Study in Canberra

Ranked by Lonely Planet as third in the ‘Best in Travel’ rankings for 2018, there are plenty of reasons to choose Canberra as your study destination. Renowned for its high-quality institutions, vibrant student community and exceptional quality of life, this capital city offers plenty of, making it a top choice for students in Singapore and around the world.

Despite being a capital city, Canberra is surprisingly small, creating an immediate sense of familiarity. Surrounded by Australian bushland, and with the beautiful Lake Burley Griffin at its centre, Canberra combines the tranquillity of the countryside with the conveniences of urban life. With an estimated 35,000 students and over 9,000 of those international students, you’re sure to feel right at home in this vibrant and supportive community. If you’ve been wondering why you should study in Canberra, Australia, here are a few compelling reasons to choose this vibrant city.

Canberra has a small but active Singaporean community, with organizations like the Singapore Students' Association at the Australian National University (ANU). These groups often organize social events, cultural celebrations, and networking opportunities, creating a close-knit community that helps new students settle in.

Canberra is home to some of the top universities in Australia, offering a wide range of programs and research opportunities. These institutions are known for their academic excellence, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong support services for international students. Discover some of the top universities below:

Here are some key benefits that make Canberra an ideal study destination:

World-class education

Canberra's universities offer world-class education, consistently ranked among the top institutions globally. The city's academic environment is enriched by cutting-edge research, experienced faculty, and a commitment to innovation and excellence in education. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support their learning and development.

Additionally, strong industry connections and partnerships provide students with practical experience and opportunities to engage in groundbreaking projects, further enhancing the quality of education they receive in Canberra.

Career options

Studying in Canberra opens up numerous career opportunities. The Australian Capital Territory, where Canberra is located, boasts the highest median total income and the second-highest employment-to-population ratio in all of Australia in 2024. Graduates can take advantage of the robust job market, with opportunities in various sectors, including government, technology, and healthcare. The city's strong economic performance and high median income levels provide a solid foundation for building a successful career, making Canberra an attractive destination for ambitious professionals.

Quality of life

Canberra is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities and was recently named the second-best in the world for quality of life by Oxford Economic Global Cities. It offers an exceptionally safe environment with low crime rates, making it an ideal place for students to live and study. The city's clean air, abundant green spaces, and well-maintained infrastructure contribute to a high quality of life, ensuring that residents enjoy both comfort and peace of mind.

Vibrant lifestyle

Canberra offers a vibrant lifestyle with a mix of cultural, recreational, and social activities. From outdoor adventures in the surrounding bushland to exploring the city's cafes, clubs, and shops, there’s always something to do. The city hosts numerous festivals, markets, and events throughout the year, providing endless entertainment options. Additionally, Canberra's size means everything is easily accessible, enhancing the overall student experience. Whether you enjoy hiking, cycling, dining out, or attending live performances, Canberra has something to offer everyone.

Many institutions in Canberra offer scholarships and bursaries to support international students who require additional financial support. Students can also look into the various scholarships provided by the Australian government to further offset the costs of their education.

Australia Awards Scholarships

Australia Awards Scholarships provide international students with the opportunity to pursue full-time undergraduate or postgraduate studies at participating Australian universities and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions. These scholarships cover a wide range of expenses, including tuition fees and air travel, ensuring that students can focus on their studies without financial stress. Furthermore, recipients receive a fortnightly Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE), which helps with basic living costs and is paid at a rate determined by the department. This consistent financial support allows students to live comfortably while they complete their studies in Australia. Singaporean students are not eligible for the Australia Awards Scholarships, while students with nationalities including Indonesia, Sri Lanka, the Philippines and Vietnam are eligible.

Australia for ASEAN Scholarships

The Australia for ASEAN Scholarships provide opportunities for students from ASEAN countries, including Singapore, to study in Australia. These scholarships cover a range of expenses, making it easier for students to pursue their academic goals in Canberra. Scholarship recipients will receive full tuition fees, a contribution to living expenses, and return air travel. Additionally, the scholarships include overseas student health coverage for the duration of the scholarship, ensuring that students are well-supported throughout their studies. This comprehensive support makes studying in Canberra an attractive and accessible option for ASEAN students.

Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships

The Research Training Program (RTP) provides block grants to support both domestic and international students undertaking research doctorate and research master's degrees. This program offers comprehensive financial assistance through several components: 

• The RTP Fees Offset covers the tuition fees for higher degree by research (HDR) students, ensuring that these costs are fully covered by the university. 

• The RTP Stipend provides financial support for students' day-to-day living expenses. 

• The RTP Allowances help with ancillary costs associated with a higher degree by research, such as relocation expenses, academic publication costs, and health cover costs for recipients and their dependents. 

Applying for a student visa to study in Canberra involves several key steps. First, obtain a Letter of Offer from an Australian educational institution, then secure a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) after accepting the offer and paying the required deposit. Proof of English proficiency, such as an IELTS score, is necessary. You must also meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, demonstrating your intent to study abroad in Canberra, and prove your financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenses.

Additionally, arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay and meet health requirements, which may include a health examination. Submit your student visa application online through ImmiAccount, and check travel requirements like visa validity and entry conditions.

To study in Australia, international students need to obtain a student visa (subclass 500). Here’s a brief overview of the application process: 

1. Receive an offer of admission: Before applying for a visa, you must receive an offer of admission from an Australian university and obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). 

2. Prepare the required documents: Gather necessary documents, including a valid passport, CoE, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), financial evidence, and English language proficiency test results (IELTS is widely accepted). Students under the age of 18 may need to prepare additional proof of welfare arrangements. More information on requirements and documentation can be found on the Department of Home Affairs’ student visa website. 

3. Submit application: Apply for the student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs website. Pay the visa application fee and submit the required documents. 

4. Attend health examination: Undergo a health examination with a certified or recognised healthcare provider, if required. 

5. Obtain biometrics: Provide biometrics at VFS Visa Application Centre, if required. 

6. Await decision: The processing time for student visas varies, so apply well in advance of your course start date. 

Start the process early to avoid delays, and ensure all documents are accurate and complete to prevent processing issues. Regularly check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest visa policies and requirements to stay informed.

Understanding the cost of living is crucial for planning your stay in Canberra. The city offers a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to other major Australian cities, but it’s still essential to budget effectively.

Rent can range from $250 to $450 per month, depending on the location and type of accommodation. Monthly food expenses are approximately $100, while electricity and gas bills typically fall between $20 and $60. Transport costs are about $40 per month, and internet and phone services add another $25. Additional expenses, including entertainment and personal items, can amount to $50 or more. In total, you can expect to spend between $575 and $760 per month on living expenses in Canberra.

International students in Canberra can take advantage of part-time work opportunities to support their studies. Student visa holders are allowed to work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during semester breaks, providing flexibility to earn while studying. Part-time jobs are available in various sectors, including retail, hospitality, and administration, offering a range of experiences and the chance to develop valuable skills. These opportunities not only help students manage their living expenses but also provide a chance to gain work experience in an English-speaking environment.

Canberra's job market offers a wealth of opportunities for graduates. The city has a strong economy with key industries such as government, technology, and healthcare. Canberra boasts a high employment rate and competitive salaries, making it an attractive place for graduates to start their careers. The presence of numerous national institutions, research organisations, and multinational companies provides ample job prospects for skilled professionals. Graduates can find roles in policy development, scientific research, IT services, and clinical healthcare, among others. The city's robust job market and supportive business environment make Canberra an ideal place for launching a successful career.

Studying in Canberra offers an exceptional combination of high-quality education, vibrant student life, and excellent career opportunities. To take full advantage of these benefits, securing a student visa is essential, and proof of English proficiency plays a significant role in the visa application process. A strong score on an English proficiency test like IELTS can greatly improve your chances of admission to top universities and eligibility for scholarships.

At IDP, we specialise in helping students prepare for the IELTS test, which is widely accepted for university and scholarship applications. Our services include IELTS preparation  courses, support throughout the application process, and expert advice to help you achieve the best possible test results. Understanding the IELTS schedule is crucial to planning your preparation and test dates effectively. If you wish to better understand what the IELTS exam is, our team of experts is here to guide your education journey in Australia every step of the way. With IDP Singapore, navigating the complexities of studying abroad becomes a smooth and confident experience.