International School Fees Australia: Budget to Premium Guide 2025–2026
International School Fees Australia: Budget to Premium
Australia (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and other cities) has independent and international schools from budget to premium – Australian, IB and British curricula. This guide gives fee ranges and example schools so you can make an informed choice.
Quick overview of fee ranges (annual tuition, indicative, day schools)
- Budget: Roughly AUD 12,000–22,000 per year (primary). Smaller independents, Catholic systemic schools (lower-fee).
- Mid-tier: Roughly AUD 25,000–35,000 per year (primary). Established independent schools, good facilities.
- Premium: Roughly AUD 38,000–52,000+ per year (primary). Top schools, strong IB/HSC provision.
Secondary and Year 11–12 are typically higher. Sydney and Melbourne tend to be at the upper end.
Budget end: example schools and fees
Smaller independent and low-fee Catholic independent schools can sit in the budget band. Primary often AUD 14,000–22,000 per year. Check each school’s latest fee schedule.
Mid-tier: example schools and fees
Scotch College (Melbourne) (day), Brisbane Grammar School and Pymble Ladies’ College are mid-tier examples. Primary often AUD 28,000–35,000; secondary/IB can be AUD 35,000–42,000. Strong curricula and facilities.
Premium: example schools and fees
Sydney Grammar School, Cranbrook School and King’s School (Sydney) sit at the premium end. Primary can be AUD 42,000–50,000 and secondary AUD 48,000–56,000+. Boarding adds significantly. Extensive facilities and university placement.
What to watch beyond tuition
- Registration and enrolment fees (one-off; can be AUD 300–1,500+).
- Learning support and EAL – often extra; can add AUD 3,000–10,000+ per year.
- Exam fees (IB, state exams) – sometimes included or partially charged; confirm with school.
- Building or capital levies (one-off or annual) at some schools.
See our Hidden International School Fees – MUST READ for a full checklist.
How to choose
- Decide budget band, city and curriculum; get full fee schedules (tuition + one-off and annual extras).
- Compare total cost over 3–5 years and fee progression by year group.
- Ask what is included vs add-on (support, trips, exams).
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