Study MBA in Australia: Universities, Eligibility, and Costs

Pursuing an MBA in Australia offers access to four globally ranked business schools featured in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025. With 80% international student enrollment and approximately 122,202 Indian students currently studying in Australia, the country stands as a premier destination for global business education.

The cost of MBA in Australia typically ranges from AUD 60,000 to AUD 126,000 annually, with graduates earning an average salary of AUD 105,000 per year. The best universities for MBA in Australia include prestigious institutions like the University of Melbourne, UNSW, and the University of Queensland. Additionally, MBA courses in Australia offer diverse specializations such as International Business, Finance, and Marketing, with program durations varying from 12 months to 2 years.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover everything about pursuing your MBA in Australia for Indian students, including detailed information about top universities, course options, fees, eligibility requirements, and post-study work opportunities that can extend up to 4 years.

Why Choose MBA in Australia for Indian Students

Choosing an MBA in Australia for Indian students offers unique advantages that extend beyond acquiring theoretical knowledge. Australia has established itself as an education powerhouse with 9 universities featuring in the top 100 QS Global MBA rankings 2024. This exceptional educational quality, combined with specific benefits for international students, makes it a strategic choice for ambitious Indian professionals.

Global recognition and quality education

The master of business administration Australia programs hold prestigious international accreditations from bodies like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS), and Association of MBAs (AMBA). These accreditations ensure your MBA course in Australia meets global standards and is recognized worldwide. Indeed, with approximately 75 internationally recognized MBA programs across the country, you gain access to education that employers value globally.

Post-study work opportunities

One significant advantage of pursuing an MBA in Australia for Indian students is the generous post-study work rights. Upon completion, you can apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), allowing you to work in Australia for 18 months to four years. This opportunity enables you to gain valuable international experience, initially recoup your investment through higher Australian wages, and potentially create a pathway to permanent residency.

Cultural diversity and quality of life

When considering the best universities for MBA in Australia, you'll discover that Australian business schools have some of the world's most diverse student cohorts, with 5 education providers ranking among the top 20 for diversity. Studying alongside peers from various backgrounds enhances your global perspective and intercultural skills. Additionally, Australia offers an exceptional quality of life with safe environments, excellent healthcare services, and an education system that ranks among the world's finest.

Proximity to emerging Asian markets

Australia serves as a strategic "western gateway" to Asian economies, offering tremendous advantages for your future career. The country's geographic position and strong business connections with emerging Asian markets provide unique networking opportunities. Given that 30% of international MBA students in Australia come from the Asia-Pacific region, your classroom experience effectively mirrors the global business environment you'll enter after graduation.

The requirements for MBA in Australia typically include a bachelor's degree, English proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), and often GMAT scores. While the cost of MBA in Australia ranges from AUD 60,000 to AUD 126,000 annually, graduates command impressive salaries, with the average salary of MBA in Australia ranging from AUD 80,000 to AUD 196,433 annually, ensuring a strong return on investment.

Top Universities for MBA in Australia

When exploring the top universities for MBA in Australia, you'll find world-class business schools that consistently rank among global elite institutions. Australia houses several prestigious business schools offering exceptional MBA courses in Australia that combine academic rigor with practical business applications.

1. Melbourne Business School (University of Melbourne)

Ranked as Australia's #1 MBA program according to QS Global MBA Rankings 2025, Melbourne Business School offers diverse program formats to suit your career stage. Their Full-time MBA stands as the country's top-ranked program, attracting students globally seeking a challenging experience in Australia's most vibrant city. For senior executives, they provide the Senior Executive MBA focusing on cutting-edge innovations shaping international business. 

The school also offers flexible Part-time and Online MBA options with multiple annual intakes.

