Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
• Sydney MBA fees for the 2025-2026 intake are approximately AUD 57,200 per year.
• Living costs for MBA students in Sydney are estimated at AUD 24,505 annually.
• The University offers several scholarships to reduce Sydney MBA fees and living expenses.
• Both domestic and international students can access various loan options to finance their Sydney MBA.
An MBA at the University of Sydney opens up great career opportunities and personal growth. However, understanding the full financial commitment, especially the Sydney MBA fees, is key to making a smart decision. The costs go beyond tuition to include living expenses, student services fees, health insurance, and course materials. Having a clear picture of the total cost and available funding options is essential for planning and making your education financially manageable.
In this blog, we’ll break down all the key expenses and explore the best ways to fund your Sydney MBA.
How Much Will Your Sydney MBA Cost in 2025-2026?
The MBA program provided by the University of Sydney is one of the best business programs in Australia, attracting professionals worldwide who want to strengthen their leadership and management skills. The program provides a practical and industry-focused curriculum, preparing graduates for senior roles across various sectors.
However, studying for this MBA comes with significant costs. Students need to understand the full breakdown of tuition fees and additional expenses before applying.
For the 2025 intake, the tuition fee for the first 48 credit points is AUD 57,200. This fee covers only the academic cost of the program and does not include other necessary expenses such as:
- Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) – Charged annually to support student services.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – Mandatory for international students.
- Living Costs – Includes housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
Since living in Sydney can be expensive, it is important to plan ahead. However, students can reduce costs by applying for scholarships, securing part-time work, or exploring education loans.
Sydney MBA Fees & Additional Costs (2025-2026)
| Expense | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (First 48 credit points) | 57,200 |
| Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) | Up to 326 |
| Application Processing Fee | 150 |
| Estimated Living Expenses | ~24,505 per year |
Sydney MBA Expenses Beyond Tuition
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Students applying for the MBA program at the University of Sydney must budget for living expenses totalling at least AUD 24,505 per year.
Based on this amount, a single student living away from home will need about AUD 2,042 per month to cover accommodation, food, utilities, and fun activities. Your expenses may vary depending on how you live and what you need.
Accommodation: Students' accommodation expenses can be a burden, and Sydney has several solutions to help alleviate this cost. From shared flats to sole occupancy in student halls, the price varies accordingly! Maintaining a single room within student accommodations takes approximately AUD 850 per month.
Food: Students should consider their budget when calculating food expenses. With an average expenditure of around AUD 80 per week, ensuring access to adequate and affordable options on campus is vital.
Transportation: The financial burden of travel can vary greatly depending on where a student lives, their chosen mode of transportation, and frequency. For instance, a monthly pass for Australia may cost you between AUD 90 - AUD 220.70
Utility: Electricity, water, and internet services will all come with their costs. Utilities typically run between AUD 270 - AUD 300 per month.
Lifestyle & Personal Expenses
Students typically spend AUD 320 – 600 per month on entertainment, gym memberships, and personal care. Free activities like beaches and parks can help cut costs.
Academic Expenses
Books and study materials cost about AUD 500 per year (around AUD 42 per month). Many students save money by buying second-hand books or using university resources.
Sydney MBA Living Expenses (Monthly & Annual Costs)
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (AUD) | 12-Month Cost (AUD) | 18-Month Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 1,172 – 1,430 | 14,064 – 17,160 | 21,096 – 25,740 |
| Food & Groceries | 320 – 1,120 | 3,840 – 13,440 | 5,760 – 20,160 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Internet, Gas) | 270 – 300 | 3,240 – 3,600 | 4,860 – 5,400 |
| Transportation | 100 – 200 | 1,200 – 2,400 | 1,800 – 3,600 |
| Lifestyle & Personal | 320 – 600 | 3,840 – 7,200 | 5,760 – 10,800 |
| Academic Expenses (Books, Stationery) | 42 | 500 | 750 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 2,224 – 3,792 | 26,684 – 43,800 | 40,126 – 66,450 |
Funding Your Sydney MBA: Loans, Scholarships & More
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Pursuing an MBA at the University of Sydney is a major investment, but there are multiple ways to finance it. From scholarships and student loans to part-time work, students have several options to manage costs. Here’s a quick overview:
Scholarships: Reduce Your Tuition Costs
The University of Sydney offers merit-based and need-based scholarships to help students lower tuition fees. These scholarships recognize academic performance, leadership, and diversity. Since competition is high, applying early is key.
