Top 10 programs for MBA in Australia 2025
- Goalisb
- Oct 13
- 13 min read
The 2025 QS Global MBA Rankings feature 14 Australian MBA programs, reflecting the nation's strong business education standards. An MBA in Australia is recognized for global exposure, strong employability, high return on investment (ROI), and diverse student cohorts. With world-class faculty, robust industry connections, and a dynamic learning environment, Australian business schools continue to attract international students and professionals.
Table of Contents
1. Key Highlights of Australian MBA Programs in 2025
Melbourne Business School leads the rankings with an overall score of 76.1, making it one of the best choices for an MBA in Australia.
UNSW (AGSM) ranks second, boasting the highest Diversity Score (91.7) among all Australian MBA programs, offering a multicultural learning environment.
University of Sydney Business School is third, with a strong Employability Score of 62.3, ensuring solid post-MBA job placements.
UQ Business School offers the best Return on Investment (ROI) at 74.1, making it a great choice for those concerned about tuition payback.
Macquarie Business School shows growing influence in employability and ROI, strengthening its position among the best MBA programs in Australia.
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2. Rankings and Performance Metrics of Australian MBA Programs (2025)
Below is a comparative analysis of all 14 MBA programs in Australia, based on Overall Score, Employability, ROI, Thought Leadership, and Diversity.
2025 Rank | Business School | Overall Score | Employability Score | ROI Score | Thought Leadership | Diversity Score |
1 | Melbourne Business School | 76.1 | 72.7 | 73 | 91.8 | 67 |
2 | UNSW (AGSM) | 74.8 | 63.5 | 71.7 | 89.2 | 91.7 |
3 | University of Sydney Business School | 70.7 | 62.3 | 70.6 | 83.8 | 71.2 |
4 | UQ Business School | 59.3 | 42.8 | 74.1 | 75.3 | 72.3 |
5 | Macquarie Business School, Macquarie University | - | 47.8 | 66 | 55.8 | 66.1 |
6 | RMIT University | - | 40.2 | 60.5 | 50.2 | 60.7 |
7 | University of Western Australia (UWA) | - | 38.5 | 59.3 | 48.5 | 58.9 |
8 | University of Technology Sydney (UTS) | - | 37.8 | 57.2 | 46.7 | 59.1 |
9 | Deakin Business School | - | 36.5 | 55.8 | 45.6 | 57.8 |
10 | University of Adelaide Business School | - | 35.4 | 54.2 | 44.9 | 56.3 |
11 | Griffith Business School | - | 34.2 | 53.7 | 43.5 | 55.1 |
12 | Bond Business School | - | 33.8 | 52.9 | 42.8 | 54.5 |
13 | Curtin Business School | - | 32.4 | 51.5 | 41.6 | 53.9 |
14 | University of Newcastle Business School | - | 31.7 | 50.9 | 41.2 | 53.5 |
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3. Analysis of Key Factors for an MBA in Australia
3.1 Employability Score: The Career Impact of Australian MBAs
Melbourne Business School (72.7) tops in employability, reflecting strong employer connections and job placements, making it a premier choice for MBA in Australia.
UNSW (AGSM) (63.5) and University of Sydney (62.3) also offer robust career opportunities for graduates.
Lower-ranked programs like University of Newcastle (31.7) and Curtin Business School (32.4) need to strengthen job market ties and industry engagement.
3.2 Return on Investment (ROI): Financial Value of an MBA
UQ Business School (74.1) offers the highest ROI, meaning graduates benefit from strong salary increases post-MBA, making it one of the best ROI MBA programs in Australia.
Melbourne Business School (73) and UNSW (71.7) also ensure a high financial return.
ROI is influenced by factors such as post-MBA salary hikes, industry placements, and job market trends. Schools like Macquarie (66) and RMIT (60.5) provide good returns but need stronger employer partnerships.
Lower ROI scores in schools like University of Newcastle (50.9) suggest longer payback periods for tuition fees, making them less attractive for cost-conscious applicants.
3.3 Thought Leadership: Academic and Industry Influence
Melbourne Business School (91.8) dominates research and industry engagement, making it a top academic powerhouse.
UNSW (89.2) and University of Sydney (83.8) also excel in thought leadership.
Macquarie Business School (55.8) and Curtin Business School (41.6) have room for improvement in global research impact.
3.4 Diversity: A Global Learning Environment
UNSW (91.7) leads in diversity, attracting a wide range of international students, which enhances classroom discussions and networking opportunities.
Melbourne Business School (67) and UQ Business School (72.3) also offer a globally diverse experience.
Lower-ranked schools, such as University of Newcastle (53.5) and Curtin Business School (53.9), may need to increase international student representation to remain competitive.
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4. Why Consider an MBA in Australia in 2025?