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, duration of the program, and program cost at Melbourne Business School, University of Melbourne:

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	2 years	AUD $112,500
Executive MBA	1.5 years	AUD $125,100
Part-time MBA	2+ years	AUD $5,150/Subject
Online MBA	3 years	AUD $90,000

 

2. AGSM - UNSW Business School (University of New South Wales)

UNSW's Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) ranks 33rd globally in the QS 2024 Global MBA Rankings, placing it in the top 10% of the world's best management schools for three consecutive years. AGSM excels particularly in Thought Leadership (scoring 89.2 – 38.3 points above global average) and Diversity (91.7 – 31.7 above average). 

Their Return on Investment score of 71.7 exceeds the global average by 10.2 points, making it an excellent choice for MBA in Australia for Indian students concerned about cost of MBA in Australia.

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at AGSM:
 

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	1 year	AUD $86,760
MBA Extension	2 years	AUD $113,160

 

3. University of Sydney Business School

University of Sydney Business School MBA program (Leadership and Enterprise) ranks first in Australia according to Financial Times MBA Rankings 2024. This 18-month full-time program with small class sizes features intensive formatting where students complete two units over nine-week periods. 

Beyond traditional MBA fundamentals, you'll learn leading teams in digital environments, harnessing big data, and exploring complex systems. With exceptional industry internships exposing you to global brands, the program requires minimum three years of relevant work experience.

The table below lists the MBA program offered, program duration and program cost and more:

Program Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	1.5 years	AUD $67,000

 

4. University of Queensland Business School, Brisbane

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at University of Queensland Business School:

 

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	1.5 years	AUD $63,984
Part-time MBA	2 years	AUD $63,984

 

5. Macquarie Business School, Macquarie University, Sydney

The table below lists the MBA program offered, program duration and program cost at Macquarie Business School, Macquarie University:

 

Program Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	1.5 - 2 years	AUD $46,500+

 

6. University of Western Australia Business School, Perth

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at University of Western Australia Business School:

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
MBA Intensive	1 year	AUD $86,400
MBA Flexible	Up to 5 years	AUD $60,800
MBA and Master of Laws	2 years	AUD $126,400

 

Note: The University of Western Australia (UWA), in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Management (IIM)-Kozhikode, offers an online Executive MBA. The two-year-long MBA program offers dual credentials, earning an MBA from UWA and a Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) certification from IIM-Kozhikode. The program cost is ₹560,000 (GST excluded).

 

7. RMIT University School of Business and Law, Melbourne

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at RMIT University School of Business and Law:

 

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	2 years	AUD $82,560
Executive MBA	2 years	AUD $112,500

 

UniSA Business School, Adelaide

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at UniSA Business School:

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
MBA	1.5 years	AUD $60,000
International MBA	2 years	AUD $80,000 - $120,000

 

9. University of Technology Sydney Business School

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at University of Technology Sydney Business School:

 

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
Full-time MBA	2 years	AUD $96,140
Part-time MBA	Up to 4 years	AUD $96,140
Executive MBA	1.5 years	AUD $66,700
Part-time Executive MBA	2 years	AUD $66,700
Online MBA	2 years	AUD $48,000

 

10. Sydney Business School, University of Wollongong

The table below lists the MBA programs offered, program duration and program cost at Sydney Business School, University of Wollongong:

 

Programs Offered	Duration	Estimated Cost (In AUD)
MBA	1.5 years	AUD $67,600
MBA Advanced	Up to 4 years	AUD $90,144
Online MBA	1.5 years	AUD $67,600
Master of Business	2 years	AUD $55,650

 

Note: The advanced MBA program at University of Wollongong offers specializations in Accounting, Business Analytics, Finance, Human Resource Management, Marketing and Project Management.

11. Monash Business School

Monash Business School offers transformative programs including their Global Executive MBA designed for leaders with minimum five years' professional experience. Their distinctive 18-month program emphasizes contemporary business challenges while developing leadership mindset and managerial competencies. Monash also provides an innovative MBA (Digital) for self-directed learners preferring online study, with the MBA in Australia fees averaging AUD 53,000 for international students.

12. University of Queensland Business School

UQ's MBA program develops leadership agility to navigate changing business landscapes. The curriculum provides comprehensive understanding of multiple business functions, increasing your confidence in complex decision-making. UQ supports career goals through personalized expert support, industry mentoring, exclusive events, and one-on-one career consultations. Graduates access continued career advice and networking opportunities throughout their careers.

MBA Courses in Australia: Types and Duration

Navigating through the diverse range of MBA courses in Australia requires understanding their various formats and timeframes. Australian business schools offer flexible study options tailored to different career stages and professional goals, enabling you to choose a program that aligns perfectly with your aspirations.

Full-time MBA programs (1-2 years)

The traditional full-time MBA in Australia typically spans between 15 months to 2 years, providing an immersive educational experience. The University of Sydney offers an 18-month full-time MBA course in Australia with small class sizes where students complete two units over nine-week periods. This intensive format develops your personal skills, business knowledge, and enterprise leadership abilities. Similarly, Melbourne Business School's full-time program can be tailored to your needs—study over two years for the complete experience or accelerate your pace to allow more time for internships and exchange opportunities.

Part-time and online MBA options

For professionals unwilling to pause their careers, part-time MBA in Australia presents an ideal solution. Most students complete these programs within 2.5 to 3.5 years. The University of Sydney's part-time MBA is specifically designed for busy managers with 3-5 years of relevant experience looking to advance into senior positions.

Alternatively, online MBAs offer maximum flexibility. UNSW's AGSM delivers MBAX programs with eight specializations that can be completed in as little as two years or extended across six years. These programs typically require only 10-12 hours of weekly study, making them suitable for MBA in Australia for Indian students with existing commitments.

Executive MBA programs

The Executive MBA in Australia targets seasoned professionals with significant management experience. Melbourne Business School's Executive MBA condenses the program into 10 on-campus residential weekend modules over 18 months, minimizing disruption to your professional responsibilities. These programs focus on developing leadership capabilities for significant organizational roles and often include international modules in Asia to broaden your global perspective.

MBA with specializations

Australian institutions offer numerous specialized MBA in Australia programs catering to specific career trajectories. Common specializations include:

• Finance (focusing on financial management and investment analysis)
• Marketing (developing skills in market research and brand management)
• International Business (navigating global business environments)
• Healthcare Management (preparing for leadership in healthcare organizations)
• Technology Management (focusing on IT strategy and digital transformation)

The cost of MBA in Australia varies by program type, with international students paying between AUD 60,000 and AUD 126,000 annually. Therefore, choosing the right program format and specialization is crucial for maximizing your return on investment and achieving your career goals.

MBA in Australia Fees and Cost Breakdown

Understanding the complete financial investment required for an MBA in Australia involves analyzing several key cost components. The cost of MBA in Australia varies significantly between institutions, program types, and locations, making it essential to plan your budget carefully.

Tuition fees at top universities

The MBA in Australia fees for international students range from AUD 48,000 to AUD 85,000 per year. Elite institutions command premium prices, with Melbourne Business School charging approximately INR 63,28,533 annually for their program, significantly higher than other options. 

The Australian Graduate School of Management (UNSW) follows with fees around INR 54,84,729. University of Sydney Business School and Monash Business School both charge between INR 50,62,827 to INR 59,06,631 annually. 

For budget-conscious students, universities like Macquarie Business School and University of Technology Sydney offer programs at approximately INR 42,19,022.

Living expenses in major Australian cities

Beyond MBA course in Australia tuition, living expenses constitute a substantial portion of your budget. Accommodation typically costs between AUD 1,500-2,000 monthly, while food and groceries add another AUD 800-1,200. 

Transportation expenses range from AUD 300-600 monthly, with utilities adding AUD 270-490. Internet services cost approximately AUD 70-90 monthly. Alternatively, monthly accommodation expenses range from AUD 297-743 for housing, AUD 208-416 for food, and AUD 44-89 for transportation.

Health insurance and additional costs

The requirements for MBA in Australia include mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). This insurance costs between AUD 500-600 annually for basic single coverage, though more comprehensive figures indicate between AUD 609-3,438 annually depending on coverage type. 

Basic OSHC covers doctor visits, some hospital treatments, ambulance services, and limited pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, visa fees (AUD 630) and pre-arrival costs like application fees (AUD 133) should be factored into your budget.

Total investment comparison

The total MBA in Australia cost for international students combines tuition fees averaging AUD 69,186 annually with approximately AUD 20,000 yearly living expenses. Factoring health insurance and other miscellaneous expenses, the comprehensive investment for a two-year MBA in Australia for Indian students ranges between AUD 150,000-200,000. Nevertheless, with graduates earning average salaries of AUD 105,000 annually (approximately INR 56 lakhs), the master of business administration Australia programs deliver strong returns on investment.
 

Eligibility Requirements for MBA in Australia for Indian Students: 

Meeting the requirements for MBA in Australia demands careful attention to several crucial criteria that vary across universities. For MBA in Australia for Indian students, understanding these eligibility factors will significantly improve your chances of admission to your preferred program.

Students Academic Qualifications Requirements

A bachelor's degree serves as the fundamental requirement for MBA in Australia with most institutions expecting a minimum score of 60% in your undergraduate studies. For prestigious schools like the University of Sydney, a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 65% or equivalent is typically required. Your academic achievements become even more critical if you're pursuing an MBA in Australia without work experience. In such cases, a strong undergraduate performance, particularly in business-related subjects, can substantially strengthen your application.

Work experience requirements (if Applicable)

Most MBA courses in Australia require at least three years of relevant work experience. However, the landscape is diverse—universities can be classified into three main categories: those requiring both GMAT scores and significant work experience; those requiring either good GMAT scores or work experience; and those granting admission based primarily on academic and English proficiency scores. For those lacking professional experience, universities like the University of Tasmania and RMIT University offer specially designed programs.

English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)

Since MBA in Australia programs are conducted in English, proving your language proficiency is essential. The standard requirement is an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0. Alternatively, equivalent scores from TOEFL iBT, PTE, Cambridge C1 Advanced, or Cambridge C2 Proficiency are accepted. Remember that these tests must be no more than two years old at the date of course commencement.

GMAT/GRE score expectations

For top universities for MBA in Australia, GMAT scores significantly impact your application. While the minimum required score is around 550, a competitive score exceeding 650 substantially increases admission chances. Elite institutions set higher benchmarks—Melbourne Business School expects at least 695, whereas Monash Business School requires approximately 670. Nevertheless, some universities offer flexibility based on your professional experience.

Application documents and deadlines

A complete application package for master of business administration Australia typically includes:

• Statement of motivation (maximum two pages)
• Academic qualification details
• Employment history
• Two confidential professional references

Additionally, for applicants without work experience, recommendation letters from academic professors can strengthen your application. Most universities have multiple admission rounds, with earlier applications generally receiving priority consideration.

Scholarships and Financial Aid Options

Financing your MBA in Australia just became easier with numerous scholarship opportunities and financial aid options available specifically for international students. Despite the high cost of MBA in Australia, many universities offer substantial merit-based scholarships covering between 25% to 100% of tuition fees.

• Melbourne Business School MBA Scholarships: partial to full tuition coverage based on overall profile for all MBA programs
• Adelaide MBA Scholarship: Covers full tuition fee on merit basis
• UNSW Business School Scholarships: Covers partial tuition fee on merit basis
• UQ Business School MBA Scholarships: Covers partial tuition fee based on overall profile
• Macquarie University MBA Scholarship: Covers partial tuition fee on merit basis
   

University-specific scholarships

Each of the best universities for MBA in Australia provides dedicated scholarship programs for exceptional candidates. Melbourne Business School offers Management Education scholarships for applicants demonstrating impact in their field. Meanwhile, UNSW's AGSM provides the Global Reach Scholarship worth up to INR 43.6L. Notably, Monash University features the MBA International Women in Leadership Scholarship covering 100% of course fees, making master of business administration Australia programs more accessible for female professionals.

