How to STUDY ABROAD in

Australia
TopUniversities.com
 How to study abroad in Australia
Contents www.TopUniversities.com

03 Introduction

Before you study

04 Higher education in Australia

05 Admission requirements & applications

06 Student visas

08 Tuition fees & living costs

09 Funding opportunities

11 Student cities

After
graduation
13 Working in Australia after graduation
 How to study abroad in Australia
Introduction www.TopUniversities.com

From the bright lights of Sydney to

the café culture of Melbourne and
the natural beauty of Perth, this
7,692,024km² island has a diverse
terrain, character and appeal that
keeps international students returning
year after year.

Australia consistently ranks close to the top of various

lists of the world’s best places to live, offering a quality
of life which is difficult to beat. Studying here offers the
chance to learn at an internationally renowned higher
education institution, while exploring the nation’s
natural wonders and the buzz of its cosmopolitan cities.
Student life offers a lively flurry of bars, sports teams,
outdoor pursuits and of course, making the most of
the nation’s 10,685 beaches.

Almost 24 million people live in Australia, over 6 million

tourists visit every year and as of 2015 there were
433,936 international students studying in the country.

Almost 24 million people live in Australia, over 6

million tourists visit every year and as of 2015 there
were 433,936 international students studying in the
country. The Australian government is keen to keep
increasing overseas enrolments, and in 2015 set out
a Draft National Strategy for International Education
on this theme. Support for international students is
well-established across the country, from excellent
university support services to a generous annual
offering in government-funded scholarships and
grants.

In the 2014 International Student Survey, 88% of

surveyed international students were satisfied
or very satisfied with their Australian university
experience. Want to join their happy ranks? Read
on to find out how…
 How to study abroad in Australia
Before you study www.TopUniversities.com

Higher education
in Australia
Across Australia’s universities you’ll find every subject you could expect, but it
remains a particularly popular destination for those studying natural sciences
such as biology, zoology and chemistry, as well as mathematics, engineering,
the social sciences and medical fields.

In total Australia is home to 43 universities, of which the majority are public and
just two private. Most Australian universities are self-accrediting institutions
running under legislation set either by the state or territory. Funding comes
from the Australian government via the Higher Education Support Act 2003
through grants and loans.

Three levels of degree are offered: bachelor’s (three to five years), master’s
(one or two years) and doctorate (three to four years). In general Australian
universities have great facilities and there’s always lots going on, with plenty
of social activities and clubs to get involved with.

There are also over 1,100 accredited vocational and technical higher
education institutions in Australia. These offer technical and further
education (TAFE) and vocational education and training (VET). Here you
can study short courses, certificates I through IV, diplomas, and advanced
diplomas in industry training designed to prepare you for a specific job.

As in many countries, pursuing an internship alongside study is encouraged

in Australia. For some courses, such as education, nursing, engineering,
IT, accounting and communication, completing work experience may
be a requirement. Internships can be pretty competitive, so get your
applications in early to ensure you get a good place.

The Group of Eight

Australia’s “Group of Eight” – a kind of equivalent to the US Ivy League or UK Russell Group – includes
Australian National University (ANU), the University of Melbourne, University of Sydney,
University of Queensland, University of New South Wales, Monash University, the University
of Western Australia and the University of Adelaide. All eight of these make the top 150 of the
QS World University Rankings® 2015/16, with a further 25 Australian universities featured in these
global rankings.
 How to study abroad in Australia
Before you study www.TopUniversities.com

Admission
requirements
& applications
Each higher education institution is unique in the
programs offered, entry requirements, cost and culture.
There is no federal or state-level application system
for international students applying to universities
in Australia, so you will need to apply directly to the
university, usually online and often for a fee.

The beginning of the academic year in Australia is

February, although it may also be possible to commence
studies in July, at the start of the second semester.

In addition to submitting your academic record to

date, you may also need to submit proof of proficiency
in the English language, as well as completing any set
tests or interviews.

