Australia is one of the most popular destinations for international students who want to study nursing. With high-quality education, advanced healthcare training, and opportunities to work while studying, it’s easy to see why. However, tuition fees can be a big concern for many international students.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most affordable nursing programs in Australia for international students. We’ve also included key details like the average tuition fees, course duration, and universities offering budget-friendly options.
Why Study Nursing in Australia?
Australia is known for its world-class healthcare system and internationally recognized nursing qualifications. Here are a few reasons international students choose Australia:
- High employment rates for nurses locally and globally
- Access to modern training facilities and clinical placements
- Post-study work visa options via the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)
- Opportunities to work part-time during studies (up to 48 hours per fortnight)
Cheapest Nursing Courses in Australia for International Students (2024)
Below is a list of universities and colleges in Australia offering affordable nursing programs for international students.
🧾 Table: Most Affordable Nursing Programs in Australia
| University/College | Nursing Program Type | Estimated Annual Tuition (AUD) | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Sunshine Coast (USC) | Bachelor of Nursing | $24,400 | Sunshine Coast, QLD |
| Edith Cowan University (ECU) | Bachelor of Science (Nursing) | $29,600 | Perth, WA |
| Southern Cross University | Bachelor of Nursing | $28,520 | Multiple campuses |
| Federation University Australia | Bachelor of Nursing | $28,800 | Ballarat, VIC |
| Charles Darwin University (CDU) | Bachelor of Nursing | $28,376 | Darwin, NT |
| Australian Catholic University (ACU) | Bachelor of Nursing | $28,656 | Multiple campuses |
| University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) | Bachelor of Nursing | $29,040 | Toowoomba, QLD |
💡 Note: Fees are subject to change and may vary slightly based on campus and year of study. Always check with the university’s official website for the latest tuition information.
Entry Requirements
While each institution may have slightly different entry criteria, most nursing programs in Australia require:
- Academic qualifications: Completion of Year 12 or equivalent secondary/high school qualification
- English language proficiency:
- IELTS – Overall score of at least 7.0 (with no band less than 7.0)
- TOEFL or PTE Academic – Acceptable alternatives, depending on the university
- Health and background checks:
- National criminal record check
- Immunizations
- Working with Children check (state-specific)
Affordable Alternatives: Diploma of Nursing (Pathway Option)
If the bachelor’s degree seems too costly, you can start with a Diploma of Nursing, which is cheaper and can be a pathway to Registered Nursing.
🏫 Popular Institutions Offering Diploma of Nursing:
| Institution | Estimated Course Fee (AUD) | Course Duration | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| TAFE Queensland | $17,500 – $18,500 | 18 months | Brisbane, QLD |
| Holmesglen Institute | $16,000 – $18,000 | 18 months | Melbourne, VIC |
| IHNA – Institute of Health & Nursing Australia | $16,500 – $19,000 | 18 months | Melbourne, Perth, Sydney |
| TAFE NSW | $18,000 – $20,000 | 18 months | Sydney, NSW |
💡 Graduates of Diploma of Nursing become Enrolled Nurses (EN). They can later pursue a Bachelor of Nursing to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Some Australian universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. These can help reduce your tuition fees and living expenses.
🥇 Examples of Scholarships:
Destination Australia Scholarship: Available for students studying in regional areas (up to $15,000 per year)
Visit the official pageUSC International Student Scholarship: 15–25% tuition fee reduction
See details hereECU International Undergraduate Scholarship: 20% reduction in tuition fees
More info
Always review each university’s scholarship page for eligibility and deadlines.
Can You Work While Studying?
Yes. Student visa holders (subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester and full-time during semester breaks.
Working part-time can help cover living expenses, which are estimated by the Australian Government to be around AUD $24,505 per year.
👉 Check the Department of Home Affairs living costs guide
Post-Graduation Opportunities
After completing a nursing degree, you may work in Australia as a registered nurse by:
- Passing English language and accreditation checks
- Registering with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA)
You may also be eligible for the Temporary Graduate (485) visa, which allows you to stay and work in Australia for up to 2–4 years.
Final Thoughts
Studying nursing in Australia doesn’t have to break the bank. By choosing the right university or starting with a Diploma of Nursing, you can get high-quality education at an affordable price. Always verify tuition fees, check program accreditation, and look out for scholarships or regional offers to cut down costs.
Whether you aim to work in Australia or take your skills back home, an Australian nursing qualification opens many doors.
📌 Need Help Applying?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider contacting an Australian education agent or visiting the Study Australia official website for further support and detailed information.
Start your journey toward a rewarding nursing career today!
Disclaimer: All information in this article is accurate as of 2024. For the most recent updates, please refer to the official university and government websites.