Benefits of studying in Australia – The cultural diversity, clean and vast surroundings, friendly people, good standards of living, and high- quality education system have made Australia the top destination for international students. Australia is a multicultural dynamic country where students can live and learn with ease and comfort. Students graduating from Australia are able to get lucrative jobs and ready acceptance in other universities for further studies. English as the major language of conversation, moderate tuition fees and living costs, and excellent weather conditions are some of the major attractions which pull international students to this country and make Australia one of the top study abroad destinations for Indian students as well.
Study in Australia – Key facts
- Australia has more than 1,000 institutions offering over 22,000 courses.
- The country is home to around 700,000 foreign students currently.
- Australian education system has been ranked 8th in the 2019 U21 Ranking of National Higher Education Systems, which is higher than Germany, France, Norway, and Japan.
- 90% satisfaction scores given by international students for their living and studying experience in the country (2018 Department of Education International Student Survey).
- Six universities are ranked among the top 100 universities of the world in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020.
- Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Gold Coast, and Perth are the 7 cities listed in the top 100 student cities of the world.
Becoming an increasingly popular study destination than other options, like the USA and the UK, let’s find out more about the benefits of studying in Australia.
Benefits of Studying in Australia – Global Excellence in Education
Here are some of the benefits of studying in Australia –
- The Australian education and training levels are of international repute and well recognized across the world. Australia has 6 of the top 100 universities of the world.
- Their approach to deliver career-orientated training adds confidence in the students that they would be able to survive successfully in this competitive world. The practical training in education greatly increases the necessary skills in the students.
- The country has gained a name in quickly adopting new technologies as compared to most of the other countries. Students studying in Australia can make good use of the impressive resources and technology.
- One of the highest rates of internet access in the world, fully stacked libraries, and world-class laboratories and classrooms make Australia a leading destination for international students.
Benefits of studying in Australia – Diversity in Education
Australian universities offer a large variety of courses for international students. They can choose from over 22,000 courses in varied streams.
- The students can be selective in searching for the right school which caters to their interests and needs. With over 40 universities, students get to choose programmes run in a variety of disciplines, for example:
- Engineering & Technology
- Clinical, Pre-Clinical & Health
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Arts & Humanities
- There are options for every student to choose from. This includes undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, vocational & technical training courses, student exchange programmes and language courses.
- It is easier for the students to move from one institute to another.
- Students can also opt for flexible time table offered by many universities and choose from a variety of optional subjects in different semesters of their programme.
Benefits of studying in Australia – Annual Cost of Studies in Australia
| Courses/Qualification | Yearly Cost (approx. AUD) |
| School level programmes | 7,800-30,000 |
| English Language Studies | 300 approx. /week depending on the length of the course |
| Vocational Education & Training (Certificates I to IV, Diploma & Advanced Diploma) | 4,000-22,000 |
| Bachelor’s Degree (Undergraduate) | 20,000-45,000 |
| Master’s Degree (Postgraduate) | 22,000-50,000 |
| Doctoral Degree | 18,000-42,000 |
*The above data does not include the high-cost courses like medical studies. The fee may also vary depending on institutions
Benefits of studying in Australia – University Rankings
Australian universities have a strong record in different world university rankings. The universities rank highly on various parameters like education quality, student satisfaction, and their international reputation. A total of seven Australian universities are in the top 100 according to the QS World University Rankings (2020). There are 15 universities in Australia in the list of top 100 ranked universities of the world as per the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings.
List of top Australian Universities in world according to QS rankings
| Universities | QS World University Rankings |
| The Australian National University | 29 |
| The University of Melbourne | 38 |
| The University of Sydney | 42 |
| The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) | 43 |
| The University of Queensland | 47 |
| Monash University | 58 |
| The University of Western Australia | 86 |
Benefits of studying in Australia – Cost of Living
Even with the high standards of living, the cost of living in the ‘land of kangaroos’ is considerably lower than in other popular study abroad options like the USA or UK. The international students can easily find part-time jobs to support their living expenses. They can also choose to apply for various scholarships offered by the Australian government and other institutions. Find below a comparative data table for cost of accommodation, food and transportation in Canberra (Australia) and London (UK).
