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10 reasons to study in Australia

Did you know Australia has the third highest number of international students in the world behind only the United Kingdom and the United States despite having a population of only 23 million? This isn't surprising when you consider Australia has seven of the top 100 universities in the world! In fact, with over 22,000 courses across 1,100 institutions, Australia sits above the likes of Germany, the Netherlands and Japan, ranking eighth in the Universities 2012 U21 Ranking of National Higher Education Systems.

These are strong academic credentials, but our institutions are just as highly rated as the cities that house them around the country. Australia has five of the 30 best cities in the world for students based on student mix, affordability, quality of life, and employer activity - all important elements for students when choosing the best study destination. And with more than $200 million provided by the Australian Government each year in international scholarships, we're making it easier for you to come and experience the difference an Australian education can make to your future career opportunities.

Do you have a specific study area of interest? There is every chance Australia has you covered, with at least one Australian university in the top 50 worldwide across the study areas of Natural Sciences & Mathematics, Life & Agricultural Sciences, Clinical Medicine & Pharmacy, and Physics.

Given this impressive education pedigree, it's not surprising there are now more than 2.5 million former international students who have gone on to make a difference after studying in Australia. Some of these students are among the world's finest minds. In fact, Australia has produced 15 Nobel prize laureates and every day over 1 billion people around the world rely on Australian discoveries and innovations - including penicillin, IVF, ultrasound, Wi-Fi, the Bionic Ear, cervical cancer vaccine and Black Box Flight Recorders - to make their lives, and the lives of others, better.

Live In Australia?

Living in Australia will be a new experience, but there are support services in your institution as well as from other organizations to help make adjusting to life in Australia easier. As Australia is the fourth happiest country in the world (Prosperity Index 2012) and we have five of the 30 best cities in the world for students (Top University Rankings 2012), you are sure to enjoy your time here. No matter what type of study you are doing in Australia, whether you are here for a few months or a few years, some research and planning will help you have a safe and rewarding study experience. Important considerations and planning includes:
Planning your departure.
Arriving in Australia.
Accessing support services.
Remaining visa compliant.
Working while you study.
Living costs and finding accommodation.
Health and safety.
Knowing the average living costs in Australia is an important part of your financial preparation.
For your reference, here are some of the costs associated with living and studying in Australia. (All costs are in Australian dollars.)

Accommodation

Hostels and Guesthouses - $80 to $135 per week
Shared Rental - $70 to $250 per week
On campus - $80 to $250 per week
Home stay - $110 to $270 per week
Rental - $100 to $400 per week
Boarding schools - $10,000 to $20,000 a year

Other living expenses

Groceries and eating out -$80 to $200 per week
Phone and Internet - $20 to $50 per week
Public transport - $10 to $50 per week
Car (after purchase) - $150 to $250 per week
Entertainment - $50 to $100 per week

Minimum cost of living

The Department of Immigration and Border Protection has financial requirements you must meet in order to receive a student visa. Below is a guide on the requirements you must meet to study in Australia:
You - $18,610
Your partner - $6,515
Your first child - $3,720
Every other child - $2,790
All costs are per year in Australian dollars. To convert to your own currency.

Work While You Study
Working while you study in Australia can help complement your study and living experience. There are a number of reasons you might want to undertake part time work while studying in Australia, including assisting with living expenses and gaining work experience in your study area. Most student visas allow you to work for up to 40 hours every two weeks while your course is in session, and unrestricted hours during any scheduled course break, but before you undertake any paid work you need to make sure your visa allows you to work. Find out more at the Department of Immigration and Border Protection website.
Paid work Australia has a wide range of industries and many have part time employment opportunities, including:
Retail - supermarkets, department and clothing stores.
Hospitality - cafes, bars and restaurants.
Tourism - hotels and motels.
Agricultural - farming and fruit-picking.
Sales and telemarketing.
Administration or Clerical roles.
Tutoring.
If you have existing qualifications and/or professional work experience, you may be able to secure casual or part time work in your field.

Internships

Paid or unpaid internships can be a great way to get exposure to the professional, financial and creative industries. Learn more about getting an internship on the Internships page in the Education System section of this website.