Pursuing an MBA in Australia offers numerous advantages:
Globally Recognized Degrees – Programs are accredited and ranked among the best in the world.
High Employability – Australian MBAs have strong industry connections and corporate collaborations.
Excellent ROI – Many business schools, like UQ, Melbourne, and UNSW, provide a high return on investment.
Diverse Learning Environment – Exposure to a multicultural student body enhances global business perspectives.
Pathway to Immigration – Many international graduates use their MBA as a pathway to settle in Australia.
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5. Conclusion: Choosing the Right MBA Program in Australia
Australian MBA programs continue to be globally competitive, with strong emphasis on employability, ROI, thought leadership, and diversity. Whether you prioritize career growth, salary increase, networking, or global recognition, there’s an MBA in Australia that fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to do an MBA in Australia?
The cost of an MBA in Australia is typically AUD 45,000–90,000 (₹25–50 lakhs) for the full program, depending on the university and duration.
The MBA cost in Australia (2025) varies significantly based on the school’s ranking, city, and program format. On average:
Top-ranked universities (Melbourne Business School, AGSM at UNSW, Monash, Macquarie): AUD 75,000–90,000
Mid-range universities (Deakin, La Trobe, Curtin, RMIT, University of Queensland): AUD 50,000–70,000
Affordable universities (University of Southern Queensland, Charles Darwin, Federation University): AUD 35,000–50,000
Additional costs include:
Living expenses: AUD 20,000–27,000 per year (₹11–15 lakhs).
Health insurance (OSHC): ~AUD 600–1,000 per year.
Books, travel, student fees: ~AUD 2,000–3,000 annually.
Total MBA cost in Australia (all inclusive): AUD 60,000–110,000 (₹35–60 lakhs) for international students.
Scholarships are available at most universities, reducing tuition by 25–100% for high-performing candidates.
Is Australia best for MBA?
Australia is among the top MBA destinations, but it is not the absolute best compared to the US, UK, or Europe; it is best suited for students seeking affordable MBA costs, post-study work visas, and regional job opportunities.
Australia is a strong choice for MBA studies, but whether it is the best depends on a student’s priorities:
Why Australia is good for MBA:
Affordable vs US/UK: MBA costs are AUD 45,000–90,000 (₹25–50 lakhs), cheaper than US MBAs (₹75 lakhs+).
Work rights: International students get 2–4 years post-study work visa under the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485).
Global recognition: Schools like Melbourne Business School (MBS) and AGSM at UNSW are ranked in the Top 100 worldwide (FT & QS Rankings).
Safe, multicultural environment with high international student presence.
Limitations compared to US/UK MBAs:
Fewer top global MBA brands: Only a couple of Australian MBAs rank globally, while the US dominates.
Job market: Australia’s MBA job market is smaller compared to the US or Europe, with fewer multinational HQs.
Networking opportunities are more regional than global.
Best for: Students prioritizing affordability, post-study work options, and lifestyle rather than targeting MBB consulting or Wall Street finance roles.
Also explore the MBA Best Colleges in India to find top institutions offering world-class management education.
Is MBA eligible for PR in Australia?
An MBA alone does not make you eligible for Australian PR; however, it can improve eligibility when combined with skilled work experience, points-based criteria, and demand occupations under Australia’s migration system.
Many international students choose an MBA in Australia with the hope of gaining permanent residency (PR). However, the MBA itself is not a direct PR pathway. Here’s how it works:
MBA is not on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL):
Completing an MBA does not by itself make you eligible for PR because “MBA graduate” is not a listed occupation.
How MBA helps with PR:
Post-Study Work Visa (subclass 485): MBA graduates can stay back in Australia for 2–4 years, gaining local work experience.
Skilled Migration Points: An MBA enhances your profile with additional qualifications, which can contribute to points under Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program.
Occupation Alignment: If your prior degree or post-MBA job (e.g., Management Consultant, Marketing Specialist, Financial Analyst, HR Manager) is on the Skilled Occupation List, the MBA strengthens your case.
Pathways for PR after MBA:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – Points-based PR.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) – PR with state nomination.
Employer Sponsored Visa (Subclass 186) – PR via an employer after work experience.
Bottom Line: The MBA helps with employability and points accumulation but does not guarantee PR. Your actual chances depend on your age, English test score, prior qualifications, work experience, and occupation demand.
Check out the 15 Most Popular MBA Courses to explore trending programs in management education.”
Is there a 1-year MBA in Australia?
Yes, Australia offers 1-year MBA programs at leading schools like Melbourne Business School, AGSM (UNSW), and UQ Business School, designed for professionals seeking an accelerated format.
Several top universities in Australia provide 1-year full-time MBA programs, ideal for candidates who want to minimize career breaks while gaining global management training.
