Why Study in Australia?
Australia is the third most popular study destination for international students, known for its world-class education system, diverse culture, and strong job prospects. Despite being 2.5 times bigger than India, it has a small population of around 26 million, ensuring a high quality of life and less competition in the job market.
- Globally Recognized Degrees – Australian universities rank among the top 100 in the world, offering high-quality education and cutting-edge research opportunities.
- Strong Job Prospects – Graduates from Australian institutions are highly employable and secure top positions globally.
- Pathway to PR (Permanent Residency) – Australia offers post-study work visas and immigration pathways for skilled graduates.
- Cultural Diversity – With students from over 190 countries, Australia provides a multicultural and welcoming environment.
Studying in Australia gives you global exposure, access to leading universities, and a bright career ahead! Education System in Australia
Education Systems
Australia has a globally renowned education system, known for its high academic standards, research excellence, and strong industry connections.
- World-Class Universities – Australia has 8 universities in the world’s top 100 and 90% of its universities rank in the top 500 globally.
- Flexible and Industry-Focused Education – Courses emphasize practical learning, internships, and research opportunities to prepare students for global careers.
- Diverse Study Options – Australia offers a wide range of programs in engineering, healthcare, IT, business, arts, and more.
With a strong reputation in international education and English language training, Australia continues to be a top choice for students worldwide.
Cost of Living & Studying in Australia
Australia offers a high standard of living, but students must plan their finances carefully to manage tuition and living expenses effectively.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for international students vary based on the course and university. And could be between AU$25000 to $55, 000 per year (about INR 7 lakhs to 15 lakhs per semester)
Living Expenses
The cost of living depends on lifestyle and location. On average, students can expect to spend:
- Accommodation: AUD 400 – AUD 1,760 per month
- Food and Groceries: AUD 320 – AUD 800 per month
- Transport: AUD 40 – AUD 150 per month
- Health Insurance: AUD 50 – AUD 60 per month
- Entertainment and Miscellaneous: AUD 200 – AUD 600 per month
This brings total estimated monthly expenses to AUD 1,010 to AUD 3,370.
Accommodation Options
International students have several housing choices:
- On-Campus Accommodation: AUD 110 – AUD 280 per week
- Shared Rentals: AUD 95 – AUD 215 per week
- Homestays: AUD 235 – AUD 325 per week
- Private Rentals: AUD 185 – AUD 440 per week
Financial Planning
Given the rising costs, students should explore scholarships, part-time work opportunities, and effective budgeting to manage expenses during their studies in Australia.
Courses and Universities in Australia
Australia offers a wide range of globally recognized programs, attracting students from diverse academic backgrounds.
Popular Courses for Indian Students
- Engineering – Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Mining, Petroleum, etc.
- Information Technology & Systems – Cybersecurity, AI, Data Science, Software Engineering.
- Business & Management – International Business, Accounting, MBA, Supply Chain Management.
- Healthcare & Allied Sciences – Nursing, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Public Health.
- Hospitality & Tourism – Hotel Management, Event Planning, Travel & Tourism.
- Biotechnology & Life Sciences – Biomedical Science, Genetic Engineering, Environmental Science.
Australia’s universities are known for strong industry collaborations, cutting-edge research, and hands-on learning experiences, making them a top choice for international students.
Admission and Application Procedure
To gain admission to an Australian university, applicants must meet the following key requirements:
- Academic Eligibility – Students must demonstrate sufficient academic preparation relevant to the chosen course. Entry requirements vary based on the program and university.
- English Proficiency – Applicants must provide proof of English language skills through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, with minimum score requirements depending on the institution.
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)/GS Requirement – Universities and visa authorities assess whether applicants genuinely intend to study in Australia and not use the student visa as a means for long-term residency.
Eligibility Test Requirements
The top universities in Australia require 75-85% in 12th standard for undergraduate admissions. Good universities generally accept students with 65-70%. For master’s programs, a minimum of 60-65% in a relevant degree is required.
International students must also demonstrate English proficiency through standardized tests.
- IELTS – The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is administered by IDP Australia. The IELTS score is valid for two years. The test fee is INR 17,000 for both Academic and General Training formats. Students can register online at www.ieltsidpindia.com.
- TOEFL & PTE – Many Australian universities and the Department of Home Affairs also accept TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and PTE (Pearson Test of English) as alternatives to IELTS.
Visa Process – Student Visa
Student visas in Australia are granted by the Department of Home Affairs (formerly DIBP – Department of Immigration and Border Protection). To be eligible, students must be enrolled in a registered full-time course at an Australian institution.
Visa Application Process
- Course Enrollment & COE – After receiving an offer from the university, students must accept it by paying the first semester’s tuition fees. The institution then issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE), a mandatory document for visa application.
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement – Students must demonstrate that they intend to stay in Australia temporarily for educational purposes and not for permanent migration.
- Financial & Academic Documents – The required financial documents depend on the university, tuition fees, living costs, and source of funds. Students must also submit their academic credentials.
- Visa Lodgment – The student visa application is submitted online through the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Health Examination – Applicants may be required to undergo a medical check-up, with results processed via the eHealth system to ensure they meet Australia’s health requirements.
Processing Time
Student visa processing typically takes 4 to 5 weeks after submission.
Scholarships for International Students in Australia
While tuition fee bursaries are available, fully funded scholarships for international students (except PhD programs) are limited. However, financial aid is offered by Australian universities, the Australian government, home-country governments, and private organizations.
Government & Institutional Scholarships
- Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) – Funded by the Australian government, these scholarships support students from developing countries.
- Destination Australia Scholarships – Offered to international students studying in regional Australia.
- Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships – Supports PhD and research master’s students.
