Study Nursing in Australia: Top Universities, Courses, Fees & Career Scope(2025)
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If you’re dreaming of a career that’s both rewarding and future-proof, nursing in Australia should be high on your list. Studying nursing here means stepping into one of the most respected professions in a country that actually needs more skilled healthcare workers badly. The Australian Government predicts that over 85,000 additional nurses will be needed by 2031 just to meet healthcare demands.
It means job opportunities are everywhere for qualified grads. Plus, Australia’s has got good universities, excellent hospitals, a multicultural society, and a healthcare system ranked among the top 10 globally. So, before you pack your bags, you’ll want to know the key stuff. Here’s a quick look at it:
| Aspect | Details |
| Popular Courses | Diploma of Nursing, Bachelor of Nursing (BSN), Master of Nursing |
| Course Duration | Diploma: 18–24 months BSN: 3 years Master’s: 1.5–2 years |
| Top Universities | UTS, University of Sydney, Monash University, Deakin University, University of Melbourne, University of Adelaide, University of Queensland |
| Bachelor’s Fees (Annual) | Approx. USD 20,000 – 30,000 (~AUD 30,000 – 45,000) depending on university and location |
| Master’s Fees (Annual) | Around AUD 46,969 (~USD 31,000) |
| Entry Requirements | High school diploma with subjects like Biology/Chemistry English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+/TOEFL 90+) GPA varies by uni |
| Career Scope | Public & private hospitals, community healthcare centers, private clinics, aged care facilities, nursing education, research roles |
| Average Registered Nurse Salary | Approx. AUD 85,000/year (~USD 56,000/year) starting salary for RNs in Australia |
| Scholarship Options | Australia Awards Scholarships, university-specific merit-based awards, Destination Australia Scholarships, healthcare workforce support scholarships |
How Long Does It Take to Study Nursing in Australia?
Not everyone walks the same path in nursing and honestly, that’s one of the best things about studying in Australia. The system gives you options. Whether you’re dipping your toes in with a diploma or aiming to lead research projects someday, there’s a route mapped out for you. Let’s break it down:
- Diploma of Nursing (or Certificate IV in Nursing): Its duration is 18 to 24 months. You’ll graduate as an Enrolled Nurse (EN) which means you can start working under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. It is perfect if you’re looking to get into the field quickly or if you didn’t meet direct entry requirements for a Bachelor’s.
- Bachelor of Nursing (BSN): It’s duration is 3 years full-time (some unis offer accelerated versions, but it’s intense!). You’ll qualify as a Registered Nurse (RN), ready to register with AHPRA (Australia’s nursing board). Expect at least 800–1,000+ hours of hands-on placements across aged care, hospital wards, and mental health units.
- Master of Nursing (MN or MSc Nursing): It’s typically of 1.5 to 2 years full-time. Ideal if you already hold a nursing qualification and want to specialise—say, in mental health, midwifery, emergency care, or nursing education.
What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Studying Nursing in Australia?
Thinking of applying? Well before you jump in and start hitting the “Apply” button on every nursing program out there, you’ll want to be clear on a few essentials. Australia’s universities are world-class, sure but they’re also selective. Nursing is a regulated profession here, so entry requirements can get a bit…specific. But don’t stress. If you tick these boxes, you’re off to a good start:
- Academic Qualifications: At a minimum, you’ll need a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Most universities look for solid performance in English and Mathematics. Preferably, you should have also studied Biology and Chemistry. Some competitive programs ask for an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) of 65–80, or international equivalent grades.
- English Language Proficiency: If English isn’t your first language, this part’s non-negotiable. Most universities require an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 overall, with no band less than 6.0. TOEFL iBT equivalent: minimum score of 90. PTE Academic: 58–64 typically required.
- Other Requirements: Many programs ask for a minimum GPA—usually a credit average or higher (~GPA 2.5+ on a 4.0 scale, depending on the uni). Some universities may require: A personal statement outlining your motivation for studying nursing. A CV or résumé if applying to postgraduate programs.
