Masters in Australia

Australia calls upon passionate learners worldwide to embark on a transformative educational journey. Australia's seven universities also rank among the world's Top 100 in the QS World University Rankings 2023, affirming their commitment to exceptional education and research. With its outstanding universities, cutting-edge research facilities, and vibrant culture of innovation, it offers an ideal destination for master's degree aspirants.

Immerse yourself in a dynamic academic environment that seamlessly blends rigorous learning with a relaxed lifestyle, resulting in a unique fusion of academic excellence and unforgettable experiences. Also known for its friendliness and inclusivity, Australia has been recognized as the 7th friendliest nation, according to the U.S. News survey. Additionally, the country boasts six cities in the top 10 QS Best Student Cities 2023.

Continue reading to gain deeper insights into the country’s renowned universities offering exceptional masters programs, admission prerequisites, promising career prospects, and a plethora of other valuable information related to pursuing a master's degree in Australia.

Highlights of MS Courses in Australia

Duration	1-2 years
Eligibility criteria	A bachelor’s degree in a relevant stream from a recognized university English language proficiency proof A valid passport and visa Academic transcripts as proof of grades Personal identification documents Work experience (if any)
Top specializations	Data Science Computer Science Food Science and Technology Digital Marketing and Communication Brand Strategy Market Research Technology and Project Management Communication Information Technology Project Management Business Administration Arts and Culture Management Biomedical Engineering Corporate Management Nursing
English proficiency requirements	IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL: 80 PTE: 58
Course fee	AUD 20,000-AUD 50,000

Why Choose Australia for MS Courses?

Australia provides various opportunities and practical exposure to international students. The country’s huge encouragement for university education is one of the primary reasons students pursue postgraduate studies there.
Australia is a multicultural country. It houses various traditions and cultures from across the world.
Australia is renowned as one of the safest countries for international students, boasting some of the lowest homicide rates globally. The country prioritizes the safety of its students.
Seven Australian universities rank in the top 100 globally. The country ensures high-quality education with world-class facilities for students.
Australia offers multiple courses in its universities. Students can choose the subject of their liking to pursue their masters. Also, the courses are in English. Hence, there is no language barrier.
Some of the Australian universities offer an internship to students. After graduation, students can obtain a Temporary Graduate visa to stay and work in Australia.
According to the Australian government data, the enrollment figures for international students in educational programs in Australia reached a total of 613,327 in the year 2022. The Education Services for Overseas Students Act proposed by the Australian government helps protect the rights of international students who study in Australia.
Australian institutions offer exceptional research opportunities, particularly in emerging fields such as environmental sciences. For instance, marine biology students are permitted to conduct their master's research in the Great Barrier Reef.

Top Universities in Australia for Masters

With over 40 universities in Australia, international students make up 21% of all tertiary education takers. Some of the top Australian universities for MS are as follows:

University	QS University Ranking 2023
Australian National University, Canberra	#30
University of Melbourne	#33
The University of Sydney	#41
University of New South Wales (UNSW)	#45
The University of Queensland	#50
Monash University, Melbourne	#57
University of Technology Sydney (UTS)	#137
Deakin University, Melbourne Burwood	#266
Swinburne University of Technology	#=296
La Trobe University	#316
University of South Australia	#=363
Western Sydney University	#501-510
University of Canberra	#511-520

Some of the popular masters courses in Australia are:

Masters in Accounting
Masters in Finance
Masters in Computer Science
Masters in Nursing
Masters in Engineering
Masters in Environmental Science

Course Curriculum of MS Courses in Australia

The MS course curriculum in Australia provides a comprehensive understanding of the chosen field, allowing specialization through core and elective courses. Research plays a significant role in students undertaking projects or theses.

Seminars, workshops, and guest lectures foster engagement with current research and industry practices. Optional practicum or internships provide real-world application, while capstone projects integrate learning and problem-solving.

