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Top MBA Colleges in Australia

Dhruvin Jain

Dhruvin Jain

Apr 12, 2025

13 mins read

Top MBA Colleges in Australia

Why Choose Australia for an MBA?

A Top Destination for Future Business Leaders

Thinking about doing your MBA abroad? Australia might just be the perfect place. It’s safe, welcoming, and packed with world-class universities. In fact, more and more students from around the world—especially from India—are choosing MBA in Australia to boost their careers.

But what makes it so special?

  • Many of the best MBA colleges in Australia are ranked among the world’s top 100.
  • You get real, practical business skills—not just classroom theory.
  • You can stay and work after graduation thanks to post-study visas and permanent residency (PR) options.
  • Cities like Sydney and Melbourne offer great quality of life and job opportunities.

If you want a global degree that’s respected everywhere, the top MBA in Australia might be just what you’re looking for.

Tuition Fees, Living Costs, and ROI of Studying MBA in Australia

How Much Does It Really Cost to Study MBA in Australia?

Before you apply to any MBA colleges in Australia, it’s important to know how much everything will cost. Tuition, living expenses, and everyday needs can add up—but the good news is that Australia also offers strong salaries after graduation.

Whether you're choosing a one-year or two-year program, here’s a breakdown of the costs and what you might earn later.

Cost Breakdown for MBA in Australia

Expense TypeEstimated Cost (AUD)
Tuition Fees (full MBA)AUD 50,000 – 95,000
Living Costs (per year)AUD 21,000 – 30,000
Total Program CostAUD 71,000 – 125,000

Note: Costs depend on the university and your lifestyle. Some top MBA colleges in Australia might cost more, especially in cities like Sydney or Melbourne.

What You Get in Return: Post-MBA Salaries

Here’s the good part: graduates from the best MBA programs in Australia often earn high salaries—enough to recover their investment in just a few years.

Job RoleAverage Salary (AUD/year)
Management ConsultantAUD 110,000 – 140,000
Financial ManagerAUD 100,000 – 130,000
Project ManagerAUD 100,000 – 135,000
Investment BankerAUD 130,000 – 180,000+

This means the ROI of an MBA in Australia is strong, especially for international students. And if you work in Australia after graduating, the payback period is often just 1–2 years.

Want help with your study abroad journey?

One-Year vs Two-Year MBA Programs in Australia

Which MBA Format Is Right for You?

When looking at MBA programs in Australia, one of the first choices you'll have to make is whether to go for a one-year or two-year program. Both types are offered by some of the top MBA universities in Australia, and each has its own benefits.

Here’s a simple way to understand the difference.

One-Year MBA Programs in Australia

These are fast-paced and perfect if you want to return to work quickly.

  • Ideal for professionals with work experience
  • Lower overall cost due to shorter duration
  • Less time off from your career
  • Great for focused learning

Example: Melbourne Business School offers one of the top MBA programs in Australia in a one-year format.

Two-Year MBA Programs in Australia

If you want a deeper experience, including internships and more networking, two-year MBAs might be the better fit.

  • More time to explore electives and specializations
  • Better for international students aiming for PR
  • More chances for internships and industry projects
  • Strong fit for fresh graduates or career changers

Examples: Monash University, La Trobe University, and Macquarie Business School offer popular two-year MBAs.

Quick Comparison: One-Year vs Two-Year MBA

FeatureOne-Year MBATwo-Year MBA
Duration12 months18–24 months
CostLowerHigher
Best ForExperienced professionalsCareer switchers, fresh grads
PR EligibilityMay varyBetter suited
ExamplesMelbourne Business SchoolMonash, La Trobe, Macquarie

Whichever you choose, both formats are offered by the best MBA colleges in Australia, and both can lead to strong job opportunities.

Post-Study Work Visa and PR Options After MBA in Australia

Stay and Work in Australia After Your MBA

One of the biggest reasons international students choose an MBA in Australia is the chance to stay and work after graduation. The Australian government supports skilled graduates with clear visa and PR pathways, making it easier to launch your career and even settle there permanently.

If you're studying at one of the best MBA colleges in Australia, you'll likely be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa—also known as subclass 485.

Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485)

  • Lets you stay in Australia after graduation for up to 2 years
  • Gives you time to work full-time, gain experience, and apply for permanent residency
  • Available to international students who complete at least two academic years of study

PR Pathways for MBA Graduates

If you want to stay in Australia for the long term, there are a few visa options for permanent residency:

  • Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) – based on points (age, education, experience, English level)
  • Employer Sponsored Visa (subclass 186) – if you're hired by a company willing to sponsor you
  • Many MBA-related jobs are on the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List), which improves your chances of getting PR

Why This Matters

Post-study work rights are a major reason students pick Australia over other countries. With a good job and some local experience, many MBA graduates go on to secure PR within a few years.

If you're aiming for the best MBA in Australia and want to build a long-term career in the country, these visa options give you a clear path forward.

Want help with your study abroad journey?

Language Requirements for MBA Programs in Australia

Do You Need to Know English to Study in Australia?

Yes—you’ll need to show English language proficiency when applying to MBA programs in Australia. Don’t worry, though. If you've studied in English before, some universities might waive the test. But most of the time, you’ll need to submit a test score like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.

This applies whether you’re applying to public universities or the best MBA colleges in Australia for Indian students.

Accepted English Language Tests

Most MBA universities in Australia accept these test scores:

  • IELTS: 6.5 to 7.0 overall (some top schools may ask for higher scores)
  • TOEFL iBT: 79 to 100
  • PTE Academic: 58 to 72

University-Specific Requirements

Each university sets its own score requirements. For example:

  • University of Melbourne: IELTS 7.0
  • University of Sydney: IELTS 7.0
  • Monash University: IELTS 6.5
  • RMIT: IELTS 6.5

It’s always best to check directly with your target university before applying.

Can You Get a Waiver?

Some of the top MBA colleges in Australia will waive the English requirement if:

  • You’ve completed a degree in English
  • You’ve worked in an English-speaking environment for a few years

This is helpful for Indian students who have already studied or worked in English.

Scholarships for International Students Pursuing an MBA in Australia

Yes, You Can Study MBA in Australia with Financial Help

Worried about the cost of your MBA in Australia? Don’t be. Many universities and government programs offer scholarships to help international students manage tuition and living expenses. Some scholarships even cover the full cost of the degree.

Whether you're applying to public or private MBA universities in Australia, it’s smart to explore these funding options.

Top Scholarships for MBA Students in Australia

Here are some of the most popular scholarships available:

Scholarship NameValue/BenefitsOffered By
Australia Awards ScholarshipsFull tuition + living expensesAustralian Government
Melbourne Business School ScholarshipsUp to 100% of tuitionUniversity of Melbourne
Macquarie Vice-Chancellor’s ScholarshipAUD 10,000 per yearMacquarie University
UTS International Scholarships25% to 50% of tuitionUniversity of Technology Sydney

These scholarships are competitive but totally worth applying for—especially if you're aiming for the best MBA colleges in Australia for Indian students.

Tips to Boost Your Chances

  • Apply early – Don’t wait till the last minute.
  • Show leadership – Many scholarships look for students with leadership potential.
  • Write a strong SOP – Use your Statement of Purpose to explain why you deserve funding.
  • Maintain a strong profile – Good academics and work experience help a lot.

Many of the top MBA schools in Australia also offer need-based or merit-based scholarships specific to their programs. So don’t forget to check individual university websites.

Top MBA Colleges in Australia – Rankings, Fees & What Makes Them Great

Which Are the Best MBA Colleges in Australia?

Australia is home to some of the world’s most respected business schools. These universities are known for strong academics, great industry connections, and high-paying job outcomes. If you’re aiming for the top MBA in Australia, here are the schools you should have on your radar.

List of Top MBA Colleges in Australia

University NameDurationTuition Fee (AUD)CityGMAT RequirementKnown For
University of Melbourne (MBS)1 year~96,000MelbourneRequired (avg. 695)FT #1 in Australia, global alumni network
University of Sydney – Business School1.5 yrs~91,500SydneyRecommendedAACSB & EQUIS, top finance & consulting jobs
Monash University – Business School2 years~88,000MelbourneNot requiredLeadership focus, capstone consulting project
RMIT University – Business & Law1.5 yrs~54,000MelbourneNot requiredFlexible schedules, strong industry links
Macquarie Business School (MGSM)1.5–2 yrs~80,000SydneyRequired or waivedTop 100 globally, great for finance & tech
Australian National University (ANU)1.5 yrs~61,000CanberraWaivers availableStrong in policy, analytics, entrepreneurship
La Trobe University – Business School2 years~66,000MelbourneNot requiredAffordable, strong student support

These are some of the best MBA colleges in Australia for Indian students thanks to their academic quality, global rankings, and post-study support.

