MBA in Australia
Topics covered
- 5 min
- Published: 6 October 2025
- Updated: 6 October 2025
Australia has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students pursuing an MBA. With globally ranked universities, flexible one-year and two-year program options, and strong post-study work rights, an MBA in Australia combines world-class business education with a rewarding student experience. In this guide, you’ll learn about the best MBA programs in 2026 and beyond, tuition fees, scholarships, requirements, career outcomes, and how an Australian MBA compares to studying in Canada.
Why Study for your MBA Degree in Australia?
Global Recognition
Australian MBAs are recognized worldwide and appear consistently in QS Global MBA Rankings. Many programs are accredited by AACSB, EQUIS, or AMBA, which ensures quality and portability of your degree.
Student Lifestyle
Studying in Australia also means living in multicultural cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. International students benefit from vibrant campuses, strong industry ties, and proximity to the Asia-Pacific business hub.
Student Community
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Connect with peers and student ambassadors to hear real experiences, tips, and advise about studying broad.
Types of MBA Programs in Australia
Full-Time MBAH3:
Typically runs for 12–24 months, depending on the university. For example, the UQ MBA is a 1-year program, while Melbourne Business School’s MBA is closer to 2 years. Full-time MBAs often include internships, case competitions, and consulting projects, helping graduates gain practical business experience and career support.
Best suited for: International students and professionals ready to commit fully to study.
Visa note: International students must enrol full-time to qualify for a Subclass 500 student visa, which allows them to stay for the duration of their course (Department of Home Affairs).
Note: The University of Sydney does not offer a full-time MBA to international students — their MBA is available part-time only.
Part-Time MBA
Part-time MBAs are designed for working professionals and typically take 3–4 years to complete. Classes are scheduled in the evenings or on weekends so students can balance study with ongoing employment.
Best suited for: Professionals already living and working in Australia.
Visa note: International students on a Subclass 500 student visa cannot enrol part-time. This pathway is only possible for those already in Australia on a different visa (e.g., work, partner, or PR).
Example: The University of Sydney MBA is part-time only and open only to students with existing study or work rights in Australia.
Executive MBA (EMBA)
The Executive MBA is built for senior managers and executives with 8–10+ years of work experience. Delivered in intensive study blocks (e.g., 1 week every 6–8 weeks), the EMBA emphasizes strategy, global leadership, and executive-level networking.
Best suited for: Executives and senior leaders continuing their careers alongside study.
Visa note: EMBAs are usually not available to international students on Subclass 500 visas, as they are delivered part-time or in block mode. They are accessible to professionals in Australia under other visas (work, partner, PR).
Dual Degree MBA
A Dual Degree MBA combines the MBA with another postgraduate qualification, enabling students to graduate with two degrees in less time than if studied separately. These programs generally take around two years full-time and are designed for students who want to pair management skills with another specialised field. Benefits: Provides interdisciplinary expertise, preparing graduates for careers that demand both leadership and technical knowledge. Examples:
Deakin University – MBA (International) combined with a Master of Business Analytics.
University of Technology Sydney (UTS) – MBA combined with a Master of Engineering Management.
Macquarie University – MBA paired with a Master of Banking and Finance and Master of Management.
Dual Degree MBAs are particularly attractive to international students who want to build management expertise while deepening their skills in another professional area. H3: 1-Year MBA in Australia Several universities in Australia offer accelerated 1-year MBA programs, which condense coursework into an intensive format. These programs are designed for experienced professionals who want to minimize time away from the workforce while still gaining a globally recognized qualification.
Benefits: Lower overall tuition costs compared to traditional 2-year MBAs, faster career re-entry, and strong return on investment.
Examples: The University of Queensland offers a 1-year MBA in Brisbane, and Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) at University of New South Whales also delivers a 1-year MBA in Sydney with a strong global ranking.
These programs are intensive and fast-paced, making them a popular choice for international students seeking efficiency and value.
Top MBA Programs in Australia in 2025
According to the QS Global MBA Rankings for Oceania, here are some of the best MBA programs in Australia.
