MS In Australia: Universities, Application Process, Cost & More [2025]
According to research, there has been an increase of nearly 30% annually in the number of Indian students moving to Australia for further studies. Currently, over 90,000 Indian students are studying in Australia due to their world-class universities and variety of academic programs. An MS in Australia has become an attractive ideal situation for students, thanks to the focus on quality education and beneficial networks with industries. Additionally, this environment offers students the opportunity to work in sectors such as engineering, nursing, data science, etc. In this article, we will delve into the admission requirements, tuition costs, and post-study job opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing a Master’s in Australia.
Reasons to Pursue an MS in Australia
Australia is one of the most attractive countries for international students who wish to pursue their studies and have a quality lifestyle. With their high-ranked universities and an improving economy, a Master’s in Australia is a great opportunity for your future career prospects. The following are the primary reasons why more students are undertaking their master’s degree in Australia:
- Top Universities: Top universities in Australia, particularly for master’s programs, offer world-class academic standards and advanced research facilities. Some of the universities in Australia for masters and graduate studies include Andrews University, Australia National University, and Australia Sydney University.
- Good Job Outlook: In Australia, getting an MS degree opens up a lot of job possibilities. Some growing fields, like technology, health care, education, and others, offer great opportunities for international students after they graduate.
- Access to Advanced Facilities: Australia is a preferred destination for students interested in advanced technologies and sciences. This is due to its emphasis on practical training and research.
- Cost-effective Education Tax and Living Expenses: Tuition fees for master’s programs in Australia vary depending on the institution and specific program. However, there are reasonably decent living conditions and several scholarship opportunities available, making it possible for many to afford the cost of MS in Australia.
- Promoting Cultural Diversity and the International Student’s Adaptiveness: Australia is recognized as one of the most cosmopolitan and inclusive nations globally, which attracts students from all over the world. This provides international students an opportunity to meet people of different diversities, which helps them enhance their global networking skills.
Types of MS Programs in Australia
Australia offers a variety of Master’s degree programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of international students. Whether you want to deepen your expertise, explore research opportunities, switch fields, or gain professional qualifications, there’s a program for you. Here’s a breakdown of the common types of MS programs in Australia:
- Traditional Masters: These programs focus on an in-depth study of a specific discipline, requiring a 3 or 4-year bachelor’s degree in a related field. Ideal for students aiming to specialize, traditional Master’s programs typically take 18 months to complete, combining coursework, projects, and exams.
- Master’s by Research: Designed for those interested in academic research, this 2-year program emphasizes thesis or dissertation work. Applicants often need a bachelor’s degree with honors or a pre-master’s program. This degree can also serve as a pathway to a PhD.
- ‘Change of Direction’ Masters: Perfect for students seeking to switch academic fields or explore new disciplines, these programs provide foundational knowledge in a new subject before moving into advanced training.
- Graduate Entry Qualifications: These qualifications suit students who wish to gain professional training in their field or a related career, such as teaching or healthcare. They often include Graduate Diplomas or Master’s programs and ensure professional recognition in relevant industries.
- Professional Development Masters: For those with prior qualifications and experience, these programs focus on advanced training in a specific area to enhance career prospects. For example, a marketing professional could pursue expertise in digital media through such a program.
Application Process For MS Programs In Australia
Enrolling in a master’s program in Australia is a pleasant and productive experience. However, understanding the application process will reduce any difficulties involved. Here is a comprehensive procedure on how to apply for a master’s degree in Australia.
- Research Programs and Universities: Begin by exploring the top universities in Australia and the MS programs they offer. Look for programs that align with your career goals, be it in engineering, health care, or information technology. Lastly, consider factors such as course content, university rankings, and location to find the best option for you.
- Check Eligibility Requirements: Find and examine all the specific conditions for admission concerning studying at any Australian university for MS. This might include minimum academic standards, tests of English (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, etc.), and degree demands for the program that you wish to pursue.
- Arrange Your Documents: Start preparing your important documents such as:
- Student’s academic records with a degree certificate.
- Certificate of English language proficiency.
- Statement of Purpose explaining the rationale behind the understanding of the motive and the goals in the career.
- Letter of Recommendation from supporting people in contacts, usually, academics or jobs.