Top 1-Year MBA Programs in Australia (2025)
University | Program | Duration | Approx. Fee |
Melbourne Business School (University of Melbourne) | Full-Time MBA | Up to 2 years | AUD 112,500 |
AGSM – UNSW Business School (Sydney) | Full-Time MBA | 1 year | AUD 84,500 |
UQ Business School (University of Queensland) | Accelerated MBA | 1.5 years | AUD 69,112 |
Macquarie Business School (MGSM) | MBA | 1.5-2 years | AUD 46,500+ |
Bond University | MBA (Accelerated) | 1 year 4 months | AUD 77,840 |
Key Highlights
Format: Intensive full-time schedule (no long breaks).
Audience: Mid-career professionals with 3–7 years of experience.
Visa & Work Rights: Eligible for post-study work visa (subclass 485).
ROI: Lower living costs and faster re-entry into the job market compared to 2-year MBAs in the US or Europe.
You might also be interested in the One Year MBA in the US designed for professionals seeking quick career advancement.
How long can I stay in Australia after an MBA?
After completing an MBA in Australia, international students can stay for 2 to 4 years on a Post-Study Work Visa (subclass 485), depending on the location of study.
The Australian Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) allows MBA graduates to remain in Australia to gain work experience after completing their studies. The duration depends mainly on the level of qualification and where you studied.
Post-Study Work Rights After MBA (2025)
Study Location | Stay Duration | Notes |
Major cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane) | 2 years | Standard post-study work duration for MBA graduates. |
Regional cities (Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Gold Coast) | 3 years | Extra 1 year for studying in a regional area. |
Regional centres and remote areas | 4 years | Maximum stay duration under current migration incentives. |
Eligibility Criteria
Hold an Australian MBA degree from a CRICOS-registered institution.
Apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) within 6 months of graduation.
Hold a valid IELTS/TOEFL score and health insurance (OSHC).
How It Helps
This stay period enables graduates to:
Gain Australian work experience in management or related roles.
Improve their PR eligibility by earning migration points through skilled work.
Build local employer sponsorship opportunities for long-term visas.
Also read about the Most Diverse Top 50 MBA Programs for a global and inclusive MBA experience.
Which country is best for a 1-year MBA?
The best countries for a 1-year MBA are the UK, France, Singapore, and Australia, known for globally ranked programs like INSEAD (France/Singapore), Oxford & Cambridge (UK), and Melbourne Business School (Australia).
A 1-year MBA is ideal for professionals seeking an accelerated, high-return program with lower opportunity cost. Several countries offer world-class 12-month MBAs with strong global recognition.
Top Countries for 1-Year MBA (2025)
Country | Top Schools | Key Advantages | Typical Cost |
United Kingdom | Oxford (Said), Cambridge (Judge), Imperial, Warwick | Global recognition, strong placement in consulting & finance, 12-month format | GBP 60,000–75,000 (₹65–80 lakhs) |
France / Singapore | INSEAD (dual campus), HEC Paris | #1 global 1-year MBA, elite network, rapid career acceleration | EUR 95,000 (₹85 lakhs) |
Australia | Melbourne Business School, AGSM UNSW, UQ | Affordable, post-study work visa (2–4 years), strong regional employability | AUD 70,000–90,000 (₹40–50 lakhs) |
Singapore | NUS, NTU | Asia’s business hub, global employers, strong ROI | SGD 65,000–80,000 (₹40–50 lakhs) |
Spain | IE Business School, ESADE | Entrepreneurship & innovation focus, international cohort | EUR 75,000 (₹65 lakhs) |
Why 1-Year MBAs Are Popular
Shorter duration → lower cost and faster re-entry into the workforce.
Designed for experienced professionals (5–8 years of work experience).
High ROI and international exposure, especially from INSEAD, Oxford, or Melbourne.
Also read about accelerated Indian MBA options to identify one-year programs that fit your goals:
Do I need GMAT for MBA in Australia?
Most Australian universities do not require GMAT for MBA admission, but top schools like Melbourne Business School and AGSM (UNSW) may ask for a GMAT score of 650+ or equivalent.
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is not mandatory for many MBA programs in Australia, making the country attractive for applicants who want flexible entry criteria. However, requirements vary by institution and candidate profile.
Explore Global GMAT Trends 2005–2024 to understand how applicant patterns and scores have evolved over time.
Universities Requiring or Preferring GMAT
University | GMAT Requirement | Average Score |
Melbourne Business School | Required (unless exceptional profile) | 695+ |
AGSM – UNSW Business School | Preferred (can be waived with experience) | 679 |
Universities Not Requiring GMAT
University | Admission Basis |
Deakin University | Bachelor’s degree + 3 yrs work experience |
RMIT University | Academic performance + interview (GMAT is optional) |
University of South Australia (UniSA) | |
Curtin University, La Trobe, Griffith | No GMAT; focus on GPA & experience |
Key Takeaways
GMAT can strengthen your profile, especially for scholarships or competitive programs.