University | City | Thought Leadership | Return on Investment | Alumni Outcomes | Employability | Diversity | Full-Time Fees (AUD)* | Scholarships | Best Known For | Admission Process |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) @ University of New South Whales | Sydney | 86 | 77.8 | 70.5 | 65.2 | 93.8 | AUD 86,760 total (1-year full-time MBA) | AGSM offers a range of scholarships to support students. Find out more. | High diversity (93.8) and strong thought leadership (86) | Bachelor’s degree, 2+ years’ work experience, academic excellence or GMAT/GRE; English proficiency required/waiver possible. |
Melbourne Business School @ University of Melbourne | Melbourne | 92.9 | 79.3 | 71 | 70.3 | 65.6 | AUD 112,500 total (1.5–2 years full-time MBA) | Melbourne Business School offers multiple MBA scholarships including merit and diversity awards. Find out more. | Thought leadership (92.9) and strong ROI (79.3) | Bachelor’s degree, 2+ years’ work experience, GMAT/GRE (avg. 695+; waiver for Aus/NZ grads not seeking scholarships). |
The University of Queensland (UQ) Business School | Brisbane | 73.5 | 73.2 | 56.1 | 39.1 | 72.2 | AUD 69,112 total (1-year full-time MBA) | UQ Business School offers 100+ scholarships, including international MBA awards. Find out more. | Balanced ROI (73.2) and sustainability focus | Bachelor’s degree, GPA 4.5/7, 4+ years’ work experience (2 in management), GMAT 550+ for international applicants. |
University of Sydney Business School | Sydney | 85 | 70.8 | 64.4 | 62.8 | 82.1 | ~AUD 180,300 total (part-time MBA, 2.5–3 years) | University of Sydney offers full-time MBA scholarships such as the MBA Director’s Scholarship for international students. Find out more. | Academic reputation and global recognition (Thought leadership 85) | Bachelor’s degree (65% avg), 3+ years’ work experience, interview + motivation statement; MBA offered part-time only, not available to student visa holders. |
Macquarie Business School | Sydney | 58.2 | 61.8 | 47.3 | 48.8 | 64.1 | AUD 93,000 total (2 years full-time MBA) | Macquarie offers scholarships for international MBA students, including the Vice-Chancellor’s and Women in Management & Finance awards. Find out more. | Executive education and strong ROI (61.8) | Bachelor’s degree, CV + 2 referee reports; English proficiency required; personal statement video may be requested. |
University of Western Australia | Perth | 57.3 | 62 | 63.2 | 34.1 | 57.8 | AUD 96,300 total (1.5 years full-time MBA) | UWA offers scholarships such as the Premier’s University Scholarship and Viburnum MBA Career Acceleration award. Find out more. | Alumni outcomes (63.2) and research-led teaching | Bachelor’s degree (60% WAM), 3+ years’ professional experience. |
RMIT University | Melbourne | 51.9 | 38 | 58.7 | 34.2 | 83.2 | AUD 101,760 total (2 years full-time MBA; accelerated 1.5 years AUD 76,320) | RMIT provides international student support, including grants like the Medibank Student Success Grant. Find out more. | High diversity (83.2) and entrepreneurship outcomes (58.7) | Bachelor’s degree (any discipline, GPA 1.0/4.0) + GMAT 550 if GPA not met; advanced standing for business grads or Grad Cert in Business Administration. |
UTS Business School | Sydney | 53.9 | 47.4 | 41.7 | 36.3 | 87.8 | AUD 102,230 total (2 years full-time MBA) | UTS offers generous international scholarships, including the Academic Excellence and Vice-Chancellor’s awards, plus an MBA-specific scholarship. Find out more. | Strong diversity (87.8) and practical industry connections | Bachelor’s degree (GPA 5.25/7) or Grad Cert; 4+ years’ work experience or GMAT 550; English proficiency required. |
Deakin Business School | Melbourne and Geelong | – | – | – | – | AUD 50,400 total (1-year full-time MBA; may vary with RPL) | Deakin offers international scholarships including the Deakin International Scholarship and Meritorious awards. Find out more. | Dual accreditation (AACSB & EQUIS); strong online MBA (#20 QS); high student satisfaction | Bachelor’s degree + 3 years’ relevant work experience (managerial/professional); Grad Cert/Dip pathways accepted; English proficiency required. | |
Wollongong (Sydney Business School) | Wollongong | 51.3 | 40.5 | 34.1 | 44.7 | 57.3 | AUD 74,376 total (1.5 years full-time MBA) | UOW offers postgraduate scholarships such as the Academic Excellence and Alumni Postgraduate awards, plus country-specific discounts. Find out more. | Employability support and Asia-Pacific reach | Bachelor’s degree (50% avg) + 3 years’ work experience, or Grad Dip/Cert + 5 years; Statement of Motivation; English IELTS 6.5. |
*Disclaimer:
Tuition fees listed are based on 2026 indicative rates for international students. Universities usually display first-year fees only; we’ve included both annual and estimated total program costs for easier comparison. Actual fees may vary depending on study load, program duration, and annual fee increases. Speak with an IDP Counsellor who can confirm total fees before applying.
