Studying in Australia: FAQ

Known for its high-quality education and impressive global reputation, Australia attracts numerous international students each year to its Masters courses.

Whether you have already chosen Australia as your study destination or are exploring potential options, these FAQs will help you gain deep insights into the Australian education system and the benefits of pursuing a Masters degree in this dynamic and culturally diverse nation.

#1 What types of Masters degrees are available in Australia?

You can study a Masters in Australia in a range of degree formats. Traditional Masters are academic courses, offering the chance to study a specific subject in more depth. They are similar to equivalent degrees in countries like the UK, awarding qualifications like the MA (Masters of Arts) and MSc (Master of Science). Professional teaching qualifications, meanwhile, are referred to as Graduate Diplomas of Teaching (or Masters of Teaching) rather than the UK Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).

#2 How long do Australian Masters degrees typically take?

Most Masters degrees in Australia take between one and two years to complete. Traditional academic courses taught entirely by coursework are generally 18 months long, whereas courses that include foundational training or require vocational placements may be longer. You can view the lengths for individual Australian Masters degrees using our course listings.

#3 What is the average cost for a Masters degree in Australia?

The cost of a Masters degree in Australia depends on the subject and course. Masters in the Arts and Humanities will generally be at the lower end of the scale, while Science-based courses will be towards the top. Veterinary Science and Medicine could be even higher. The average cost of a Masters degree in Australia is between AUD $22,000-50,000 per year (USD $14,200-32,280) for overseas students. Our guide to Australian Masters fees and funding covers this topic in more detail, with information on scholarship opportunities, average fees and funding eligibility.

#4 How much does a Masters degree cost for Commonwealth supported students in Australia?

Masters fees for Commonwealth supported students are much lower than those for other ‘full-fee’ students. Instead of paying the entire cost of your course you will pay a smaller ‘student contribution fee’. This could be between AUD $4,445 and $16,323, though the actual cost will depend on the units you study and the grade bands they fall into.

#5 What kind of postgraduate scholarships are available for international students studying a Masters in Australia?

There are a variety of postgraduate scholarships available for international students studying a Masters in Australia, including the Australia Awards, Research Training Program funding, Destination Australia Scholarship and the Australian-American Fulbright Commission Scholarship. We cover these in more detail in our Masters scholarships in Australia guide.

#6 How do I apply for an Australian Student Visa (subclass 500)?

You will need to have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) form issued by your university, and provide supporting information such as your passport details, CoE evidence, proof that you meet financial requirements, evidence of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), a CV, and certified copies of your academic transcripts. You will also need to pay an AUD $2,000 application fee (USD $1,317). The processing period for your visa can vary, but it should normally be issued to you within four weeks.

For more information on the process, take a look at our Masters study in Australia guide.

#7 What are the financial requirements for studying a Masters in Australia?

The Australian government estimates a requirement of around AUD $29,710 per year for student living costs (USD $18,519). You may need to demonstrate access to this amount (in the form of existing savings, sponsorship or funding).

#8 What is the average cost of university accommodation in Australia?

The price of university accommodation in Australia varies between institutions, but will usually be between AUD$346 (uncatered) to $484 (catered) per week (USD $237-332). This may include utilities which would need to be paid separately if opting for private accommodation. You can find out more about accommodation options in our living in Australia guide.

#9 What are the estimated costs of private accommodation in Australia?

As a rough estimate you should expect to pay upward of AUD $140 to $293 per week (USD $96-201) for a room in a flat (shared house). This doesn't include utilities or food.

#10 What is the cost of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international students?

The average cost for a minimum coverage policy is around AUD $478 (USD $327). Some scholarships, including Australia Awards and Research Training Programs, may include OSHC in their benefits for international students. The Australian Department of Health provides more information about OSHC cover.

#11 What are the work restrictions when studying abroad in Australia?

According to the conditions of your student visa, you can work for 48 hours a fortnight while your course is in session. This limit doesn’t include placements, internships or other activities required by your course. Voluntary/unpaid work isn’t included in the limit either, as long as it benefits the community, is for a non-profit organisation, and satisfies certain other conditions. You can work unlimited hours while your course is out of session. Note that your right to work while studying abroad in Australia only applies for the duration of your course.

#12 How long can I stay in Australia with a Temporary Graduate Visa after graduating from a Masters?

As of July 2023, Masters graduates can stay in Australia for up to three years with a Temporary Graduate Visa.