Government scholarships for Indian students

The Australian Government extends valuable financial support through specialized programs. The Australia Awards Scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs for students from developing countries, including India. Equally important, the Endeavor Awards present internationally competitive, merit-based scholarships for Asia-Pacific students pursuing study, research, and professional development in Australia.

External funding opportunities

Beyond university and government options, numerous external organizations offer financial assistance. Industry-specific scholarships like the Kraft Heinz Scholarship (worth up to INR 6.7L) at the University of Melbourne support students interested in the food and beverage sector. Furthermore, diversity-focused scholarships aim to increase representation from underrepresented groups in MBA courses in Australia.

Education loans from Indian banks

For many Indian students, education loans provide vital financing for MBA in Australia fees. Nationalized banks like State Bank of India offer education loans up to INR 40 lakhs for Australian education. These loans typically cover tuition fees, accommodation, travel expenses, laptop purchases, and other reasonable academic expenses. Importantly, repayment periods extend up to 10 years for loans between INR 5-10.5 lakhs and up to 20 years for larger amounts, making the requirements for MBA in Australia financially manageable for Indian students.

Post Study Work Rights after MBA in Australia

One of the most attractive aspects of completing an MBA in Australia is the generous post-study work rights available to international graduates. Upon finishing your degree, you gain access to valuable opportunities that extend your Australian experience beyond academics.

The Australian government offers the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485 - Post-Study Work Stream), allowing MBA in Australia for Indian students to remain and work freely without employer sponsorship. This visa permits graduates to stay between 2 and 3 years after completing their studies, depending on their qualification level. For those holding Hong Kong and British National Overseas passports, this period extends to 5 years.

The visa costs AUD 2,235 for the main applicant and must be applied for online within six months of course completion. During this time, you're responsible for finding your own employment, yet the flexibility allows you to work in any field, gaining diverse professional experience.

Beyond the initial visa, Australia offers a Second Post-Higher Education Work stream for graduates who studied at institutions in regional areas. This pathway provides an additional 1-2 years of stay, depending on your educational institution's location and your residence during the first visa period.

The requirements for MBA in Australia post-study work rights include completing a higher education degree at a recognized Australian institution, studying on a valid student visa, and demonstrating English proficiency. This experience significantly enhances your resume globally, as an MBA in Australia is recognized worldwide.

For many international students, these work rights create a potential pathway to permanent residency after gaining valuable Australian experience. The cost of MBA in Australia becomes a worthwhile investment when considering these extended opportunities.

Ultimately, post-study work rights transform your MBA course in Australia from merely an academic qualification into a comprehensive career launchpad, offering practical experience in one of the world's most robust economies.

MBA in Australia Highlights

The MBA in Australia landscape stands out with an impressive 9 universities featured in the top 100 QS Global MBA rankings 2024. With approximately 75 internationally recognized programs across the country, many holding prestigious AACSB and EQUIS accreditations, Australia has established itself as a premier destination for business education.

Australian business schools offer exceptional value through their MBA courses in Australia that blend theoretical foundations with practical applications. Most programs follow the renowned 'Harvard style' approach, covering approximately 16 business subjects delivered within a 15-month to 2-year timeframe. Furthermore, the diversity of specializations available ensures you can tailor your education to your career goals, whether in finance, education management, sports management, or banking.

The cost of MBA in Australia varies considerably across institutions, ranging from AUD 60,000 annually to between AUD 27,600 and AUD 100,000 for the entire program, depending on the university and specific course. While this represents a significant investment, graduates typically experience substantial returns, with average salaries ranging from AUD 80,000 to AUD 196,433 per year.

Best universities for MBA in Australia include Melbourne Business School, ranking 30th globally with high scores in Thought Leadership and Employability. Consequently, Melbourne Business School produces Australia's most employable graduates, placing 30th in QS' Employability indicator, highlighting the strong career outcomes for degree holders.

