Australia

Australia is a unique and diverse country in every way - in culture, population, climate, geography, and history. It is multicultural and multiracial and this is reflected in the country's food, lifestyle and cultural practices and experience. It has 19 listed World Heritage properties. Australia is also famous for its landmark buildings including the Sydney Harbour Bridge; its ancient geology, as well as for its high country.

Australia is the second most popular study destination for international students after Canada. It attracts many international students to its major cities and towns. According to official reports, some of the most popular Australian cities amongst international students include (based on the cost of living, livability and university choice) Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane and Sydney. Australian tertiary education comprises vocational colleges and universities, with 22,000 courses on offer for foreign students.

TAFE, i.e., technical and further education is the public vocational educational system in Australia. Multi purpose trade skills are taugh through TAFE institutes. These are usually funded by the government and offer qualifications like certificates and diplomas which are job oriented and help an indiviual to find a source of income immediately upon completion of the course.

Australian University System comprises both public and private universities. There are 43 universities in Australia: 40 public universities, two international universities, and one private university There are 38 public and 3 private universities.

Undergraduate Courses last from 3 to 4 years, depending on if it’s a general or professional degree. Postgraduate programmes are categorised into postgraduate by research that lasts for 1–2 years (full-time study) and postgraduate extended programme that lasts for 3–4 years (full-time study).

A majority of students in Australia prefer off-campus accommodation. The transport system is pretty efficient and quick, making it easier for students to commute daily to their universities from the location of their stay. University campuses do have on-campus accommodation for international students. You will have to do a thorough research since stay and transport are key to live in any city.

Study Options in Australia

The number of students coming to Australia grows exponentially each year. The most preferred courses amongst Indian students are business, tourism, hospitality management, MBA, accounting, healthcare and IT.

An international student is expected to take up a course registered under CRICOS, if he/she wishes to study in Australia. CRICOS indicates that the course and institution that you choose meet a high standard of the Australian education system.

Cost of studying in Australia

An undergraduate degree could cost AUD 10,000–30,000 and postgraduate and PhD degrees could cost AUD 20,000–40,000.

The average living cost in Australia has been estimated to be around AUD 20000 per year. Accommodation costs could be $440 per week and transport and groceries could cost $150 to $280 per week.

Whether your interest lies in nature, technology, art, culture, adventure, food, wine or world-class academia, Australia definitely has something for you and is a country of endless opportunities.

Australia allows students to find part-time work options (20 hours per week), especially during holidays when students can work full-time (40 hours per week).