48 Best Universities for MS in Australia for International Students 2026

Students choose the top universities for MS in Australia because six universities rank under the top 50 QS world ranking, and Australia also ranks in the top 10 countries globally for quality of life.

Here is a detailed explanation of why pursuing an MS in Australia is a smart choice:

• QS Top-Ranked Universities in Australia: Nine Australian universities feature in the QS 2026 Top 100. The University of Melbourne is ranked 19th, UNSW Sydney is 20th, and the University of Sydney is 25th globally.
• Post-Study Work Visa (485 Visa) Opportunities: International students can stay and work in Australia for 2-4 years after graduation. Many students use this visa to experience the local industry.
• Pathways to Permanent Residency in Australia: Graduates can apply for PR in Australia with the Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) or Employer-Sponsored visas. Having Master’s degree in Australia gives you more points in the immigration system.
• Scholarships and Funding Opportunities: Australia offers over $100 million in scholarships for international students annually. Universities like Melbourne, Monash, and ANU provide merit-based and need-based funding.

A total of 36 universities for Master’s in Australia are ranked in the recent QS World rankings. Among them, the University of Melbourne and the University of Sydney consistently rank for their teaching and research factors. 

Here is the list of the top 10 universities in Australia:

Now that you know the best universities for MS in Australia, let's explore each one in detail, including their popular programs, fees, duration, and other essential information.

University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne uses a unique academic approach called the Melbourne Model. This model aligns with global standards and focuses on a broad undergraduate education followed by specialised graduate study.

• Popular MS Programs: MS, MBA, Computer Science, Data Science, Architecture
• Average Tuition Fee: AUD 20,992–112,000 per year (₹12.6 L–67.2 L per year)
• Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
• Useful Link:https://www.unimelb.edu.au/

UNSW Sydney

UNSW Sydney offers a variety of Master's degree programs in different areas, including Master of Engineering, Master of International Business, and many others. These programs prepare students for leadership roles and jobs in many tough industries.

• Popular MS Programs: MBA, Data Science, Engineering, LLM, Public Health
• Average Tuition Fee: AUD 58,560 per year (₹35.1 L per year)
• Application Deadline: Term 1, 2026: 2 October 2025 | Term 2, 2026: 19 February 2026 | Term 3, 2026: 23 July 2026
• Useful Link: https://www.unsw.edu.au/

University of Sydney

The University of Sydney is a public research university. It provides various postgraduate coursework degrees, including Graduate Certificates, Diplomas, and Master's degrees, with flexible options for on-campus, online, or blended learning.

• Popular MS Programs: MBA, Data Science, Engineering, LLM, Public Health
• Average Tuition Fee: AUD 53,600–57,700 per year (₹32.2 L–34.6 L per year)
• Application Deadline: Semester 1: 1 December 2025 | Semester 2: 15 May 2026
• Useful Link:https://www.sydney.edu.au/

Australian National University (ANU)

ANU is located in Canberra and is known as one of the top universities for MS in Australia because of its famous programs like MBA, Master of Computing, and Master of Public Policy. On average, graduates get a salary of around AUD 59,000 (INR 35L). 

• Popular MS Programs: MBA, Computing, Public Policy, Applied Accounting, International Relations
• Average Tuition Fee: AUD 44,670–59,750 per year (₹26.8 L–35.9 L per year)
• Application Deadline: Semester 1: 15 December 2025 | Semester 2: 15 May 2026
• Useful Link:https://www.anu.edu.au/

Monash University

Monash is one of the best universities for MS in Australia because it has 87.8% employment rate for graduates, and they get an average salary of around AUD 129,480 (INR 77L). 

• Popular MS Programs: MBA, Data Science, Information Technology, Business Analytics, Architecture
• Average Tuition Fee: AUD 38,900–76,900 per year (₹23.3 L–46.1 L per year)
• Application Deadline: Varies by program (applications open from August)
• Useful Link: https://www.monash.edu/

University of Queensland (UQ)

The University of Queensland was founded in 1909 and is one of Australia’s top Group of Eight universities. It has 55,000+ students, with around 40% international students. It reports 93% postgraduate employment, with 86.8% graduates securing full-time roles after graduation.

• Popular MS Programs: MBA, Information Technology, Engineering, Public Health, Science
• Average Tuition Fee: AUD 32,500–58,100 per year (₹19.5 L–34.9 L per year)
• Application Deadline: Semester 1: 30 November 2025 | Semester 2: 31 May 2026
• Useful Link:https://www.uq.edu.au/

University of Western Australia (UWA)

The University of Western Australia is a public research university and was founded in 1911. Graduates earn an average salary of AUD 60,000-96,600 (INR 35L-57L), reflecting strong career outcomes. The MS programs require English proficiency, with IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 82, or PTE 64 as standard entry criteria.

• Popular MS Programs: MBA, Data Science, Business Analytics, Public Health, Social Work
• Average Tuition Fee: AUD 37,100–49,300 per year (₹22.3 L–29.6 L per year)
• Application Deadline: Semester 1: 30 November 2025 | Semester 2: 31 May 2026
• Useful Link: https://www.uwa.edu.au/

University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide is a Group of Eight university, and around 30% of its student population is international. It offers merit-based scholarships like the Global Citizens Scholarship, which covers around 15% to 30% of tuition fees.