MBA Fees in Australia for Canadian and Other International Students
For International student, Canadians included, tuition fees for MBA programs in Australia typically range from AUD 42,000–65,000 per year. Costs vary by university, city, and program type. Executive MBAs and international cohorts often have higher tuition.
Scholarship for MBA in Australia for Canadian and International Students
Scholarship | University | Eligibility | Value (AUD/CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
ANU MBA Scholarship | Australian National University (ANU) | Domestic & international students admitted to the MBA (selection based on academic merit, work experience, diversity categories, GMAT if available) | 25–100% of tuition fees (applied per semester for program duration). Find out more. |
Melbourne Business School (MBS) Scholarship | University of Melbourne | Applicants to the Full-time MBA (valid GMAT/GRE required), EMBA, Senior EMBA, Part-time MBA, or Master of Business Analytics. | Varies (partial tuition support, merit-based). Find out more. |
Master of Commerce Scholarship | Monash University | International students admitted to the Master of Commerce or related business postgraduate coursework programs. | Tuition fees paid + living allowance (up to PhD stipend rate) for 2 years. Find out more. |
Adelaide MBA International Scholarship | University of Adelaide (Adelaide Business School) | International candidates with strong business/academic background and demonstrated international perspective; must be admitted to the Executive MBA or MBA. | Up to 25% of MBA tuition fees (maximum 12 courses / 36 units). Find out more. |
Curtin International Merit Scholarship | Curtin University | International, fee-paying postgraduate coursework students (including MBA) commencing study from July 2025 onwards; must meet academic merit criteria. | 20% tuition fee reduction for the duration of the course. Find out more. |
Vice Chancellor's International Scholarship / International Academic Merit Scholarship | Griffith University | International students applying for postgraduate coursework programs (including MBA) with strong academic results. | Vice Chancellor’s – 50% tuition fees; Academic Merit – 20% tuition fees. Find out more. |
MBA Student Scholarship – International | University of Queensland (UQ) | High-achieving international students admitted to the full-time or part-time MBA (including GCBA/GDipBA articulation pathways). | 25% of tuition fees (18–24 month duration; 2 awarded per year). Find out more. |
MBA Requirements in Australia
Admission criteria for MBA programs in Australia vary by university, but most schools share a common set of requirements. Meeting these standards ensures international students are prepared for rigorous coursework and can contribute effectively to class discussions.
Academic Requirements
Most universities require a recognised bachelor’s degree in any discipline. A minimum GPA of around 65% (credit average) is common. Some schools may consider postgraduate qualifications or professional certifications for entry.
Work Experience
MBA programs in Australia expect students to bring practical business insights. Applicants usually need 2–5 years of professional work experience, with some schools requiring management or supervisory roles. For example, the University of Queensland asks for 4+ years, including at least 2 years in a managerial capacity.