- Health & Legal Checks: Before you can undertake clinical placements, you’ll usually need: Police clearance or criminal background check. Up-to-date vaccination records (think Hepatitis B, MMR, influenza, COVID-19). Working With Children Check or equivalent clearance. Medical fitness to work in healthcare settings.
Which Are the Top Universities for Nursing in Australia?
Okay so you’ve decided that nursing in Australia is your thing. Great call. But with over 40 universities offering nursing programs, where should you actually apply? Now, here’s the thing: rankings aren’t everything. But when it comes to healthcare and nursing education, the reputation of your uni does count. Why? Because better-ranked universities often have stronger links with teaching hospitals, better clinical simulation facilities, and more experienced faculty—all of which can give your career a head start.
And guess what? Australia is home to some of the world’s top universities for nursing—no exaggeration. In fact, according to the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject (Nursing) 2024, 7 Australian universities rank in the global top 50 for nursing. Here’s a closer look:
| University | 2024 QS World Rank (Nursing) | Annual Fees for Bachelor of Nursing |
| University of Technology Sydney (UTS) | #7 globally | Approx. AUD 37,540 (~USD 24,800) |
| University of Sydney | #13 globally | Approx. AUD 42,000 (~USD 27,800) |
| University of Queensland (UQ) | #24 globally | Approx. AUD 36,000 (~USD 23,800) |
| Monash University | #25 globally | Approx. AUD 38,900 (~USD 25,700) |
| Deakin University | #29 globally | Approx. AUD 37,600 (~USD 24,900) |
| University of Melbourne | #35 globally | Approx. AUD 39,168 (~USD 25,900) |
| University of Adelaide | #48 globally | Approx. AUD 35,500 (~USD 23,500) |
What Is the Career Scope After Studying Nursing in Australia?
Let’s not sugar-coat it—Australia needs nurses. Badly. And if you’ve got a nursing degree from an Australian university? You’re entering a job market that’s practically rolling out the welcome mat. Here’s the thing: Australia’s population is ageing (big time), and healthcare demand is rising with it. The National Skills Commission reports that Registered Nurses (RNs) are consistently listed in the country’s top 5 most in-demand occupations.
Translation? If you graduate with a Bachelor or Master of Nursing here, you’re not just employable—you’re highly sought after. Plus, nursing is one of the occupations on the Australian Skilled Occupation List, which means completing your degree can directly boost your chances of scoring a long-term work visa or even permanent residency. Below is the career scope after studying nursing in Australia (2025):
| Job Post / Role | Typical Starting Salary (Annual) | Where You Can Work |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | AUD 70,000 – 85,000 | Public & private hospitals, specialist wards |
| Enrolled Nurse (EN) | AUD 55,000 – 65,000 | Aged care, rehabilitation centres, community clinics |
| Clinical Nurse Specialist | AUD 90,000 – 105,000 | Hospitals, outpatient services, surgical units |
| Nurse Practitioner | AUD 120,000 – 140,000 | Primary healthcare, emergency care, private practice |
| Community Health Nurse | AUD 75,000 – 90,000 | Community health centres, home healthcare |
| Mental Health Nurse | AUD 80,000 – 100,000 | Mental health units, private facilities, crisis services |
| Aged Care Nurse / Gerontological Nurse | AUD 70,000 – 90,000 | Aged care homes, community services |
| Nursing Educator / Lecturer | AUD 100,000 – 120,000 | Universities, TAFEs, vocational colleges |
| Nursing Researcher | AUD 85,000 – 110,000 | Academic institutions, healthcare organisations, government bodies |
What Scholarships Are Available for International Nursing Students in Australia?
Let’s be honest nursing degrees in Australia aren’t exactly cheap. We’re talking AUD 30K–45K per year, and that’s before you add in living expenses. But here’s the good news: there are scholarships out there that can seriously lighten the financial load. And you don’t have to be a straight-A student to qualify.