Volunteering
There are many charities and non-government organizations (NGOs) in Australia and they always need volunteers to help out. It can be a great way to meet friends, get some hands on work experience and give back to the community. To find out more about volunteering, start your search at: http://www.govolunteer.com.au/
Your rights
Everyone working in Australia, including international students or those on working holiday visas, have basic rights at work. These rights protect entitlement to:
A minimum wage.
Challenge of unfair dismissal from the job
Breaks and rest periods.
A healthy and safe work environment.
Most employers in Australia are covered by an 'award', which sets minimum wages and conditions for a given field of work or industry.
How To Apply
To study in Australia you'll need to apply for both admission to an institution and also for a student visa from the Australian Government There are a number of steps you must go through including:
Deciding on your preferred course and institution.
Submitting your application to the institution.
Receiving and accepting a Letter of Offer.
Receiving your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE).
Applying for your student visa.
There is a range of entry requirements that you will need to meet both for you institution application and your visa application. This can include:
- Academic requirements.
- English language requirements.
- Evidence of funds to support your study.
- Overseas student health cover.
If you're already living or working in Australia, you may still be able to apply to study here as an international student.
Education agents in your home country can also help you with applying to study in Australia.
Fields of Study
Courses in Australia are categorized in to 'Fields of education', also called 'Fields of study'. It is a classification system used by Australian institutions to describe courses, specializations and units of study.
Natural and physical sciences
Natural and physical sciences is the study of all living organisms and inanimate natural objects, through experiment, observation and deduction. The theoretical content of this field of study includes:
Atmospheric sciences
Biological processes
Chemical reactions
Laboratory methodology
Mathematical and statistical techniques
Observation and measurement
Scientific method
Subatomic particles and quantum mechanics
Thermodynamics and entropy
The main purpose of this field of study is to develop an understanding of the workings of the universe, and to extend the body of scientific knowledge.
Information technology
Information technology is the study of the processing, transmitting and storage of information by computers. The theoretical content of this field of study includes:
- Computation theory
- Computer programming
- Management, storage and retrieval of information in a computer environment
- Robotics programming and artificial intelligence
- Systems analysis
The main purpose of this field of study is to develop an understanding of information systems, programming languages, information management and artificial intelligence, and the ability to apply them to solve problems.
Engineering and related technologies
Engineering and related technologies is the study of the design, manufacture, installation, maintenance and functioning of machines, systems and structures; and the composition and processing of metals, ceramics, foodstuffs and other materials. It includes the measurement and mapping of the earth's surface and its natural and constructed features. The theoretical content of this field of study includes: Engineering and manufacturing technology
Food technology
Land information technology and remote sensing
Materials science
Principles of design, drafting, planning and commissioning
Plant and machine maintenance
The main purpose of this field of study is to develop an understanding of the conversion of materials and energy, the measurement and representation of objects, and the operation of plant, machinery and transport systems.
Architecture and building
Architecture and building is the study of the art, science and techniques involved in designing, constructing, adapting and maintaining public, commercial, industrial and residential structures and landscapes. It includes the study of the art and science of designing and planning urban and regional environments. The theoretical content of this field of study includes:
Aesthetics and space dynamics
Building economics
Building science
Building techniques and technologies
Construction management
Architectural design and drawing
Town planning
The main purpose of this field of study is to develop an understanding of integrating structural and aesthetic elements in buildings and environments, and construction methods, techniques and materials.
Agriculture, environmental and related studies
Agriculture, environmental and related studies is the study of the theory and practice of breeding, growing, gathering, reproducing and caring for plants and animals. It includes the study of the interaction between people and the environment and the application of scientific principles to the environment to protect it from deterioration. The theoretical content of this field of study includes:
Crop production
Animal production and management
Environmental impact and assessment
Forest resource management
Soil and water conservation
Aquatic resource management
The main purpose of this field of study is to develop an understanding of the management and use of natural resources, and the production of primary agricultural products.
Health
Health is the study of maintaining and restoring the physical and mental wellbeing of humans and animals. The theoretical content of this field of study includes:
Disease processes and mechanisms
Restoration and maintenance of health
Diagnosis
Principles and practices of public health
The main purpose of this field of study is to develop an understanding of the principles and practices of identifying, treating, controlling and preventing injury and disease. It is also involves developing an understanding of the principles and practices of providing preventative, curative, rehabilitative and palliative care.
Education
Education is the study of the process of learning. It includes the theories, methods and techniques of imparting knowledge and skills to others. The theoretical content of this field of study includes:
- Curriculum development
- Processes of learning and skill acquisition
Teaching methods
The main purpose of this field of study is to develop an understanding of the processes and methods of teaching and learning in pre-schools, schools, tertiary educational institutions and other settings.
Management and commerce
Management and commerce is the study of the theory and practice of planning, directing, organizing, motivating and co-coordinating the human and material resources of private and public organizations and institutions. It includes the merchandising and provision of goods and services and personal development. The theoretical content of this field of study includes:
Management and administration
Human and material resources management
Sales and marketing
Finance and financial management
Human behavior and time management
The main purpose of this field of study is to develop an understanding of the theory and practice of decision making and policy formation, organizational development, planning, financial management, and the marketing and selling of goods and services.
Society and culture
Society and culture is the study of the physical, social and cultural organization of human society and their influence on the individual and groups. The theoretical content of this field of study includes:
Belief and value systems
Cultural expression
Human development and behavior
Human populations and their environments
Politics of power
Social organization and structure
Social research methodology
The main purpose of this field of study is to develop an understanding of human behavior and interaction, beliefs and values, cultural expression, and social structure and organization.
Creative arts
Creative arts are the study of creating and performing works of art, music, dance and drama. It includes the study of clothing design and creation, and communicating through a variety of media. The theoretical content of this field of study includes:
Artistic and technical aspects of audio-visual communication
Artistic and technical aspects of creating and producing art and craft, photographs and fashion apparel
Artistic and technical aspects of creating, producing and performing music, dance and drama
History, development and theory of the visual and performing arts
The main purpose of this field of study is to develop an understanding of composition, performance, artistic production, choreography, design and creativity, and technical production.
Food, hospitality and personal services
Food, hospitality and personal services is the study of preparing, displaying and serving food and beverages, providing hospitality services, caring for the hair and body for grooming and beautification, and other personal services. The theoretical content of this field of study includes:
Application and use of skin care and cosmetic products
General beauty care
Hair cutting, styling, coloring and treatment techniques
Housekeeping
Hygienic work practices in relation to the food and hospitality industry
Preparation, display and service of food and beverages
The main purpose of this field of study is to develop an understanding of the preparation of food and beverages, and the provision of hospitality services including housekeeping, cleaning and food and beverage service. It also involves developing a knowledge of beautification and beauty treatments.
Mixed field programs
Mixed field programs are programs providing general and personal development education. The theoretical content of this field of study includes:
Literacy and numeracy skills
Personal, social and workplace relationships