English Proficiency
International students must demonstrate strong English skills. The standard requirement is IELTS 6.5–7.0, or equivalent scores in TOEFL iBT or Pearson PTE Academic. Universities may waive this if prior study or professional experience was conducted in English.
GMAT/GRE
Some Australian business schools, such as Melbourne Business School and UQ, require a GMAT or GRE score for international applicants. However, many universities now offer waivers if applicants have significant professional achievements or strong academic results.
Additional Materials
Applicants are often asked to submit a CV/resume, professional references, and a statement of motivation. Some schools also conduct interviews to assess leadership potential, career goals, and cultural fit.
Duration of MBA Programs in Australia
How many years is the MBA in Australia? The answer depends on the type of program and your study mode:
1-year MBA in Australia: Accelerated full-time programs offered by schools like the University of Queensland and AGSM at UNSW. These intensive options are ideal for experienced professionals who want to return to the workforce quickly.
2-year MBA in Australia: Standard full-time MBAs, such as the Melbourne Business School MBA, which provide additional time for internships, networking, and career support.
Part-time MBA: Completed over 2–4 years, with flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals already in Australia.
Executive MBA (EMBA): Typically spans 18–24 months, delivered in intensive blocks to suit senior managers balancing work and study.
Dual Degree MBA: Dual degree MBAs in Australia typically take 2.5–3 years full-time (longer if pursued part-time), since students are completing two qualifications.
This range of durations makes Australia attractive to both international and domestic students, giving flexibility to choose between fast-tracked or more extended MBA experiences.
Career Opportunities after MBA in Australia
Graduates have access to a wide range of career opportunities after MBA in Australia, with strong demand across consulting, finance, technology, and other sectors. Jobs after an MBA in Australia often come with competitive salaries and the chance to work in leadership roles across both local and global markets. Whether aiming for a career after MBA in Australia in management consulting, investment banking, or emerging areas like digital transformation and sustainability, the degree can open doors to senior positions and accelerate career growth.
Industry / Role | Average Salary (AUD) | Equivalent (CAD)* |
|---|---|---|
Management Consultant | AUD 100,000 | CAD 95,000 |
Finance Manager | AUD 145,000 | CAD 138,000 |
IT Project Manager | AUD 125,000 | CAD 119,000 |
Marketing Director | AUD 160,000 | CAD 152,000 |
HR Director | AUD 200,000 | CAD 190,000 |
Supply Chain Manager | AUD 79,000 | CAD 75,000 |
Investment Banker | AUD 121,000 | CAD 115,000 |
*CAD equivalents converted at ~0.95
Source: Glassdoor Australia, 2025.
Disclaimer: Salaries vary by experience, employer, and location; values are indicative averages only.
Career Support & Alumni Networks
MBA programs in Australia offer more than classroom learning: they provide structured career support and access to powerful alumni networks worldwide. Career services typically include one-on-one coaching, career workshops, employer networking events, and internship opportunities that help students turn knowledge into real-world impact.
Many schools also run milestone programs and personalised consultations to help students refine their career goals, build strong resumes, and prepare for interviews. Alumni networks extend across global hubs, giving graduates lifelong connections in consulting, finance, technology, and other industries.
Examples include:
AGSM @ UNSW with its Industry Showcase and milestone career program.
Melbourne Business School offers individual coaching and its Personal Effectiveness Program.
UQ Business School connects students through the global ChangeMakers alumni platform.
Macquarie Business School embedding a Career Development Program directly into MBA units and offering international exchange opportunities.
Together, career support and alumni connections make an MBA in Australia a gateway to leadership roles and global opportunities.
Post-Study Work Rights After MBA in Australia
International MBA graduates in Australia may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). This visa allows you to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily after completing your degree at a CRICOS-registered institution. Post-Higher Education Work stream (most relevant for MBA graduates):
Stay is usually 2–3 years, depending on the qualification.
Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders may stay up to 5 years.
You can work full-time and bring eligible family members.
