How to Apply Australian Student Visa
Overview
The trend to study in Australia is increasing among overseas students pursuing higher education abroad. Australia is among the top three study-abroad destinations, the United States and the United Kingdom. Every year, more than 600,000 overseas students seek admission to study in Australia. An estimated 153,248 Indian students, including new and continuing students, filed for an Australian student visa.
Australia invests 254 million AUD in scholarships annually, with over 11,000 institutions and 22,000 degrees available. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, nine Australia universities are among the top 100 globally. The United Nations named Australia the second-best country for education and per capita income.
Key Highlights to Study in Australia
Total Universities | 43 |
Universities Ranking in Top 100 Globally | 09 (2024) |
Education Levels | Primary, Secondary & Tertiary |
Tertiary Education Regulator | Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) |
ELP Test Scores Required | IELTS / PTE / Duolingo |
Standardised Test Scores Accepted | UG: SAT. PG: GRE / GMAT (Not required in all the universities as admission is given based on academic eligibility) |
Undergraduate Admission Eligibility | ATAR (12th scores) + Entrance Test scores (not required in all the universities) + ELP scores.
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Postgraduate (Taught & Research) Admission Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree + Entrance Test scores (not required in all the universities) + ELP scores |
Australian Qualifications Recognized | In over 140+ countries globally |
Australia University Acceptance Rate | Moderate to highly selective (90%) |
Some of the subjects for which Australian universities have been rated in QS Subject Rankings for 2024. The top-ranked Australian universities by subject are as follows:
Curtin University ranks #2 for Mining & Mineral Engineering.
Australian National University ranks at #8 for its Anthropology course. (Ranked 8 on QS Ranking)
The University of Adelaide ranks #7 for its Petroleum Engineering course. (Ranked 7th on Qs Ranking)
The University of Melbourne ranks #11 for its Law courses. (Ranked 11th on Qs Ranking)
The University of Sydney ranks #13 for its Nursing course. (Ranked 13th on Qs Ranking)
UNSW ranks #16 for its Civil & Structural Engineering course. (Ranked 16th on Qs Ranking)
RMIT University ranks at #19 for its Arts and Design courses. (Ranked 19th on Qs Ranking)
Why Study in Australia?
The best universities in Australia provide top-class education that can open the doors to many golden global opportunities. Australia has a plethora of options for your career growth opportunities. Now let us get into key reasons to why study in Australia.
- World-Class Universities
Australia is home to several renowned and globally acclaimed universities, like the University of Melbourne (#14), the University of Sydney (=19), the University of South Wales (=19), etc.
According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, 9 of 43 Australia universities are placed among the top 100 in the world.
Degrees from universities in Australia are highly valued globally, enhancing the student’s employability worldwide.
Australia’s education quality and the government’s strict standards set for universities.
- Research-Intensive Techniques and Advanced Technology
Australia universities contribute significantly to innovations and discoveries such as IVF, Wi-Fi, Penicillin, and the cervical cancer vaccine.
Over the last 18 years, Australian universities have increased their research budget for R&D. The government also funds programs to promote links worldwide, allowing students to pursue their research interests to study in Australia.
- Wide Range of Courses
While you plan to study in Australia, you must know that Australia offers quality education and a wide range of course options. There are different course options.
Pathway Programs to degrees include ELICOS (English language courses) and Vocational Education Training programs.
The VET Program enables you to learn while doing a job.
- Safe and Welcoming Environment for International Students
Australia is a multi-cultural country with immigrants from more than 100 different countries.
The top 6 cities in Australia that are ranked among the top 50 QS best student cities include Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, etc.
Australia has a relatively low cost of living with many accommodation options.
ESOS ACT provides a broad support system for international students. The act establishes laws and practices that ensure international students’ rights are not violated.
Almost 30% of the candidates studying in Australia are born abroad, representing the general population.
- Post-Graduation Employment Statistics
Australian education prepares you to flourish in the global workforce. Potential businesses in Australia and worldwide are eager to hire graduates from Australian educational universities.
Full-time Employment- 79% Graduates
Higher Studies- 6%
Self-Employed- 4%.
