Why study an MBA in Australia: A guide for Indian students

Studying in Australia remains a popular choice for Indian students. Over 118,000 individuals called the country home in 2024, comprising the second-largest contingent of international students. Pursuing a business management degree for career development and progression is often a top preference for Indian students. This is especially true for MBA courses that provide a solid curriculum, international recognition and accreditation, as well as opportunities for specialization. In this guide, we discuss what makes Australia a popular choice for the degree, where you can study an MBA, how much it will cost, the eligibility requirements and career prospects.

What makes Australia so popular for Indian international students?

There are several reasons why Australia continues to attract Indian international students. Some of these include:

• Australia has nine universities that rank in the global top 100 as per the QS World University Rankings. This means qualifications from globally recognised institutions that enhance your CV backed by a quality education.
• The quality of teaching, industry-experienced faculty, low student-teacher ratios and great infrastructure translate into an MBA degree that makes you market-ready.
• A strong graduate employment sector, with undergraduate and postgraduate employment rates averaging 86 per cent (Graduate Outcomes Survey).
• Australia is ranked in the top 20 internationally for its safety and peacefulness (World Population Review)
• Australia has six cities that rank in the world’s top 50 (QS Best Student Cities) and is known for the high quality of life it offers.
• There is a diverse and multicultural international student community of over 824,000 (Education.gov.au), allowing you to meet and engage with your peers from all over the world.

What are the top universities for an MBA in Australia?

Australia's best MBA universities have an excellent reputation for academic quality, research, resources, and good infrastructure. For students aiming to study for an MBA, university selection can be crucial, especially if you’re looking for a particular type of MBA programme or one that offers specific work experience or internship opportunities MBA students to fit your career goals. The ten top-ranked Australian universities and MBA colleges that are most highly rated for their MBA programmes are:

• Melbourne Business School, Melbourne
  • Full-time MBA
  • Part-time MBA
  • Online MBA
  • Executive MBA
  • Senior Executive MBA
•  UNSW (AGSM), Sydney (University of New South Wales)
  • Full-time MBA
  • Part-time MBA
  • Executive MBA
• University of Sydney Business School, Sydney
  • Full-time MBA
  • Part-time MBA
  • Global Executive MBA
  • Master of Management
• UQ Business School, Brisbane
  • Full-time MBA
• Monash Business School (Monash University), Melbourne
  • Global Executive MBA
  • Global Executive MBA and Master of Business
  • MBA Digital
• Macquarie Business School, Sydney (Macquarie University)
  • Full-time MBA
  • Master of Management
• Australian National University, Canberra
  • Full-time MBA 1.5 years
  • Full-time MBA 1 year
• University of Western Australia Business School, Perth
  • Global MBA
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) Flexible
  • Master of Business Administration and Master of Laws
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• University of Technology Sydney Business School, Sydney
  • Master of Business Administration
  • Master of Business Administration- Online
  • Juris Doctor Master of Business Administration  
  • Master of Science Master of Business Administration
• Unisa Business School, Adelaide
  • Master of Business Administration
  • International Master of Business Administration
  • Master of Business Administration (Finance)
  • International Master of Business Administration (Advertising and Brand Management)
  • Master of Business Administration (Human Resource Management)
  • International Master of Business Administration (Tourism and Event Management)

Some MBA programmes are offered in an online format only, so make sure to check this before shortlisting. Another aspect to verify is whether the MBA programme you are interested in is available for international students. Some universities offer the same programmes to domestic and international students but have specific requirements that overseas applicants must fulfil, in addition to the regular eligibility criteria. For example, you may have to complete a bridge/ certification course. In addition, always check the accreditation of the programme, notably if it is AMBA, EQUIS, and AACSB certified. Some of the most popular universities chosen by Indian international students for a top MBA and world-class education include:

1. University of Melbourne
2. Australian National University
3. University of Sydney
4. Curtin University
5. ICMS Sydney
6. RMIT University
7. The University of Queensland
8. Bond University
9. University of Adelaide 

What is the cost of an MBA in Australia?