Second Post-Higher Education Work stream (regional universities only):
Provides an additional 1–2 years of stay if you studied and/or live in designated regional areas.
Key points:
Eligibility requires a recent MBA or equivalent postgraduate degree from a recognised Australian institution.
You must apply within 6 months of holding a Student visa.
The visa does not automatically lead to permanent residency (PR), but the work experience gained can support future migration pathways.
For official eligibility and application details, visit the Department of Home Affairs – Subclass 485.
MBA in Australia vs MBA in Canada
Many prospective students compare which country is better for MBA: Australia or Canada. Both destinations offer globally recognized programs, but there are key differences in cost, duration, and lifestyle that may guide your choice.
Factor | Australia | Canada |
|---|---|---|
Program Length | 1–2 years (1-year fast-track options) | 2 years common |
Fees | AUD 42k–65k | CAD 30k–50k |
Global Recognition | High | High |
Lifestyle | Warm climate, Asia-Pacific hub | North America, multicultural |
For Canadian students, an MBA in Australia offers the advantage of shorter program durations and proximity to Asia-Pacific markets. However, Canadian MBAs may be more cost-effective and allow easier access to North American career opportunities.
Why Apply through IDP
Applying through IDP gives you expert guidance, MBA applications, scholarships, and student visas. With offices in Canada and around the world, IDP supports your journey to studying in Australia, at no cost to you.
Here’s how we help Canadian students every step of the way:
Service | IDP Canada | Others |
|---|---|---|
Free counselling | 100% free expert guidance for MBA applicants | Many charge fees or limit free support |
MBA university applications | Direct support with top Australian business schools | Often limited or self-apply only |
Local Canadian offices | Support from Vancouver, Toronto, and Virtual | Not locally available |
Visa guidance | Step-by-step help with Subclass 500 student visa | Often third-party or external |
IELTS expertise | IDP co-owns IELTS and operates test centres across Canada | Third-party only |
Scholarship & financial aid advice | Advice on MBA scholarships and budgeting for Australia | Limited or not specialized |
Pre-departure sessions | Practical guidance on student life, housing, cost of living | Rarely offered |
Unbiased university matching | We work with most Australian MBA providers and prioritize your goals | Many only promote partner institutions |
FAQs
How much does an MBA cost in Australia?
MBA fees in Australia typically range between AUD 50,000–120,000 total depending on the university, program length (1-year vs 2-year), and location. For example, UQ Business School’s 1-year MBA is ~AUD 69,000, while Melbourne Business School’s full-time MBA is ~AUD 112,500.
Is an MBA from Australia worth it?
Yes. An Australian MBA is globally recognized and can open doors to senior roles, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. According to Glassdoor (2025), graduates in roles such as Management Consultant, Finance Manager, or Marketing Director typically earn between AUD 100,000–200,000+, depending on industry and experience.
Is permanent residency (PR) possible after an MBA in Australia?
Graduates are eligible for the Temporary Graduate (Post-Study Work stream) visa, which generally provides 2–4 years of work rights depending on your degree level and study location.
The two-year extension of post-study work rights ended in mid-2024, following changes announced by the Australian Government (Department of Education, 2024).
While this visa does not guarantee permanent residency, it offers international graduates the opportunity to gain work experience in Australia, which may support future PR pathways.
Which country is better for MBA, Australia or Canada?
Both are excellent options. Australia offers 1-year MBA programs (e.g., AGSM, UQ) and strong Asia-Pacific business links, while Canada’s MBAs are usually 2 years and often have lower tuition fees (CAD 30,000–50,000 vs Australia AUD 70,000–120,000+). The right choice depends on your goals, budget, and preferred location.
What is the best MBA course in Australia?
Top-ranked programs include Melbourne Business School, UNSW (AGSM), and UQ Business School, all of which feature in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025. The “best” program depends on your priorities, such as ROI, alumni network, or diversity.
How many years is the MBA in Australia?
An MBA in Australia typically takes 1–2 years. One-year MBAs are intensive, while two-year programs offer more networking and specialization opportunities.
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