Australia is a country comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania and numerous smaller islands. It is the world’s sixth-largest country by total area. The neighboring countries are Papua New Guinea, Indonesia and East Timor to the north; the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu to the north-east; and New Zealand to the south-east. Australia’s capital is Canberra, and its largest urban area is Sydney.
Australia’s climate is governed largely by its size and by the hot, sinking air of the subtropical high pressure belt. This moves north and south with the seasons, so that the rainfall pattern over Australia is highly seasonal. Australia’s rainfall is the lowest of all continents except Antarctica. But it is variable, with frequent droughts lasting several seasons—thought to be caused in part by the El Niño-Southern Oscillation. The climate varies widely due to its large geographical size, but by far the largest part of Australia is desert or semi-arid. Only the south-east and south-west corners have a temperate climate and moderately fertile. The northern part of the country has a tropical climate, varied between tropical rainforests, grasslands and part dessert. Because Australia is a small continent, separated from polar regions by the Southern Ocean, it is not subject to the movements of frigid polar air that sweep over Northern Hemisphere continents during winter.
The Australian education system provides primary, secondary and tertiary education.
School education (Primary and Secondary).
School education is similar across all of Australia with only minor variations between states and territories. School education (primary and secondary) is compulsory between the ages of six and sixteen (Year 1 to Year 9 or 10). School education is 13 years and divided into:
• Primary school – Runs for seven or eight years, starting at Kindergarten/Preparatory through to Year 6 or 7.
• Secondary school – Runs for three or four years, from Years 7 to 10 or 8 to 10.
• Senior secondary school – Runs for two years, Years 11 and 12.
Tertiary education
Tertiary education includes both higher education (including universities) and vocational education and training (VET).
Language of instruction.
English is the official language of Australia and the main language of instruction in the education system. Many schools offer bilingual programs or programs in other languages.
Australian Qualifications Framework
The Australian education system is distinguished from many other countries by the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).(opens in a new window) The AQF was established in 1995 and is a national policy that covers qualifications from the tertiary education sector (higher education and vocational education and training) in addition to the school-leaving certificate; the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education.
The AQF has 10 levels and links school, vocational and university education qualifications into one national system. This allows you to move easily from one level of study to the next and from one institution to another, as long as you satisfy student visa requirements. It allows for choice and flexibility in career planning. All qualifications in the AQF help prepare you for both further study and your working life. If you are studying an AQF qualification, you can be sure that your institution is Government-authorized and nationally accredited, and that your degree or other AQF qualification will be genuine.
Our institutions are linked across the country and across the world, which makes it easy to move throughout the education system between courses or institutions and formal agreement and recognition frameworks mean every step of the path will contribute to your future no matter what your study or career goals.
Recognition
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is a national policy that ensures there is a uniform and recognized progression for study. The framework was introduced in 1995 and includes secondary school, higher education, and vocational education and training (VET) courses. The AQF establishes pathways between qualifications and sets the standard for learning outcomes at each level, so not matter what you study, you can be sure you will gain formal recognition.
Quality
The Education Services for Overseas Students Act was introduced in 2000 and is designed to protect standards for international students studying in Australia. This piece of legislation, amended in 2010, delivers regulatory requirements for education and training institutions through the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). In a 2012 survey co-conducted by the Australian Government and top education groups, 86 per cent of international students responded that they were ‘satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’ with their experiences studying in Australia.
World-class research
For a country with a relatively small population, Australia has a history of punching above its weight when it comes to producing outstanding research. Many Australian discoveries and developments have led to tangible benefits around the world. This comes as a result of heavy investment in research, including over AU$140 million to be spent on Federation Fellowships over the next five years.High profile discoveries to come out of Australia include penicillin, WiFi, the bionic ear, the ultrasound machine and the flight data recorder (black box).
Foundation studies
There’s no need to worry if you’re looking to study in Australia and you don’t meet the academic requirements. Many institutions will offer foundation studies – one-year preparatory courses designed to provide the skills and qualifications needed to continue higher education in Australia. Completing foundation studies gives students the equivalent of an Australian high school graduation (year 12). While courses are taught in English, they often include English tutoring where required and are focused on preparing students for university study.
Student visa perks
Most student visas will permit you to work up to 40 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during course breaks. Not only can you work to help cover your costs while studying in Australia but you can gain contacts and spend some of your earnings checking out some of the great destinations the country has to offer. Australia is a large country and it boasts a number of natural wonders, 17 of which are classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites. These destinations include the Great Barrier Reef, Kakadu National Park, Lord Howe Island Group, the Tasmanian Wilderness, Fraser Island and the Sydney Opera House.
