Introduction
Looked up as one of the most sought-after study destinations by growing number of Indians, Australia with its world class universities, above par quality of life, and viable post-study opportunities, provides an all-rounded academic and career experience. For someone to study in Australia, cultural diversity, high employment rate, and a safe environment is a part and parcel of a high-quality education. So, in the case where any of you have plans to study in Australia, this small guide will walk you through everything – from visa criteria to top universities, and financial planning.
Why Australia?
With a globally recognized education system, innovative teaching methods, and research driven learning, Australia is a home to globally ranked seven universities out of 100, providing degrees appreciated and valued worldwide.
Some key points that make students run to Australia:
- The Australian education system adheres to strict quality standards, ensuring high grade academic programs.
- It welcomes over 7 Lakhs international students, making an inclusive, and multicultural learning environment.
- The Temporary Graduate visa allows students to stay in Australia, gaining valuable work experience
- Lastly, Australia has consistently ranked as of the few of the safest countries for students, with above par healthcare and public transport facilities.
Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) Requirements
For an Indian student to study in Australia, Sub-class 500 Student Visa is a sine qua non. This visa permits full-time study opportunity at a recognized institution and right to work part time. The procedure is quite straightforward but needs careful documentation and evidence of financial capacity to help with tuition and living costs.
Requirements for Subclass 500 Visa:
- Confirmation of Enrolment, which is issued after admission;
- IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo test scores to substantiate English Proficiency;
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Statement which justifies individual’s study intentions;
- Tuition + AUD 24,505/year for living costs to provide financial proof;
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
The Visa Application Process is broken down hereinafter in a lucid manner for your understanding:
- Receive the CoE from an Australian university,
- Prepare required documents (GTE, financial proof, OSHC, passport, etc.),
- Apply online via the Australian Immigration website;
- Attend a biometric appointment (if needed)
- Lastly, wait for visa approval (usually 4-6 weeks)
Top Australian Universities offering popular courses to Students
While choosing where to study, consider the top universities in Australia popular for their academic excellence and industry connections.
Below is a bullet wise list of certain famous universities in Australia offering courses like Law, Medicine, Business, Engineering, IT, Finance, Cybersecurity, and AI are as follows:
- University of Melbourne;
- Australian National University (ANU)
- University of New South Wales (UNSW)
- Monash University
- University of Queensland (UQ)
- University of Sydney
Financial Planning: Tuition and Living Costs
As mentioned above, study in Australia requires mindful financial planning. While it is factual that tuition fees vary by university and program, living expenses also depend on the individual’s location.
Tabular Representation of Average Tuition Fee in Australia: –
| Level of Study | Annual Tuition Fees (AUD) (Approx) | Annual Tuition Fees (INR) (Approx) |
| Undergraduate | 20,000 – 45,000 | 11-25 Lakhs |
| Postgraduate | 22,000 – 50,000 | 12-28 Lakhs |
| MBA | 35,000 – 80,000 | 19-45 Lakhs |
Tabular Representation of Living Costs in Australia:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (AUD) | Monthly Cost (INR) |
| Accommodation | 600- 1500 | 33,000-85,000 |
| Food and Groceries | 250-500 | 14,000- 28,000 |
| Transport | 150-250 | 8500- 14,000 |
| Miscellaneous | 300-600 | 17,000 – 34,000 |
Australia provides their international students with scholarship opportunities so that their dream to pursue higher studies in Australia is not compromised for higher fee and living costs. Some of these opportunities are mentioned below:
- Australia Awards Scholarships– Wholly funded scholarships covering tuition and living costs
- Destination Australia Scholarship- AUD 15,000/- per year for international students
- University- Specific Scholarships- FYI, Melbourne, UNSW, Monash, and Sydney offer merit-based awards.
Post Study Work Visa
Students looking to work after completion of their studies in Australia can explore the requirements and procedure of a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). This allows students to work and gain experience in their field of study. The duration for a Post Study Work Visa (485) is course specific and is broken down below for reader’s knowledge:
- Bachelor’s & Master’s: 2-4 years
- Masters (Research) & PhD: 3-6 years
- STEM & Regional Graduates: 2 years + extension possible
There are certain courses wherein there is high demand for PR (Permanent Residence):
- IT & Data Science
- Health care (Nursing, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy)
- Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical)
- Finance & Accounting
Conclusion
With its top ranking universities, above par quality of life, and healthy career prospects, Australia provides a life changing opportunity for Indian students. So if of you have plans to live the student life in Australia, start early, explore scholarships, and ensure you meet visa requirements.
FAQs
- Kindly tell me the cost of studying in Australia?
Answer: For the overall tuition and living expenses, an Indian student needs AUD 30k- 60k per annum (Rs. 16-33 Lakhs). It may however be noted that costs vary based on location, course and the overall lifestyle. Go for a scholarship if speculating some reduction in expenses.
- Can an Indian student work while studying in Australia?
Answer: Yes, an Indian student under the Sub Class 500 visa can work 48 hours per fortnight during study time while full time during holidays.
- Can you name some best courses for getting a PR in Australia?
Answer: IT & Data Science, Health care (Nursing, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy)
Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical), and Finance & Accounting are some of the courses with high demand and those that carve the path of a PR.
- Can I get a PR after studying in Australia?
Answer: Yes after gaining some work experience, a student can apply for a PR under the Skilled Migration Pathway on a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485).