- Financial Aid and Scholarships
The Australian government pays $254 million yearly on scholarships, fellowships, and grants for international students studying in Australia.
Some prominent overseas student funds include the Australian Awards, Destination Australia, the Australian Government Research Training Program, the APEC Women in Research Fellowship, and Provider Scholarships.
Here, we have answered the question. All of the benefits of studying in Australia are mentioned above.
Popular Courses to Study in Australia for Indian Students
Australia is known for its wide range of courses in 51 streams of Engineering, business, medicine, arts and humanities. Here are some popular courses for international students to opt for.
- Computer Science
- Cybersecurity
- Automotive Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Nursing
- Business Analytics
- MBA
- Architecture
- Accountancy
- Law
- Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Agricultural Sciences
- Biomedical Engineering
How to Study in Australia: Application Process
Admissions to Australian universities are semester-based. Most higher education universities in Australia have two semesters when applicant intake begins.
Semester 1
- Semester 1- Begins in February
- Semester 2 Begins in July concludes in December and ends in June.
- The deadline for international students in December
Semester 2
The deadline for international students to submit their application is May.
Some Australian universities use the Trimester system, which runs from January to May and September. The deadlines for the same are November, March, and June, respectively.
Month | Timeline |
April-May (previous year) | Research your options |
May | Register for a standardized test and take the test |
June | Prepare the application package and get your test scores. |
August- September | Start applying |
October- November | Applications close |
December-January | Colleges start replying to applications |
December | Prepare your finances, explore scholarships, and apply for education loans. |
December-January | Apply for the student’s Visa |
February | Departure preparations |
February – March | Session starts |
You can contact study abroad consultants if you encounter issues in the application process, need visa assistance, or are aiming to secure a scholarship to study in Australia.
Admission Requirements to Study in Australia
Admission requirements for international students applying to universities in Australia vary depending on the level of their study. Typically, both sets of students will have to present the following documents:
- Statement of purpose (SOP) (Case by case basis)
- Standardized test scores (SAT, GRE, and GMAT score requirement varies from university to university)
- Transcripts
- Resume
- English language proficiency test scores like / IELTS / PTE
Tests Required to Study in Australia
To study in Australia, students must prove their English proficiency by submitting their English proficiency test scores. Mostly, Universities in Australia accept the scores of IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and CAE (very limited universities) The score may differ depending on your chosen university or courses.
IELTS
IELTS language test is divided into four sections, where the minimum score set by the Australian universities is 6 or 6.5.
A good IELTS score can help you get into universities with a low admission rate. The goal is to select a reliable IELTS preparation course to assist you in studying and improving your self-learning.
PTE
PTE Academic is recognized by over 150 Australian universities, including more than 80% of TAFEs. Students can take the test in twelve cities across India, including Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Delhi.
Test takers should check the minimum score requirements with DIAC and the colleges they intend to apply to. The minimum score required for PTE to study in Australia is 72 or above.
CAE (limited universities)
Cambridge Advanced English (CAE) is accepted by universities as an English Proficiency test and application process by the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).
The minimum score requirement to study in Australia, which is accepted by almost every university, is 60-79, and if it is above 80, then that means you outperformed the test.
When to Study in Australia?
Submitting your admission application before the deadline is vital to avoid delays. You must have all the information regarding the intake and their deadlines. These deadlines may differ with course and university.
Deadlines for Entry Applicants
Australia has three intakes, which are as follows:
February Intake: Between October and November of the previous year
July Intake: Between April and May
November Intake: September
Intakes in Australia
There are three intakes in Australia for International students. These are as follows:
February Intake: This is the primary intake in Australia that offers most of the courses in the country. Several scholarships and funding options are available for international students.
July Intake: This intake starts in July, and comparatively fewer courses are offered by different universities.
November Intake: This intake offers very few courses, so it is not considered significant.
Study in Australia Cost
You must learn about all the expenses when planning to study in Australia. International students must know about the tuition fees, cost of living, other expenses, etc. The fees differ with course and level of study.
Cost of Studying in Australia
The average study cost in Australia is briefed in the tabulated form below.