For international students, particularly those considering an MBA in Australia for Indian students, the country offers numerous advantages beyond academics. As per Australian High Commission data, 122,202 Indian students were studying in Australia as of November 2024, with approximately 20,000 enrolled in MBA programs. Additionally, around 80% of admitted MBA students in Australia come from international backgrounds, creating a truly global classroom experience.

The requirements for MBA in Australia typically include a bachelor's degree with minimum scores specified by each university, valid English proficiency test results (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), and often GMAT scores. While many programs require at least three years of managerial work experience, some universities accept students without prior professional experience.

One of the most compelling benefits of pursuing an MBA in Australia for international students is the post-study work opportunities. Graduates can apply for work visas allowing them to gain valuable professional experience in Australia for periods ranging from 18 months to four years. This experience not only enhances resumes but also provides potential pathways to permanent residency.

The average salary of MBA in Australia reflects the value employers place on these qualifications. Moreover, Australia opens more than 45,500 job vacancies annually for MBA degree holders, with over 6,000 positions specifically available for Finance MBA graduates each year, demonstrating the robust job market for MBA graduates.

Get free counseling for university shortlisting, application and visa!

Embarking on your MBA in Australia journey becomes considerably smoother with professional guidance. Various education consultancies offer free comprehensive counseling services to help navigate the complex process of university selection, applications, and visa procedures.

Leading education consultancies like IDP provide unbiased guidance through personal interviews with their team of over 1300+ international education experts based worldwide. They have successfully guided more than 500,000 students in finding suitable courses at their dream destinations. These services extend beyond basic advice—they offer systematic support throughout your entire journey.

Professional counselors thoroughly assess your profile to determine your suitability for studying an MBA course in Australia. Based on this evaluation, they recommend areas for profile improvement and help shortlist universities relevant to your interests, career objectives, budget, and other personal factors.

The complimentary services typically include:

• Expert assistance with university shortlisting aligned with your requirements for MBA in Australia
• Guidance in preparing compelling application documents, including CV editing and Statement of Purpose development
• Support with scholarship applications to reduce the cost of MBA in Australia
• Help navigating the Australian student visa process
• Pre-departure briefings once your visa is approved

Unlike navigating alone, professional counselors stay updated with the latest MBA in Australia fees structures and admission requirements at top universities for MBA in Australia. Through regular follow-ups with universities, they keep you informed about your application status and address any concerns that arise.

For financial planning, counselors can advise on available scholarships at best universities for MBA in Australia and guide you through education loan options from Indian banks, which typically cover tuition fees, accommodation, travel expenses, and other academic costs.

Remember, you don't necessarily need an agent for student visa applications—you can apply directly online using ImmiAccount. Yet, the professional guidance can substantially improve your chances of admission to prestigious MBA courses in Australia while saving valuable time and effort.

Conclusion

MBA in Australia stands as a strategic investment in your future, offering world-class education through globally ranked business schools and exceptional career prospects. The diverse range of MBA courses in Australia allows you to choose programs matching your career goals, whether through full-time, part-time, or specialized tracks.

The cost of MBA in Australia, though substantial, delivers strong returns through high graduate salaries and extensive post-study work opportunities. Best universities for MBA in Australia consistently rank among global leaders, providing internationally recognized qualifications that open doors worldwide.

Australian business schools understand the unique needs of international students, offering comprehensive support systems and diverse learning environments. The requirements for MBA in Australia remain competitive yet achievable, with multiple pathways available based on your academic background and professional experience.

Therefore, choosing Australia for your MBA means joining a thriving business education ecosystem that combines academic excellence with practical industry exposure. Your MBA journey can transform into a stepping stone toward permanent residency, thanks to generous post-study work rights extending up to four years.

Ultimately, pursuing an MBA in Australia positions you at the intersection of Asian and Western business cultures, preparing you for leadership roles in the global marketplace. With strong employment outcomes and countless opportunities for professional growth, Australian MBA programs offer the perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for success in today's business world.