30 July 2025

The Insiders’ Guide to Affordable Australian Degree

By P Michael

Many students dream of going overseas for a degree. That’s understandable. Global universities like Oxford or even Uni of Melbourne are seen as top-tier.

But here’s the twist: you can get the same high-quality Australian qualification right here in Sarawak. And at a much lower cost.

Think Australian Degrees Are Too Expensive? Think Again.

When people hear ‘Australian uni degree’, they think of high tuition fees, expensive plane tickets, and maybe study loans that take years to pay off (no thanks to you, rising cost of living). But guess what? The same international degree you’d earn in Melbourne is also offered at Swinburne Sarawak without the massive cost. 

Swinburne Sarawak grads are proof that world-class education doesn’t have to come with international fees.

And that’s just the beginning. 

Swinburne Sarawak is working hard to remove financial barriers for students from all walks of life. With the support of the Sarawak government, Swinburne offers programs and financial schemes that help students study smart, dream big and graduate with little to no debt.

Up to 80% Off Tuition Fees with the BP40 Bursary Scheme

Introduced in 2019, the BP40 Bursary Scheme supports Bumiputera Sarawakian students from B40 and M40 households. It offers up to 80% off tuition fees for foundation, diploma, and bachelor’s degree programs at Swinburne Sarawak.

here’s what the bursary typically covers:

    • A significant tuition fee reduction. A three-year business degree tuition fee could drop from RM87,000 to around RM17,000 (2025 tuition fees)
    • An optional interest-free education loan. From Yayasan Sarawak, with extra benefits! *
    • Loan rebate up to 75%. Maintain a GPA of 35 or higher, and you could qualify for this rebate.
*terms apply

Why should anak Sarawak pay attention? Becuase this is not just about discounts – it’s about unlocking global education at local prices. And creating real opportunities for upward mobility. 


Get IPTA-level tuition fees here

Boost Your English for Free with EEP

Success in university starts with confidence in communication. That’s where the English Enhancement Program (EEP) comes in. Fully funded by Yayasan Sarawak, EEP helps students improve their English before starting their academic programs.   

Here’s what students gain:

      • Improved English reading, writing, listening and speaking skills
      • Exposure to global teaching and learning methods
      • A smooth transition into foundation, diploma or degree programs.
Swinburne Sarawak's range of scholarships and financial assistance give you an affordable Australian degree without breaking the bank.

Many students consider EEP the starting point of their success at Swinburne Sarawak

Additional perks include free accommodation for students from outside Kuching, a RM300 one-off relocation allowance, and seamless entry into foundation, diploma, or degree programs at Swinburne Sarawak.

Clearly, EEP is not just a language course – it’s a launchpad for your academic journey.

Start strong with EEP

Scholarships that Actually Reward You

Did you do well in school? Have a sibling at Swinburne Sarawak? Planning to join our diploma programs? If yes, we likely have a scholarship or bursary made for you.

Here’s what’s on offer:

      • Up to RM12,000 bursary for SPM (or equivalent) high achievers
      • 15% off 1st year degree tuition fee for diploma graduates
      • 10% off 1st year tuition fees under tje Siblings Discounts scheme
      • 10% to 15% off selected Master’s programs.

And best of all, a 100% scholarship via the Pro-Chancellor Excellences Scholarship for top scorers.

So why not turn your results into rewards?

Your Future Could Look Very Different in 2026

Here’s something big to look forward to. Starting in 2026, eligible Sarawakians may be able to study for free*, thanks to the Sarawak Government’s free tertiary education initiative.

And Swinburne Sarawak is proud to be part of this transformation.

This bold policy aligns with Sarawak’s goal of becoming a high-income, innovation-led region by 2030. As a state-owned international campus of Swinburne Australia, Swinburne Sarawak is uniquely placed to lead the way. 

What we know so far:

      • Priority for students from lower-income backgrounds
      • Covers selected STEM-related diploma and degree programs
      • Selection is based on academic merit and/or financial need.
Swinburne Sarawak and its range of initiatives and scholarships gives you an affordable Australian education without breaking the bank.

Eligible Sarawakians could enjoy tuition fee-free Australian education at Swinburne Sarawak starting 2026

This could be a game-changer in education, and Swinburne Sarawak is right at the heart of it.
#terms apply

Why Swinburne is The Smart Choice Now

Swinburne Sarawak turns 25 years old this year, and we’re just getting started. We don’t just offer Australian degrees – we offer them with affordability, accessibility, and purpose.

At Swinburne, financial support isn’t just a bonus. It’s part of our mission to help Sarawakians dream bigger – without carrying student debt for life.

Sama ada anda seorang pelajar luar bandar yang ingin meningkatkan kemahiran Bahasa Inggeris, lepasan sekolah menengah, mahupun sebuah keluarga yang sedang merancang pembiayaan pendidikan anak anda—Swinburne Sarawak dan Kerajaan Negeri Sarawak sedang menyediakan pengajian tinggi yang mampu milik, mudah dicapai, serta transformatif.

Jadi, adakah ijazah bertaraf antarabangsa Australia perlu mahal? Tidak semestinya.

Tunggu apa lagi?


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