All You Need to Know about Study Masters in Australia

Study masters in Australia is the gateway to world-class education. As one of the most popular study-abroad destinations, Australia attracts thousands of international students every year.

According to the Australian Department of Education, the number of international master’s students has been increasing steadily. This highlights the country’s strong reputation for academic excellence.

Reasons to study masters in Australia

Australia is among the go-to destinations for studying abroad due to several advantages, for example:

1. ● Top-tier educational system: According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, Australia has 6 universities in the top 50 best universities globally.
2. ● Affordable tuition fee: Compared to the UK and the US, studying for a master’s in Australia is more cost-effective. Universities also offer scholarships for international students.
3. ● High quality of life: Modern infrastructure, efficient transportation, good healthcare services, etc.
4. ● Cultural diversity: Studying in Australia means being a part of a diverse student community. This offers opportunities to network with peers from all over the world.
5. ● Post-graduation employment opportunities: Graduates can stay and work in Australia for 3–5 years, or even up to 7 years.

Read more: How to apply for Australia student visa?

2 types of Master’s programs in Australia

Masters in Australia fall into 2 main categories:

Master by Coursework

This program follows a structured curriculum with a set number of credits required for graduation. It offers flexible study options, which is ideal for international students who want to balance work and study.

Master by Research

Instead of attending regular classes, students work closely with a professor or academic supervisor to conduct independent research and complete a thesis.

Study Masters in Australia requirements

If you’re planning to study a master’s in Australia, you have to meet several requirements:

Education

You must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 6.5. For arts and design programs, a portfolio may be required.

If you don’t meet the GPA requirement, some universities offer pre-master’s programs to help you qualify.

English certification

Each university and program may have different English language requirements. Typically, the standard requirements to study Masters in Australia are:

1. ● IELTS: 6.5 minimum, with no band lower than 6.0
2. ● TOEFL: minimum score of 548
3. ● PTE: minimum score of 58.5
4. ● CAE: minimum score of 176

Application documents for study masters in Australia

When applying to an Australian university, you will need:

1. ● Bachelor’s degree
2. ● University transcript
3. ● Passport
4. ● IELTS certificate or equivalent
5. ● Application for admission
6. ● Awards or any other achievements (if any)
7. ● CV, research papers, portfolio, etc.

To get an Australian student visa, you must prepare:

1. ● Admission letter
2. ● Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
3. ● Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
4. ● Employment-related documents (if applicable)
5. ● Scholarship letter (if any)
6. ● Academic records
7. ● Financial proof

⚠️ Note: The visa review process for postgraduate programs can take anywhere from 30 days to 7 months. Since Australian universities typically start their academic year in February and July, it’s best to apply early to avoid delays.

Read more: How long does Australia student visa remain valid?

Evidence of financial capacity

Like undergraduate students, master’s applicants must prove their financial ability. This can be demonstrated through annual income proof or bank statements showing funds to cover at least 1 year of tuition and living expenses.

Work experience

Some Australian universities may require 2–3 years of work experience.

Required documents:

1. ● Employment verification letter
2. ● Recommendation letter from previous employers
3. ● Other relevant documents

Masters in Australia for international students fees

Studying for a master’s degree in Australia is generally more affordable compared to the UK and the US. Along with reasonable costs, international students also have higher chances of finding jobs and securing permanent residency in the country.

1. ● Tuition: The average tuition fee of Australian universities varies between AUD 21,000 – 56,500 per year, depending on the institution, field of study, and specific program.

1. ● Living expenses: This includes accommodation, transportation, internet, entertainment, and other daily costs. Expenses vary by region, with major cities like Sydney and Melbourne having higher living costs.

1. ● OSHC fee: Overseas Student Health Cover is mandatory, costing between AUD 1,400 – 1,800 for two years.

1. ● Other costs: plane tickets, books, materials, school supplies, extracurricular activities.

1. ● Visa application fee: The current fee for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) is AUD 1.600.

Estimated total cost: The minimum cost for tuition and living expenses is approximately AUD 60,000 per year.

Self-funded master’s study in Australia: What to expect

Pursuing a master’s degree in Australia as a self-funded student is both challenging and rewarding. If choosing to study abroad on your own, you’ll need to manage every step of the process from research to application on your own.

1. ● Plan ahead: It’s important to have well-thought-out study plan.

1. ● Academic program: Research carefully the university and program you choose to avoid issues such as visa expiration due to extended study duration.

1. ● Budget: Plan for everything from application fees to airfare and arrival expenses. Notable expenses: tuition, accommodation, food, transportation, phone and internet services, and personal expenses.

1. ● The next step is preparing the necessary paperwork such as degrees, certificates, reference letter, CV, and scholarship application letter. To ensure a smooth approval process, check the Australian Embassy’s website for the latest requirements.

✨ Tips: Join student groups and connect with alumni to gain valuable insights. In addition, networking can help you build friendships and support systems, so you won’t feel alone in a new country!

For an accurate and hassle-free Australian Master’s study abroad application, from preparation to translation, contact Thao & Co. We will accompany you on your study abroad journey.

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