- From 1 July 2026 the Australian student visa (subclass 500) application fee starts at AUD 2,500
- International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms, with no limit during scheduled breaks
- The Genuine Student requirement replaced the older GTE statement in March 2024
- Master's graduates can access a Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa for two to three years of post-study work.
What Is an MS in Australia?
An MS in Australia is a master's degree, usually completed in one to two years, offered as coursework or research. Students can choose a traditional master's to study a subject in depth, a change-of-direction master's to enter a new field, or a professional master's built around practical skills and prior work experience.
An MS in Australia is available as both a research and a professional master's degree. There are three broad types you can pursue. A traditional master's suits students who plan to study a specific subject in detail. A change-of-direction master's offers courses in new subjects or streams for those interested in switching fields. Professional courses are designed for students with relevant prior study and work experience, and are usually training and skill-based degrees. Colleges follow a British-style model for higher education, and international students are supported by Australia's Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) framework, which protects their rights.
Which Courses Can You Study for an MS in Australia?
- MBA
- MS in Computer Science and IT
- Master of Engineering
- MS in Environmental Sciences
- MS in Finance
- MS in Nursing
What Is the Scope of an MS in Australia?
Australia attracts many international students thanks to its welcoming immigration policies and strong graduate outcomes. After completing an MS, graduates can apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) to gain two to three years of post-study work experience, which makes an Australian master's a strong return on investment for most candidates.
The scope of an MS in Australia depends largely on the course you choose. Australia is home to several globally top-ranked universities, and postgraduate qualifications are recognised worldwide, giving graduates strong employment prospects. Including tuition and living expenses, the total cost of an MS is typically 40,000 to 70,000 AUD per year. Combined with generous post-study work rights, this makes an Australian master's a high-return investment for international students.
How Much Does an MS in Australia Cost?
Tuition for a master's degree in Australia generally ranges from AUD 22,000 to AUD 50,000 per year for international students, depending on the university and program. Including living expenses, most students should budget between AUD 40,000 and AUD 70,000 per year. Living costs and health cover form a significant part of the total spend.
| Expense 2026 | Approximate Cost (AUD per year) |
|---|---|
| Master's tuition (international) | 22,000 - 50,000 |
| Living costs | 29,000 - 35,000 |
| Overseas Student Health Cover | 500 - 700 |
| Student visa (subclass 500) application | from 2,500 |
What Are the Requirements for an MS in Australia?
To pursue an MS in Australia you must meet several requirements. International applicants typically provide English test scores such as IELTS or TOEFL, relevant academic qualifications, entrance test results like the GRE or GMAT for some programs, letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose, along with health cover and a valid student visa.
To secure admission to an MS in Australia, candidates must satisfy academic, English-language, health and visa requirements. Meeting the academic criteria of the best universities offering an MS in Australia is essential, and requirements vary by university and specialisation.
Academic Requirements
- An undergraduate degree in a relevant field
- Work experience and professional qualifications for a professional MS in Australia
- Entrance test scores such as the GRE or GMAT, where required
- At least two academic letters of recommendation
- A personal statement, statement of intent or statement of research
English Language Requirements
International candidates who are not from English-speaking countries must provide proof of English-language proficiency. Minimum scores vary by university and by the specialisation chosen for an MS in Australia. As a general guide, most universities accept an IELTS of 6.5 or higher, a TOEFL iBT of 80 or higher, or a PTE Academic score of 58 or higher. Always confirm the exact requirement with your chosen university.
Overseas Student Health Cover
Australia requires international students to hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the full duration of their student visa. This special health-cover system helps pay for medical and hospital care while you study, and proof of OSHC is a condition of the subclass 500 student visa.
A Guide to Study in Australia After GraduationRead →What Are the Student Visa Requirements?
To study in Australia you need a student visa (subclass 500). You must hold an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment, meet the Genuine Student requirement, prove financial capacity for tuition and living costs, provide English proficiency, hold Overseas Student Health Cover, and meet health and character rules. From July 2026 the application fee starts at AUD 2,500.
To pursue an MS in Australia, students need a valid student visa (subclass 500). To obtain it, applicants must first receive a confirmation of enrolment from their chosen university and then satisfy the following minimum requirements.
- Receive an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE)
- Meet the Genuine Student requirement, which replaced the GTE statement in March 2024
- Provide proof of financial capacity to fund tuition, travel, living and other costs
- Provide a satisfactory English-proficiency test score
- Meet health and character requirements
- Hold a valid Overseas Student Health Cover certificate