Top Universities in Australia and their subject-wise rankings:

There are so many universities for Indian students to pursue Masters in Australia. Some of them are listed below in the table:

Subject	University & QS Subject Ranking
Life science & Medicine	The University of Melbourne-18 The University of Sydney-27 The University of Queensland-31 Monash University- =31 The University of New South Wales-54
Engineering & Technology	The University of New South Wales-31 The University of Melbourne-=49 Monash University-=73 The University of Sydney- =68 The Australian National University -
Natural Sciences	The Australian National University The University of Melbourne-57 The University of Sydney-=72 The University of New South Wales-52 Monash University-91
Social Science & Management	The University of Melbourne-=25 The University of New South Wales-27 The Australian National University The University of Sydney-40 Monash University-51
Arts & Humanities	The University of Melbourne-22 The University of Sydney-=34 The Australian National University Monash University-=64 The University of New South Wales-=48

Source: QS WUR by Subject 2024

Eligibility Criteria for Pursuing a Master’s in Australia

Eligibility for each of the universities may vary significantly. Common conditions for eligibility for an MS in Australia are given below:

A bachelor’s/ undergraduate degree in a relevant field.
GRE or GMAT scores (required for most top Australian universities for MS).
English Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 80, PTE: 58.
Marksheet of the latest educational qualification.
CV/Resume applications.
Statement of intent/ statement of research.
Work experience and professional qualities in portfolio interviews.
Exams to be taken
IELTS: 6.5
TOEFL: 80
iBT: 79
PTE: 58 to 64
GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
GPA (Grade Point Average)
Documents Required
Completed application form.
Copy of your passport.
Two passport-sized photographs.
Proof of language proficiency certificate.
Relevant academic certificates, modules, and grades.
Copy of your high school diploma or secondary education.
Scores of all the eligibility criteria for MS in Australia, like TOEFL and GRE.
Recommendation letters.
Resume/ Curriculum Vitae.
Personal identification proof.
English language certificate.
Statement of Purpose.

Some of the mandatory documents required for a masters in Australia are given above. There may be additional documents required for a particular course or a university.

Application Process for Master’s Study in Australia

Lucrative career advancement opportunities provided by Australian universities attract students from all over the world. Once you have checked the eligibility criteria of your desired universities, you can start by downloading and filling out their respective application forms. You must attest your documents along with the application form before submitting them.

After submitting the test scores and personal information, you will have to pay the application fee. If your admission letter is approved, the process is complete, and you must start applying for your student visa.

The process for visa application is easy if taken through organizations and agencies which aid international students.

Studying for a master’s degree in Australia involves the following steps in the application process:

Research and Choose a Course: Explore the available master’s programs in Australia to find one that aligns with your academic and career goals. Consider factors such as course content, university rankings, location, and eligibility requirements.
Meet the Entry Requirements: Check the entry requirements for your chosen program, including academic qualifications, English language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL scores), and any specific prerequisites. Ensure you meet the minimum criteria before proceeding.
Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather necessary documents, such as academic transcripts, degree certificates, proof of English language proficiency, CV, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a valid passport.
Apply Online: Most Australian universities offer online application portals where you can create an account and submit your application. Fill in accurate information and upload the required documents.
Pay Application Fee: Some universities may require an application fee, which varies by institution. Pay the fee as instructed during the application process.
Await Admission Decision: After submitting your application, the university will review your profile and make an admission decision. This process may take several weeks to a couple of months. Stay in touch with the admissions office for updates.
Accept Offer and Obtain CoE (confirmation of enrollment): If you receive an offer of admission, carefully review the terms and conditions, including tuition fees and scholarships. If you accept the offer, follow instructions to secure your place and obtain a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from the university.
Apply for Student Visa: With the CoE, apply for a student visa (subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet visa requirements, including health insurance coverage.
Prepare for Departure: Make arrangements for accommodation, travel, and finances. Research the city or town where you'll be studying and familiarize yourself with Australian culture and lifestyle.

Keep in mind that the application process may vary between universities and courses, so visit the official websites for detailed and up-to-date information on specific application procedures.

Admissions in Masters in Australia

Deadlines

Check the university’s official website to apply and look up all the requirements specific to the institution. The first semester of the course lasts from February to June, for which you are required to apply by the end of October. The second continuing semester lasts from July to November, for which you are required to apply by the end of April.

Intakes for Masters in Australia

There are two semesters offered in Australia for masters but some educational institutions also offer programs in three semesters giving the student an opportunity to select from any of the intakes.

