Are you an international student looking to pursue a nursing degree in Australia without breaking the bank? With over 500,000 yearly admissions, Australia is a top destination for study abroad, which provides world-class education, but tuition fees can be a significant expense, especially for international students. However, there are several universities in Australia that provide affordable nursing programs, both at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. Here, we’ll explore the cheapest nursing courses in Australia for international students.
Cheapest Universities for a Bachelor of Nursing Degree in 2024 with Fee
Cheapest Universities for a Master of Nursing Degree in 2024 with Fee
Factors to Consider when Choosing a University
When selecting a university for nursing education in Australia, several factors should be taken into account to ensure a fulfilling academic journey. These include affordability, quality of education, location, and available resources.
Top Affordable Universities for International Students in 2024
1. University of the Sunshine Coast
The University of the Sunshine Coast is counted among the low tuition universities in Australia, offering the choice and flexibility you need to get started on your nursing career. In terms of overall educational experience among public institutions, UniSC ranks 1st in Queensland and in the nation’s top two Universities and has a five-star rating for teaching.
Course duration: 3.3 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– International Student Scholarship
– English Excellence Scholarship
2. Southern Cross University
Southern Cross University is the best option if you’re looking for the cheapest university in Australia. It is one of Australia’s most affordable nursing universities and offers excellent value. It is only 25 years young and ranked in the top 200 universities in the world according to the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2020, with outstanding student support across undergraduate and postgraduate studies. In three different locations—Coffs Harbour, Gold Coast, and Lismore—Southern Cross University offers both bachelor and master of nursing degrees. International students have the option of choosing the place they feel is best for them.
Course duration (Bachelor): 3 years full-time
Course duration (Master): 2 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– SCU International Women in STEM Scholarship
– Vice Chancellor’s Academic Excellence
– Vice Chancellor’s International Diversification Scholarship
– SCU International Regional Scholarship
→ Learn More: 15 Essential Guidelines for Writing an Impressive SOP
3. Australian Catholic University
Australian Catholic University is also one of the affordable options when you are looking for nursing universities in Australia and offers studying in 6 different locations (Ballarat, Blacktown, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, and North Sydney). ACU cares about your experience and respects where you are from as an overseas student. Nationally, ACU has over 200 clinical nursing partners who welcome placement students.
Course duration: 3 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– ACU International Student Accommodation Scholarship
– ACU International Student Scholarship
4. Torrens University
Moving ahead, we have the very famous and popular Torrens University on our list of the cheapest nursing universities in Australia for international students. Torrens University Australia brings a fresh approach to higher education as the country’s fastest-growing university. The Bachelor of Nursing at Torrens University prepares you for vital assessment and clinical decision making skills and for developing a person-centered, professional approach to care.
Course duration: 3 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE -Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– New Brisbane Scholarship
– Alternate Pathway Scholarship
5. Charles Sturt University
The list of the cheapest universities in Australia will be incomplete if we don’t include Charles Sturt University. According to the QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021, it is #1 for graduate employment. Compared to graduates from other Australian universities, Charles Sturt University graduates land jobs more quickly. For more than 30 years, Charles Sturt University’s Bachelor of Nursing program has set the standard for nursing education.
Course duration: 3 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE -Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– International Student Support Scholarship
– Government-funded Australian scholarships for international students
– Charles Sturt University scholarships for international students
6. University of New England
The University of New England is one of Australia’s oldest and most experienced universities. Besides, it’s one of the cheapest universities for nursing. The University of New England is at the forefront of nursing education in Australia. UNE focuses on students being able to integrate their academic knowledge into the real world of work as it offers clinical placements with major health service providers in the public, non-profit and private sectors, in community and mental health, or in specialist multidisciplinary primary health care services.
Course duration: 3 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– The UNE International Bursary
7. University of Southern Queensland
The University of Southern Queensland is next on our list of the cheapest universities in Australia. Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023 ranked the University of Southern Queensland among the top 301-350 universities worldwide. Its Bachelor of Nursing program prepares you for practice as a registered nurse in hospitals, community settings, mental health settings, GP practices, clinics, rural and remote health services, and aged care facilities across Australia and the world.
Course duration: 3 years full-time or part-time equivalent
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– Australia Award Scholarships
8. Federation University
Federation University is a fresh choice for a university in Queensland that brings 150 years of values and student support. The nursing course at Federation University includes mental health, medical, and surgical nursing, working with different groups, and palliative care. Additionally, you will gain knowledge about management and leadership techniques to boost your confidence as you begin your profession.
Course duration: 3 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– Federation University Australia Global Innovator Scholarship
– Federation University Australia Global Excellence Scholarship
– International Student Accommodation Support Scholarship
9. Western Sydney University
Ranked in the top 2% of universities globally, Western Sydney University values academic excellence, integrity, and the pursuit of knowledge. Besides, it’s one of the cheapest nursing universities in Australia, which is ranked in the top 50 in nursing by QS World Rankings by subject. Western’s Master and Bachelor of Nursing programs are focused on inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and reflective practice in relation to the theory and practice of nursing in health and health breakdown across the lifespan.
Course duration (Bachelor): 3 years full-time
Course duration (Master): 2 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– Western Sydney International Scholarships – Undergraduate
– Sustainable Development Goals – International Undergraduate Scholarship
10. Central Queensland University
Central Queensland University Australia, has built a reputation as a provider of quality education accessible to all. They are consistently rated well above the Australian average by International students, and they are committed to improving the student experience. A degree at this university comes at an affordable price. If you are preparing for a rewarding and diverse career as a competent and effective registered nurse, you can take advantage of Central Queensland University’s enhanced learning experience and launch your nursing career.
Course duration: 3 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– International Student Scholarship
11. James Cook University
James Cook University offers a Bachelor of Nursing Science at its campuses in Townsville, Cairns. The university is renowned for its focus on tropics and rural healthcare, providing students with unique learning experiences. With a focus on research-led teaching and hands-on practical experience. JCU ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the nursing profession.
Course duration: 3 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– JCU International Excellence Scholarship
– JCU Academic Merit Scholarship
12. Victoria University
Victoria University’s College of Health and Biomedicine offers affordable nursing programs, including a Bachelor of Nursing. With campuses in Melbourne’s western suburbs, Victoria University provides a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
Course duration: 3 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– VU International Student Scholarship
13. University of Wollongong
The University of Wollongong’s School of Nursing is renowned for its excellence in nursing education. The university offers a Bachelor of Nursing and a Master of Nursing, with opportunities for clinical placements in various healthcare settings. Situated in the vibrant city of Wollongong, UOW provides students with a supportive community and access to cutting-edge resources.
Course duration (Bachelor): 3 years full-time
Course duration (Master): 2 years full-time
English Score Required (Bachelor):
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
English Score Required (Master):
IELTS – Overall Score: 6.5 (not less than 6.0 in each band)
PTE – Overall Score: 60
Scholarships for International Students:
– University of Wollongong Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health International School Scholarship
– University Excellence Scholarship
– UOW Postgraduate Academic Excellence Scholarship
14. University of Tasmania
Available at 3 different locations: Hobart, Launceston, and Cradle Coast, the University of Tasmania is next on our list of the cheapest universities in Australia for undergraduate and postgraduate nursing degrees. The University of Tasmania enables individuals to expand their breadth of knowledge and expertise in their chosen discipline. University of Tasmania helps international students develop superior professional knowledge and in-demand research skills for a career in specialized clinical practice.
Course duration: 3 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– Tasmanian International Scholarship
– Tasmanian Access Scholarship
15. Deakin University
Deakin University’s School of Nursing and Midwifery offers a Bachelor of Nursing and a Master of Nursing Practice at its campuses in Burwood, Waterfront and Warrnambool. Deakin is known for its innovative teaching methods and strong industry connections.
Course duration (Bachelor): 3 years full-time
Course duration (Master): 2 years full-time
English Score Required (Bachelor):
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
English Score Required (Master):
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0 (not less 6.5 in each band)
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– Deakin International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship
– Deakin International Merit Scholarship
16. Flinders University
Flinders University’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences provides a comprehensive nursing education through its Bachelor of Nursing and Master of Nursing programs. Ranked No. 1 in SA for Nursing, Flinders is located in Adelaide and offers excellent clinical placement opportunities.
Course duration (Bachelor): 3 years full-time
Course duration (Master): 2 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– Flinders International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship
– Flinders International Postgraduate Merit Scholarship
17. Edith Cowan University
Edith Cowan University (ECU) is committed to providing high-quality nursing education that prepares graduates to meet the challenges of modern healthcare. With a focus on innovation and practical learning, ECU equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in nursing. Edith Cowan University’s School of Nursing and Midwifery offers a Bachelor of Nursing and a Master of Nursing at its campuses in Perth (Joondalup).
Course duration: 3 years full-time
English Score Required:
IELTS – Overall Score: 7.0
PTE – Overall Score: 65
Scholarships for International Students:
– ECU International Student Scholarships
Conclusion
Pursuing a nursing degree in Australia can be a rewarding investment in your future career. By exploring affordable universities and taking advantage of scholarship opportunities, international students can access high-quality nursing education without excessive financial burden. Remember to consider factors beyond tuition fees, such as program reputation, teaching quality, and career prospects, to make an informed decision that aligns with your academic and professional goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for nursing programs at these affordable universities?
Each university has its own application process and requirements. Admission requirements may vary between universities but generally include academic transcripts, English language proficiency test scores, and Statement of Purpose.
It's recommended to visit the official websites of the universities you're interested in and follow their application guidelines for international students.
Are there any specific English language proficiency requirements for international students?
Yes, international students are usually required to demonstrate proficiency in English through tests such as IELTS or PTE.
Can I work while studying nursing in Australia?
International students on a valid student visa are typically allowed to work up to 40 hours per fortnight during academic semesters and full-time during study breaks. However, it's essential to check the specific visa conditions and ensure compliance.
How can I find accommodation as an international student in Australia?
Universities often provide accommodation services for international students, and there are also private accommodation options available off-campus.
Are there opportunities for postgraduate work or residency after completing nursing programs in Australia?
Yes, Australia offers various pathways for skilled graduates to work and potentially obtain residency after completing their studies.
Are clinical placements included in the nursing programs?
Yes, most nursing programs in Australia include mandatory clinical placements or practical training components, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings.