Why Study in Australia?

According to Statista, Australia ranks fourth in the world for being one of the best host destinations for international students. Australia is increasingly becoming a popular study destination due to its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, high-quality education system, and its great standard of living. Read on to learn more about why Australia is an ideal choice to pursue your higher studies for the upcoming intake.

Benefits of Studying in Australia

1. The degrees you get from Australian universities are internationally recognised, and these institutions can help you boost your educational and career objectives.
2. Compared to the UK and US, the cost of studying and living in Australia is around 40 to 60% lesser based on the location of your choice.
3. The universities in Australia focus on training in practical skills and encourage creative thinking amongst students.
4. As an international student, you can work part-time to earn some extra money, gain experience and make new connections. 
5. Numerous job opportunities are available in the private and public sectors, and international students get a temporary graduate visa to continue working after graduation. 

Education System in Australia

Studying in Australia means choosing top-class education, globally-recognized qualifications and excellent employment prospects. With a strong focus on quality, the Australian education system is backed by the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). The AQF qualification is the gold standard when choosing an accredited and internationally recognised institution. This qualification ensures that your chosen institution meets government standards and provides consistent, high-standard education.

Australia's higher education sector is among the best in the world, and the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) play a vital role in maintaining this reputation. As the independent national quality assurance and regulatory agency for higher education, all organisations offering higher education in Australia must be registered with TEQSA. This protects students' interests by ensuring that only high-quality education providers operate in the country.

The Education Services for Overseas Students Act (ESOS) is Federal Government legislation that protects the rights of international students studying in Australia. This act sets out the legal framework for the welfare of overseas students and ensures that they have a positive experience while studying here. 

To further protect the rights of international students, the Tuition Protection Service (TPS) was introduced as an amendment to the ESOS Act. The TPS provides a safety net for students if their education provider cannot deliver the course they have enrolled in. The presence of these bodies and Acts ensure that international students receive top-quality infrastructure, education and assistance at all times.

Cost of Studying in Australia 

The costs involved in studying abroad can be a daunting prospect for many students. However, with careful planning and research, it is possible to study abroad without breaking the bank. Here we will look at the cost of education in Australia for international students at different stages to help you make informed decisions about your study abroad plans.

Cost of Studying and Living in Australia

Your cost of living in Australia will vary depending on your lifestyle and personal needs. It is essential to have a flexible budget in case of any unexpected expenses that may come up. In addition to university tuition and textbooks, you will need to account for daily costs like rent, food, and activities. 

Lifestyle is important to consider when choosing where to live during your studies. Living close to campus saves you money on transport and avoids commuting. You will also have access to campus facilities such as Wi-Fi and the gym, which will be cheaper when compared to living further away from the university. Here is an average budget you can expect for your basic living costs.  

Universities in Australia for International Students

Australia has a wealth of renowned universities to choose from. Every year, thousands of students enrol in various courses around the country. Australia is home to 43 universities, each with a main campus based in a different state or territory.

There are multiple reasons why Australian universities are ranked so highly in the QS World Ranking and Times Higher Education Rankings. Firstly, the high academic standards set by these universities are a major contributing factor to their success. Other key factors include the quality of the instructors and the vibrant campus life. 

Eight leading research-intensive universities in Australia are collectively known as the Group of 8 (Go8). These are some of Australia's oldest and largest universities, known globally for their excellent educational programs. If you are still confused about where to start your search, visit our city page to help you narrow down the best university in a convenient city. 

Study Level for International Students in Australia

One of the great things about studying in Australia is the range of study options available. The first step in planning your studies is to decide which type of program you want to pursue. Let’s take a look at the different levels of higher education that Australia offers to international students: 

1) Undergraduate Courses in Australia:

To be eligible to apply for most undergraduate courses at Australian universities, you must have completed an education equivalent to Australian Year 12. In addition, you will need to meet the university's English language requirements. The average time to complete a bachelor's degree in Australia ranges from 3 to 4 years, depending on your chosen university and degree program.

2) Postgraduate Courses in Australia:

Postgraduate degrees in Australia are available as coursework or research degrees. While the former offers you a theoretical foundation, the latter focuses on practical aspects through experimentation. After completing your postgraduation in Australia, you become eligible for a one-year post-study work visa.

3) PhD Courses in Australia:

To apply for a PhD in Australia, you are expected to have a stellar academic record with a first-class or very high second-class undergraduate degree. International students who wish to study abroad in Australia are often advised to seek financial aid from sources other than their university or home country.

4) Vocational Courses in Australia:

This type of education will equip you with the relevant skills and knowledge to enter the workforce. It is an ideal solution for individuals who want to begin a new career in a chosen profession, increase their qualifications or return to employment after an extended break. The Higher Education sector can be very competitive. Still, having a Vocational Education and Training qualification from the certificate IV, diploma, or advanced diploma level can give you the edge you need to get ahead.

Courses for International Students in Australia

There is no wrong choice when deciding what to study at an Australian university. You can find degrees in various subjects, from natural sciences and engineering to social and medical sciences. No matter what your interests are, you will be able to find a program that is right for you.

As an international student, you may wonder about the most popular courses to study in Australia. Here are ten popular courses to help you gain employment and maximise your chances of successful immigration.

1. Accounting 
2. Agricultural Science 
3. Architecture 
4. Actuarial Science 
5. Engineering 
6. IT and Cybersecurity
7. Psychology 
8. Tourism and Hospitality Management 
9. Nursing 
10. Earth Sciences 

Scholarships for International Students in Australia

Many scholarships, grants, and bursaries are available to help support your studies in Australia. The Australian Government, education providers, and many other public and private organisations offer these. With careful research, you can find the financial assistance you need to make your dream of studying in Australia a reality.

There are several scholarships available which can help cover the cost of tuition fees. These scholarships can be either for coursework or research programs. Some even provide a one-off payment to the student.

Some of the major Australian Government scholarships include

• Australia Awards Scholarship Program
• Research Training Program (RTP)
• Endeavour Leadership Program (ELP)
• Australia APEC Women in Research Fellowship 
• Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR)

You need to fulfil a few requirements to become eligible for an Australian scholarship. The most crucial criterion is usually academic excellence.