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Over the last few decades, Australia has seen a huge increase in the number of inbound overseas students seeking to further their studies. Have you ever wondered why? Acquiring a degree in Australia will undoubtedly benefit you academically, personally, and financially. If you want to learn more about the know-how of investing in high-quality education in this country, have a look at this guide. It will give you an idea of why the concept of ‘Study in Australia’ has become popular amongst overseas students.
While some students may find their ideal course options offered in the country’s esteemed Group of 8 (Go8) universities, many students find fantastic post-work opportunities, and there are still more who simply want to be out there and explore the friendly laid-back atmosphere, as well as experience the high standards of living. Have you decided why you want to study in Australia?
This guide introduces you to all you need to know about pursuing your higher education in Australia. Starting from part-time and full-time work opportunities, immigration processes, and international student funding, you will have learned everything you need to know by the end of this guide to make an informed decision about furthering your higher education. To get you there, we’ll go through the following points:
- Why is Australia the best pick for you?
- Living in Australia as an international student
- How to fund your studies in Australia?
- What are your options after graduating from Australia?
Why Is Australia The Best Pick For You?
When you study in Australia, you will have the opportunity to pursue an excellent education from world-class institutions. Universities in Australia encourage international students to think big. Every year, students all across the world obtain high-quality degrees from these universities in nearly every sector. Australian graduates are sought by markets across the globe and are highly successful. To address your question, “Why Study in Australia?” here are a few of the top reasons why Australia maybe your best bet for higher education:
Globally Recognised Qualifications
With 43 universities across Australia, there will be a course that can help you achieve your goals. Studying in Australia will improve your job prospects because Australian graduates are in high demand in any profession. Employers all across the globe recognise an Australian qualification in most professions. Courses in Australia are updated regularly with feedback from industry professionals to ensure that your skills and knowledge are up to date, enhancing your ability to compete for employment.
Practical Skills & Knowledge
Universities, colleges, and schools in Australia are dedicated to providing you with the practical skills and knowledge you need to excel in your chosen field. As the global need for entrepreneurial and innovative thinkers grows, Australian educational institutions have re-engineered their teaching and learning techniques to encourage thought-leading innovation in students across all disciplines.
Australian universities, colleges, and schools will give you the practical skills and academic knowledge you need to thrive in a fast-changing world and remain flexible during unpredictable times.
Work While Studying
Education in Australia is geared to help you thrive in the global workforce. A qualification from Australia will make you highly appealing to potential employers in Australia, at home, and around the world. Many Australian degrees and vocational programmes offer work experience opportunities and internships, allowing you to acquire hands-on industry experience while also expanding your professional network. After finishing your degree, you may be eligible to stay for a brief period and you can find many places to work in Australia.
You can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during the semester break while studying. This might be an excellent method to discover study-related work or simply pay off your educational loans.
Multiple Student Support Services
There are several student support programmes available to assist you in settling into your new life in Australia. Education providers adhere to stringent quality control and government accreditation standards, ensuring that you receive only the best service. There are specialized international student support centres in numerous cities and towns, each giving practical guidance and assistance on matters such as legal rights, career skills, and opportunities to connect and socialise with other domestic and international students. The Education Services for Overseas Students Act (ESOS ACT) of Australia upholds best-practice protection for the rights of overseas students studying in Australia.
A Safe Environment
The crime rate in Australian cities is among the lowest in the world, and the streets and public areas are open and safe. The safety of overseas students is taken extremely seriously by Australia. In comparison to other countries, Australia is a reasonably safe place to live. Its homicide rate is one of the lowest in the world. Australia is a socially cohesive society because of its capacity to accept individuals from all origins whilst respecting their customs, religious beliefs, and lifestyle choices. The government is dedicated to ensuring that people who come to Australia for a brief span of time to study, work, or reside permanently have the support and assistance they need to become fully functional members of the Australian community.
A Multicultural Society
Australia is also a multicultural country that values people regardless of who they are or where they come from. Did you know that almost 30% of Australians were born abroad? As a result, the country is now rich in ethnicities and cultures from all over the world.
When you study in Australia, you will be joining nearly 500,000 international students from 192 countries who have been welcomed into Australian society. The nation values the freedom of the people, and the rights of its residents and tourists within a transparent legal system.
Great Outdoors
It’s no surprise that Australia attracts people from all over the globe, with its unique combination of vibrant cities and rural centres, wide-open areas, and stunning scenery. There are cities and regional centres that are clean and sustainable, with plenty of green space and minimal levels of air pollution. You may sunbathe on golden beaches, visit national parks to observe rare flora and animals, or explore the untamed outback thanks to the rich natural environment. Students are taught the importance of sustainability and how to use it in all aspects of the industry in Australian universities.
High Standards Of Living
Australian cities are frequently listed among the world’s most livable. The quality of education, healthcare, transportation, infrastructure, and government services are all ranked well above worldwide standards. Australia has a robust, internationally competitive economy and is technologically advanced. In the towns and cities, you will have access to all of the advantages of high-quality services, transportation, and infrastructure.