The cost of your Australian MBA will vary depending on the university that you select and the type of MBA programme you pursue. For example, Executive MBAs may cost you more than regular MBAs. The average cost for an MBA in Australia is between INR 1,550,000 and INR 3,000,000 per year. Always check for scholarship opportunities, as this can help cover the costs. Universities often have scholarship options for international students, so make sure to check their respective websites or contact their international student offices. One of our knowledgeable counsellors may also be able to assist.

What the general admission and eligibility requirements for an MBA in Australia?

While different universities may outline specific admission requirements for international candidates, it is good to have a general idea of what makes you eligible. Here are some basics:

• A qualifying GMAT/ GRE score as specified by the university
• English language proficiency test scores. Minimum band scores are usually mentioned by universities, typically a minimum score of IELTS 6.5 and above.
• An undergraduate degree with a minimum required percentage, usually 60 per cent or above.
• A strong statement of purpose (SOP) that clearly shows your motivation for pursuing an MBA.
• Many universities ask for or give preference to candidates with relevant work experience in an administrative/ managerial role. You will have to give proof of employment in this case. Generally, two to three years of real-world experience is needed.
• Some universities may ask you to complete a specific course before you can start the MBA programme. For example, the University of Queensland requires international MBA candidates to complete their own Graduate Certificate in Business Administration before continuing.

The university’s eligibility requirements will explain what exams you need to have passed and taken to apply for the MBA programme. The most common are:

• English language proficiency tests, like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and CAE
• GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or
• GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

It can be difficult to get a slot quickly for these exams. Plan well in advance and book in advance so that you have your scores in hand by the time you send in your application. Remember that you may want to rewrite the exam if your scores are not what you need.

Apart from these exams, you will need your valid passport and student visa to be able to study in Australia. As part of your preliminary research, check the specific criteria outlined by your shortlisted universities and make sure you match them before you apply. 

What is the usual course duration for an MBA in Australia?

You can undertake a full-time MBA or study part-time when you study abroad in Australia. The full-time programmes are typically two-year courses, although you will find some that cover everything you need to know about global business in one and a half years. Part-time courses can be credit-based, and you are given a specific time frame to complete a set number of credits. You will also find part-time courses that span three years.

What scholarships are there for MBA candidates in Australia?

A scholarship can make it easier financially to complete your MBA in Australia. Some of the funding  options available for international students include:

What are the career prospects for MBA graduates?

An MBA opens doors to career opportunities and employability in many industries. It can also be the start of your entrepreneurship journey to open your own business. Globally, there is a need for management professionals and with an MBA from a top-rated Australian university, you may be the ideal candidate to fulfil such a role. The Project Management Institute estimates that by 2035, over 30 million project and management professionals will be needed to fill global demand, meaning many job opportunities for MBA graduates. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics similarly suggests that management jobs will grow at a faster rate than average to 2033, with 1.2 million openings per year. Here are a few roles that you can apply for with an MBA in your hand:

• Project manager
• Supply chain and operations manager
• Logistics manager
• Business Analyst
• BI Analyst
• Risk manager
• Budget management consultant
• Data analyst
• SAP consultant
• Product manager
• Brand manager
• Digital Marketing manager
• Supply chain management specialist
• Financial analyst
• Financial planning consultant
• Investment consultant
• Private equity analyst
• HR manager
• Employee relations manager

Further Australia offers a generous post-study work visa that allows you to stay in the country for up to three years after your MBA to work.

Choosing to study an MBA in Australia is a good decision, with both the study environment and the quality of the degrees. You can choose from a variety of MBA programme formats and specialisations that have an excellent global reputation and help you progress in the world of international business. If an MBA is your goal, then start your research right away with preparation for the required exams and/ or necessary work experience to maximise your chances of being accepted onto your chosen programme.