The intakes in Australia are broken down into three and are as follows:

Trimester 1: Starts late February/early March to late May/early June
Trimester 2: Starts late July/early August
Trimester 3: Starts September to late November

Intake	Deadlines
Semester 1 (Late February/Early March intake)	October-November
Semester 2 (Late July intake/Early August)	April-May
Trimester 3	September – November

Source: Official website of Australia

GPA Required to Take Admission in MS in Australia

A minimum 5 CGPA (or 65%) on the 7-point scale is required to get into any Australian university. However, the scores may vary for different universities and may be high for top campuses. IELTS and GRE are other exams that need to be taken along with GPA scores.

Exams needed to Study master’s in Australia

Following are the exams you need to clear in order to study master’s in Australia:

Exam	Score
English Proficiency Exam	TOEFL- 90 or above PTE- 72 or above IELTS- 6.0 to 6.5 CAE- C1 certificate (65 and above) or C2 certificate
GMAT	680 or above
Medical College Admissions Test	472 to 528 (overall scores) 118 and 132 (sectional scores)
Law School Admissions Test or LSAT	150 or above

Cost of Masters in Australia for Indian Students

The total cost of MS in Australia includes both the cost of living and studying. According to the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject, Australia's higher education system is ranked as the third-best in the world. The cost may vary highly with the course and type of university the student chooses. International students need to present consistent exam results to apply for a functioning visa.

The total pre-arrival costs can amount to AUD 1796, including the IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, and visa fees.

The entire MS program in Australia costs between AUD 20,000 and AUD 50,000. Living expenses in Australia encompass accommodation costs, which vary depending on the type and location. Rural regions in the western and northern Australian states offer more affordable options, while urban areas tend to be relatively more expensive.

On-campus accommodation typically ranges from AUD 440 - AUD 1,120/month, homestay options range from AUD 940- AUD 1,300/month, and shared rental accommodation ranges from AUD 740 - AUD 1,760/ month. Additional expenses include gas and electricity bills (AUD 50 - AUD 100/month), internet bills (AUD 70 - AUD 120/month), sewerage/waste management costs (AUD 50/month), and visa fees for studying in Australia, which can go up to AUD 650.

Scholarships & Financial Aid for Master's in Australia

Sponsored by the DFAT (Department of Foreign Affairs) and ACIAR (Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research) along with the Department of Education, it offers UG/PG scholarships. Students applying for Australian partner universities and TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutions are eligible.

Coverage is provided for the entire tuition costs, living costs, airfare, health insurance, along with miscellaneous costs. The total coverage period is two years. Scholars should return to India after finishing their education.

Australia is home to globally renowned education institutions like RMIT University, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Deakin University, and Curtin University. The Australian government solely funds the scholarships to which international students can apply. The cost of studying MS in Australia for Indian Students is around AUD 40,000 - AUD 70,000.

Some of the popular scholarship awards that are granted to international students who wish to pursue MS courses in Australia are explained below in the table:

Scholarship	Description	Benefit
Destination Australia Scholarship	The Destination Australia Scholarships aim to encourage and assist students who opt to reside and pursue their studies in regional communities.	AUD 15,000
International Postgraduate Research Scholarship	It aims to offer financial assistance to international students pursuing postgraduate research qualifications in Australia. It provides an opportunity for these students to gain valuable experience by working alongside esteemed Australian researchers.	It includes the coverage of tuition fees, health insurance expenses for the scholarship holders, and health insurance costs for their dependents.
Australian Awards Pacific Scholarship	Australia Awards Pacific Scholarships offer individuals from Pacific developing countries the chance to study at selected educational institutions in the Pacific region.	It typically covers return air travel, an establishment allowance, full tuition fees, living expenses support, an introductory academic program, student health coverage, and academic support.
ACIAR Fellowships	They aim to enhance the capabilities of individuals from agricultural research organizations in their respective countries. These programs focus on leadership and research management training and foster research networks within Australia.	N/A
Sydney Scholarship for International Students	Funded by the University of Sydney, this scholarship assists with tuition fees and living costs.	AUD 37,207
Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships	RTP scholarships offer block grants to higher education providers (HEPs) to support domestic and international students pursuing research doctorate and research master's degrees on a calendar year basis.	RTP Scholarships can be awarded to students for one or more of the following: Tuition fees offset Stipend to cover general living expenses Allowances to support additional costs associated with research degrees. The minimum full-time base RTP stipend rate is AUD 29,863, while the maximum full-time base RTP stipend rate is AUD 46,653.
Australian-American Fulbright Commission Scholarships	The Australian-American Fulbright Commission provides up to five scholarships for U.S. graduate or Ph.D. students to conduct research, study, or enroll in an Australian postgraduate program.	The scholarship covers travel stipend only, while the decision to waive tuition fees lies with the university.
The University of New South Wales Business School	Academic performance, leadership attributes, co-curricular activities, and more.	$10,000 annually
University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarship	Students are considered automatically, without having to provide dedicated applications	$110,000 (100% coverage for fees)
International Scientia Coursework Scholarship at the University of New South Wales	A scholarship program for international students taking up postgraduate or graduate courses at the institution	The scholarship comes in two parts, one which offers coverage for the total tuition costs and another component which is $20,000 per year for tuition charges
Monash MBA International Excellence in Leadership	Exceptional leadership skills and stellar academic record and an interview that needs to be cleared by the aspirant.	Two awards of amount $16,000 each
University of Sydney’s Dr Abdul Kalam International Postgraduate Scholarship	Those with distinctions in their undergraduate courses can apply	50% of tuition costs for a year
University of Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship	Stellar academic record	100% or 50% waivers on tuition fees for three-year UG courses. It may also be a remission of $10,000 on tuition costs for the first year.
Swinburne University	Stellar academic record and remarkable leadership skills	$38,000
Vice-Chancellor International Scholarships Scheme	Open to international students interested in UG/PG courses with CRICOS registration	–
Griffith University	Stellar academic record and remarkable leadership skills	50% of overall tuition costs for the entire length of the course

Australian awards are scheme-funded by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). Scholarships can be applied on the Online Australia Scholarships Information System (OASIS) or through the main official website of the scholarship program.

Popular Field of Studies for MS in Australia

The educational institutes offer a huge range of MS courses in Australia to pursue and excel in. Some popular fields include:

Data Science
Computer Science
Food Science and Technology
Digital Marketing and Communication
Brand Strategy
Market Research
Technology and Project Management
Communication
Information Technology
Project Management
Business Administration
Arts and Culture Management
Biomedical Engineering
Corporate Management
Nursing

Career Opportunities after Master's in Australia

After completing their master’s degrees in Australia, graduates can get several job opportunities. The Australian degree helps students in getting a job anywhere in the world.

According to the 2020 Graduate Outcomes Survey, the median salary of postgraduate coursework graduates was $87,400, while for postgraduate research graduates it was $93,000.

The top jobs in Australia with expected average annual salary are as follows:

Electrical and Computer engineer – AUD 78,000
Architect – AUD 70,000
Aerospace engineer – AUD 97,000
Business analyst – AUD 81,746
Information technology manager – AUD 130,000
CEO – 159,803
Accountant – AUD 60,453
Human resources – AUD 63,572
Sales manager – AUD 77,845
Physiotherapist – AUD 69,413
Health care and social assistance – AUD 71,000

Top Industries to Choose for Employment

Australia ranks fifth in the world for having the highest average income. Business, management, STEM fields, engineering, and healthcare are the major industries that employ more than half of the population. Australia has a high employment rate, given the low density of the population.

If you want to stay in Australia after your masters, you can make a career in any industry mentioned above.

Post-Study Work Visa Options

The post-study work visa offered by the Australian government allows international students to study and work for up to four years after completion of their educational program.

Extending student visas to stay back after a masters in Australia would require the following documents:

Personal documents, including birth certificates, passport pages, and national identity cards. CV issued by local authorities.
Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) codes.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy number, which is extended for the health assessment of the student.
Personal statement for GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) requirement.

You can contact the visa authorities for more information regarding different visa programs for international students in Australia.

*All course fees and salaries are approximate amounts subject to change depending on various conditions.

Study in Australia with upGrad Abroad

upGrad Abroad has started uniquely designed programs that enable students to save money on tuition fees, and other expenses. Students enrolling in these programs will be studying a part of their program online and completing the course on-campus.

Benefits of joining upGrad’s program: