Studying in Australia for international students

Pursuing studies in Australia could be the key to an excellent education and a promising career ahead. Find all the necessary details about how to study in Australia as an international student.

Australia stands as a favoured choice for students, with many top-notch universities and colleges. Moreover, cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, celebrated for their quality of life, provide students with an affordable lifestyle while they pursue their career and academic goals.

Why study in Australia?

Australia consistently stands out as the ideal choice for those seeking a destination offering an exceptional standard of living, top-tier education and good options for international students. Here's why:

  • Educational excellence

Australia hosts some of the most renowned universities globally, all monitored by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA).

  • Quality of life

Ranked just behind Norway, Australia offers one of the world's highest standards of living. Its top-notch healthcare, advanced infrastructure, top-notch healthcare, diverse public transportation, and a plethora of services available to students collectively make Australia an inviting destination for students.

Post-graduation prospects

Numerous international students have the option to extend their time in Australia after finishing their studies using a Post-Higher Education Work stream, opening doors for further education, work opportunities or simply enjoying life in the country.

Universities in Australia for international students

Australia is home to world-renowned universities that consistently rank high in global rankings. Some of the top choices for international students according to the QS World University Rankings 2024 include:

University Name 

QS World Ranking 

The University of Melbourne 

14 

The University of New South Wales 

=19 

The University of Sydney 

=19 

The Australian National University 

=34 

Monash University 

42 

The University of Queensland 

43 

The University of Western Australia 

72 

The University of Adelaide 

89 

University of Technology Sydney 

90 

Macquarie University 

=130

Admission requirements in Australia for international students

Admission standards differ depending on the specific program and university. Nonetheless, some common criteria include:

  • Official transcripts from previous academic institutions 

  • Overseas Student Health Cover 

  • English language proficiency assessments like IELTS or TOEFL 

  • Letters of recommendation

  • Genuine student form.

Intakes in Australia

Australian universities typically offer two main intakes:

  • The February intake: It aligns with the beginning of the academic year.

  • The July intake: It provides a mid-year entry point for many programs.

International students often prefer the February intake as it allows for a smoother transition and better integration into campus life. However, the July intake offers advantages for those who need more time for preparations or are considering a mid-year start.

Cost of studying in Australia for international students

The expenses for studying in Australia depend on the degree program and the university of choice. On average, the annual tuition fees at Australian universities range from AU$ 8,000 to AU$ 35,000.

Study Program 

Average Annual Tuition Fees in AUD 

Vocational Education and Training (Diplomas) 

$8,000 to $20,000  

English Language Studies 

$2,000 to $10,000 

Bachelor’s Degree 

$25,000 to $35,000 

Master’s Degree 

$25,000 to $37,000  

Doctoral Degree 

$25,000 to $45,000  

Best courses to study in Australia

Among the most sought-after programs, those in the field of engineering and technology stand out due to their promising career prospects, opportunities for innovation, and the ever-growing demand for skilled professionals in these fields. Moreover, Australian universities excel in these areas:

  • Computer Science 

  • Engineering 

  • Data Analytics 

  • Health and medicine

Scholarships for international students in Australia

Here are some of the most popular scholarships for international students to study in Australia:

Scholarship Name 

Value 

UTS College to UTS Pathway Scholarship 

Up to 50% of fees 

Trinity College Residential College Scholarships 

Up to 30,000 AUD 

Director’s Scholarships for Academic Excellence 

Up to 7,500 AUD 

DOOLEYS Lidcombe Catholic Club Undergraduate Scholarship 

Up to 4,000 AUD 

ASTRO 3D Science PhB Advanced Studies Course Award 

Up to 3,000 AUD

Please note that students should check university websites to keep themselves updated with the current scholarships available.

Cost of living in Australia for international students

While Australia offers a high quality of living, the cost of living can vary significantly between cities. Generally, Sydney and Melbourne tend to be the most expensive, particularly in terms of accommodation.

Here's a breakdown of estimated costs for international students:

Category 

Average cost in AUD 

Accommodation 

$120 - 700 

Transportation 

$12 - 70 

Food 

$80 - 300 

Entertainment 

$50+ 

Best city to study in Australia

Australia boasts several excellent cities for international students, each offering unique experiences and educational opportunities. Among the top contenders, Melbourne stands out as a prime destination.

Known for its vibrant arts scene, cultural diversity and top-ranking universities, Melbourne provides a stimulating environment for students. The city's bustling streets are filled with cafes, galleries and events, offering endless opportunities for socialising and cultural exploration.

Study and work in Australia

In Australia, international students are permitted to work part-time while they study. The country allows students to work for up to 48 hours every two weeks during the academic term and full-time during scheduled breaks in their courses.

This not only helps students offset living expenses but also provides valuable work experience. Many universities also offer career services to assist students in finding part-time jobs and internships relevant to their field of study.

Career prospects and post-study opportunities

The country's strong economy and thriving industries provide a wealth of job opportunities across various sectors. International graduates may also be eligible for post-study work visas, such as the Post-Higher Education Work Stream, allowing them to gain valuable work experience in Australia after completing their studies.

Additionally, Australia's skilled migration pathways offer avenues for qualified graduates to pursue long-term residency and build a successful career in the country.

Student visa requirements in Australia

The type of visa needed in Australia depends on factors such as the level and duration of your study, as well as the field of study you choose. However, irrespective of your chosen university, study program, or tuition fees, you will need a student visa (subclass 500) as an international student.

To apply for a student visa to study in Australia, you will typically need the following:

  • Valid passport 

  • Passport-sized photographs 

  • Visa application fee 

  • Answer Genuine Student Questions in the visa form. 

  • Health insurance policy (OSHC) information 

  • Enrollment confirmation (electronic confirmation of enrollment eCOE) 

  • Proof of financial capability to support tuition fees, living costs, return travel, and expenses for any dependents

If you are under the age of 18, you will be required to submit additional documents, such as parental permission and confirmation of appropriate accommodation and welfare.

Student Essential Services for Emirati/Omani international students

We understand that studying abroad can be challenging. That's why our team is dedicated to making it easier for you. We aim for your international study journey to be hassle-free and seamless. Here's how we can help:

  1. Finding the perfect accommodation 

  2. Securing the right health cover for students 

  3. Assisting with your student banking needs 

  4. Ensuring safe and secure money transfers 

  5. Providing you with the ISIC student card

FAQs

Is it possible to study in Australia after completing the 10th grade?

Some Australian universities offer Foundation programs for students who have completed the 10th grade, providing a pathway to higher education.

What is the accepted academic gap for studying in Australia?

Generally, a gap of 1-2 years is acceptable for undergraduate programs, while for postgraduate programs, a gap of 3-5 years may be considered.

How much does it cost for international students to study nursing in Australia?

The cost of studying nursing in Australia for international students can range from approximately AUD 20,000 to AUD 37,000 per year for undergraduate programs, depending on the university and location.

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