- Current CV or resume where applicable, for applications that request work experience before taking the course.
- Calculate Financials: Evaluating the cost of MS in Australia is an important factor to consider. Assess the total cost of studying in Australia, including tuition fees, cost of living, and health insurance. Explore scholarship opportunities for Indian students that may help reduce the financial burden.
- Submit the Application: Most universities have online application portals where you can submit your application. Fill out the online application at the university of your choice. Be mindful of the submission dates, as they vary among various universities. Ensure you attach all the necessary papers to the application before submitting it.
- Get a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE): After acceptance, the university will send a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE). This certificate is necessary for your student visa application.
- File Visa Application: With your CoE in hand, apply for an Australian student visa. It is important to meet the visa requirements if one wishes to pursue a postgraduate course in Australia and get access to post-study work provisions.
Note: Consider taking an English language course to improve your proficiency and readiness to enroll for MS in Australia.
Visa Requirements for Students in Australia
To enroll for an MS course in Australia or any other master’s program in the country, every international student must apply for a student visa. This visa enables students to secure admission to any of the universities for masters courses in Australia, for the period of the study program. Here are important things you need to apply for a visa:
- A Valid Passport: To begin the application process for a student visa, the applicant must have a passport that remains valid for the duration of their studies. Additionally, you must have a stable and standard residence.
- Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE): Students seeking to pursue degrees such as MS in Australia must submit admissions or offer letters from foreign education providers. Also, obtaining Confirmation of Enrollment is a prerequisite for enrollment.
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: Students are required to submit a personal statement outlining their expectations for studying in Australia. This helps to prove that the studies are genuine and that they have no plans to remain in the country after their studies.
- Financial Proof: The Australian government requires proof of sufficient funds to cover the costs of education, healthcare, and other expenses. This proof is necessary to demonstrate that you can support yourself and any dependents during your stay in Australia.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): All international students are required to have OSHC, which offers essential health insurance coverage during their studies in Australia. This coverage can be obtained through your educational institution or from a third-party provider.
- English Language Proficiency: In many cases, students will be required to demonstrate their English language skills through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. This certification ensures that students can benefit fully without facing any language barrier while pursuing an MS degree in Australia.
- Physical and Moral standards: Applicants may be required to have a medical check-up and submit police clearance certificates to fulfill the health and character criteria of the application process
- Personal Information And Supporting Evidence: To ensure the acceptance of your application, kindly attach the following documents:
- Certification of other qualifications: Submit certified copies of all relevant transcripts and certificates.
- Work experience: Relevant documentation includes periods of work, this is particularly helpful for those with prior experience.
- Accommodation address in Australia: The address of the accommodation that you will stay in.
- Email Address: An active email address for correspondence during the processing of the visa.
Tip: If you wish to study in a foreign university or want expert guidance to simplify the admission process, check out Internshala’s study abroad program and make an informed decision.
Top Universities in Australia for Masters
Australia has some of the finest universities in the world that offer high-quality master’s degree programs in multiple disciplines. Below are several highly preferred universities in Australia for master’s.
| University Name | QS 2025 Ranking (Global) | Specialization | Approx Fees (AUD) | Approx Fees (INR) |
| Australian National University | 30 | Political Science Computer Science International Relations | $46,000 – $48,000 | ₹24,81,000 – ₹25,89,000 |
| University of Melbourne | 13 | Data Science Engineering Environmental science | $45,000 – $47,000 | ₹24,27,000 – ₹25,35,000 |
| University of New South Wales | 19 | Energy Engineering Cybersecurity Financial technology | $7,000 – $11,000 | ₹3,77,000- ₹5,93,000 |
| University of Sydney | 18 | Business Analytics Law Health Science | $50,000 – $54,000 | ₹26,97,000 – ₹29,13,000 |
| University of Queensland | 40 | Chemical Engineering Sustainable Development Marine biology | $2,900 – $3,500/ credit | ₹1,56,000 – ₹1,88,000 |
| Monash University | 37 | Biotechnology Marine Biology Chemical Engineering | $37,000 – $45,000 | ₹19,96,000 – ₹24,27,000 |
Eligibility Requirements to Pursue Master’s Degree in Australia
If you’re considering studying for a Master’s degree in Australia, it’s important to ensure that you meet the necessary admission requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility requirements for studying MS in Australia:
1. Academic Requirements
- You must have completed your undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum of 60% marks or a 4.0 GPA (on a 7-point scale).