The beginning of the academic year in Australia

is February, although it may also be possible to
commence studies in July, at the start of the second
semester. You can usually apply between three and
18 months before a course starts, but the earlier the
better.
 How to study abroad in Australia
Before you study www.TopUniversities.com

Student visas
The Australian student visa you need will depend on what type of course
you’re going to study. In order to study for an undergraduate degree (or a
taught master’s degree) in Australia you will need a Higher Education Sector:
Temporary Visa (Subclass 573). If you’re studying a master’s degree by
research or a doctorate, then you need the Postgraduate Research Sector visa
(subclass 574). There are many different kinds of student visas for Australia,
with fees ranging from nil to A$535 (US$415) for most options. The Australian
government’s Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIPB)
provides all the information you need on visa type and cost.

The process you need to follow will depend on which assessment level citizens
of your country fall under. Students from New Zealand are not classed as
international students and therefore will not need a visa to study in Australia.

Streamlined visa processing is now available for those who are eligible
(studying a higher education advanced diploma, a bachelor’s degree or a
master’s degree by coursework). If you are eligible for streamlined student
visa processing, you are not assigned an assessment level, as students
eligible for this service are automatically determined to be low immigration
risk. Eligible students will also have reduced evidentiary requirements for
their student visa application.

You will also need a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement to state
your genuine intention to stay in Australia temporarily for the purpose of
study. You may need to attend an interview at your nearest Australian
embassy for this.

Here’s a quick checklist of what it takes to get an Australian student visa:

• Acceptance on a course
Australian visa requirements for students mean you must first be accepted
to study a course which is registered on the Commonwealth Register of
Institutions of Courses (CRICOS). You’ll need an online code and a copy of
your confirmation of enrolment or an offer letter to serve as proof of this.
You will be able to change course afterwards, but it must be to one of the
same level, or else you will need to be apply for a new visa.

• Proof of finances
Students who fall into assessment level 1 will simply need to attest that
they have enough money, while students at all other levels are required to
prove that they have at least enough money to cover the living expenses
of the first year of their stay. At present this is deemed to be A$18,610
(in addition to tuition fees), which is around US$13,500. Accommodation
fees paid to your institution in advance can be deducted from the total.
If you are receiving full funding you simply need to provide proof of this.
 How to study abroad in Australia
Before you study www.TopUniversities.com

As well as proof of these funds, you will also need to show you have return air
fare for yourself and every family member you take with you.

• Medical check-ups/ health insurance

You may be required to attend a medical and/or a radiological check-up to
show that you are in good health, but you shouldn’t do this unless you are
specifically advised that you must. If you are told to take a test then you must
attend an appointment with a doctor who has been approved by the Australian
immigration department.

You are also obliged to purchase Overseas Student Health Cover – OSHC –
unless you are from Belgium, Norway or Sweden, though Swedes must be
covered by CSN or Kammarkollegiet for this to apply. You may purchase
this cover through your university, or directly from one of the five approved
providers. These are Australian Health Management, BUPA Australia,
Medibank Private, OSHC Worldwide and nib OSHC. The cost of this insurance
is A$437 for a single person for a year, which is around US$300.

• Proof of English proficiency

English language requirements for those not from Anglophone countries
are set by universities for level 1 and 2 candidates. Level 3 and 4 candidates
will need to prove their proficiency with certified test results (the Australian
Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s website lists eligible tests).
The score you need will depend on whether you are starting a full degree,
studying a foundation course, or enrolling on a preliminary English Language
Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS), which you will have a
maximum of 30 weeks to complete.

• Criminal record checks

You will also need to show that you don’t have a substantial criminal
record, and your past and present conduct must not suggest you will
engage in criminal activity or incite discord in Australia. You may need
to acquire penal clearance or get a police statement for this purpose.
You will also need to declare fidelity to Australian values by signing an
Australian Values Statement.

• Visa applications
Level 1 students can apply online or in person, whereas students from
levels 2-4 must apply in post or in person at an Australian embassy if
applying for the first time.

You will need to submit evidence of all the above along with application
form 157A, four passport pictures and proof of your academic record.
All documents should be translated into English. Applications must be
made no more than 124 days (around four months) before your course
starts. You may be asked to attend an interview at a local visa office.
 How to study abroad in Australia
Before you study www.TopUniversities.com

Tuition fees &

living costs
The cost of studying in Australia is often substantial, requiring most
international students to draw on a range of funding sources. HSBC estimates
the total annual cost of study, including tuition fees and living costs, at around
A$42,000 (~US$30,500).

