Education in Australia
Education in Australia
Overview
How is the Australian Education system organised?
Australia is one of the leading OECD member countries in terms of allocation of GDP on higher education. The education system is divided into three tiers: primary, secondary and tertiary. The tertiary sector includes all studies after Year 12 (A- levels).
This includes university and vocational education (professional training). University degrees are divided into two main areas: undergraduate (Diplomas and Bachelor degrees) and postgraduate (Graduate diplomas, Masters and research degrees such as Doctorates).
Vocational studies can be undertaken in TAFE colleges (government-funded schools) or private vocational colleges specialising in a variety of disciplines including: design, hotel management, business, tourism, and aviation. Education in Australia is funded both by government and private bodies.
Where are other students from my country enrolled?
More than 180,000 international students from about 80 countries study in Australia each year. You may contact us if you need further details and statistics.
Can I study for an Australian qualification by distance or on-line?
Distance education courses are offered by Australian universities and vocational education and training institutions. You will need to check directly with us about what courses are offered in distance mode.
Do I need a visa to study in Australia?
Yes. To be granted a student visa you must complete a visa application form, lodge it with the evidence required, pay the application charge and satisfy the student visa requirements. You can be granted a student visa only if you intend to study a registered course on a full-time basis and comply with a number of visa conditions after you have entered Australia. We can help you to find a course.
How much does it cost to study in Australia?
An Australian Government survey showed that in terms of total costs—including tuition fees and living expenses—Australia was consistently less expensive than the USA and UK. Tuition fees will vary depending on the course or institution. Living costs too will vary by location, course and lifestyle.
Can I work in Australia while I study?
Yes. International students in Australia on a student visa can apply for permission to work up to 20 hours a week during course time and full-time during vacation periods.
What courses are on offer?
Please contact us to receive further information.
Do I need to do any test to study in Australian institutions?
Universities, vocational institutions and high schools require a level of English language proficiency. Prospective students may need to sit an English language test. It is not possible to undertake higher education in Australia (university studies) without a high school diploma (A-levels) or equivalent.
How are Australian institutions ranked?
Australian institutions are not officially ranked. However, there are some commercial publications available that compare achievements of universities and institutions in meeting certain criteria such as use of technology or student support services.
All of Australia's education and training institutions offer high quality, internationally relevant courses because Australian Government legislation requires them to be registered and meet quality assurance measures. Please contact us to find a course that meets your needs and aspirations.
How do I find out which institution offers courses I am interested in?
Please contact us and we will provide you a range of courses that fit your special needs.
What are the entry requirements to study at Australian institutions?
Students must meet minimum academic requirements and need a sufficient level of English language proficiency for entry to Australian education and training institutions. Institutions will assess whether you meet the selection criteria set for your proposed course of study. They will look at the level and content of the study you have completed in Australia or your home country.
Are Australian qualifications recognised in my home country?
Australian qualifications are respected internationally when seeking employment or further study at leading international universities. Distinguishing Australia from many other countries is the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), a national system of learning pathways, recognised throughout Australia and by other countries.
What is so good about Australian education and training compared to other countries?
Australia is an internationally recognised source of high quality education as well as research excellence. Universities, vocational education and training colleges and schools are world-class and Australia is a world leader in English language courses for international students.
Multicultural Australia is a safe, friendly, sophisticated and harmonious society in which students can learn and travel in an English speaking country. Australia also offers excellent value for money and a high standard of living.
What are the minimum academic qualifications?
Individual institutions set the academic entry requirements for each of their own courses.
What if you do not meet the entry requirements?
If your English language proficiency score is not high enough, there are many English language courses with starting dates throughout the year to prepare you for further study in Australia.
If you do not meet the entry requirements for further study you can enrol in secondary school in Australia. In these and all other cases please contact AA for support.
How will my qualifications be assessed?
Institutions look at the level and content of your previous coursework. You must provide institutions with certified transcripts (including results) of your prior study.
You might also like to include a brief explanation of the grading system in your country and/or institution.
Will my current qualifications be equivalent in Australia?
It will depend on the education system in your country, the institution at which you studied and the content of the course.

Study in Australia
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