What These Universities Have in Common

  • All offer MBA programs fully taught in English
  • Many appear in Australia MBA rankings from QS and FT
  • Strong links to industries like consulting, tech, finance, and government
  • Good career support and networking opportunities

So if you’re planning to apply to the top MBA colleges in Australia, this list is a great place to start.

Want help with your study abroad journey?

Career Prospects After an MBA in Australia

What Jobs Can You Get After an MBA in Australia?

One of the main reasons students choose the best MBA in Australia is the career boost it offers. Whether you want to work in consulting, finance, tech, or even launch your own startup, Australia gives you solid options.

Graduates from the top MBA universities in Australia are in high demand, especially in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane—home to many multinational companies.

High-Demand Roles and Average Salaries

Here are some common job roles for MBA graduates, along with what you might earn in Australia:

Job RoleAverage Salary (AUD/year)Key Industries
Management Consultant110,000 – 140,000Consulting, Public Sector, Tech
Financial Manager100,000 – 130,000Banking, Insurance, Finance
Marketing Manager90,000 – 120,000FMCG, Tech, Media
Operations Manager95,000 – 125,000Logistics, Supply Chain, Manufacturing
Project Manager100,000 – 135,000Construction, IT, Engineering
HR Manager90,000 – 110,000Education, Government, Corporate
Business Development Manager85,000 – 115,000SaaS, Healthcare, Telecom
Investment Banker130,000 – 180,000+Banking, Private Equity
EntrepreneurVaries WidelyStartups, Fintech, E-commerce
CEO (with experience)200,000+Cross-sectoral leadership roles

Why Employers Love Australian MBA Graduates

  • Programs are industry-focused with real-world training
  • Many include internships or capstone projects
  • Business schools have strong ties with top employers
  • Graduates are eligible for post-study work visas

If you're graduating from one of the top MBA colleges in Australia, chances are you'll find yourself with strong job offers—not just in Australia, but also across the Asia-Pacific region.

Why Australia Is a Smart MBA Choice

The Full Package: Education, Career, and Lifestyle

If you’re looking for a country that gives you a top-quality business education, real job opportunities, and a clear path to long-term success, then Australia checks all the boxes. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or a working professional, choosing the best MBA in Australia can be a game-changer for your future.

Let’s recap why Australia stands out:

  • Globally Respected MBA Degrees: Universities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Monash are consistently ranked in top MBA rankings Australia and globally.
  • Industry-Connected Programs: Most MBA colleges in Australia focus on practical learning, internships, and strong ties with employers.
  • Post-Study Work and PR Opportunities: With work visas and PR pathways, Australia offers real options to stay, grow your career, and even settle long-term.
  • Safe and Student-Friendly Cities: Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are diverse, welcoming, and full of job opportunities.
  • Strong ROI for Indian and International Students: Thanks to high post-MBA salaries and respected degrees, graduates from the top MBA colleges in Australia usually recover their costs within a few years.

So, if you're comparing study destinations, choosing one of the best MBA colleges in Australia for Indian students might be your smartest move yet.

FAQs
What is the average cost of an MBA in Australia?
AUD 50,000–95,000 in tuition, plus AUD 21,000–30,000 for living expenses.
Can I pursue an MBA in Australia without GMAT?
Yes. Many schools like Monash, RMIT, and La Trobe waive GMAT.
How long is an MBA in Australia?
1–2 years, depending on the school and program structure.
Is an MBA in Australia worth it for Indian students?
Absolutely. Strong post-study work rights and PR options make it a smart choice.
What are the post-study work opportunities after an MBA in Australia?
You can stay for up to 2 years on a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485).
Are Australian MBA degrees recognized globally?
Yes. Many are AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS accredited.
What scholarships are available for international MBA students in Australia?
Options include Australia Awards, MBS Scholarships, and university-specific awards.
Can I settle in Australia after doing an MBA?
Yes. Many graduates apply for PR via skilled migration pathways.
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Dhruvin Jain
Dhruvin Jain

Articles: 20

Dhruvin Jain is the co-founder of MastersBuddy, a tech-first platform that has helped over 2500 students find and apply to top master’s programs globally. He is a master’s graduate from IE Business School, and is passionate about education, technology, and entrepreneurship.

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