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Study in Australia – Scholarships and Cost of Living Guide

Posted on September 17, 2025, 5:41pm

Thinking about studying in Australia? Whether you’re a student or a parent planning for your child’s education, Australia offers world-class universities, generous scholarships, and excellent post-study opportunities. But understanding the cost of living, tuition fees, and scholarship options is key to making a smart decision.

This complete guide will walk you through everything—from step-by-step application tips to budgeting strategies, and how to find the best scholarships for Indian students.

Why Choose Australia for Higher Education?

Australia consistently ranks among the top destinations for international students, especially for Indians. Here’s why:

  • Globally recognized universities like the University of Melbourne, Australian National University (ANU), and University of Sydney.
  • Wide range of programs in engineering, IT, medicine, business, and arts.
  • Strong job opportunities with post-study work visas and pathways to permanent residency.
  • A multicultural society that welcomes over 100,000 Indian students every year.

Scholarships for Indian Students in Australia

Studying abroad can be expensive, but scholarships can significantly reduce costs. Here are some top options to consider:

1. Australian Government Scholarships

  • Australia Awards Scholarships: Full tuition, living allowance, and airfare. Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students.
  • Destination Australia Scholarships: Up to AUD 15,000 per year for students studying in regional universities.

2. University-Specific Scholarships

Many universities provide high-value scholarships for Indian students:

  • University of Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship
  • ANU Global Diversity Scholarship
  • UNSW Future of Change Scholarship (exclusive for Indian students)

💡 Tip: Apply early and maintain a strong academic record (75%+ in Class 12 or UG) to boost your chances.

3. Private and External Scholarships

  • Tata Scholarship for Indian Students
  • Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
  • Corporate-funded scholarships like Reliance Foundation and Aditya Birla scholarships for meritorious students.

Check out our guide on [Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students Abroad] for more details.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Scholarships

Follow this easy roadmap to secure funding for your studies in Australia:

  1. Research Early – Begin at least 12–15 months before your intended intake.
  2. Prepare Documents – Academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), IELTS/TOEFL/GRE/GMAT scores.
  3. Meet Deadlines – University and scholarship deadlines may differ.
  4. Write a Winning SOP – Highlight academic achievements, leadership skills, and career goals.
  5. Submit & Follow Up – Apply online, keep copies, and respond to emails promptly.

Pro Tip: **High CPC keywords like “IELTS score requirement”, “GRE for Australia”, and “student visa process” naturally fit in your SOP and research plan.

Cost of Living in Australia for Indian Students

Planning your budget is critical. Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly expenses:

Expense CategoryAverage Cost (AUD)Approx. Cost (INR)
Rent (shared apartment)600–1,000₹33,000–55,000
Food & groceries250–500₹14,000–28,000
Transport (public)100–200₹5,500–11,000
Internet & phone50–80₹2,700–4,400
Miscellaneous150–300₹8,000–16,000

👉 Total average monthly cost: AUD 1,100 – 2,000 (₹60,000 – ₹1.1 lakh)

Tips to Reduce Living Costs

  • Live in shared accommodation or university hostels.
  • Cook at home instead of eating out.
  • Use student travel concessions and free campus Wi-Fi.
  • Work part-time (allowed up to 48 hours per fortnight).

Check out our detailed guide on [Budgeting for Students Studying Abroad].

Tuition Fees in Australia

Tuition fees vary by program and university. Here’s a general estimate:

  • Undergraduate courses: AUD 20,000 – 45,000/year (₹11 – 25 lakh)
  • Postgraduate courses: AUD 22,000 – 50,000/year (₹12 – 28 lakh)
  • Doctoral programs: AUD 18,000 – 42,000/year (₹10 – 23 lakh)

Tip: Choose universities in regional areas to save on tuition and get additional scholarships.

Visa Process for Indian Students: Step-by-Step

To study in Australia, you’ll need a Subclass 500 Student Visa. Here’s how to get it:

  1. Get an Offer Letter from an Australian university.
  2. Create an ImmiAccount on the Australian immigration website.
  3. Submit documents:
    • Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
    • Proof of funds (~AUD 21,000/year)
    • Health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover – OSHC)
    • IELTS/TOEFL/PTE score
  4. Pay the visa application fee (AUD 710).
  5. Attend a biometrics and medical check-up.
  6. Wait for approval (usually 4–6 weeks).

Best Cities for Indian Students in Australia

  • Melbourne – Top-ranked universities and a vibrant Indian community.
  • Sydney – Great internships and part-time work opportunities.
  • Brisbane – Affordable housing and warm climate.
  • Adelaide & Perth – Lower cost of living and regional migration benefits.

Quick Tips for Parents and Students

  • Start financial planning 1–2 years in advance.
  • Encourage children to build soft skills and adapt to diverse cultures.
  • Explore education loans from Indian banks with competitive interest rates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. How much money is required to study in Australia from India?
A. On average, ₹25–30 lakh per year including tuition and living expenses. Scholarships can cut this by up to 50%.

Q2. Is IELTS mandatory for studying in Australia?
A. Yes, most universities require IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores. A minimum IELTS band of 6.5 is recommended.

Q3. Can I work while studying?
A. Yes, Indian students can work 48 hours per fortnight during semesters and full-time during breaks.

Q4. Which courses are best for PR (Permanent Residency)?
A. Nursing, IT, engineering, and teaching are popular PR pathways.

Q5. What is the success rate of Australian student visas for Indians?
A. Over 90% of well-prepared applications get approved if financial and academic requirements are met.

Conclusion: Plan Smart and Study Stress-Free

Studying in Australia is an exciting opportunity to gain world-class education and international exposure. By applying for scholarships early, budgeting smartly, and understanding visa requirements, you can make the process smooth and affordable.