Are you dreaming of studying in Australia but worrying about the price tag? You’re not alone. Many students across the world want world-class education without burning through their savings. So make sure you have your cup of coffee as we virtually unpack these Findings made by Studywitt on the most affordable Aussie universities in Melbourne for international students in 2025.
This cheap‑but‑quality list is based on verified 2025 tuition fees (mostly undergraduate) and real practical advice. If you’ve wondered, “Which Melbourne university keeps tuition low?” or “How can I go to Australia without going broke?”
You will find your answers here.
Why even pick Melbourne?
Melbourne keeps popping up in global livability rankings, and for obvious reasons: top-tier education, a friendly multicultural vibe, student job opportunities, and a safe, dynamic city feel. But living costs here can be steep. That’s why picking a cheaper university matters more than you might think—it helps safeguard your budget for real life, not just books and tuition.
You might also be interested in this article: List of the 20 hardest exams in the world.
What does “cheapest” really mean here?
We’re talking about tuition per year, which is the biggest chunk of cost. I’ve zeroed in on schools where international fees are significantly below the typical AUD 30,000–40,000 range. Other factors matter too—scholarships, part‑time work options, and support services—but tuition is the anchor.
Here are the 5 cheapest universities in Melbourne for 2025
1. University of Divinity
Tuition: ~AUD 14,000–19,000 per year for undergrad and master’s programs
If your dream is theology, philosophy, leadership or spiritual studies—and these match your Kenyan values—this is the cheapest option by a mile. It’s small, niche, and deeply academic—but if you’re passionate about these fields, it’s a gem. Not suitable for engineering or finance, though.
2. Australian Catholic University (ACU)
Likely under AUD 25,000, based on past fee patterns for Melbourne campuses
ACU doesn’t always appear in top‑5 lists, but it quietly runs cheaper tuition than its public counterparts. With campuses across Australia and a respectable Melbourne presence, courses in nursing, education, and business are solid and affordable—even if exact 2025 rates aren’t shown, historic data points toward lower brackets.
3. Victoria University (VU)
Tuition: ~AUD 28,000–32,000 per year for bachelor’s programs
A dual-sector public university mixing TAFE and higher-ed. The fees are competitive, and they offer practical programs in business, IT, engineering, and sports science. Their VU Block Model International Scholarship can trim up to 30% off tuition in year one—and sometimes more if you keep up the grades.
4. La Trobe University
Tuition: ~AUD 28,000–32,000 per year for undergraduate international students
Not Miami‑level cheap—but still below many competitors. Offers a wide range of programs—health, humanities, sciences, business. Plus, La Trobe often gives international merit scholarships. Their campus in Bundoora is spacious and leafy—perfect if you want room to breathe.
5. Swinburne University of Technology
Estimated tuition around AUD 31,700–36,500 per year for master’s students, undergrad likely similar or lower
Swinburne blends tech, business, design—close ties to industry. Fees hover toward the lower end for research universities. Their emphasis on career-readiness and internships is a big bonus if you plan to work while studying.
Quick overview table
| University | Approx. International Tuition (AUD/yr) | Notes |
| University of Divinity | 14,000–19,000 | Cheapest, niche fields |
| Australian Catholic Univ. | ~<25,000 | Affordable across disciplines |
| Victoria University (VU) | 28,000–32,000 | Strong scholarships |
| La Trobe University | ~28,000–32,000 | Wide programs, scholarship deals |
| Swinburne University | 31,700–36,500 | Tech/design/business focus |
How to stretch your budget further
Apply early for scholarships
University websites list many fees and scholarship details. For VU, that Block Model scholarship is a smart start. Others offer merit-based aid—sometimes automatically considered when you apply.
Work part‑time while studying
You’re allowed up to 48 hours per fortnight while classes run, and full-time during holidays. Even working weekends or evenings can offset rent or groceries.
Choose budget‑friendly accommodation
Melbourne housing varies hugely. Homestays, flatshares in suburbs, or student dorms outside CBD help you avoid AUD 300–500 a week in rent. Shared meals and utilities cut costs further. Remember the goal here is saving money, the cheaper the better.
Use the student-transport concession
Public transport is solid. With a student concession Myki card you pay less on trains, trams, and buses. Also, Melburnians cycle or walk—often cheaper and healthier.
Buy used books or rent digital materials
Textbooks can cost AUD 500–1,000 per year. Buying second‑hand or e‑books, or borrowing at the library, keeps your wallet from feeling the pinch.
Application made easy—step by step
- Pick a course and uni—check websites for fees, scholarships and entry requirements.
- Prepare documents: transcripts, English test score (IELTS is common), reference letter, personal statement.
- Apply directly or use an authorised Kenyan agent to avoid scams.
- Receive offer—usually with estimated tuition and fee deposit required (often first semester + OSHC insurance).
- Apply for the student visa (subclass 500)—processing these days might take 1–3 months. Ensure you have OSHC before your arrival.
- Sort accommodation and travel—book early when flights are cheaper and secure your housing before landing.
Real‑world tips from Kenyan students
One Kenyan student shared: “I chose VU because the tuition was lower and I got a 30% scholarship. Working weekends helped me pay rent.” Another said “La Trobe felt roomy, and they gave me a merit scholarship even though I wasn’t top-5 in class.”
Why this list might not include every “cheap” uni
Some institutes—like private providers—may set lower rates, but often have higher fees later or less recognized degrees. That’s why I’ve focused on public universities or well-established not-for-profits you can trust.
Final thoughts: Choose smart, live well, succeed
Studying in Melbourne doesn’t have to drain your family’s savings. You can get a globally recognized degree at a lower cost if you choose wisely. Start with University of Divinity or ACU if you’re super-tight on budget—or go for Victoria University, La Trobe, or Swinburne if you want more course options plus competitive tuition.
Remember: tuition is just one part of the equation. Scholarships, part-time work, smart living, and planning make all the difference. Keep up your grades and stay engaged—many universities extend scholarships beyond the first year.
So take that next step—research programs you’re passionate about, line up documents, and apply with confidence. Melbourne is waiting, and with the right strategy, you can go there affordably.
Your take‑home tips:
- #1 cheapest: University of Divinity
- #2: Australian Catholic University (estimated under AUD 25k)
- Top picks: Victoria University, La Trobe, Swinburne
- Scholarships & work: way to cut cost
- Campus life: choose suburb wisely to save money
- Prep early: documents, visa, seeds of opportunity
Your journey to Australia doesn’t need to cost millions. With the right university and strategy, it becomes not just possible—but practical. You’ve got this—start planning, apply soon, and study hard. Melbourne could be your next home away from home.