Ranking Universities
According to the QS World Rankings 2022, the following universities are regarded as the top universities in Australia, known for offering extremely high-quality education and top-notch facilities.
| University | Territory | Ranking |
| Australian National University (ANU) | Canberra | 27 |
| University of Melbourne | Victoria | 37 |
| University of Sydney | New South Wales | 38 |
| UNSW Sydney | New South Wales | 43 |
| University of Queensland | Queensland | 47 |
| Monash University | Victoria | 58 |
| University of Western Australia | Western Australia | 93 |
| University of Adelaide | South Australia | 108 |
| University of Technology Sydney | New South Wales | 133 |
| University of Wollongong | New South Wales | 193 |
Living In Australia As An International Student
Understanding the typical cost of living and studying in Australia is crucial to your application and financial planning. Students should be aware that the cost of studying in Australia varies depending on the educational provider, the level of study chosen, and the location of study in Australia.
Financial requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs must be met to acquire an Australian student visa. Your annual costs and expenses might look like this on average –
- AUD 21,041 for students or guardians
- AUD 7,362 for accompanying partners
- AUD 3,152 for a child accompanying you
Educational Costs
The cost of studying in Australia largely varies on several factors and so deciding upon a particular cost wouldn’t be fair to all. However, we have some rough estimates & round figures for you. Below, you will find the breakdown of the average educational costs in Australia for international students –
- Depending on the length of the course, English language lessons cost around $300 per week
- Vocational Education and Training (Certificates I to IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma) – $4,000 to $22,000
- Undergraduate Bachelor Degree – $20,000 to $45,000
- Postgraduate Masters Degree – $22,000 to $50,000
- Postgraduate Masters Degree – $22,000 to $50,000
- Doctoral Degree – $18,000 to $42,000
Living Costs
You can take a look at the infographic below that shows the breakdown of your average expenditure influenced by accommodation, transportation, regular bills, and other living expenses.
Things to keep in mind when living in Australia as an international student –
- The cost of living varies by state, city, and kind of accommodation.
- Confirm the entire amount due, including utility costs and a bond, and ensure that it is included in the rental agreement.
- Determine the distance between your place of residence and your university, as well as if it is accessible by public transportation, such as a bus or train.
- Nearby shopping malls, hospitals, and emergency services are just a few of the local facilities you should identify.
While it may altogether seem overwhelming in your initial stages with having to book accommodation and making sure it’s all within your budget at the same time meeting your requirements, UniAcco can be your solution. You can find a variety of student flats, studio apartments, shared apartments, ensuites near the top universities that suit your needs within budget!
Not just that, with UniAcco, you don’t have to worry about sorting out the above-mentioned things to keep in mind as an international student.
Health Insurance
You must possess Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) as an international student in Australia for the term of your studies in Australia. There are, however, other types of insurance that you may find beneficial.
International students and their dependents (for example, partners and children under the age of 18) who are pursuing formal education in Australia must acquire OSHC. It covers doctor appointments, certain hospital services, ambulance transportation, and a limited range of medications. OSHC insurers can offer a wide range of products. These can range from a basic product that simply covers the required minimum services to complete products, in addition to the required minimum services, additional services as defined by the policy.
Visa
The Australian government provides all students with the chance to study in the country, but you must first get a student visa. It will depend on your age, the kind of education you want to pursue, and the duration you want to stay in Australia for the visa you require. As an overseas student, you will almost always need a student (subclass 500) visa, regardless of your subject of study.
A student subclass 500 visa, which has been in effect since July 1, 2016, allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your study programme, which is usually up to five years from the date of enrolment. To guarantee a smooth stay, you must verify that your visa is valid and that you follow the restrictions indicated on your student visa. You can read about this kind of visa in-depth on the Home Affairs Department of the Australian Government website.
How To Fund Your Studies In Australia?
When it comes to taking care of your expenses in Australia & funding your studies, you can either apply for scholarships to study in Australia based on your eligibility or apply for educational loans to finance your studies.
Scholarships
Scholarships and bursaries are offered both at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels for overseas students in Australia. You might qualify for a bursary, scholarship, or grant. You will be automatically considered by universities and colleges to be granted scholarships. Some UniScholars scholarships for students interested in studying in Australia are listed below.
Tens of thousands of students have been guided by UniScholars in the correct funding alternative. They offer scholarships to students. If you are an international student who needs support, contact UniScholars and they’re going to assist you.
- Frank Knox Memorial Fellowship
- ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship
- Hani Zeini Scholarship
- Gates Millennium Scholarship
- Narotam Sekhsaria’s Scholarships
- Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship
- Erasmus Scholarship
What Are Your Options After Graduating In Australia?
Last but not the least, it is important for you to analyse your options after graduation in Australia. This again majorly depends on what plans you have in your mind. You may opt to stay in Australia to work or further your education. Alternatively, someone may try to persuade you to move abroad.
Stay In Australia
Staying in Australia opens up a world of opportunities. You may be qualified for post-study work to use your newly acquired knowledge and obtain local job experience. At employment hubs, jobs fairs, job boards, and industry networking events in every state and territory, your university and even government agencies help connect students with prospective employers. So, if you’re planning to seek employment post-study, be sure to give a thorough read to everything about Australian work permits and visas.
Pursue A Job Abroad
A degree from an approved Australian institution offers doors to job opportunities in other countries. Your credentials will make you an appealing candidate to employers in Australia and throughout the world. An Australian qualification is recognised and acknowledged by companies globally in the majority of industries. Keep in touch with your university’s alumni network to learn about international job prospects.
Continue Studying In Australia
You may be tempted to continue your studies in Australia to obtain a higher qualification or to pursue a different subject of study. Following graduation, there are several courses offered in Australia.
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