Accommodation
Australia welcomes students from all over the world and offers a range of living options to suit all kinds of needs. Depending on the length of your stay, where you’re studying and your personal preference, you can choose between short-term accommodation, rental properties, on campus accommodation and home stays. You can also feel secure in the knowledge that you are legally protected by the Australian government’s fair trading agency wherever you choose to live. Regardless of what level of study you are looking at, or whether you want to experience regional Australia or one of its capital cities, there is an international study option that’s just right for you.
Scholarship Options
While your home institution likely has funds available for students studying abroad in Australia, there is also another fantastic resource to utilize in the quest to make your international experience as affordable as possible. Every year the Australian government sets aside over $200 million dollars specifically for international students coming to study at Australian universities. These funds are open to students from all over the world and there are certain requirements for application to some (grade requirements, financial need, etc.) but any student accepted to study abroad in Australia should inquire with the University’s financial aid department to see what scholarships may be available to them.
Cost of Education in Canada is varies along with the species of course, institution and location. Majority of the cost to be borne by a student while studying in the country comprises of tuition fees of the course pursued by other expenses.
Following is the approximate estimate of Tuition fees for various levels of courses in Australia:
Courses Minimum Maximum
Diploma Courses A$18,000 (whole course) A$27,500 (whole course).
Undergraduate degree A$18,000 (whole course) A$32,000 (whole course).
Postgraduate degree A$18,000 (whole course) A$36,000 (whole course).
International students should have genuine access to sufficient funds based on the assessment level of their Visa. This ensures students ability to make the most of their education and living experience in Australia. Funds projected by the student should cover Tuition, Accommodation, Books, Travel and others.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
IELTS Australia test is conducted in more than 35 countries. IELTS is jointly managed by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL). It is conducted through more than 800 test centers and locations in over 130 countries.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
TOEFL scores are accepted for both admission and visa procurement. It is one of the most accepted and most respected tests among universities, agencies and other institutions all around the world. TOEFL test content is 100% academic. The TOEFL IBTTM is given 30-40 times a year, at thousands of secure, Internet-based test sites around the globe. Whereas, the TOEFL Paper-based Test (or TOEFL PBT) is offered in areas where the internet based test is not available. It is given 6 times a year.
Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic)
PTE Academic is accepted is now accepted by more than 150 institutions in Australia that includes over 80% of TAFEs. It is also accepted by DIAC for student visas. Students can take the test at twelve cities in India. However, test takers should crosscheck the score requirements with both DIAC and their desired institutions. In case your English language proficiency score is not up to the mark, you can enroll in an English language course to prepare you for further study. Almost all Australian universities have in-campus English language centers or have links with English language colleges.
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) Certificates
Students can now demonstrate their English language skills need for academic success through Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) scores. It is also accepted by the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) for visa application process. Since the test is also run by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL), its score is equivalent to IELTS score and the equivalency is accepted by DIAC.
The initial stage for higher education in Australia is sending an application. A complete and precise application packet can help you attain admission in the best possible institution.
The following pre-requisites are to be detected before you apply:
• Certified copies of your academic history to date, including high school results/Certificates and any studies undertaken after high-school (often called post secondary studies). If you have undertaken any post secondary studies, you will need to provide your academic transcripts of subjects studied and any Completion or Graduation Certificates with your application
• Certified copies of your English Language proficiency (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL or evidence that the medium of instruction in your past studies has been English). All institutions have individual, specific English Language Proficiency requirements for entry into their courses – these standards vary greatly depending on the course you choose
• A certified copy of your passport and any Australian visa label (if currently in Australia)
• For research applications, a copy of your research proposal will also be required
Once your application has been received by the institution, it will be assessed by the admissions office to determine if you meet both the academic and English Language requirements for your chosen course. The possible outcomes of your application are:
• A Rejection Letter: which confirms that you have not met the entry requirements for your chosen course
• A Conditional Letter of Offer: which confirms that you are eligible for entry to your chosen course, pending the provision of further information to the admissions office? For example, you may be required to provide your Completion/Graduation Certificate if you were finishing your current studies when you applied for your course or provide evidence of your IELTS or TOEFL test if you are sitting your English test after you have applied for your course. Once you have provided the additional documentation and it meets the stated conditions, you will be issued with a Full Letter of Offer
• A Full Letter of Offer: which confirms that you are eligible for direct entry into your chosen course
• A Package Letter of Offer: which confirms that you have a Full Letter of Offer to one course and an additional Conditional Letter of Offer to a following course? For example, you may receive both a Full Letter of Offer to a Diploma course with a Conditional Letter of Offer to the following Bachelor degree (which is conditional upon successfully completing the Diploma course)
Although Australia is a predominantly Christian country, with about 64% of all Australians identifying as Christian, there is no official state religion. People in Australia are free to practice any religion they choose, as long as they are not breaking the law. All but three of the 22 major religions of the world are practiced in Australia, demonstrating its cultural diversity. Most universities and communities in Australia have facilities and places of worship for all types of faith, so international students in Australia should contact their international student officer about facilities at their educational institution.