Cost of living in Australia: Canberra compared with London (approximate guide)
| Particulars | Canberra (Average Cost) | London (Average Cost) |
| Accommodation | & | |
| Apartment (Rent for 1 bedroom)-City Centre | AUD 1,823.75 | AUD 3,166.81 |
| Apartment (Rent for 1 bedroom)-Outside City Centre | AUD 1,426.65 | AUD 2,265.07 |
| Food | ||
| Meal in restaurant | AUD 20.00 | AUD 28.29 |
| Milk (1 L) | AUD 1.61 | AUD 1.84 |
| Cheese (1Kg) | AUD 7.90 | AUD 13.10 |
| Oranges (1 Kg) | AUD 3.71 | AUD 3.83 |
| Coffee | AUD 4.32 | AUD 5.30 |
| Transportation | ||
| Local Transport (one-way ticket) | AUD 4.60 | AUD 4.71 |
| Monthly Pass | AUD 86.96 | AUD 270.56 |
| Taxi | AUD 5.00 | AUD 8.25 |
| Utilities | ||
| Electricity, water, heating, etc | AUD 229.86 | AUD 304.74 |
As per different estimates, the average living costs in Australia (one year) are:
| Particulars | Living Cost |
| Students/Guardians | AUD 21,041 |
| Partners | AUD 7,362 |
| Child | AUD 3,152 |
Benefits of studying in Australia – Scholarship and Research Opportunities
Australia also offers many scholarship opportunities to foreign students. The various scholarships cover undergraduate and postgraduate studies and vocational training. These scholarships are offered by the Australian government, educational institutions, and other organizations. Below is a list of some of the top scholarship opportunities in the country.
| Scholarships | Timeline | Award Conditions | Eligibility |
| Australia Awards by The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Offered for the minimum period required for the student to complete the academic program which includes the preparatory training period | A contract needs to be signed with the Commonwealth of Australia. This is to declare that they will comply with the given conditions. After completing the scholarship, the student needs to leave Australia for a minimum of 2 years. | Minimum of 18 years of age; citizen of a participating country; not a citizen of Australia |
| Destination Australia Program (DAP) | Each year of the student’s qualification up to 4 years | For students undertaking a Certificate IV to PhD | The student should maintain ongoing residency in regional Australia. |
| Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship Awards | Up to 2 years for Masters; up to 4 years for PhD | For students undertaking postgraduate studies (Masters/PhD level) by coursework or research | Aged 18 years or above; not undertaking any leadership activity in the country of their citizenship; not receiving any other Australian sponsored scholarship |
| Australian Government Research Training Program ( RTP) | For 2 years maximum for a research masters; 3-4 years for a research doctorate | For domestic or overseas students undertaking Research Doctorate and Research Masters degrees | A domestic student or an overseas student enrolled in an accredited higher degree research course; must not be receiving an equivalent scholarship |
| Endeavour Vocational Education & Training (VET) Leadership Award | 1 to 2.5 years | For students undertaking Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree level in any field | Aged 18 years or above; not undertaking any leadership activity in the country of their citizenship; not receiving any other Australian sponsored scholarship |
| Provider scholarships | Admissions team of the provider needs to be consulted for further information | Offered by Australian education providers for qualifying students based on academic merit | Admissions team of the provider needs to be consulted for further information. |
Benefits of studying in Australia – Global Recognition
Graduating from an Australian institution gives you wings to go anywhere in the world for further studies or employment. An Australian qualification is highly recognized by companies and employers all across the world. The fact that most of the universities keep themselves updated as per the evolving industry standards, ensures that your learning in these institutions are up to the mark.
Benefits of studying in Australia – Working while studying
In Australia, foreign students get the option of working part time while they study in Australia. This helps them to considerably reduce the cost of studying and living. The minimum wage is around AUD 18 per hour and this covers a good amount of their expenses, like groceries, rent and transportation. You have the option of working up to 20 hours per week (during the semester) and full-time (during semester break) as well. If the spouse of the student has gone on a dependent visa, then the spouse is also allowed to work 20 hours per week. Many degrees and courses offer hands-on work experience, so that students can connect to professional networks and work after completing their study.
