Looking for affordable universities in Australia? Here is your guide to low-cost public universities for international students in 2025. These schools offer quality education at budget-friendly fees. Living costs in regional areas also tend to be lower.
Cheapest Universities in Australia 2025 Summary Table
| University | Approx Annual Tuition (UG) |
|---|---|
| Federation University | AUD 20,000–22,000 |
| University of Southern Queensland | AUD 20,000–24,000 |
| Central Queensland University | AUD 20,000–24,000 |
| University of Sunshine Coast | AUD 24,300 |
| Western Sydney University | AUD 24,880–32,640 |
| Southern Cross University | Around AUD 25,000 |
| Charles Darwin University | From AUD 25,440 |
| Edith Cowan University | AUD 23,200–28,800 |
| University of New England | AUD 26,232–33,000 |
University of Sunshine Coast (USC)
- Tuition (Undergrad): AUD 24,300 per year
- Tuition (Postgrad): AUD 22,500 per year
The University of the Sunshine Coast offers many programs and has a welcoming community on the Sunshine Coast. It ranks among the most affordable universities for international students.
Federation University Australia (FedUni)
- Tuition (UG): AUD 20,000–AUD 22,000 per year
- Tuition (PG): AUD 22,000–AUD 25,000 per year
Located in regional Victoria, FedUni offers courses in IT, engineering, healthcare, education, and more—all at low prices.
University of Southern Queensland (USQ)
- Tuition (UG): AUD 20,000–AUD 24,000 per year
- Tuition (PG): AUD 22,000–AUD 26,000 per year
With campuses in Toowoomba, Springfield, and Ipswich, USQ combines affordable fees with a strong focus on online learning and regional living.
Central Queensland University (CQU)
- Tuition (UG): AUD 20,000–AUD 24,000 per year
- Tuition (PG): AUD 22,000–AUD 26,000 per year
CQU caters to regional students in places like Rockhampton, Brisbane, and Sydney. It is praised for low fees and flexible learning.
Edith Cowan University (ECU)
- Tuition (UG): AUD 23,200–AUD 28,800 per year
- Tuition (PG): AUD 25,000–AUD 37,500 per year
ECU in Perth is affordable and offers strong programs in business, engineering, cybersecurity, and healthcare.
Southern Cross University (SCU)
- Tuition (UG & PG): Around AUD 25,000 per year
SCU has campuses in New South Wales and Queensland. It is known for affordable fees and strong programs in environmental science, marine studies, business, and health.
University of New England (UNE)
- Tuition (UG): AUD 26,232–AUD 33,000
- Tuition (PG): AUD 27,216–AUD 34,440
UNE is a rural university in Armidale, New South Wales. It offers flexible options like distance learning.
Charles Darwin University (CDU)
- Tuition (UG): From AUD 25,440
- Tuition (PG): AUD 25,600–AUD 32,000
Located in the Northern Territory, CDU stands out for its affordability and strong focus on Indigenous and tropical research.
Western Sydney University (WSU)
- Tuition (UG): AUD 24,880–AUD 32,640
- Tuition (PG): AUD 26,240–AUD 35,760
WSU is located in Sydney’s western region. It balances low fees with access to metropolitan facilities.
Other Notable Affordable Options
Reddit users often mention other low-cost institutions worth considering:
“Charles Darwin University
University of the Sunshine Coast
University of Southern Queensland
Federation University Australia
Central Queensland University
Southern Cross University
University of New England
Australian Catholic University
University of Canberra
Edith Cowan University
Why These Choices Matter for 2025
With tuition hikes expected at top universities like Melbourne and UNSW in 2025 (up to 7 %) The Australian, these affordable options offer a lower-cost entry to Australian education. These institutions often provide strong support, scholarships, and a safer pathway for your education budget.
Read More: Superannuation for Temporary Visa Holders 2025
Conclusion
If your goal is to study in Australia in 2025 on a budget, consider regional public universities like Federation University, USQ, CQU, and USC. They offer excellent value, lower living costs, and a solid foundation for your future.