• Popular MS Programs: MBA, Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Clinical Nursing
• Average Tuition Fee: AUD 38,500–47,500 per year (₹23.1 L–28.5 L per year)
• Application Deadline: 2026 deadlines yet to be announced
• Useful Link: https://www.adelaide.edu.au/

University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

UTS is globally ranked among the top universities for Data Science and Business Analytics. Popular programs include the MBA, Master of Data Science, and Master of Business Analytics. It states that they have an employment rate of approximately 87.1%.

• Popular MS Programs: MBA, Data Science, Business Analytics, Public Health, Social Work
• Average Tuition Fee: AUD 35,000–45,000 per year (₹21 L–27 L per year)
• Application Deadline: Autumn: 30 Nov 2025 | Spring: 30 Apr 2026 | Summer: 30 Aug 2026
• Useful Link: https://www.uts.edu.au/

RMIT University

RMIT University was founded in 1887 and is located in Melbourne. Its motto is “Perita Manus, Mens Exculta”, which means a skilled hand and a cultivated mind. RMIT also stands out because of its courses, which teach about industry, paid internships, and global exchange programs. 

• Popular MS Programs: MBA, Data Science, Engineering, Information Technology, Design
• Average Tuition Fee: AUD 24,000–67,200 per year (₹14.4 L–40.3 L per year)
• Application Deadline: 28 January 2026
• Useful Link: https://www.rmit.edu.au/

Australia offers a variety of MS specialisations, but IT and Engineering-related courses lead the job market. These roles are also closely linked to Australia’s skilled occupation lists. 

Below are the top 10 MS specialisations in Australia:

Australian universities structure their MS degrees around core subjects, electives, and projects that are further evaluated. Most master’s degrees take 1.5 to 2 years, which gives students more time for internships, projects, and part-time work.

Below is a simple overview of how MS courses in Australia are structured:

To get into top universities in Australia for MS, students must have a relevant bachelor’s degree and proof of English language proficiency. These two are mandatory for all international applicants before any other documents or tests are considered.

Eligibility

Australian universities require students to have the right academic background and prior study to enrol in an MS program.

• Academic Qualification: Recognised 3 to 4 year bachelor’s degree with GPA 2.5-3.0/4.0 (approx. 60 to 75%).
• Subject Relevance: An undergraduate degree should match the chosen MS field (e.g., IT for Computer Science).
• Work Experience: Work experience of 1 to 2 years is really helpful for fields like MBA or analytics. 
• Australian Recognition: Indian degrees are generally accepted without extra validation.

• Australia Student Visa: Some universities might check documents required to apply for the student visa, such as proof of financial capacity or Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Entrance Exams

Most of the universities for MS in Australia ask for GRE and GMAT, as it gives a boost to your profile. 

• GRE: 300 to 320 score needed for STEM or research-focused programs.
• GMAT: 550 to 680 score required for MBA programs in Australia

English Language Requirements

Australian universities for MS need proof that a student can easily understand and speak English. 

• IELTS: 6.5 to 7.0 
• TOEFL: 79 to 90 
• PTE: 58 to 65

Note: Many programs, like Health or law, ask for slightly higher scores. 

Documents Required

Applicants must submit all essential documents for evaluation and visa purposes.

• Academic Transcripts & Degree Certificate: Submit all official mark sheets and the bachelor’s degree certificate to verify your academic qualification.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): A short essay detailing your academic background, motivation for the MS program
• LOR: 1 to 2 academic or professional references supporting your skills, achievements, and suitability for the course.
• Resume/CV: Summarises your education, projects, internships, and any relevant work experience.
• Passport Copy: Submit a valid passport copy as proof of identity for admission and visa purposes. 

Tuition fees at top universities for master's in Australia start as low as AUD 32,500 (INR 19.5 L) per year at universities like the University of Queensland and can go as high as AUD 112,000 (INR 67 L) per year at the University of Melbourne.

Here is an overview of tuition fee ranges for these top universities:

Note: All INR values have been calculated using the conversion rate of 1 AUD = 60 INR.

Indian students aim for the Australia Awards Scholarship and the Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both, and are highly competitive.

Below are the top scholarships in Australia, along with the eligibility criteria and benefits:

Choosing the right university for an MS in Australia requires a mix of self-assessment, research, and practical considerations.

Here are the key factors to consider when finalising a university in Australia:

• Define Your Goals and Research Programs: Identify your career goals and desired field, then find universities with matching programs. Evaluate curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, teaching quality, student support, and industry connections.
• Assess Your Academic Profile and English Proficiency: Verify that your grades, GPA, and degree meet university entry requirements, including English language criteria. 
• Consider Location, Lifestyle, and Costs: Pick a city or area that fits your lifestyle and budget. Look up tuition fees and living costs in various Australian cities. Search for scholarships and financial aid to help reduce your expenses.
• Evaluate Campus Facilities and Resources: Look at the university’s libraries, labs, housing, and student support services. Modern facilities help make learning easier and living more comfortable.

Choosing the right Australian university for an MS can feel overwhelming for international students. With so many universities, courses, and specialisations, it’s easy to get confused about which program aligns with your career goals. Focus on your academic background, preferred city, and budget to narrow down options efficiently.

Yocket Premium can make this process smoother by providing personalised guidance, detailed university insights, and easy tracking of applications and deadlines. It also helps you explore scholarships, compare tuition fees, and plan finances, giving you a clearer path to your MS in Australia.