12 Australian Universities with No Application Fee for International Students

Studying abroad is a significant investment, but there are ways to reduce costs. One such way is by applying to universities that waive application fees. If you’re considering studying in Australia, this guide will help you navigate institutions that offer fee waivers, the cost of living, and hidden expenses to be aware of.

Many universities charge application fees to cover administrative costs and discourage non-serious applicants. However, these fees, typically ranging from AU$50 to AU$100 per application, can add up quickly—especially if you’re applying to multiple universities. By choosing institutions that waive these fees, you can allocate funds to essential expenses like tuition, accommodation, and daily living costs.

International students must consider various expenses beyond tuition, such as:

• Accommodation & Utilities: Ranging from AU$405 to AU$1,120 per week, depending on the city and housing type.

• Transport & Groceries: Public transport and food costs can quickly accumulate.

• Health Insurance: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory, costing between AU$478 and AU$4,200 per year.

• Student Services Fees: Some universities charge additional fees for campus services and amenities.

  
  

These costs highlight the importance of saving wherever possible, including through application fee waivers.

If you’re looking to save on application fees, consider these strategies:

• Ask for an Exemption: Some universities grant waivers upon request, especially for students with financial hardships or scholarships.

• Apply Early: Universities may offer fee waivers as an incentive for early applications.

• Attend Open Days & Recruitment Events: Some institutions provide discount codes or waive fees for attendees.

• Check for Partner Institution Benefits: Some universities waive fees for students from specific partner schools.

• Leverage Current Student Status: If you’re already enrolled in an Australian university, you might qualify for a waiver when applying for further studies.

Here are some top universities where international students can request application fee waivers:

1. University of Sydney

• Standard application fee: AU$150

• Waiver eligibility: Current students, scholarship holders, recruitment event attendees

2. RMIT University

• Standard application fee: AU$100

• Waiver eligibility: Students from eligible countries; fee credited to tuition upon acceptance

3. University of Melbourne

• Standard application fee: AU$150

• Waiver eligibility: Current students, research applicants, sponsored students, recruitment event attendees

4. University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

• Standard application fee: AU$100

• Waiver eligibility: Current UTS students applying for a second degree

5. Victoria University

• Standard application fee: AU$75

• Waiver eligibility: Current students, alumni, some scholarship applicants

6. UNSW Sydney

• Standard application fee: AU$150

• Waiver eligibility: Honours, diploma, and postgraduate research applicants

If you don’t qualify for a waiver, consider applying to these universities that don’t charge an application fee at all:

• UOW College Australia

• The University of Notre Dame Australia

• Bond University

• University of South Australia

• University of Wollongong

• Charles Darwin University

Saving on application fees can make a significant difference when planning your studies in Australia. Whether through fee waivers or applying to universities with no application fees, every dollar saved helps ease financial stress. Be proactive—research, ask questions, and take advantage of opportunities that reduce costs.