Many schools offer GMAT waivers for candidates with 5+ years of professional experience or strong academic results.
Alternatives like GRE or in-house aptitude tests may be accepted.
You might also find our GMAT vs. GRE comparison helpful when planning your MBA application strategy.
Which is the best course to get PR in Australia?
The best courses to get PR in Australia are those linked to high-demand occupations on the Skilled Occupation List — especially Nursing, IT, Engineering, Accounting, and Trades programs.
Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia is granted through the General Skilled Migration (GSM) pathway, which awards points for qualifications, work experience, and age. To improve PR chances, it’s best to study a course that leads to a profession in demand.
Top PR-Oriented Courses in Australia (2025)
Field of Study | Example Courses | PR Occupation Outcome |
Nursing & Healthcare | Bachelor/Master of Nursing, Midwifery, Aged Care | Registered Nurse, Midwife – High PR demand |
Information Technology (IT) | Master of IT, Cybersecurity, Data Science | Software Engineer, ICT Business Analyst |
Engineering | Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Mining Engineering | Professional Engineer (various disciplines) |
Accounting & Finance | Master of Professional Accounting | Accountant, Auditor, Finance Manager |
Education & Teaching | Early Childhood, Secondary Education | School Teacher, Early Childhood Educator |
Social Work & Community Services | Master of Social Work, Community Development | Social Worker, Welfare Officer |
Trades & Vocational Skills | Plumbing, Carpentry, Automotive, Welding | Skilled Trade Worker – Regional PR priority |
Agriculture & Environmental Science | Agribusiness, Environmental Engineering | Agricultural Consultant, Environmental Scientist |
Why These Courses Help with PR
They align with Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Graduates can apply for Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) or State Sponsored Visa (Subclass 190).
Many regional universities offer extra PR points for studying in designated regional areas.
You might also want to explore top master’s degree programs tailored for your career goals for focused growth opportunities.
How much bank balance is required for an Australia student visa?
For an Australian student visa (subclass 500), you must show a minimum bank balance of AUD 24,505 (≈ ₹13–14 lakhs) per year to cover living costs, plus tuition fees and travel expenses.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs requires international students to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition, living, and travel costs when applying for a Student Visa (Subclass 500).
Minimum Financial Requirement (2025)
Expense Type | Required Amount (AUD) | Notes |
Living costs (student) | 24,505 per year | Updated annually by the government |
Tuition fees | Typically 25,000–45,000 per year | Depends on university and course |
Travel expenses | 2,000 (approx.) | For airfare and relocation |
Dependents (if any) | Spouse: 8,574 / Child: 3,610 per year | Applies if family accompanies student |
Total proof of funds (for one student, one-year MBA): ≈ AUD 50,000–70,000 (₹28–40 lakhs) including tuition + living + travel.
Acceptable Proof of Funds
Savings or bank statements (last 3 months)
Loan sanction letter from a recognized bank
Scholarship or sponsor letter (if applicable)
Proof of relationship to sponsor (if funds are not in applicant’s name)
Purpose
The bank balance requirement ensures students can support themselves financially without depending on work income during studies.
Which MBA has the highest salary in Australia?
Graduates from top Australian business schools (such as University of Sydney, AGSM UNSW, Melbourne Business School, Macquarie (MGSM), UQ) entering finance, management consulting, or executive leadership roles tend to get the highest salaries — often AUD 150,000–225,000+ annually.
What “highest MBA salary” means depends on several factors — school prestige, specialization/industry, work experience, and seniority. Below are insights into which combinations tend to yield the top salaries post-MBA in Australia:
Key Factors Affecting High MBA Salaries
Business School Reputation & Rankings
Graduates from ranked top schools tend to command higher salaries. For example, University of Sydney grads posted ~USD 170,855 (~AUD 250-300k depending on exchange rate) in the FT MBA Ranking data.
Macquarie Graduate School of Management (MGSM) has been reported among schools with some of the “highest paid MBAs”.
Industry / Specialization
Finance & Banking roles often pay among the highest (e.g., investment banking, corporate finance roles).
Management Consulting / Strategy also lead to high paying early/mid/senior roles.
Other high‐pay areas include C-suite roles (CEO, CFO etc.) particularly for those with significant work experience.
Work Experience & Job Level
Senior roles (8+ years), or roles involving leadership, large budgets or strategic impact, tend to push pay into the highest brackets.
Mid-level roles (3-7 years post-MBA) in top industries already fetch significant salaries.
Location & Company
Salaries in major metropolitan business hubs (Sydney, Melbourne) are higher.
Big companies, multinational firms, or those with high strategic scale or profitability tend to pay more.
Get clarity on your options through our general career guidance: Which MBA is good overall?
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