List of Cheapest Universities in Australia for International Students 2026: Affordable University Ranking, Tuition Fees, Established in the Year

24 Feb 2026 4.3K views By Kumari Ankita

Looking for a study in Australia? Find the cheapest universities in Australia with tuition fees, rankings, and establishment year details for international students planning affordable study options.

List of Cheapest Universities in Australia for International Students 2026: Affordable University Ranking, Tuition Fees, Established in the Year

Many students now dream of studying in Australia. But the first question that comes to mind is how much it will cost. In this blog, we have provided information about the most affordable universities in Australia in 2026. Tuition fees, living expenses, part-time work opportunities, and scholarships are clearly explained here.

As an education consultant, we have seen that many times students make wrong decisions due to a lack of proper information. So in this article, we have highlighted the names of government and accredited universities, their average annual fees, and general admission requirements. Also, which cities have low costs, where it is relatively cheap to live, these issues have also been discussed.

This blog will serve as a helpful guide for those who want to study in Australia in 2026 and are looking for good quality education at a low cost.

List of Top 5 Affordable Universities in Australia 2026

The universities mentioned here are known for their low tuition fees, good quality of education, and supportive environment. This article provides a brief and clear idea about each university, so that students can think about their future and choose the right path.

  • University of New England (UNE)
  • Griffith University
  • Edith Cowan University (ECU)
  • University of Southern Queensland
  • University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC or UNISSC in some notations)

University of New England

The University of New England is a well-known public university in Australia. The tuition fees here are relatively low, and there is a supportive system for international students. The classes are small, so teachers can pay special attention to students. This is a good option if you want to study in a quiet environment.

AttributeDetails
Full NameUniversity of New England (UNE)
RankingQS 2026: #1001-1200; THE 2026: 801–1000
Established in the year1938
Average Tuition Fees (INR)₹16–20 lakhs/year (AUD 30,000–34,000)
Famous for5-star student experience, online education, agriculture, environmental science, rural health & education

Griffith University

Griffith University is known for its quality education and affordable course fees. Business, health, and IT subjects are popular here. Students get modern campuses and good library facilities. There is also the opportunity to participate in various cultural activities in addition to studies.

AttributeDetails
Full NameGriffith University
RankingQS 2026: #268; THE 2026: 251–300
Established in Year1971
Average Tuition Fees (INR)₹18–30 lakhs/year (AUD 30,000–45,000)
Famous forSustainability (#2 Australia), hospitality & leisure (#1 Australia), nursing, criminology, health sciences, innovative research

Edith Cowan University (ECU)

Edith Cowan University is known for practical education. The courses here are designed in such a way that work skills increase with study. Tuition fees are lower than those at many universities. There is a special support team for international students, which helps them adapt to the new environment.

AttributeDetails
Full NameEdith Cowan University (ECU)
RankingQS 2026: #=487; THE 2026: 351–400
Established in Year1991
Average Tuition Fees (INR)₹21–25 lakhs/year (AUD 33,000–39,000)
Famous for5-star teaching quality & student experience, cyber security, nursing, creative industries, sports science

University of Southern Queensland

The University of Southern Queensland is known for its affordable fees and flexible study methods. There are opportunities to study both online and on-campus. This may be a good choice for those who want to get a good degree at a low cost.

AttributeDetails
Full NameUniversity of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)
RankingQS 2026: #=410; THE 2026: 351–400
Established in Year1967
Average Tuition Fees (INR)₹17–24 lakhs/year (AUD 27,000–37,000)
Famous for#1 Australia graduate salaries, online education, agriculture, engineering, employability

University of the Sunshine Coast

The University of the Sunshine Coast is relatively new but has quickly gained a reputation. The cost of education here is low and the quality of education is good. Located in a beautiful natural environment, students can study in a calm and safe environment.

AttributeDetails
Full NameUniversity of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC)
RankingQS 2026: #1001-1200; THE 2026: 501–600
Established in Year1994
Average Tuition Fees (INR)₹17–24 lakhs/year (AUD 26,000–32,500)
Famous forTop QLD teaching quality, sustainability, student experience, health & environmental sciences

Other Affordable Universities in Australia 2026

We have spoken to many students who want to study in Australia in 2026. They all have a common question, how to apply and how much it might cost. In this blog, we have explained those things in simple language. Especially for 2026, the necessary information about some more universities is needed so that students can plan in advance. 

  • Charles Sturt University
  • Southern Cross University (SCU)
  • Australian Catholic University (ACU)
  • Charles Darwin University
  • Federation University Australia

How to Apply for University in Australia 2026?

To find a low-cost university, you need to look at these three factors: tuition fees, cost of living in the city, and scholarship opportunities. Many public universities offer quality education at comparatively low fees. Knowing the right information and making a decision saves both time and money. Therefore, it is very important to have a clear idea about the rules, deadlines, and required documents before applying.

Steps to Apply:

  • Choose a course and a university.
  • Check the admission eligibility and English test requirements (IELTS/PTE).
  • Prepare the necessary documents (marksheet, passport, SOP).
  • Apply online on the university website.
  • Once you receive the offer letter, submit the fee.
  • After receiving the CoE, apply for a student visa.
  • Once the visa is approved, prepare for your journey.

I know this is a daunting task, and you are confused about how to start this. Then you can contact our experts to get help. Study in Australia consultants at WayUp Abroad are also available with free counseling. 

Conclusion

All in all, it is very important to know the right information in advance if you are planning to study in Australia in 2026. In this blog, we have given an idea about the Most Affordable University in Australia 2026 and explained the steps to apply in a simple way. From course selection to visa application, each step must be completed carefully. If you understand the cost, eligibility, and deadline properly, mistakes will be fewer, and opportunities will increase. With good planning and preparation, it is possible to make the dream of higher education in Australia a reality.

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