- University-Specific Scholarships – Many Australian universities offer merit-based scholarships based on academic performance.
Eligibility & Application
- Scholarship eligibility depends on factors such as GPA, English test scores, country of origin, and field of study.
- Applicants must carefully review the terms, conditions, and selection criteria before applying.
Work Opportunities
- Work Hours: As of July 1, 2023, international students holding a subclass 500 student visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms. During scheduled course breaks, students may work unlimited hours. (studyaustralia.gov.au)
- Family Members: Eligible family members accompanying the student may also have permission to work, subject to specific visa conditions.
- Job Availability: Part-time employment opportunities are available in sectors such as retail, hospitality, customer service, administration, and tutoring, helping students manage living expenses.
Australia offers pathways for international graduates to gain work experience and potentially obtain permanent residency:
- Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485): This visa allows international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily. The duration depends on the student’s qualifications and field of study.
- Post-Study Work Rights for Graduates: Graduates of certain degrees, especially in STEM and healthcare fields, may qualify for extended post-study work rights.
- Skilled Migration Pathway: Australia’s Skilled Migration Program targets young professionals with qualifications and experience in high-demand occupations, such as Engineering, IT, Nursing, and Accounting.
For detailed and up-to-date information on visa options, visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
To qualify for PR through Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) Program, applicants must meet key criteria:
- Age: Applicants must be under 45 years.
- English Proficiency: A minimum IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL score is required.
- Occupation: The applicant’s occupation must be listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
- Points-Based Assessment: Factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, and Australian study contribute to the Points Test.
For detailed and up-to-date information on visa options, visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
FAQ
How Much Does It Cost For A TAFE Program, Bachelors Program And Masters Program?
TAFE program will cost between AUS$ 12000-15000 per annum. Bachelors program will cost between AUS$18000-30000 per annum. Masters program will cost between AUS$20000-35000 per annum.
How Many Hours Of Part Time Job Can An International Student Do?
An international student can work for 40 hrs per fortnight during semesters and unlimited hours during semester breaks. If you are enrolled for a research program (Masters by research or PhD) you will not have any work restrictions.
What Are The Different Pre-requisite Tests Required For Admission In Different Programs. (diploma, TAFE, Advance Diploma, Graduate Diploma, Graduate And Post Graduate Courses)?
For all the programs listed above only IELTS is required
What Is PQP And When It Is Required?
Students with low academic percentage and backlogs have to take PQP. PQP is Post Graduate Qualifying Program. Student has to undergo this program before he takes up the main course in Masters Program
What Is A Conditional Offer Letter Of Admission?
If a student submits the documents required for admission to any University without IELTS score sheet and passing certificate of his current pursuing program a conditional offer letter of admission is obtained by the student.
What Are The Major Intakes Of Admission At Australian Universities?
February and July intakes are considered as major intakes at Australian Universities. Few universities do accept students during summer term (November) too. In some universities for popular programs like management they follow trimester system and may have 4 intakes in a year mainly January, April, September and November
Is GRE Required For Admission Into Australian Universities?
Not required.
Can The Student Apply For Admission Into Universities Without IELTS Score ?
Yes, he can apply but he has to mention the date of test when he has scheduled to appear. University may give conditional offer of admission subject to the fulfillment of requirement of IELTS score.
What Are Medicals And When They Have To Be Done?
Every student has to undergo medical examinationsas the part of their visa application
What Is The Process Time To Get e-CoE?
To obtain ane-CoE(electronic conformation of enrollment)after making the payment it will take minimum of one to two weeks depending upon the payment method, wire transfer of funds or through Demand Draft.
What Is A Fully Sanctioned Bank Loan Letter?
The bank loan, which does not have preliminary, or a partial sanction then it is called a fully sanctioned bank loan letter. Australian High Commission accepts only fully sanctioned bank loans.
Is The Application For Admission Process Same For Australia And Other Countries?
No, the process of admission varies from one country to another in terms of documentation and pre-requisite tests based on the program of study. It is very important to know the requirements before we apply to any particular country.
Is Choosing The Country Like Australia And Then Initiating The Process Is The Right Factor In Studying Abroad?
Yes, the primary step after deciding to go abroad is the country of preference. As one has to initiate the admission process based on the requirements of that particular country.
Should I Choose A Country Like Australia Or Prefer Any Country, Which Is In Tune With My Long-term Objectives?
You should definitely choose a country, which will help you attain your long-term objectives. This could also coincide with a country, which is a popular destination since they are designated so mainly because of the opportunities they offer. It is always better to choose a country based on the selected program of study.
How Many Major Fields Of Study Are Available In Australia?
There are over 200 major fields of study to choose from. Australia is one among very few nations in the world to offer different programs as per student choice..
What Is Elicos? When It Is Required?
Students who do not meet IELTS requirement specified by the University should take ELICOS (English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students)
What Is The Duration Of ELICOS?
Duration of ELICOS depends upon students present score of IELTS. Based on the score the students few weeks of ELICOS is designed by the admission department of Universities..
What Is The Right Time To Apply To Australian Universities?
If the student initiates his admission at least 5 months prior to semester is considered as right time..
Do Australian Universities Follow Any Specified Ranking?
No, Australian Universities do not follow specified ranking. Each University has its own requirements and one has to fulfill the requirements to get admission in that particular program
Which Is The Best University In Australia?
There is no such thing as the best university in Australia. Different Universities excel in different areas. Popularity of the university depends on individual preferences and perceptions. But recently Australian education department has introduced a tool where you can compare the university’s teaching quality, employment rate, student satisfaction etc. for different areas of study. You may check and compare the same at www.qilt.edu.au