- Your undergraduate degree should be related to the field you’re applying to. This ensures you have a strong foundation for the Master’s program.
2. English Language Proficiency
- As an international student, you need to demonstrate your English language proficiency since the medium of instruction in Australia is English. Here is the criteria you need to follow:
- IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.5 and 6.0 in individual bands.
- TOEFL: An overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: A score of 58 or above.
Some programs might require higher scores depending on the nature of the program.
3. Documentation
When applying for a Master’s program, you’ll need to gather the following documents:
- Application Form for the program and university of your choice.
- Official Transcripts of your academic records and degree certificates.
- English Test Results from IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, depending on the university’s requirements.
- Personal Essay and Statement of Purpose explaining your interest in the program, your career goals, why you’ve chosen Australia, and your academic alignments.
- Work Experience if relevant.
- Resume/CV highlighting your academic qualifications and professional achievements.
- Passport for identification.
4. Visa Requirements
Once you’ve received your offer letter from an Australian university, you will need to apply for a Subsequent Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to live and study in Australia for the duration of your course. To apply for the visa, you require:
- Proof of Financial Capacity: Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and health insurance while you’re studying in Australia.
- Additional Conditions: Some visa applications may require you to meet additional conditions set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Scholarships to Study MS In Australia
Australia has one of the best education systems in the world, which is one of the reasons why there are a number of scholarships offered for students wishing to do a master’s. These scholarships also apply to those individuals who are not Australian nationals. Below is the list of some scholarships, their target groups, and key benefits:
| Scholarship Name | Target Group | Eligibility | Key Benefits |
| Australia Awards Scholarships | Third-world students from Asia, the Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East | – Citizenship of Asia, the Pacific, Africa, or the Middle East – Must satisfy the admission requirements of an Australian university – Must return to their home country post-study | – Full tuition fees – Return air travel – Establishment allowance – Contribution to living expenses |
| Destination Australia Scholarship | Domestic and international students | – Must be studying full-time in regional Australia | – AUD 15,000 per annum for living and study costs |
| RTP Scholarships for Research Training | Domestic and international students for postgraduate research (Master’s or PhD) | – Must be accepted into a full-time research degree program (Master’s or PhD) at an eligible Australian university. | – Tuition fee sponsorship – Living cost stipend – Travel and medical insurance coverage |
| JAF – John Allwright Fellowship | Researchers and professionals in the agricultural sector | – Must be a citizen of a partner country involved in agricultural research – Must be studying for a Master’s or PhD in Australia | – Full tuition coverage – Accommodation costs – Assistance with research costs |
Also Read: Indian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad
Work Opportunities During And After an MS In Australia
In Australia, international students have access to numerous work opportunities, which significantly attracts those pursuing a master’s degree. With options available both during their studies and after graduation, students can advance their careers in various sectors. Here are key career roles where students can find employment:
- Part-Time Working Opportunities During Course of Study: Under the student visa category, international students can work up to 40 hours every two weeks during the academic session. Also, there are no restrictions on work hours during holidays. Some common job options include:
- Retail Assistant
- Customer Service Representative
- Office Assistant
- Internships and Industry Work Experience: Many Australian universities include internships or work experience in their master’s programs. This allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in practice. Below are some of the best internship positions:
- Data Analyst Intern
- Engineering Assistant
- Software Development Intern
- Project Coordination Intern
- Research Assistant
- Post-Study Work Visa: Graduates who complete their studies in Australia have the opportunity to apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa. This will allow them to gain full-time employment in Australia for a period of two to four years after earning their master’s degree. It also facilitates full professional engagement in various roles, including:
- Software Engineer
- Data Scientist
- Financial Analyst
- Marketing Specialist
- Project Manager
- Graduate Programs: Many of the leading companies in Australia have graduate employment schemes designed to incorporate training and rotation opportunities. This allows graduates to gain a diverse experience in the company. Graduate program positions often include:
- Junior Consultant
- Business Analyst
- Product Development Associate
- Junior Project Manager
- Operation Associate
- Permanent Residency Pathways: For those intending to stay in Australia permanently, there are pathways available after working under the post-study work restrictions. Skilled migration visas are specific to qualified professionals in some of the most sought-after jobs such as IT, engineering, health care, etc. Some job opportunities that can lead to PR degrees include:
- Network Engineer
- Healthcare Analyst
- Mechanical Engineer
- Civil Engineer
Salary Expectations for MS Graduates in Australia
Graduates with a master’s degree in Australia can expect a salary range depending on their field of study, experience, and location. Here’s a general overview of the salary expectations for certain job positions in Australia after completing a master’s degree:
| Job Role | Average Salary (AUD) | Approximate Salary (INR) |
| Software Engineer | AUD 85,000- 110,000 | INR ₹45 LPA- ₹58 LPA |
| Data Scientist | AUD 90,000- 120,000 | INR ₹48 LPA- ₹64 LPA |
| Project Manager | AUD 100,000- 130,000 | INR ₹53 LPA- ₹69 LPA |
| Financial Analyst | AUD 70,000- 90,000 | INR ₹37 LPA- ₹48 LPA |
| Marketing Specialist | AUD 70,000- 90,000 | INR ₹37 LPA- ₹48 LPA |
| Mechanical Engineer | AUD 85,000- 110,000 | INR ₹45 LPA- ₹58 LPA |
Cost of Living in Australia
Studying in Australia involves various costs which can vary depending on factors like university tuition, the city you’re residing in, etc. Understanding the cost associated with studying in Australia will help you budget effectively and plan for your time in Australia. Here is the average cost of living in Australia while pursuing a Masters.
| Expense | Costs (AUD) Approx | Costs (INR) Approx |
| Rent (1-bedroom apt) | AUD 2,228 | ₹12,256 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) | AUD 297.21 | ₹16,349 |
| Public Transport | AUD 169.22 | ₹9308 |
| Groceries & Meals | AUD 600 | ₹33,005 |
| Leisure & Miscellaneous | AUD 200 | ₹11,001 |
Total Annual Costs – AUD 59,000- 90,000 (₹31- ₹47.5 lakhs approx)
Top Employers Hiring MS Graduates in Australia
Professionals with an MS degree are in high demand in Australia in many fields, such as technology, banking, healthcare, engineering, and consulting. Having a master’s degree can lead to numerous opportunities, as top companies actively seek individuals with in-demand skills. Most MS graduates in Australia get jobs in the following well-known companies:
| S.No. | Company Name | Average Salary (AUD) | Average Salary (INR) |
| 1 | IBM, Australia | AUD 90,000 – 120,000 | ₹4,950,000 – ₹6,600,000 |
| 2 | Microsoft | AUD 95,000 – 130,000 | ₹5,225,000 – ₹7,150,000 |
| 3 | Google, Australia | AUD 100,000 – 140,000 | ₹5,500,000 – ₹7,700,000 |
| 4 | Amazon Web Services | AUD 110,000 – 150,000 | ₹6,050,000 – ₹8,250,000 |
| 5 | Commonwealth Bank of Australia | AUD 85,000 – 120,000 | ₹4,675,000 – ₹6,600,000 |
| 6 | National Australia Bank | AUD 85,000 – 115,000 | ₹4,675,000 – ₹6,325,000 |
| 7 | ANZ Banking Group | AUD 80,000 – 115,000 | ₹4,400,000 – ₹6,325,000 |
| 8 | CSL Limited | AUD 90,000 – 125,000 | ₹4,950,000 – ₹6,875,000 |
| 9 | Pfizer, Australia | AUD 95,000 – 130,000 | ₹5,225,000 – ₹7,150,000 |
| 10 | Medibank | AUD 80,000 – 110,000 | ₹4,400,000 – ₹6,050,000 |
Conclusion
Pursuing an MS in Australia has several advantages, including access to top-ranked universities, exposure to different cultures, and increased chances of getting employment after studies. Additionally, the chance to work while studying, along with post-study work opportunities, enhances the overall experience. Graduates can expect high salaries and access to various industries. These benefits make Australia a great destination for Masters students looking to study abroad.
If you want to know more about MS in other countries such as Singapore, read our comprehensive guide on MS in Singapore to learn everything you need to know to get started.
