Study in Australia from India: Costs, Visas and Top Courses (2026 Guide)

Quick answer: To study in Australia from India in 2026, plan for a first-year cost of about AUD 67,000–82,000 (₹44–54 lakh). That covers tuition, the living funds you must show for the visa and the AUD 2,500 student visa fee. The visa fee rose from AUD 2,000 on 1 July 2026.

This guide covers costs, the Australia student visa (Subclass 500), work limits and popular courses. Last reviewed: 26-10-2026.

Cost of studying in Australia for Indian students (2026)

Tuition varies widely by institution and course. For example, RMIT University lists bachelor's degrees at roughly AUD 36,000–50,000 a year and master's degrees at AUD 35,000–60,000. Vocational courses are priced per course, not per year. Check the fee page of each institution.

A simple first-year estimate for a university degree:

• Tuition: AUD 35,000–50,000
• Living funds you must show for the visa: AUD 29,710
• Student visa fee: AUD 2,500
• Total: about AUD 67,000–82,000, or roughly ₹44–54 lakh at ₹66 per AUD

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), flights, your English test and an accommodation deposit come on top. OSHC for a single student is indicatively AUD 590–750 a year. The AUD 29,710 is what you must show, not necessarily what you will spend. Check the exchange rate when you budget. To compare destinations, see our guide to the cost of studying in New Zealand for Indian students.

Australia student visa (Subclass 500): requirements and steps

What you'll need

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your institution
• A valid passport
• Proof of OSHC cover
• An English test result such as IELTS or PTE Academic. The evidence you need depends on your course and institution.
• Academic documents and proof of funds
• Health and character documents, if requested

The Genuine Student requirement. The visa officer wants to see that you plan to study. Be ready to explain why this course, why Australia and how it fits your career.

The steps

• Step 1: Pick a course and get your offer.
• Step 2: Accept it, pay the deposit and receive your CoE.
• Step 3: Buy OSHC.
• Step 4: Apply online with the Department of Home Affairs and pay the fee.
• Step 5: Complete health checks and biometrics if asked.
• Step 6: Wait for the decision. Home Affairs publishes processing times as a guide, so apply well before your course starts.

Fees and requirements change. Check Study Australia and the Department of Home Affairs before you apply.

Can Indian students work while studying in Australia?

Yes. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and without that limit during scheduled course breaks. Going over the limit breaches your visa conditions, so keep a record of your hours.

Popular courses to study in Australia from India

Fields that are popular with Indian students include:

• Information technology and data science
• Engineering
• Business, accounting and finance
• Nursing and health sciences
• Hospitality and tourism
• Education and teaching

Start from the career you want and work backwards. Choose a course registered on CRICOS, the register of courses for international students. You can browse options on our find courses page.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to study in Australia from India?

For a university degree, plan for about AUD 67,000–82,000 (₹44–54 lakh) in the first year, covering tuition, the living funds you must show and the visa fee.

What is the Australia student visa fee in 2026?

AUD 2,500 for a Subclass 500 primary applicant from 1 July 2026, up from AUD 2,000.

Can Indian students work in Australia while studying?

Yes, up to 48 hours per fortnight in term, and without that limit during scheduled course breaks.

Which English test do I need for an Australia student visa?

It depends on your course and institution. Home Affairs uses your main course to set the English evidence you must provide. Check your institution's requirement before you book a test.

Is Australia or New Zealand better for Indian students?

It depends on your course, budget and plans. Our consultants can compare both for your profile.

Ready to plan your move? Book a free consultation with our team, or read about studying in Australia and studying in New Zealand.