Australia
About Australia
Australia, officially the Commonwealth of Australia is a sovereign country comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands. Located between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean, it is the largest country in Oceania and the world’s sixth-largest country by total area. The country is politically divided into 6 states (New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria & Western Australia) and 2 territories (Australian Capital Territory & Northern Territory).
Australia is the next ‘hot’ destination after the USA, in terms of number, quality and living conditions. It has been ranked as one of the top 3 destination for abroad studies accounted for best education, living conditions and affordable education. The excellence in Education, the multicultural background of students, value for money, English speaking country and on top of that, Governmental and institution support for international students are some other aspects that has made Australia very attractive destination for students from all over the world. The scope of career and the immense opportunities after graduation are also the major reasons for studying in Australia
Quick Facts
- Capital : Canberra
- Currency : Australian Dollar (AUD)
- Main language : English
- Time Zone : GMT+10
- Major Cities : Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide
- Area : 7.692 million km 2
- Calling code : +61
Why Australia?
Australia is a dynamic, vibrant country with energetic, friendly people offering excellent value for money and a standard of living that is among the highest in the world. Living expenses and tuition costs in Australia are considerably less expensive than other English speaking countries. The benefits of studying in Australia include:
Excellence
Australian universities are widely recognized for excellence in many disciplines where in 6 of Australian Universities are ranked in the top 100 Universities in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020. They deliver practical and career-orientated training so graduates can be confident they have the skills demanded by employers contributing to improved productivity.
Innovation
Australia has a reputation for adopting new technologies at a faster rate than in most other countries and enters the new millennium with one of the highest rates of internet access in the world. Facilities for teaching, training and research are world-class in terms of state-of-the-art laboratories and classrooms, outstanding libraries and modern technology.
Qualification Recognition
Australian qualifications are recognised by employers and leading educational institutions in many countries around the world. Moreover, most courses and training undertaken by international students in Australia are covered by Australian Qualification Framework (AQF). It is a system of learning which is authorized by the Australian government.
Quality Assurances
Australia’s national quality assurance system is unique both in its structure and its rigor. International students, and even their parents, enjoy an unparalleled level of service and financial protection. Australia provides the world’s most rigorous protection for international students. Accordingly, in 2019 international students have reported almost 90% satisfaction for their living and studying experience in Australia.
Multicultural Society
Australia is a safe, multicultural, friendly and harmonious society. Australians value the wealth of cultural diversity and social sophistication that international students bring to the campuses and communities. Great care is taken in looking after international students and helping them to adjust to the Australian way of life. Australia has a low crime rate and strict gun control laws providing a safe environment. People from about 200 countries have migrated to Australia, making Australia one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world.
Cost of Living
In Australia, a student gets value for money in terms of cost of living. The conversion factor is cheaper compared to the UK or US. The annual cost of living for an individual applicant is calculated to be AUD 21,041 while for spouse and child, it is AUD 7,362 and 3,152 respectively.
Job Opportunities
Australia offers employment to international students. Students have started to hit upon Australia which offers more job facilities in multiple disciplines. Australia offer work permits to international students like none other and there are ample opportunities after graduation through post study work.
Possibility of More Scholarships
Australia being comparatively new in terms of attracting foreign students offers more scholarship opportunities. The Australian Government has invested over AUD 300 million in scholarships for international students making your study in Australia affordable. Additionally, Australia is a less populated yet vast country which can fit in employment opportunities at a rate faster than any other part of the world.
More Research Opportunities
Australia offers research opportunities to eligible professionals willing to enhance their career. The biggest advantage is Australia offers country-based research that is spread all over the continent. Selection for these highly regarded research opportunities are based on merit and is highly competitive, and a proven track record of academic excellence is a pre-requisite.
Student Cities
Melbourne
Melbourne is the capital and most populous city of the Australian state of Victoria. The city is home to seven universities which feature in the international rankings, and achieves the best score in the entire index for ‘student mix’, with multicultural exchange highlighted among the best things about student life in Melbourne. With beautiful beaches and a high standard of living (Melbourne is currently rated the world’s most livable city by The Economist), the city also achieves a strong score for ‘desirability’. Melbourne is also Australia’s highest ranked city in both the ‘rankings’ and ‘employer activity’ categories.
Sydney
Sydney is the state capital of New South Wales and the most populous city in Australia and Oceania. It is the economic and financial hub of Australia which is also ranked as one of the Best Student Cities index. The city also ranks well for ‘student mix’, with a quarter of students at its five internationally ranked universities coming from overseas. Aside from offering an enjoyable student experience, the city is home to some of Australia’s most respected universities, two of which rank among the top 50 in the QS World University Rankings 2015/16.
Brisbane
Brisbane is the capital of and the most populous city in the Australian state of Queensland, and the third most populous city in Australia. Considered a very friendly city, Brisbane is home to three major universities and a sizable student population. Brisbane offers an ideal mix for students seeking a balance between urban and outdoor lifestyles. Stunning beaches, a sunny climate and a sporting culture coexist with a cosmopolitan down-town area offering a trendy nightlife and arts scene.
