Australia attracts thousands of international students each year, thanks to its world-class universities and vibrant cities. But with tuition fees between AUD 20,000 – 45,000 annually and living costs of AUD 15,000 – 25,000 per year, financing studies can be overwhelming. That’s why students look for student-friendly loan options — loans that offer flexibility, low stress, and manageable repayment terms.
This guide highlights the most student-friendly loan providers in Australia (2025) and how they help students achieve their academic dreams.
Why Student-Friendly Loans Matter
- Visa requirements – Students must show proof of funds.
- Upfront costs – Tuition and accommodation often need pre-payment.
- Limited income while studying – Most international students work part-time.
- Repayment ease – Friendly loans delay repayment until after graduation.
Student-Friendly Loan Providers in Australia (2025)
1. Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)
- Why it’s student-friendly: Offers flexible repayment with early-pay options.
- Highlights:
- Covers tuition + living expenses.
- Digital management via CommBank app.
- Discounts for existing customers.
- Best for: Students with guarantors in Australia.
2. ANZ Bank (Student Loan Packages)
- Why it’s trusted: Known for simple processes and student banking.
- Highlights:
- Education-specific personal loans.
- Quick online approvals.
- Repayment flexibility.
- Best for: Students seeking fast approvals.
3. Westpac Bank (Study Loans)
- Why it stands out: Offers larger loan amounts.
- Highlights:
- Covers tuition, living, and travel.
- Extended repayment terms.
- Discounts for loyal Westpac customers.
- Best for: Students pursuing multi-year courses.
4. National Australia Bank (NAB)
- Why it’s flexible: Transparent with fair repayment terms.
- Highlights:
- No penalty for early repayment.
- Both secured and unsecured loan options.
- Flexible repayment scheduling.
- Best for: Students needing transparency and control.
5. SBI (State Bank of India) – Global Ed-Vantage
- Why it’s popular with Indians: Tailored for overseas education.
- Highlights:
- Loan up to INR 1.5 crore.
- Moratorium until after course completion.
- Covers tuition + living + travel.
- Best for: Indian students heading to Australian universities.
6. HDFC Credila (India)
- Why it’s student-friendly: Long repayment terms reduce stress.
- Highlights:
- Up to 15 years for repayment.
- Covers 100% of study expenses.
- Custom EMI options.
- Best for: Students needing maximum repayment flexibility.
7. Prodigy Finance
- Why it’s unique: No collateral or guarantor required.
- Highlights:
- Approval based on future earning potential.
- Covers tuition and partial living.
- Loans for students from 150+ countries.
- Best for: Students without local guarantors.
Average Student Loan Costs in Australia (2025)
- Bank loans (Australia): 7% – 12%.
- Indian lenders (SBI, HDFC): 9% – 13%.
- International lenders: 8% – 15%.
- Repayment: 5 – 15 years.
💡 Example: An AUD 40,000 loan at 9% over 10 years = ~AUD 507/month.
Tips for Student-Friendly Borrowing
- Look for moratoriums – Delay repayment until after graduation.
- Use guarantors wisely – Local guarantors lower interest.
- Compare home vs Australia lenders – Sometimes loans at home are cheaper.
- Don’t over-borrow – Keep loan amounts realistic.
- Check university tie-ups – Some schools have partnered lenders.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Australia can be expensive, but student-friendly loans make it possible.
- CBA, ANZ, Westpac, and NAB support students with local guarantors.
- SBI and HDFC Credila provide strong support for Indian students.
- Prodigy Finance helps those without guarantors or collateral.
With the right financing, students can focus on education instead of money worries.