities | Top Programs | Estimated Annual Fees |
| Deakin University | Nursing, Architecture, Environmental Studies & Education | AUD$ 30,000 – 45,000 |
| RMIT University | Engineering, science | AUD$ 45,000- 55,000 |
10. Sydney
It is the last city on our list, which sees over 50,000 international students every year. The reason for its popularity is the quality of education and the highest rate of employment.
Although the affordability rate of this city is relatively high, it doesn’t stop students from availing the best education they could from this lovable city.
Below is the list of some of the popular universities along with the top courses, which you can find in this city.
Popular Universities in Melbourne
| Popular Universities | Top Programs | Estimated Annual Fees |
| University of Sydney | Nursing, Architecture, Environmental Studies & Education | AUD$ 30,000 – 45,000 |
| University of Technology Sydney | Engineering, Science, Humanities, Business | AUD$ 50,000- 55,000 |
We covered the 10 cheapest cities in Australia for international students in this blog. Planning to further your studies in one of these cities? Reach out to our expert mentors at Leverage Edu who can provide you with the best guidance in choosing the course and university most suitable for your needs. Sign up for a free session today!
FAQs
Ans. Some of the most affordable cities for international students in Australia include Adelaide, Sydney, and Melbourne. These cities offer lower living costs compared to major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
Ans. The lower cost of living in these cities is influenced by factors such as cheaper accommodation, transportation, food, and entertainment options. Additionally, these cities typically have fewer international students, which reduces demand for housing and other services.
Ans. International students can save a significant amount on accommodation and living expenses by studying in cheaper cities. On average, students may save between 10-30% compared to living in cities like Sydney or Melbourne.
Ans. While job opportunities may be more limited in smaller cities, there are still part-time employment options available for international students. These cities tend to have lower competition, making it easier to find work in local cafes, shops, or through tutoring.
Ans. No, the quality of education in cheaper cities is generally the same as in larger cities. Many universities in smaller cities, such as the University of Adelaide and the University of Tasmania, offer high-quality courses and support services for international students.
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