Australia has the third highest number of international students in the world behind only the United Kingdom and the United States. Australia has eight of the top 100 universities in the latest QS World University Rankings. With over 22,000 courses across 1,100 institutions, Australia sits above the likes of Germany, the Netherlands and Japan.

Australia also 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.

Australia is a leading global education powerhouse with some of the world’s best facilities and educators, providing local and international students with a range of quality study options.

Excellence

The Australian approach to vocational and technical education is now recognised as among the best and most innovative in the world. It enjoys an international reputation for excellence in all areas of education and training. Australian universities are widely recognised for excellence in many disciplines.

Courses offered by institutions in Australia, from preparatory level to postgraduate programs, are flexible and equipped with global perspective. Areas such as engineering, accounting and health sciences ranked highly in the QS World University Rankings by Subject. Australian universities also receive good ratings for teaching quality, research and graduate employment.

Variety of educational opportunities

Institutions in Australia offer a wide variety of courses and degrees, with more than 1,200 institutions and over 22,000 courses to choose from.

The first decision international students have to make when choosing a degree program is which type of school is most catered to their needs and interests. Students can choose between universities, vocational education, and English language training. If necessary, it is easy for students to move between one qualification levels and from one institution to another.

You can study at all levels of education from primary and secondary school, to vocational education and training (VET), from English language courses to higher education (including universities).

Multicultural society

Australia is one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world, with a large population of international students. This means that you will study with students from all over the world and will enjoy many of the comforts of home — from restaurants and grocers to film festivals and food fairs.

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.

Australia offers great work opportunities

International students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight in Australia, which will help you pay for things like nights out with friends or short trips over holiday breaks. Students also have the opportunity to stay in Australia to work once they have graduated. Australia offer work permits to international students like none other. This is a great opportunity for students who want to earn money to help with living expenses during their stay, and for students who want to gain work experience in their field of interest while they study.

More research opportunities

One of the most appealing aspect of the country for international students is the quality of scientific research. Australian universities are strong in research, excelling in area such as arts and humanities, education and sciences. 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.

The standard of living in Australian cities is among the highest in the world. On the other hand, the cost of living is well below that of the USA and UK. The cost of pursuing an undergraduate degree can fall in the range of A$14,000 to 35,000 per annum. The post graduate degrees can cost between A$15,000 to 36,000 a year. Students are required to show a bank statement of approximately A$20,000 per year for their living costs. While university accommodation will be cost effective to the students (A$90 – A$280 per week), they can also opt for shared houses (A$165 – A$440 per week).

According to the official Australian government source for Study in Australia, students can expect to spend anywhere between A$230 – A$680 per week on living expenses. This is excluding the accommodation and insurance costs.