Benefits of studying in Australia – Australian Qualification Framework (AQF)
The country has a well-defined learning system where programmes and courses are regulated to ensure the desired outcome from the academic programmes. Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), a system of learning authorized by the Australian government, covers most of the courses undertaken by the students. It is the policy for regulated qualifications in education and training in Australia. These qualifications are accepted and highly sought after by most of the major educational institutions and companies across the world.
- The AQF ensures the quality assurance of education being imparted.
- It facilitates the movement of people between various education and training sectors.
- It ensures that there is consistency in the qualification titles across the country and the same high levels of education are represented.
Benefits of studying in Australia – ESOS (Education Services For Overseas Students)
As compared to other countries, Australia provides a strict protection process for international students through ESOS (Education Services for Overseas Students) Act which includes quality assurance of education for students on a visa.
Benefits of studying in Australia – Multicultural Exposure
Australia is warm and welcoming country which values freedom and the rights of individuals. A multicultural society respects the others coming from different backgrounds. The streets are safe for the public and you can easily find various options for accommodation, like home stays, rentals, shared houses, etc. With students of varied cultural backgrounds, it makes the best place for you to learn and gain experience.
Benefits of studying in Australia – Leisure Activities
The Land of Oz, with a vast and beautiful landscape, offers many outdoor activities to replenish your energy. Most of the major universities have easy access to the beaches and parks/trails. Students get many options to relax themselves after a day of studying hard. You may explore a wild trail or relax on a golden beach!
Benefits of studying in Australia – Comparison of studying in Australia vs other countries
- With UK closing doors on doctors and the USA focusing on IT professionals, Australia has emerged as a promising land for studies in multiple disciplines.
- Easy access to student visas as compared to the USA or the UK.
- Shorter courses than the ones in other countries. This implies that you save tuition fees if you study in Australia rather than in the USA or UK.
- Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide have ranked better than any other city in the USA or UK as the most liveable cities.
- Better results in all subjects as the teacher training and subject material is of high standard. Sydney tops the list.
- Low unemployment rates and strong economy. Foreign students who wish to work here find jobs easily.
While every student story would be different and will talk about different gains and challenges, there is a lot to consider about studying in this southern land. Australia has much to offer in every aspect whether it is education, adventure activities, or living. The journey to study abroad in Australia is easier these days with many educational institutions offering guidance towards admissions and scholarships.
Top-Ranked Universities
The University of Melbourne, University of Queensland and University of Sydney are some of the universities of Australia that are listed in top 20 universities of the world
World Class Recognition
Australia’s 43 major universities, making a study abroad program in Australia a great addition to every student’s professional resume, almost regardless of their field of study.
Can Study ANYTHING
For a majority of study abroad students, the larger universities will be top choices, and each one will provide just as many courses of study as any major American university.
Tons of Scholarship Options
Every year the Australian government sets aside over $200 million dollars specifically for international students coming to study at Australian universities.
Can Study ANYTHING
For a majority of study abroad students, the larger universities will be top choices, and each one will provide just as many courses of study as any major American university.
Innovative technologies
Australia is well-known for adopting advanced technologies at a faster rate. The country offers training and research on modern technologies to students to match the real world scenarios.
You Can Work also
Students can work up to 40 hours every two weeks in jobs that require only basic skills, such as in grocery stores, food and beverage service, or even in various roles on their respective university campuses.
No Language Barrier
This may seem obvious, but never discount the benefit of studying abroad in a nation that speaks your primary language! But with a little bit of exposure it’s understandable by even the biggest drongo around!
Won’t Be Alone
Almost all of the major universities provide programs and services specifically tailored toward helping incoming study abroad students get settled, form friendships, and make the most out of their experience.
PLENTY To Do
Get away from civilization and see rock formations some two billion years in the making or jet up to the Gold Coast to experience some of the world’s best scuba diving and snorkeling
Play Hard Too
People from all age groups make good use of these amenities, but student populations add a fair bit of organization to the mix with student clubs devoted to just about every type of relaxation activities imaginable.
Access to Adventures
Australia can easily provide plenty of opportunities for memorable travel experiences, including activities like bungee jumping and scuba diving, international students may also choose to visit nearby locations