Sector/Program | Yearly Fees (AUD) | Annual Fees (INR) |
ELICOS | 12,600 | 6.77 lakhs approx. |
VET | 4,000 to 30,000 | 2.22 lakhs to 16.27 lakhs |
Foundation Courses | 15,000 to 33,000 | 8.35 lakhs to 18.37 lakhs |
Undergraduate Programs | 15,000 to 50,000 | 8.35 lakhs to 27.12 lakhs |
Postgraduate Programs | 14,000 to 50,000 | 7.79 lakhs to 32.46 lakhs |
Doctoral Programs | 14,000 to 37,000 | 7.79 lakhs to 20.60 lakhs |
Cost of Living in Australia
The average cost of living in Australia is tabulated below.
Expense Type | Cost in AUD | Cost in INR |
Accommodation | 1,800 | 1 lakh |
Phone & Internet | 84 | 4,678 |
Food | 380 | 221,162 |
Travel | 160 | 8,910 |
Gas & Electricity | 294 | 16,373 |
Entertainment | 100 | 5,569 |
Student Visa in Australia
Students wishing to study in Australia must apply for a Student Visa. The type of visa required depends on the duration of the course. Australian universities suggest and prefer the Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF) for Australian student visas.
International students who qualify for admission to Australian universities and obtain their CoE or enrollment confirmation must apply for a student visa. Applications for student visas to study in Australia are accepted online. If applying for an undergraduate course in Australia, international students must apply for a subclass 500 visa, while those pursuing a graduate study must apply for a subclass 485 visa.
Subclass 500 visa: A subclass 500 visa in Australia costs AUD 710 (approx. INR 39,705) Students can stay in Australia for up to five years with this visa, depending on their study degree.
Subclass 485 visa (post-study work): The subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa cost in Australia is AUD 1,895 (approx. INR 1,05,971). Applicants with this visa have a stay-back period of two to four years.
How to Study in Australia on Scholarships for Indian Students?
Australia is a popular destination among international students. The country offers good quality education, courses, financial aid, and the best career opportunities. Here is a list of scholarships available to study in Australia:
Scholarships Name | Amount/ Expenses Covered |
Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarships | Up to $124,000 Tuition fee Stipend
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CSIRO Scholarship Program | Variable |
GyanDhan Scholarship | INR 1,00,000 |
Destination Australia Scholarship | Up to $15,000 per year Maximum duration: 4 years
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John Allwright Fellowship (JAF) | Full tuition fee Return air travel fare (economy) Contribution to Living Expense (CLE) – AU$ 30,000/year. Establishment allowance- AU$ 5,000 once
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CSIRO Data61 Scholarship Program | $10,000 per annum
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Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship | Tuition fees Travel allowance- AU$ 3,000. Establishment allowance- AU$ 2,000/4000 Monthly stipend- AU$ 3000/month Health Insurance Travel Insurance
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Job Opportunities
Here is a table containing data on job opportunities after you finish your studies in Australia. Take a look at the table below:
Industry | Employed People (‘000) | Filled jobs (‘000) |
Agriculture, forestry and fishing | 426.1 | 438.3 |
Mining | 206.0 | 207.1 |
Manufacturing | 923.1 | 923.3 |
Electricity, gas, water and waste services | 134.5 | 134.5 |
Construction | 1,221.0 | 1,230.3 |
Wholesale trade | 566.6 | 567.7 |
Retail trade | 1,426.5 | 1,444.9 |
Accommodation and food services | 1,270.3 | 1,298.0 |
Transport, postal and warehousing | 689.4 | 695.1 |
Information media and telecommunications | 190.9 | 194.5 |
Financial and insurance services | 473.4 | 477.8 |
Rental, hiring and real estate services | 300.4 | 302.7 |
Professional, scientific and technical services | 1,272.7 | 1,289.5 |
Administrative and support services | 1,023.6 | 1,041.5 |
Public administration and safety | 742.7 | 753.0 |
Education and training | 1,050.7 | 1,073.2 |
Health care and social assistance | 1,963.0 | 2,027.1 |
Arts and recreation services | 320.8 | 328.1 |
Other services | 546.0 | 550.6 |