Your complete guide to studying in Australia
Everything international students need to know about courses, costs, visas, scholarships, work rights and student life.
6 reasons to study in Australia
Australia is the third most popular destination for international students worldwide, and for good reason.
World-class education
Australian qualifications are recognised by employers worldwide, and its universities rank consistently among the world's strongest.
Post-study work rights
The Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) lets eligible graduates stay and work in Australia. How long depends on the stream and your qualification.
Multicultural & safe
One of the most multicultural countries on earth, with strong international student support systems.
Work while studying
Student visa holders can work limited hours during study periods, and unrestricted hours when their course is not in session.
Innovation & research
Australia invests heavily in research. Students benefit from cutting-edge facilities and industry partnerships.
Quality of life
Cities like Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane consistently rank among the world's most liveable.
Types of education in Australia
From world-leading universities to hands-on vocational training, Australia has a pathway for every student.
Universities
Bachelor's, master's and PhD programs, including the Group of Eight research universities.
TAFE
Government-funded technical and further education. Practical, industry-focused certificates and diplomas with pathways to university.
Private Colleges
Specialised training in business, IT, hospitality, health and creative fields. Often smaller class sizes with strong industry connections.
ELICOS
English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students. Build your English skills before starting your main program.
Foundation & Pathway
Bridging programs that prepare you for university entry, with progression into a linked degree.
How much does it cost to live in Australia?
What the visa requires you to show, and where to check what things actually cost.
Financial capacity you must demonstrate
$29,710 per year — single applicant, financial capacity requirement
Department of Home Affairs, as at 10 May 2024.
Actual living costs depend on the city, the suburb and how you live, and rents move faster than any page like this is edited. We would rather point you at figures somebody maintains than quote you our own. The Australian Government's Study Australia cost of living guide is the place to start, and we will go through your own numbers with you in a consultation.
Student Visa (Subclass 500)
The Subclass 500 visa allows international students to study full-time in Australia.
Visa application charge: $2,500 (primary applicant) — Department of Home Affairs, as at 1 July 2026 · Read our full visa guide →
English language test scores
Most Australian institutions accept IELTS, PTE Academic and TOEFL.
| Level | IELTS | PTE | TOEFL iBT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation / Pathway | 5.0–5.5 | 36–42 | 35–46 |
| Undergraduate | 6.0–6.5 | 50–58 | 60–79 |
| Postgraduate | 6.5–7.0 | 58–65 | 79–94 |
| PhD / Research | 6.5–7.5 | 58–73 | 79–102 |
Not sure which test to take? Read our IELTS vs PTE guide →
Intake dates
Australian universities typically have two main intakes:
- 1Semester 1 (February/March) is the primary intake, with the widest range of courses. Applications typically close in October–December of the previous year.
- 2Semester 2 (July/August) is a secondary intake available for most courses. Applications typically close in April–May.
Some institutions also offer trimester or quarterly intakes.
Work while studying
Student visa holders enjoy generous work rights in Australia:
- During study periods: 48 hours per fortnight (during study periods; unrestricted when your course is not in session) — Department of Home Affairs, as at 1 July 2023
- During breaks: Unlimited hours
- Minimum wage: $26.44 per hour (national minimum wage, before tax) — Fair Work Ombudsman, as at 1 July 2026
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
OSHC is mandatory for all international students in Australia. It covers essential medical and hospital services.
OSHC must be held for the entire duration of your student visa. Cost varies by provider and level of cover: $500 to $700 per year (single cover; varies by provider, level of cover and policy length) — Edmark Education, from OSHC policies listed on the Australian Government comparison site, as at 11 September 2026 We help you compare plans during our pre-departure support.
Visa requirements change frequently. Always confirm the current position on the Department of Home Affairs website before making decisions.
Last reviewed: 11 September 2026
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