Student Loans: Financial Assistance for MBA Students
Domestic students can apply for government-backed loans like FEE-HELP, while international students have options from private lenders. Comparing interest rates and repayment terms is crucial before making a decision.
Part-Time Work: Earn While You Study
International students can work 48 hours within two weeks. During the semester and unlimited hours during university breaks, helping to cover living expenses like accommodation and food. Common part-time jobs include on-campus roles, internships, and casual work in retail or hospitality.
📌 Want more details? We’ll cover each funding option—scholarships and loans—in the next sections.
Sydney MBA Scholarships
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Paying for an MBA at the University of Sydney can be tough, but scholarships make it more affordable. Whether awarded for academic merit, leadership potential, or financial need, these scholarships provide valuable support to international students. Here are the most relevant scholarships for MBA applicants:
1. MBA Director’s Scholarship (Best for Full-Time MBA Students)
This scholarship offers AUD 10,000 – AUD 40,000 towards tuition fees for the MBA (Leadership and Enterprise) program. It is awarded based on merit, leadership experience, and career achievements. No separate application is required—eligible students are automatically considered upon admission.
2. Future Leaders MBA Scholarship (Best for Part-Time MBA Students)
This scholarship covers full tuition fees for the Part-Time MBA program. It is ideal for working professionals looking to balance study with career growth. Selection is based on academic performance and leadership potential.
3. Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships Scheme (Best for High-Achieving Students)
International students with strong academic records can receive AUD 5,000 – AUD 40,000 as a one-time award. Students are automatically considered based on their admission ranking—no separate application is required.
4. Sydney Scholars India Scholarship Program (Best for Indian Students)
With up to AUD 40,000 in funding, this scholarship supports postgraduate students from India. Applicants must hold Indian citizenship, reside in India, and have an unconditional admission offer from the University of Sydney.
5. Sydney International Student Award (Best for Long-Term Tuition Savings)
Unlike one-time awards, this scholarship reduces tuition fees by 20% for the entire course duration. International students from eligible countries can apply by submitting a personal statement explaining why they chose the University of Sydney.
For more details on available scholarships, eligibility criteria, and application tips, check out our complete guide on "Sydney MBA Scholarships"
Student Loans for Sydney MBA
Covering the costs of your Sydney MBA is an essential step in your academic journey. Fortunately, several loan options can help ease the financial load. Below are the best loan options for students to consider:
1. Interest-Free Loans for Current Students
The University of Sydney offers interest-free loans of up to AUD 2,000 for students needing financial assistance with living and study costs. These loans are available year-round and must be repaid within 12 months or before graduation.
- Eligibility: Available to all current students, including both undergraduate and postgraduate, regardless of nationality.
- Repayment Terms: Repayment conditions must be agreed upon upon approval. Failing to meet the terms may result in penalties, including academic sanctions like withholding results.
2. Private Loans for International Students
International students who are not eligible for government-backed loans can apply for private loans. Several financial institutions, including Prodigy Finance and MPOWER Financing, offer loans that cover tuition and living costs for international students studying in Australia.
- Flexible Terms: These loans do not require a co-signer and are available to students from any country, including India.
- Loan Coverage: Covers tuition fees and living expenses.
Exploring different loan options and understanding eligibility can be tricky. Consulting an expert can help you make informed decisions and guide you through the loan process to ensure you secure the best option for your Sydney MBA.
Conclusion
Pursuing an MBA at the University of Sydney is a big financial commitment, but it brings strong returns in terms of career growth, networking, and personal development. To plan wisely, it’s important to understand the full scope of Sydney MBA fees, which include tuition, student services, and living expenses. Exploring available scholarships and loan options can further help you manage these fees and make confident decisions about your MBA journey.