Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Australia for International Students 2026

Australia has become one of the most popular destinations for international students thanks to its world-class education, safe environment, and post-study work opportunities. However, many students assume studying in Australia is too expensive — the truth is, there are affordable universities that offer excellent programs and globally recognized degrees.

Here are the Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Australia for International Students 2026.

1. University of Sunshine Coast (USC)
Average Tuition: AUD $24,000/year
Programs: Business, Nursing, Information Technology, Engineering
Why Choose It: Known for its affordable tuition, beautiful campus, and personalized teaching style.

2. Charles Darwin University (CDU)
Average Tuition: AUD $22,000–$25,000/year
Programs: Environmental Science, Health, Business, IT
Why Choose It: Offers low-cost tuition and scholarships for international students.

3. University of Southern Queensland (USQ)
Average Tuition: AUD $25,000/year
Programs: Engineering, Education, IT, Health Sciences
Why Choose It: Flexible study options with distance and on-campus programs.

4. University of New England (UNE)
Average Tuition: AUD $23,000/year
Programs: Arts, Science, Business, Education
Why Choose It: Australia’s top regional university with low fees and high student satisfaction.

5. Federation University Australia
Average Tuition: AUD $24,000/year
Programs: Engineering, IT, Business, Health Sciences
Why Choose It: One of the most affordable universities in Victoria with great employability outcomes.

More Here: Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2026 for International Students

6. Southern Cross University (SCU)
Average Tuition: AUD $25,200/year
Programs: Tourism, Nursing, Business, Arts
Why Choose It: Offers scholarships and internship opportunities for international students.

7. Edith Cowan University (ECU)
Average Tuition: AUD $28,000/year
Programs: Media, Engineering, Education, Health Sciences
Why Choose It: Top-rated for teaching quality and employability.

8. Central Queensland University (CQU)
Average Tuition: AUD $23,000/year
Programs: Engineering, Business, Education, IT
Why Choose It: One of the lowest tuition universities in Australia with flexible campuses nationwide.

9. Victoria University (VU)
Average Tuition: AUD $28,000/year
Programs: Business, IT, Law, Engineering
Why Choose It: Offers block model learning and affordable degrees for international students.

10. Australian Catholic University (ACU)
Average Tuition: AUD $29,000/year
Programs: Nursing, Education, Health Sciences, Theology
Why Choose It: Known for community engagement and affordable tuition fees.

Why Study in Australia?

Globally recognized universities and degrees
Work while you study opportunities
Post-study work visas for international graduates
Multicultural and welcoming environment
Scholarship opportunities for global students

Explore More Affordable Study Options

Looking for more low-cost study destinations? Check out:

More Here: How to Find Affordable and Cheaper Flight Tickets - Step By Step Guide 2026

Conclusion

Studying in Australia doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right research, international students can find cheap universities in Australia that offer top-quality education, diverse programs, and excellent career prospects — all while enjoying one of the best student lifestyles in the world.