Tuition fees vary significantly depending on the institution,

study level and subject. Programs in fields such as engineering
and medicine are typically at the higher end of the scale.

Tuition fees
Tuition fees vary significantly depending on the institution, study level and
subject. Programs in fields such as engineering and medicine are typically at
the higher end of the scale.

According to Study in Australia, the official government site for international

students, typical annual tuition fees for international students are:

• Bachelor’s degree – A$15,000-33,000 (US$11,750- 25,800)

• Master’s degree – A$20,000-37,000 (US$15,650-28,900)

• Doctoral degree – A$14,000-37,000 (US$10,950-28,900)

These figures do not include high-value courses such as veterinary or

medical degrees, which can cost significantly more.

Living costs
According to HSBC, estimated living expenses for students in Australia
are around A$18,012 (US$14,100) per year. The Australian government’s
Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIPB) also puts a
specific figure on the costs for international students. In order to be
eligible to study in Australia, you will need to show you have A$18,610
(US$13,500) per year to cover living costs. If you’re bringing a partner,
add A$6,515 (US$4,700) to this figure. And if you have children, you’ll
need to show you have an additional A$3,720 (US$2,880) for one child
and A$2,790 (US$2,160) for every additional child.
 How to study abroad in Australia
Before you study www.TopUniversities.com

Funding
opportunities
Although Australia is an expensive place to study, the
good news is that the Australian government is active
in supporting international students, and gives out
approximately A$500 million each year in scholarships,
grants and other financial aid. Major government-funded
international scholarship schemes include the Australia
Awards and the International Postgraduate Research
Scholarships (IPRS) program. The Australia Awards
are available to nationals and citizens from eligible
countries. The list of eligible countries is extensive,
covering the Americas, the Caribbean, Europe, the
Middle East, the Pacific area and Asia.

It is recommended that you apply early for all Australian

scholarships and fellowships. Applications for funding
in 2016 open early next year and are likely to close at
the end of June.

Many other organizations and individual universities

also offer scholarships for international students,
and a searchable database is available on the
government website www.studyinaustralia.gov.au. A
dedicated listing of postgraduate-level scholarships
is provided by JASON (Joint Academic Scholarships
Online Network), at www.jason.edu.au.

The Australia Awards Endeavour Scholarships

and Fellowships are mainly for postgraduate-
level study and research. Out of the four funds
available for international applicants, one is a
short-term research fellowship for graduates and
postgraduates (maximum award of A$24,500 for
studies of up to six months), one is for professional
development (maximum award of A$18,500 for up
to four months) and one is for vocational education
and training for a diploma or associate’s degree (VET), offering up to A$6,500
per semester for up to two and a half years (maximum award A$131,000).

International graduate students looking to gain funding for a full master’s

or PhD program should apply for the Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship,
which offers up to A$15,000 per semester for a duration of up to two years
for master’s students and four years for PhD students (maximum award
A$140,500 for master’s, A$272,500 for PhD).

It is recommended that you apply early for all

Australian scholarships and fellowships. Applications
for funding in 2016 open early next year and are likely
to close at the end of June.

It is recommended that you apply early for all Australian scholarships and
fellowships. Applications for funding in 2016 open early next year and are
likely to close at the end of June.

If you’re a graduate student from the UK, you can apply for the Northcote
Graduate Scholarship from the Britain-Australia Society. This provides
funding for your travel there and back, tuition fees and charges, and also
provides a basic allowance for three years while you study.

For all undergraduate and postgraduate students, check with the Australian
universities you are interested in, as many offer scholarships open to both
domestic and international students at both levels. For more funding
opportunities, visit our list of scholarships to study in Australia.

Part time jobs

You can also supplement your finances with a part-time student job – you will have permission to
work included with your visa. You can work a maximum of 40 hours per fortnight when your course
is in session and unlimited hours in the holidays. You cannot commence work until you have started
your course.
 How to study abroad in Australia
Student cities www.TopUniversities.com

SYDNEY
The name of Australia’s biggest city tends to evoke images of beaches, surfing
and drinking, all in the shadow of the nation’s most recognizable landmark,
the Sydney Opera House. And, sure, Sydney is famed for its party lifestyle. But,
like many larger cities famous for their nightlife, it is also bohemian, creative,
and intellectual.