Document submission is an important aspect of the Australian visa application procedure. The Embassy usually does not ask for original documents but demand certified or notarized copies of document and transcripts.
• A filled and signed student visa application form (Form 157A) and/or a completed and signed family composition form (Form 54).
• A checklist signifying the documents that are provided at the time of application.
• Copies of the passport details page of each person in the application.
• Identification card copies of each person included in the application.
• Four filled self adhesive name and address labels.
• One passport sized photograph which should not be more than six months old, of each person included in the application.
• Original Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) or Acceptance Advice for Secondary Exchange Students (AASES) letter from each Australian education provider. Every CoE should point out the student’s projected entry level, course name, CRICOS course and provider codes, planned start and end dates and the full tuition fee of the course. Students should note that if an English language course is a requirement of the visa category and no CoE for such a course is offered, the application will be refused.
• Certified or notarized copies of the student’s formal educational qualifications.
• Certified or notarized copies of the student’s English Language Test score which should have been taken within 2 years before the date of application.
All education documents should contain
• Certified or notarized copies certificates of qualification; or
• Certified or notarized copies transcript/document of academic results; provisional certificates are not accepted
All certified or notarized copies of award/certification should clearly state:
• Your name in full
• Title of the award/certification
• Date of the award/certification; and
• Name of the institution
All certified or notarized copies document/ transcript of results should clearly state:
• Your name in full
• Name of the institution
• Course title; and
• Confirmation of the award
‘Certified copies’ are copies authorized or stamped authenticating them as being true copies of the originals by a person or agency recognized by the law of your home country to perform such functions. When in Australia, copies may be certified by a Justice of the Peace, a Commissioner for Declarations or an individual before whom a statutory declaration may be made under the Statutory Declarations Act 1959. The qualifying documents required may vary depending on the student’s assessment level and the education sector of their main course of study.
• Proof of funds from a suitable source that are sufficient for the purpose of a student’s visa application.
• Satisfactory sources of funds are:
• Proof such as a loan certificate or notarized copy of a letter, from a financial institution stating that the student and / or any person hold a loan for a specified amount and with a term covering at least the chosen study period.
• Proof of cash deposits that the student and/or any person hold for the chosen period of time immediately before the date of application.
• Proof of cash deposits include:
• Certified or notarized copies of certificates of deposits that explain that the funds are up to date and are still held by the bank at time of application, AND
• Certified or notarized copies of bank passbooks and / or bank deposit slips, pertinent to the certificates of deposit.
• Medical reports and x-ray examinations of students and any family unit member and proof of a booking, or receipt, from Medibank Health Solutions for the student and dependant’s medical and x-ray examinations.
• Proof that the student has Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of his or her visa.
Post Study Work Rights
There are two types of Temporary Graduate Visa:
1. Post-Study Work Stream visa
This visa allows you and your family to live, work, travel and study in Australia for between two and four years if you have graduated from an Australian education institution within the past six months. If you have a bachelor degree you can stay for two years. If you have a master’s degree you can stay for two or three years. And if you have a doctorate you can stay for four years.
However, if your qualification is below that of a bachelor degree (e.g.: certificate III, diploma or graduate diploma) you do not qualify for this visa. Also, you are not eligible for this visa if you applied for your first ever student visa before November 5, 2011.
2. Graduate Work Stream Visa
This visa allows you and your family to live, work, travel and study in Australia for 18 months if you have graduated from an Australian education institution within the past six months. Unlike the Post-Study Work Stream visa, you are eligible for this visa even if your qualification is below that of a bachelor degree – e.g.: a diploma or trade-level certificate, and even if you applied for your first ever student visa after November 5, 2011.
However, your qualification must be in a field which is in demand. Australia has a shortage of skilled workers in several fields including types of engineer, medic, scientist and teacher. These occupations are listed on the Skilled Occupation List. To qualify for a Graduate Work Stream visa you must pass skills assessment in an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List. You must find work in a field that is the same as, or closely related to, the subject in which you gained your qualification. For example, if you gained a bachelors degree in commerce, you cannot work as a tradesman such as plumber.