Many scholarships take into account your background, leadership potential, community involvement, or whether you’re willing to study at a regional campus (which Australia is keen to promote). Pro tip? Apply early. Some scholarships close up to 6–9 months before your course starts. Following are the Top Scholarships for International Nursing Students in Australia (2025):
| Scholarship Name | Amount Given | Eligibility |
| Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) | Full tuition, living allowance (~AUD 30K+/year), travel allowance | Students from eligible developing countries; leadership potential; commitment to return home after study |
| Destination Australia Scholarships | Up to AUD 15,000/year | Students studying at regional campus locations in Australia |
| University of Sydney International Scholarships | Full tuition + living stipend (~AUD 37K/year) | High academic achievers applying for postgraduate research or select coursework degrees |
| Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship | 50%–100% tuition fee waiver | Outstanding academic performance (typically 85%+ equivalent GPA) |
| Monash International Merit Scholarship | Up to AUD 10,000/year, renewable | High academic achievers across all faculties, including Nursing |
| University of Queensland International Scholarship | 25% tuition fee reduction | High-achieving international students in priority programs, including Health & Nursing |
| La Trobe Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Scholarship | Up to AUD 36,800 | Academic merit; strong community involvement; leadership potential |
| Western Sydney University International Scholarships | Up to AUD 6,000–AUD 10,000 | International students applying for undergraduate Nursing programs |
Conclusion
Studying nursing in Australia isn’t just about earning a qualification, it’s about building a future. With the country’s growing demand for healthcare professionals, a nursing degree here can open doors to rewarding jobs, stable incomes, and even pathways to long-term residency. Plus, with scholarships available, flexible entry routes, and globally recognised degrees, Australia makes it easier than ever for international students to step into this vital profession.
So, if you’ve been thinking about taking that next step, now’s the time. And while you’re planning your studies, don’t forget about where you’ll live. University Living can help you find safe, fully furnished student accommodation near top nursing universities across Australia. Start your journey with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Future of Nursing in Australia?
Nursing in Australia has a very promising future. The demand for registered nurses is rising and fast.
1. In 2022, around 85% of Australia’s nursing workforce were Registered Nurses (RNs), and by 2035, that number is expected to climb to 87.5%.
2. Nurse Practitioners — the more advanced, specialised nurses — will also see growth, going from 0.6% in 2022 to 0.9% by 2035.
So if you’re thinking about becoming a nurse, now is a great time. Australia is expanding its healthcare system, and qualified nurses are right at the heart of it.
How Much Does It Cost to Study Nursing in Australia?
Studying nursing in Australia is a solid investment, but it comes with a cost.
1. If you’re enrolling in a Bachelor of Nursing (BSc), the total cost ranges between AUD 68,900 to AUD 76,400.
2. In Indian Rupees, that’s around ₹37.5 to ₹41.5 lakhs for the entire course.
3. This estimate includes tuition fees + cost of living, so you get a realistic picture of what you’ll spend.
Can Nurses Get PR (Permanent Residency) Easily in Australia?
Yes, nursing is considered a high-priority occupation in Australia, so it can be easier to get PR compared to other fields. Here’s how it usually works:
1. First, you need to register as a nurse with AHPRA (Australia’s nursing authority).
2. Once registered, you’ll need to gain some local work experience.
3. This experience helps build your case for skilled migration — and boosts your chances of PR.
Bottom line: If you’re a qualified nurse and meet the eligibility, you’ve got a good shot at permanent residency.
How Long Is a Nursing Course in Australia?
A Bachelor of Nursing program in Australia usually takes three years to complete. During the course, you won’t just be stuck in classrooms, you’ll get hands-on training too:
1. Students complete at least 800 hours of clinical placement in hospitals, aged care centres, and community clinics.
2. That means by the time you graduate, you’ll already have real-world nursing experience under your belt.
Which Type of Nurse Is in High Demand in Australia?
Right now, Mental Health Nurses are especially in demand across Australia. Why?
1. Mental health issues are on the rise, and Australia is putting more focus on mental well-being.
2. Roles in acute psychiatric units or forensic settings are high-pressure, so specialist nurses are highly valued — and they often earn more.
3. Nurses with advanced mental health training or postgraduate certifications have strong career prospects in both public and private healthcare.
