Country:

Australia, officially known as the Commonwealth of Australia, is a country comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands. It is a developed nation and one of the wealthiest in the world, boasting the world’s 12th-largest economy. In 2014, Australia had the world’s fifth-highest per capita income. Its military expenditure is the 13th-largest globally. With the second-highest Human Development Index globally, Australia ranks highly in many international comparisons of national performance, including quality of life, health, education, economic freedom, and the protection of civil liberties and political rights.

Australia is a member of several international organizations, including the United Nations, G20, Commonwealth of Nations, ANZUS, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), World Trade Organization, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, and the Pacific Islands Forum. These memberships reflect its active role in global affairs and its commitment to international cooperation. The country’s strong economy, coupled with its high standards of living, makes it an attractive destination for international students and immigrants seeking a stable and prosperous environment. Australia’s diverse culture and high-quality institutions contribute to its global reputation as a leader in education and innovation.

International Student:

Australia is a leading destination for international students, attracting a significant number of students from around the world due to its high-quality education system. In 2021, approximately 450,000 international students were studying in Australia, reflecting the country’s growing appeal. The past decade has seen a steady increase in the number of international students, drawn by Australia’s diverse and inclusive learning environment. This growth highlights Australia’s reputation for providing quality education and a supportive community for international students.

Facilities:

In the United States, international students have access to a range of on-campus facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, libraries, and research labs that support their academic needs. Language support services are available to help students improve their English proficiency, with programs that provide tutoring, workshops, and conversation partners. Technology and IT services ensure that students have access to high-speed internet, computer labs, and support for using educational software and tools. Cultural and social facilities on US campuses allow international students to engage with a diverse student body through clubs, events, and activities that celebrate global cultures. Health and wellness facilities include on-campus medical centers, counseling services, and wellness programs focused on mental health, fitness, and nutrition, ensuring that students have access to comprehensive support. Career services in the US offer job search assistance, resume writing help, interview coaching, and internship placement programs, enabling students to gain practical experience and succeed in the job market. These facilities create a supportive environment for international students, allowing them to thrive academically and socially. Many universities also provide career workshops, networking events, and job fairs, helping students connect with potential employers and alumni. The combination of these facilities makes the US a desirable destination for international students, providing them with the tools they need to succeed in their studies and future careers.

Cost of Living & Tuition and Scholarship:

Living Costs:

On-Campus Housing: Costs between AUD $150 to AUD $450 per week, depending on the city and the type of accommodation (e.g., shared dormitory, apartment, or studio). Prices may be higher in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.

Off-Campus Housing: Renting an apartment or a shared house ranges from AUD $250 to AUD $600 per week. The cost varies depending on the location (e.g., Sydney and Melbourne are generally more expensive).

Tuition Fees:

Undergraduate Programs:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences: AUD $20,000 to AUD $30,000 per year.
• Engineering, IT, and Sciences: AUD $25,000 to AUD $45,000 per year.
• Business and Commerce: AUD $25,000 to AUD $40,000 per year.

Postgraduate Programs:

• Master’s Degrees: Costs range from AUD $22,000 to AUD $50,000 per year, depending on the field of study.
• PhD Programs: Generally covered by a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship, which includes a stipend for living costs and tuition fees for international students.

In Australia, international students have access to a range of government scholarships such as the Australia Awards, which provide comprehensive financial support including tuition fees, travel costs, and a living allowance. The Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships also support international students undertaking research or postgraduate studies in Australia, covering tuition fees, and travel expenses, and providing a stipend. University-specific scholarships, like those from the University of Melbourne and ANU, offer partial tuition fee coverage and additional support for living expenses. Students applying for these scholarships are typically required to submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and evidence of English proficiency, with early application advised due to competitive selection processes.

English language:

For undergraduate courses in Australia, students need to possess strong academic performance, demonstrated by a higher secondary mark sheet revealing over 50%. At certain universities, the percentage threshold may be elevated. A minimum IELTS overall score of 6.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of 80 is necessary. A letter of work experience might be required if relevant. Certain universities additionally ask for GRE/GMAT results. Letters of recommendation and a cover letter, like a Statement of Purpose (SOP), are frequently necessary for applications. Entry into Vocational Education and Training (VET) and TAFE can be achieved with an IELTS score of 5.5 bands. Universities, colleges, VET, and TAFE might hold interviews before finalizing admission. For postgraduate programs, strong academic performance is crucial, requiring at least a Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 50% score. A minimum IELTS overall score of 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 100 iBT is needed. A work experience letter is needed according to the course requirements, and in certain instances, it could be compulsory, like for an MBA. To gain entry into creative or professional disciplines, a portfolio or thorough subject research might be necessary. For Doctorate programs, a research proposal, a solid academic foundation, and excellent scores in IELTS/TOEFL as well as GRE/GMAT are required. Like undergraduate programs, universities, colleges, VET, and TAFE may hold interviews before finalizing admission.

PSW opportunities:

In Australia, Post-Study Work (PSW) opportunities allow international students to gain work experience after completing their studies. The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) provides up to 4 years for graduates who have completed a Bachelor’s degree or higher from an Australian university. For those on the Graduate Work Stream, the visa offers up to 18 months for students with qualifications relevant to eligible skilled occupations.

The Post-Study Work Stream allows international graduates with a higher education degree (Bachelor, Master, or PhD) to live and work in Australia for up to 4 years. The application process requires proof of identity, qualification evidence, English language proficiency, and, for the Graduate Work Stream, relevant skills assessment documents. Students must apply within six months of completing their qualification. During their studies, international students can work part-time up to 40 hours per fortnight. The PSW opportunities in Australia provide a valuable pathway for international students to gain practical work experience and potentially apply for permanent residency.