If this sounds like your kind of environment, then universities in Sydney

provide plenty of choice. Two of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight – the
University of Sydney (ranked 45th in the world) and the University of New
South Wales (ranked joint 46th alongside the University of Queensland)
– are based in the city, as well as a number of other institutions, including
the country’s top-ranked non-Go8 university, Macquarie University (joint
229th), the University of Technology, Sydney (218th) and Western Sydney
University (651-700).

MELBOURNE
Considered to be the cultural and multicultural capital of Australia,
Melbourne is a good alternative for those who perhaps find Sydney a bit
too brash – think of it as a sort of San Francisco to Sydney’s Los Angeles.
However, it’s not a pretentious intellectual bubble either; Melbourne’s locals
are known for their love of sport, and you won’t be left wanting in terms of
nightlife. It is also notable for being one of Australia’s best-preserved cities
architecturally.

Universities in Melbourne again include two Go8 institutions, the University

of Melbourne (ranked 42nd in the world) and Monash University (67th),
as well as the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (joint 273rd),
Deakin University (joint 324th), La Trobe University (joint 394th), and
Swinburne University of Technology (501-550).

BRISBANE
Australia’s third-largest city, Brisbane is known for the friendliness of its
locals – often considered to be a major factor in the city’s growth. Of
course, friendliness alone isn’t enough to make a city, and it also has a
thriving live music scene, a plethora of world-class cultural institutions
and – of course – access to plenty of beautiful beaches.

Among universities in Brisbane, the most prominent is the University of

Queensland (Brisbane is the capital of the state of Queensland), which
ranks at joint 46th in the QS World University Rankings 2015/16. The
other internationally ranked institutions in the city are the Queensland
University of Technology (263rd), and Griffith University (joint 329th).
 How to study abroad in Australia
Student cities www.TopUniversities.com

PERTH
If it’s the quiet life you’re after, then maybe Perth should be on your shortlist.
The city lies in splendid isolation on Australia’s west coast, and boasts a high
volume of relatively unspoiled and quiet beaches. The city itself is uncrowded
and peaceful, and if you prefer cafés, parks and peaceful beaches to all-night
partying, then you and Perth might be a match made in heaven.

Universities in Perth include the University of Western Australia (98th),

Curtin University (joint 284th) and Murdoch University (551-600), and
Perth is also the main location for one of Australia’s two private universities,
Notre Dame University.

ADELAIDE
Located in the midst of Australia’s chief wine-growing region, Adelaide is
the capital of the region of South Australia. Like all of the cities listed here,
Adelaide is a coastal city, so can offer the gold and blue shades which
characterize Australia’s beaches, as well as the lush greenery which provides
the setting for the region’s vineyards.

Unsurprisingly, given its location, Adelaide is noted for being a good city for
lovers of food and drink. It is also, as a result of the many nature preserves
and conservation areas which lie within spitting distance of the city, a good
choice for lovers of nature and wildlife. Among universities in Adelaide, the
highest ranked is the University of Adelaide at joint 113th in the world
rankings, followed by the University of South Australia (288th) and
Flinders University (501-550).
 How to study abroad in Australia
After graduation www.TopUniversities.com

Working in
Australia after
graduation
If you want to stay in Australia after you’ve graduated,
you’ll need to get a work visa. Anyone who has studied
in the country for two years or more and has applied
for a skills assessment in an occupation on the Skilled
Occupation List (SOL) qualifies for a special work visa
– the 485 Skilled Graduate Temporary Visa. This allows
you to stay in Australia for another two years after
graduating.

If you’re not eligible for this, there are other work visas
available. These mean you’ll be given points based
on career choice, experience, age, qualifications and
ability, to assess whether you’re entitled to stay or not.

High-demand specializations

Professionals in high demand in Australia include electricians, technicians, IT

specialists, architects, engineers, dentists, accountants, neurologists, teachers,
psychologists and medical practitioners. You can also check the Australian
Department of Immigration and Citizenship website for more information about
opportunities open to international students.