Go8 or Regional University in Australia? Fees, the Second 485 and PR Points Compared for Indian Students
The Group of Eight universities rank highest and charge most. Regional campuses cost less and bring migration benefits: five points in the skilled points test and a second 485 of one or two years. For many Indian students the second list is the better deal, and three Go8 members are themselves in regional areas.
By Leonid Kurza · co-founder of Edumapple · checked
₹23 lakhcheapest IT master's a year
₹43 lakhMelbourne's IT master's a year
+5points for regional study
1–2 yearssecond 485
The numbers for an IT master's
Two years at Charles Darwin (₹24 lakh (A$36,440) a year) cost about A$73,000 in tuition; two years at Melbourne (A$64,000) about A$128,000. Charles Darwin is Category 3, so its graduate can add two regional years to a three-year 485; Melbourne's graduate cannot add any.
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Tuition and the visa living funds, counted in rupees
ANU, Adelaide and UWA combine Go8 standing with Category 2 status, at A$54,400–57,640 a year for most master's. Newcastle, Wollongong and Flinders are cheaper Category 2 options close to Sydney and Adelaide.
Questions from Indian students: Go8 or regional
Which Go8 universities are regional?
ANU in Canberra, the University of Adelaide and UWA in Perth are in Category 2 areas. Melbourne, Sydney, UNSW, Monash and UQ are in Category 1 cities.
What does regional study give?
Five points in the skilled points test if you meet the Australian study requirement in a designated regional area, and eligibility for a second 485 if you then live in a regional area.
How long is the second 485?
One year in Category 2 areas, two years in Tasmania and Category 3 areas such as Darwin, Townsville and Ballarat.
Is a Go8 degree worth the extra cost?
For research, competitive graduate programmes and some employers, yes. For a job in IT, accounting or nursing, the course and your experience matter more than the brand.
Which cheaper universities are regional?
Charles Darwin, James Cook, Federation (Category 3); Tasmania (Category 2 with a two-year second 485); Newcastle, Wollongong, Flinders (Category 2).
