Study in Australia: A Guide for International Students
Popularly known as the land of kangaroos and koalas, Australia is also a top destination for international students. As the 6th largest country in the world, it offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and world-class education. With seven cities ranked among the best for students globally, Australia attracts students from all over the world.
Quality of Life in Australia
The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) ranks Australia above average in multiple quality-of-life parameters. Cities like Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Canberra are recognized for safety, healthcare, affordability, and overall well-being. In the QS Best Student Cities rankings, Melbourne and Sydney consistently rank in the top 10.
A full-time employee in Australia spends approximately 14.4 hours per week on leisure activities, contributing to a balanced lifestyle. The average household income in Australia is higher than the OECD average, ensuring a good standard of living.
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Top Universities in Australia
Australia boasts several globally recognized universities. Below is a comparison of QS World University Rankings for 2024 and 2025:
| Institution | QS Ranking 2025 | QS Ranking 2024 |
| The Australian National University (ANU) | 34 | 30 |
| The University of Sydney | 19 | 41 |
| The University of Melbourne | 14 | 33 |
| The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) | 19 | 45 |
| The University of Queensland | 43 | 50 |
| Monash University | 42 | 57 |
| The University of Western Australia | 72 | 90 |
| The University of Adelaide | 89 | 109 |
| University of Technology Sydney | 90 | 137 |
| The University of Wollongong | 162 | 185 |
Popular Courses for International Students
Australia’s universities offer a wide variety of courses, including:
- Management and Commerce
- Science and Engineering
- Architecture and Built Environment
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Education and Health Sciences
Many universities also offer dual-degree programs, allowing students to graduate with two qualifications in a shorter period.
Work Opportunities After Studying in Australia
Graduates from Australian universities have high employability worldwide. Nine Australian universities rank among the top for graduate employability. International students can apply for a Post-Study Work Permit (PSWP) if they complete an eligible Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree lasting between 92 to 104 weeks.
Part-Time Work for Students
Australia permits international students with a Subclass 500 visa to work:
- 40 hours per fortnight while studying
- Unlimited hours during academic breaks
Internships integrated into courses do not count towards the work-hour limit. Ph.D. students can work unlimited hours after starting their research.
Living in Australia: Cost and Accommodation
The cost of studying and living in Australia varies based on lifestyle and location.
Tuition Fees (Per Year)
| Study Level | Cost in AUD | Approximate INR Equivalent |
| School | $7,800 – $30,000 | INR 4,36,000 – 17,20,000 |
| Vocational Education & Training | $4,000 – $22,000 | INR 2,24,000 – 12,28,000 |
| Undergraduate Degree | $20,000 – $45,000 | INR 11,16,000 – 25,11,000 |
| Postgraduate Degree | $22,000 – $50,000 | INR 12,28,000 – 27,90,000 |
| Doctoral Degree | $18,000 – $42,000 | INR 10,05,000 – 23,43,000 |
Accommodation Costs (Per Week)
| Type | Cost in AUD | Approximate INR Equivalent |
| Hostels & Guesthouses | $110 – $250 | INR 6,200 – 13,400 |
| Shared Rental | $100 – $215 | INR 5,600 – 12,050 |
| On-Campus | $200 – $380 | INR 11,200 – 21,300 |
| Home Stay | $180 – $325 | INR 10,100 – 18,200 |
| Private Rentals | $185 – $440 | INR 10,400 – 24,650 |
Visa Requirements for Indian Students
Indian students must apply for a Subclass 500 visa. The key requirements include:
- Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) from an Australian institution
- Proof of financial capacity to cover tuition and living expenses
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Police clearance certificate for character verification
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL scores required)
Scholarship Programs for Indian Students
Here are some scholarships available for Indian students in Australia:
| Scholarship | Description |
| Australian Government Research and Training Program (AGRTP) | Covers tuition, health insurance, and provides a stipend of $34,000 per year. |
| Australia Awards Scholarship | Fully funded by the Australian government, covering tuition, living expenses, and return airfare. |
| Destination Australia Scholarship | Provides up to $15,000 per year to support students studying in regional Australia. |
| John Allwright Fellowship (JAF) | Offers Ph.D. and Master’s scholarships to agricultural researchers. |
Why Study in Australia?
- Globally Recognized Education – Degrees comply with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
- Cultural Diversity – A safe, multicultural environment for international students.
- Top-Notch Research and Innovation – Australian universities have contributed to major discoveries like Wi-Fi, Google Maps, and the cochlear implant.
- Post-Study Work and PR Opportunities – Favourable policies for students seeking work and permanent residency.
- Adventure & Natural Beauty – Explore iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, Great Barrier Reef, and Tasmania.
Plan Your Study Abroad Journey Today!
Studying in Australia offers academic excellence, global exposure, and career opportunities. Whether you seek undergraduate, postgraduate, or vocational education, Australia is a promising destination.
Need Help with Admissions?
Contact Smart Start International! we are your expert study-abroad consultants to guide you through applications, visas, scholarships, and more!