Adelaide
Australia’s fifth largest city, Adelaide is located on the south coast and is known for its attractive wide boulevards, open spaces, parklands and easily navigable city center. Three universities based in Adelaide: the University of Adelaide, University of South Australia and Flinders University are featured in the QS World University Rankings. The city achieves its best score in the ‘student mix’ category, with a large and diverse student population.
Perth
Perth is the capital and largest city of the Australian state of Western Australia (WA). It is one of the best student cities scoring well for both ‘desirability’ and ‘student mix’. There are five universities located in Perth, which is regarded as Australia’s “Education City.” The quality of education is best with the qualitative student support services. The universities in Perth are: Curtin University, Edith Cowan University and University of Western Australia.
Education System in Australia
Australia has an integrated nationwide system of qualifications, known as the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF), which is recognized by the Australian Government. Under this, students can move easily from one level of study to the next and receive credit for previous study. It brings together the qualifications offered at different levels. Under this, Australian Universities offer Bachelor degrees, Master’s degrees, Doctorate, Postgraduate certificates and Postgraduate Diplomas that are recognized throughout the world. There are provisions of Vocational Education and Training as well as Higher Education:
Vocational Education And Training In Australia (VET) :
Australia offers a wide variety of Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses. They are offered through TAFE, Registered Training Organizations (RTOs), or some Universities. It is a means of training and qualifying for a highly skilled job in business, the arts, or industry, or as an alternative pathway into university degree studies. The course duration is usually 2 to 2.5 years. The VET qualifications can include:
• Certificate level courses (6 months to 2 years)
• Diploma (1- 2 years)
• Advanced Diploma (1.5 – 2 years)
Undergraduate Studies in Australia:
Bachelor programs in Australia may vary from 3 to 5 year which are available across all faculties of Arts, Commerce, Science, IT and Medicine. A Bachelor Degree is the basic qualification for entry to a field. It provides a systematic body of knowledge, the underlying principles, and the problem-solving techniques to work in a discipline.
Postgraduate Studies:
Master Degree (Coursework) involves traditional coursework that develops expertise in the field. A Masters Degree takes either one year after a Bachelor’s Degree with honors or two years after a Bachelor’s Degree. Meanwhile, Masters Degree (Research), a 2 years degree is a course of independent research that will further enhance skills and understanding of the chosen field of study.
Doctoral Degree or Phd:
The highest award offered by Australian universities, the Doctoral Degree is a research program that varies from 3 – 4 years, although it can have some coursework. The three components of Doctoral Degree are A review of literature, experimentation or other methodical approaches to a body of knowledge; an original research project that makes a contribution to understanding and knowledge in the field; a substantial, well-ordered thesis that shows a relationship between the research and the field of study.
Intakes
The intakes to study in Australia are:
• March
• July
• November
The major intake is March and July and November intake is available for few programs only. The VET providers have more intakes for their programs than the higher education providers and Universities.Cost Of Education
The cost of education in Australia is affordable compared to the USA or UK. Higher education in Australia is comparatively short and intensive which provide value for the money as well as reduces the living expenses. According to Study in Australia, the official government site for international students, typical annual tuition fees for international students are:
• Vocational degree – AU$ 8000 to AU$ 22,000
• Bachelor’s degree – AU$20,000 to AU$45,000*
• Master’s degree – AU$25,000 to $50,000*
• Doctoral degree – AU$18,000 to $42,000*
*These figures do not include high-value courses such as veterinary or medical degrees, which can cost significantly more.
The annual cost of living for an individual applicant is calculated to be AUD 21,041 while for spouse and child, it is AUD 7,362 and 3,152 respectively. This is the amount that should be covered by the applicant to prove their genuine intention as GTE.Required Tests to Study in Australia
To study in Australia, for admission into any level of programs, English proficiency such as International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Pearson Test of English (PTE A) or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required for admission and visa purpose as well. In addition to that, no other formal tests are required as compared to the USA or Canada.
Entry Requirements / Eligibility
Undergraduate – Bachelors
• Completion of Year 12 or equivalent
• 6.0 IELTS / 79 TOEFL / 50-58 PTE
Postgraduate – Masters
• Completion of Bachelors degree from a recognized university
• 6.5 IELTS / 90 TOEFL / 59-64 PTE
• Work Experience in relevant field for any gap yearsAdmission Procedure
For international students planning to study in Australia, the application process involves several steps. The application procedure to the providers is fairly easy. The required documents include:
• Academic Documents
• English Proficiency (IELTS/ TOEFL/ PTE)
• A valid passport
• Application Form
• Statement of Purpose
• Work Experience (For gap years)
• Marriage Certificate (If married)
Visa Application
The Visa Application of Australia is completed online through an IMMI Account. After filling the form and paying the visa application fee, students have to provide their biometric details in the VFS global. To grant a visa students need to show that they are Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) meeting the criteria. The required documents are:
• A valid passport
• Financial ability to pay for the study
• Appropriate information about academic and English ability
• E- Coe (electronic confirmation of enrolment) for a course
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Health and Character Certificate
• Fulfillment of Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)
To maintain a student visa in Australia students must comply with several visa conditions including attendance and academic performance.