The main purpose of this field of study is to develop a basic understanding of reading, writing and arithmetic along with an elementary understanding of other subjects such as history, geography, natural science, social science, art and music. It also involves developing an understanding of key competencies and skills that are needed for job search activities, employment and personal survival skills

Entry Requirements
 
To begin studying in Australia, there are a range of entry requirements you may have to meet.
English language requirements
In some cases, you may need to provide results of an English language test. Be aware that the English language skill level required by an institution can be

different from the level of skill required for your student visa application. You should carefully check student visa information on both the Department of

Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) website and the institution website for any English language requirements.

Academic requirements
The academic requirements (including evidence of English language skills) you need to study in Australia will vary depending on the level of education you want to study. Institutions can have different entry requirements, so read the course information on their website carefully and contact them to ask for advice. Here is some general guidance on entry requirements for the different levels of study:
English language - Entry requirements vary between institutions, and according to the level of English language course you want to study.
Schools - Entry requirements vary between schools depending on the state or territory you will be studying in. Academic performance and ability is considered during the application process.
Vocational education and training - In most cases there are no entrance exams for VET institutions. However, some courses may have specific pre-requisite subjects or work experience requirements.
Higher Education Undergraduate - To gain entry into an Australian undergraduate course you will need to have an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (Year 12), or the overseas equivalent. Some undergraduate courses may also have specific pre-requisite subjects.
Higher Education Postgraduate - As well as the satisfactory completion of at least one degree at undergraduate level, your institution may take research ability or relevant work experience into consideration.
Tiptop meet the academic requirements of an Australian high school qualification, consider taking a Foundation course. Also called bridging study, they are intensive courses that will help you meet the entry requirements. They are usually one year long and are offered by most higher education institutions.
Visa requirements
The student visa you need depends on your chosen course of study. As a guide, the typical key requirements you will need to meet are:
Issued an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) certificate.
Meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement. Read more about this on the Department of Immigration and Border Protection website.
Sufficient funds for airfares, course fees and living costs.
English language proficiency.
Meet health and character requirements.
Acceptable Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Read more about the Student Visa Key Requirements.
The DIBP website provides detailed information on student visas. It also has a Visa Wizard to help you identify which visa you might be eligible for.
Overseas Student Health Cover
Australia has a special system of health cover for international students called Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). It will help you pay for medical or hospital care you may need while you’re studying in Australia; it will also contribute towards the cost of most prescription medicines and an ambulance in an emergency. When studying in Australia, you will need OSHC for yourself, and any family travelling with you, before you arrive. It is a requirement of your student visa that you maintain OSHC for the duration of your time on a student visa in Australia.
 
Universities In Australia
Central Queensland University [CQU]
Charles Darwin University [CDU]
Charles Sturt University [CSU]
Curtin University [CURTIN]
Deakin University [Deakin]
Edith Cowan University [ECU]
Federation University [FEDUNI]
Flinders University [FLINDERS]
Griffith University [GRIFFITH]
James Cook University [JCU]
La Trobe University [LATROBE]
Macquarie University [MACQUARIE]
Monash University [MONASH]
Queensland University of Technology [QUT]
RMIT University [RMIT]
Southern Cross University [SCU]
Swinburne University of Technology [SWINBURNE]
University of Canberra [CANBERRA]
University of New South Wales [UNSW]
University of Queensland [UQ]
University of Southern Queensland [USQ]
University of Sydney [SYDNEY]
University of the Sunshine Coast [USC]
University of Western Australia [UWA]
University of Western Sydney [UWS]
Victoria University [VU]
Asia pacific International college [APIC]
Wentworth institute [Sydney]