Study in Australia

Australia provides a unique kind of education and a learning style that encourages you to be innovative, creative and think independently. Australia attracts the third largest number of international students in the English-speaking world after the USA and UK. In some countries Australia is the students' first choice study destination.

Australia offers an education experience that makes a real difference. Graduates from Australia are very successful in finding jobs and hold prominent positions worldwide. Additionally, they are readily accepted for postgraduate study at leading international universities.

Australia is a dynamic, vibrant country and its people are energetic, friendly and confident. Multicultural Australia is a safe, friendly, sophisticated and harmonious society in which students can learn and travel in an English speaking country.

Australia also offers excellent value for money and a standard of living which is among the highest in the world. Living expenses and tuition costs in Australia are considerably less expensive than in the UK and USA.

Few of the common reasons why international students choose Australia as their overseas study destination:

• Dynamic and progressive educational programs.
• Caring academic staff and sufficient learning resources.
• Excellent support for academic success.
• Globally-recognized courses and qualifications.
• The relaxed, enjoyable and safe lifestyle.
• Cheaper study compared to many other countries.
• Vibrant, appealing and multicultural cities.
• Great climate.
• Amazing and diverse landscapes and scenery.
• Unique and wonderful flora and fauna.

Entry requirements

To be accepted to study on a student visa in Australia you will need to demonstrate a sufficient level of English language proficiency, and meet minimum academic requirements.

How much does it cost to study in Australia?

An Australian Government survey showed that in terms of total costs–including tuition fees and living expense–Australia was consistently less expensive than the USA and UK. Tuition fees will vary depending on the course. Tuition fees range from AUD6,000 to 7,000 for a six-month graduate certificate course to over AUD30,000 per annum for a medical degree. Most full time degrees and postgraduate degrees cost between AUD10,000 to 20,000 per annum.

Are scholarships available?

Yes. Scholarships are available for international students however, most are offered for postgraduate study in universities. A majority of international students in Australia are full-fee paying students and is not awarded scholarships. Postgraduate scholarships are highly competitive and only awarded if the candidate has an excellent academic background, scholarly publications and excellent English proficiency.

English language skills

English language skills are a requirement for receiving an Australian student visa. IELTS is the only test accepted by the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) for visa purposes.

Institutions set their own English language requirements for course entry, and the IELTS score needed for your course may be different to the score needed to secure your visa. You should check entry requirements with your institution.

Academic requirements

Undergraduate – To gain entry into an Australian undergraduate course you will need to have an Australia Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (Year 12), or the overseas equivalent. Some undergraduate courses may also have specific pre-requisite subjects.

Postgraduate – As well as the satisfactory completion of at least one degree at undergraduate level, your institution may take research ability or relevant work experience into consideration. Vocational education and training – Generally there are no other entrance exams for VET institutions. However some courses may have specific pre-requisite subjects or work experience requirements.

Schools – Entry requirements can vary between schools in Australia, depending on the state or territory you will be studying in. Academic performance and ability is considered during the selection process.

What if you do not meet the entry requirements?

If your English language proficiency score is not high enough, you can enrol in an English language course to prepare you for further study. All Australian universities have English language centres on campus, or have links with English language colleges.

If you don't meet academic requirements, there are a few options to prepare you for further study. Depending on your previous studies and the final qualification you want to study, you can enrol in secondary school or Foundation Studies.

The Study Wizard can help you check entry requirements for courses before you apply.

Vocational education and training

Australia – a place where work and study meet

Australia's vocational education and training (VET) institutions offer the opportunity to hone your skills in real and simulated work environments. The practical expertise you gain in the workplace will give you a genuine advantage over other graduates.

At these institutions, you can study a wide range of disciplines, including: business and management, science and technology, design and arts, communications, sport and recreation, community service and health, tourism and hospitality, engineering and building, horticulture and land management and English.

Programs are provided by public Technical and Further Education (TAFE) Institutes, private colleges and a number of schools and universities. Industry and Government work together to develop training outcomes, which are then implemented according to nationally endorsed training packages.

This allows you to apply knowledge learnt inside the classroom, outside in the real world. You learn by doing, rather than just reading from textbooks. Your initial qualification can be built on to achieve higher qualifications, provide the basis to begin or change a career, or assist with further study at university.

You can also use this training as a pathway to other avenues of higher education. Depending on your qualification, universities may provide you with credit towards a Degree. This gives you the practical skills as well as the theory from a university Degree. You'll leave Australia with two qualifications that are recognised around the world–a major advantage over other graduates.

Practical qualifications offered in Australia

You can choose these courses anywhere in Australia. You can achieve an AQF qualification (usually at Certificate or Diploma level) in specialised areas of study. Like all Australian institutions, your courses will meet rigorous quality checks. To find out more about how the Australian Government ensures you receive the world-class education you deserve.