The document checklist for Australia: Link to the document checklist of Australia in the website
For more information about visas, please visit:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500#Overview
Scholarships in Australia
Australia has abundant scholarship opportunities for international students as nearly AUD 300 million is invested in this sector by the Australian Government. We at Raffles Educare provide scholarship assistance, helping students on how to apply for them making your education affordable. The scholarships in Australia are offered by Australian Government, education providers and a number of private and public organizations. Some of the major scholarships for international students in Australia are:
• Australia Awards: It is a prestigious international scholarship offering international students an opportunity to undertake study, research and professional development in Australia. It is open for international students from Asia, the Pacific, the Middle East and Africa.
• Destination Australia: The Destination Australia Program (DAP) is the Australian Government’s new mobility program for domestic and international students to study in regional Australia. Over 1000 scholarships will be available each year to support both domestic and international students studying at regional campus locations in qualifications from a Certification IV level and above.
• Provider scholarships: The education providers offer plenty grants and bursaries for qualifying international students based on academic merit. It is advisable to contact the admissions team for further advice and information on individual providers.
Accomodation Facilities
Accommodation in Australia has plenty of applicable options for international students based on cost and convenience. Below are the types of accommodation available:
Homestay: Homestay is where the student lives with an Australian family in their house. Generally, some or all meals are included. It can be an easy entry to Australia for young students and is a popular option for those attending high school or ELICOS courses. There are options of single or shared rooms with varying costs. Average Cost: A$235-A$325 per week
University Accommodation: It can include residential colleges, halls of residence, or University apartments. They provide accommodation along with all meals, cleaning, and a wide range of support services which can vary according to the residential type. For the accommodation, it is advisable to contact the prospective provider. Average Cost: A$190-A$280 per week.
Share Accommodation: It is advertised on student notice boards, in housing offices, and the ‘Share accommodation’ section of newspapers. Advertisements will appear for one or more people to share a house or a flat where a lease has already been taken out. Many students prefer to move into shared accommodation after a year or two of on-campus residence. Students are generally expected to provide some (or all) of their furniture. Average Cost: A$110-A$270 per week.
Rental Accommodation: This is the same as share boarding except that it involves finding a residence to rent, rather than moving into one that has already been leased. Once again, students are generally expected to supply their furnishings. Rental agreements require payment of rent in advance and a security bond to be paid at the start, which is usually equivalent to one month’s rent. Average Cost: A$165-A$440 per person per week.
Search for Accommodation in Australia:
Working Prospects
WORKING WHILE STUDYING
In Australia, International students can work part-time – 40 hrs/fortnight during course sessions and full time during vacation and holidays in which the volunteer and unpaid work do not count. On average, a student can earn around 15-16 AUD/hour. Some of the Ideal work for students due to the flexible hours and a large number of opportunities in these industries include:
• Retail – including supermarkets, department stores, boutiques
• Hospitality – cafes, bars, restaurants, delivery
• Farming and fruit-picking – seasonal work
• Services – childcare, aged care, and cleaning
• Administration and clerical work
• Tutoring
Find information on working while studying in Australia:
www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/English/Live-in-Australia/work
WORKING AFTER GRADUATION
International students can work in Australia after the completion of their course. Post Study Work (PSW) also known as Temporary Graduate Visa allows them to live, study, and work in Australia after completion of studies. The duration of the visa depends on the level of the Australian study qualification:
• Bachelor degree (including honors): 2 years
• Masters by coursework: 2 years
• Masters by research: 3 years
• Doctoral degree: 4 years
2 years of academic completion in Regional areas provides 3 or 4 years PSW opportunities.
Details on PSW can be found here:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-graduate-485/post-study-work#About
Permanent Residency
Australia provides the provision of permanent residency on the fulfillment of certain criteria. The visa allows one to remain in Australia indefinitely. The “Points Test” determines applicants’ suitability for a visa. The points are awarded based on Age, English Language Ability, Skilled Employment, Qualifications, Australian Study, Study in a regional area of Australia, Partner’s skills and qualifications. The skill set in most demand in Australia are :
• Accounting and finance
• Engineers (electrical, civil, mechanical),
• School teachers
• Healthcare professionals(doctors, nurses, other non-nursing health professions)
• Construction trade workers
• Culinary (chefs, bakers)
• Child care
• Cyber security
Further details on Permanent residency can be found here: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/permanent-resident/visa-optionsUseful Links
• Health Care in Australia (OSHC): www.privatehealth.gov.au/
• Understanding Assessment Level: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/education-program/what-we-do/simplified-student-visa-framework
• Study in Australia : https://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/
• Australian High Commission, New Delhi: www.india.highcommission.gov.au/ndli/Visas_and_Migration.html
• Department of Home Affairs: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/
• Australian Government: www.australia.gov.au
• CISA: https://cisa.edu.au/
• VFS Global Nepal: https://www.vfsglobal.com/Australia/Nepal/
